Trump is simply being Trump, utterly obnoxious, hateful, self-absorbed, bombastic and over the moon to be the center of attention. He is also spewing forth all the hateful moronic and racist twaddle which represents GOP policy these days. If truth be told, many fools do admire him and actually believe he should be president, just as Joe McCarthy and other demagogues throughout our history have always had a vocal base of support. I suspect many of these folks are the same ones who attended Tea Party rallies with signs saying "Keep the government out of my Social Security and Medicare" while comparing Barack Obama to Adolph Hitler. Need I say more?
87
The mainstream media wants excitement? You think it wants the unexpected? All it has to do is seriously cover Bernie Sanders' town hall meetings and rallies and see how Americans from all segments of society are repeatedly turning out in the thousands to hear a (GASP!) Democratic Socialist talk about what matters to them - even in redder than red states like Arizona and Texas. How about it MSM? How about it radical left wing (according to the right) NY Times?
(crickets.)
(crickets.)
92
Trump's recent popularity reveals something deeper about the Republican party. Their Obama-era strategy of making up new contrarian positions about any and all ideas, never compromising, never apologizing, rabidly opposing today what they once supported - rather than let the President get any credit - like healthcare reform, nuclear treaties, drones. These sometimes outrageous views (think Birther) have been the rallying cry of Fox News and even more reasonable, but obedient, Republican voices. Is it any wonder now that a significant percentage of voters think that Mexicans are rapists or that John McCain is a wimp? They also think we should go to war with Iran. And they want the cops to crack down on the minorities and the 47% of so-called takers on welfare ruining our country. Trump is merely doing what the Republican leadership has done for the last 7 years - incite fear and paranoia.
115
Is this a free country or what?
13
Trump is the ultimate result of the Supreme Court's Citizen United ruling. What he is buying is the silencing of others. Only money, not talent or free speech can do that. But TV limiting the first debate to ten people can.
24
Trump's competitors for the nomination are less obviously out of touch with reality than he is. They are putting on different shows from his, but it is all shows. His is different and refreshingly honest. He does not hide his high opinion of himself or his willingness to say contradictory good things and bad things about others.
As with all politicians, he does not reveal what he really thinks or plans to do, but his way of concealment is uniquely his and is a welcome change from what is usual (of which we are all already deathly sick).
As with all politicians, he does not reveal what he really thinks or plans to do, but his way of concealment is uniquely his and is a welcome change from what is usual (of which we are all already deathly sick).
10
So, the Trump phenomenon is television's fault. Really?? I thought it was the fault of an endless parade of slick politicians too slippery to even agree that the sky is blue, who now find a changeling in their midst, one who blurts out anything on his mind, chaff and grain alike, knowing that what voters really want to hear, need to hear, is clear and plain talk, no matter how base and absurd. Trump is a symptom, not a problem. And if the symptom is ignored, the rolls of non-voters will increase until this so-called democracy is utterly deconstructed.
26
If a pollster asked me who I liked, I would answer Trump. The polls are a joke.
13
Maybe it's "show business"?
5
This guy could be valuable in that he'll get a lot of lazy voters into getting to the polls if only to stick it to him. Hey, whatever works.
13
Trump is in the lead now because he's entertainment in a slow news period. I wish at least he could inspire the other candidates to be more candid and less canned.
Wishful thinking on those who think he's going to run as independent, he knows he would lose and he might have to spend some of his own money doing so.
Wishful thinking on those who think he's going to run as independent, he knows he would lose and he might have to spend some of his own money doing so.
5
619 comments later and the question is still being avoided.
Are there undocumented illegals roaming around in this country under Obama's amnesty committing violent crimes?
If yes, then Trump is 100% correct, and its extremely telling that so many in the liberal mainstream (pro-Obama) media are trying to hide from the sun under a tree with no branches.
Are there undocumented illegals roaming around in this country under Obama's amnesty committing violent crimes?
If yes, then Trump is 100% correct, and its extremely telling that so many in the liberal mainstream (pro-Obama) media are trying to hide from the sun under a tree with no branches.
8
If you read any actual news you would know the answer to this question but reading and reading comprehension seem to present a problem for you.
71
Trump, with the aid of the MSM, has created the perfect negative feedback loop; Say something outrageous, wait for the apology demands, refuse to apologize, repeat.
12
Trump is for real. He represents the Silent Majority that misses the tough talk of Ronald Reagan. Wait until Trump gets around to criticizing US foreign policy, including our utter failure to stem the tide of Islamic terrorism. ISIS watch out! You're going to be Trumped!
5
Kerry is not the guy to ask. Don't you recall the "Swift Boat"? The guys who told what Kerry was really up to when he got his purple hearts served with Kerry. Kerry after being discharged because of his purple hearts went to Congress and tried hard to make a name for himself by betraying his fellow soldiers. Like I said, Kerry is not the guy to ask about McCain. The people to ask about McCain are the prisoners who were held captive in the same camp he was. From what I recall a number of them did not have a high opinion of McCain's behavior while in captivity and certainly would not call him a war hero.
4
This is not John Kerry. It's Bob Kerrey. See first sentence of column.
8
Do you know the difference between Bob Kerrey & John Kerry?
Apparently not, since you saw fit to attack John Kerry, who is not part of this article. Just showing your true ignorance.
Apparently not, since you saw fit to attack John Kerry, who is not part of this article. Just showing your true ignorance.
7
You've got the wrong Kerry!
9
Either all it takes to make billions. survive four bankruptcies, and star in a leading reality show is bluster and ego, or there is something else to The Donald than bluster and ego. If the former, then our economic system is a joke. If the latter, then bluster and ego is The Donald's style but not his reality, and the question of his qualifications to be President remains open.
Would he do a better job than dubya? We know that he can be cloyingly effusive or bitingly sarcastic about people, depending on what he wants from them and what they want from him. His unpredictability gives him power, especially over opponents whose game plan consists in carefully tending and modifying their images (right for the primaries, then prune back to the center for the general election).
We do not know what policies Trump would pursue. He pursues deals, not policies, and the deals he makes would depend on what he wanted and what was possible. If he wants to make America great again and he comes to the conclusion that his fellow billionaires are standing in his way, nobody including The Donald knows what he would do (except that it would be outrageous).
Would he do a better job than dubya? We know that he can be cloyingly effusive or bitingly sarcastic about people, depending on what he wants from them and what they want from him. His unpredictability gives him power, especially over opponents whose game plan consists in carefully tending and modifying their images (right for the primaries, then prune back to the center for the general election).
We do not know what policies Trump would pursue. He pursues deals, not policies, and the deals he makes would depend on what he wanted and what was possible. If he wants to make America great again and he comes to the conclusion that his fellow billionaires are standing in his way, nobody including The Donald knows what he would do (except that it would be outrageous).
5
Trump is being criticized all over but he seems to be in the lead. Tells me that the American voter (at least the Republicans) are Trumps In Spirit. Without saying here that this is good or bad it's time to address the intelligence and spirit of Americans.
7
Donald Trump is a fraud and a coward. His insulting John McCain is unforgivable; what was Donald doing when McCain was in a POW camp? If Trump is nominated then I guess we get what we deserve.
9
I don't agree with the guy. I don't even think he's really being honest, just saying whatever will get attention, which is different.
But I'm glad he's in the race.
Because I'm tired of people being shunned, mocked, or pilloried for saying something inappropriate. I'm tired of the fearful sameness and conformity that dominates public conversation. I despise the social violence that passes for commentary now. Beating people back into their intellectual cages.
Right now we have an electorate that is just smart enough to know what the dominant culture wants them to think, but not smart enough to question it, develop independent ideas, or be truly open-minded.
Voters pick a side then lose their intellectual independence. They stop thinking and start parroting. They cocoon themselves in the words of others following the same program.
Trump isn't parroting anyone. He's making up his own spiel as he goes along. He's wrong more often than right, and his priorities are deeply flawed, but in an era when no one else has the courage or integrity to even TRY that approach, it's refreshing.
I hope the rest of the candidates will go as far off script.
We've got a live one, here!
But I'm glad he's in the race.
Because I'm tired of people being shunned, mocked, or pilloried for saying something inappropriate. I'm tired of the fearful sameness and conformity that dominates public conversation. I despise the social violence that passes for commentary now. Beating people back into their intellectual cages.
Right now we have an electorate that is just smart enough to know what the dominant culture wants them to think, but not smart enough to question it, develop independent ideas, or be truly open-minded.
Voters pick a side then lose their intellectual independence. They stop thinking and start parroting. They cocoon themselves in the words of others following the same program.
Trump isn't parroting anyone. He's making up his own spiel as he goes along. He's wrong more often than right, and his priorities are deeply flawed, but in an era when no one else has the courage or integrity to even TRY that approach, it's refreshing.
I hope the rest of the candidates will go as far off script.
We've got a live one, here!
18
Nice try but Trump is just delivering a more offensive version of what Republicans have been saying for years.
36
Well said! The man plays to the lowest denominator in a country who's not ready to engage in today's long, drawn-out, dysfunctional political process. Trump is clearly a symptom of today's money-driven overbloated (stole that word from the piece) election cycle that seldom discusses issues intelligently in the national media, anyway. Trump is much more fun! He's reality TV exemplified and should be a screaming call for election reform this very minute.
10
Of our great enemies of civilization, DT or American tv, this absurd flap
illustrates and proves that tv is the greater, and for that service we pay
a great deal
illustrates and proves that tv is the greater, and for that service we pay
a great deal
6
Trump will be toast by primary-time next year.
4
Watching Donald Trump is like watching the worst reality television program imaginable, that is so bad, you can't stop watching in disbelief. It is very unfortunate, Mr. Bruni that you or anyone in the media continue to devote printed space or air time to the least serious presidential candidate, Donald Trump. As far as his rise to the top of polling among registered Republican voters and those leaning Republican, it is probably more a vote of defiance and frustration with the Republican Party and the general state of political stalemate in Washington that anyone would choose the squeakiest wheel, loudest, least civil-tongued and least equipped candidate on every measurable level, than a real desire to see this obnoxious showman deciding whether to broker peace deals or start a war. Yes, anyone can grow up to become President of the United States. Anyone, except Donald Trump, that is.
11
I say, thank God for Donald Trump. I hope he gains enough support to run as an independent candidate in the general election. He's no Ross Perot, but if he takes enough votes away from that other do-nothing candidate, Jeb!, to allow Hillary to win, just as Perot did such that Bill Clinton beat the first Bush, then he will have provided a National service of unlimited proportion.
39
I have and will continue to maintain that Donald Trump's presidential run is the biggest gift to the Democrats at a time when they could use a boost. I'll take it.
24
Trump is a Republican phenomenon and problem, no one else's...
23
It's clear that Trump only wants attention to further his brand and feed his monumental ego. He doesn't believe the drivel that he promulgates. It's performance theater that supporters love and most rational people find utterly tasteless. He for some difficult to understand psychological reason is having the time of his life. Even harder to understand are his delusional supporters who think Trump says what he means and means what he says. Yeah sure.
12
Oh please. Save perhaps for his McCain remarks, Trump just spews the same vitriol and bigoted insults against immigrants, African-Americans and other minorities, women and "liberals" that each and every other member of the Republican Criminal Organization spew behind closed doors and out of earshot of our feckless and docile media. You know, the "47%"? Like all Republicans, he's just another arrogant, crooked opportunist who'll take any position to get the suckers (read: "voters") to elect them so their one percent plutocrat masters can keep feeding at the trough and stealing whatever they haven't stolen from the American people already. In this case, Trump, good businessman that he is, is just trying to eliminate the middleman, the prostitute enablers we call the GOP. And if you don't think people in this country are stupid enough to buy his snake oil and elect him, just remember Nixon, Reagan and the two Bushes.
19
People in this country stupid enough to elect a snake oil salesman?
Worked out just fine for Barack Obama. Twice.
Worked out just fine for Barack Obama. Twice.
1
DC - I didn't vote for President Obama the first time but I did the second time and it's worked out very well for me. I'm reminded of that fact, every time I check my 401k statement.
5
The other night I watched a great special on the 1977 NYC Blackout. When a looter was asked why he was looting he commented something like "when you are mad at your mom, you cannot punch her but you can punch your little bother. Looting is a way of hitting back for the inequality and frustration." Just like that looter was not a career criminal, nor are Republicans that currently expressing support for Trump in early polls his long term supporters or will vote for him. Trump is, in a sense, a vent for Republicans that feel disenfranchised by their party and country. And like the "looter", dawn will come and they will come to their senses. And like the NYC Blackout, Trump will fade into history and serve as a point of reflection.
6
Rick Santorum won Iowa in 2012. Who cares who wins Iowa? Its over-rated.
10
Now that U.S. presidential politics closely resembles a reality TV show Donald Trump is a perfect fit and admittedly highly entertaining compared to other actors – maybe Fox News should require all debate hopefuls take an IQ test as Trump suggests so they don’t forget the list of government agencies they plan to terminate, like Rick Perry, or don’t give out their phone number like Lindsey Graham.
From the beginning, our founding fathers didn’t trust an under-informed and fickle public and created the electoral college instead of a direct popular vote. Somehow our democracy has survived over almost 240 years and will continue with ups and downs. So relax, grab a cold one, and let the debates begin.
From the beginning, our founding fathers didn’t trust an under-informed and fickle public and created the electoral college instead of a direct popular vote. Somehow our democracy has survived over almost 240 years and will continue with ups and downs. So relax, grab a cold one, and let the debates begin.
4
Where was GOP outrage when Donald Trump led the birther movement against the president? Where was their outrage when GOP operatives tried to tarnish John Kerry's war record? The GOP created him and now they are stuck with him. You reap what you sow.
31
Great leader? Kerrey's just as out there as Trump if he sees that in the cards in our system at this point.
I don't see why it is vile to besmirch an ineffectual military record. McCain's only achievement was to get captured.
7
So, a soldier (or airman) who gets captured is ineffectual? What about the soldier (or airman) who gets killed -- also ineffectual? And, what about the (exceedingly dangerous) missions that he flew before he got shot down? Do you happen to know anything about those -- and their effectiveness ? Didn't think so.
4
Frank had written a good column about how the private sector had been ahead of the political classes on gay rights. The private sector is ahead yet again, as the private sector "companies {are} severing ties with him".
The media can follow suit. The media and Frank can ignore him. There's no disservice to keeping the public informed; just as private sector found there was no cost in severing ties. Mr. Trump will fizzle out in time and be much less than even a foot note in history.
So Mr. Bruni, please take your own advice on this one. Yes, the Trump clown provides some good entertainment and the op-ed columns have an entertainment component and I appreciate the spectacle is hard to resist, but please do.
The media can follow suit. The media and Frank can ignore him. There's no disservice to keeping the public informed; just as private sector found there was no cost in severing ties. Mr. Trump will fizzle out in time and be much less than even a foot note in history.
So Mr. Bruni, please take your own advice on this one. Yes, the Trump clown provides some good entertainment and the op-ed columns have an entertainment component and I appreciate the spectacle is hard to resist, but please do.
5
On a positive note, Trump may be forcing the more practical GOP candidates to the left, to separate from his idiocy. Trump forces people to react and take a stand, and that is invaluable. Now Bush has to disagree with him on his inane statements, take a clearer stand on certain topics, which better prepares Bernie and Hillary. While the real contenders in the GOP race deal with trump, waiting for his implosion, reacting to his mini-implosions, they lose respect in the general election, become associated with a circus. The collective GOP frustration and struggle with Trump shatters a cohesive right-wing message on guns, immigration, foreign-policy, the economy, possibly fracturing the base, thereby helping the Democrats.
11
beautifully stated
4
“So who the hell cares what his numbers are nationally"? The 16 Republican candidates. To make it to the first debate on August 6, Fox News is selecting only the top 10 candidates based on their national polls. The candidates are doing all thy can to get a spot.
4
I believe Trump's popularity and electability are underestimated. The sad truth is that his views sync with a large part, if not most, of the Republican Party. You can laugh now, if you'd like, but you'd better make sure your seat belt is fastened.
8
You may well be right, but remember, in order to win in Nov. of '16, Trump's going to have to persuade a substantial fraction of Obama's constituency to vote for him -- and that seems exceedingly unlikely. I'm assuming of course, that they can get to the polls in spite of the obstacles being thrown in their way.
3
Donald Trump is real. His bombastic style suits the fierce opposite of an entrenched and self-enriched political culture. As a most successful business man with connections to persons of power and influence world-wide, I believe his call for actions (by him) towards a greater America will be more popular than anticipated.
The challenge for Republicans is that to win the White House they need the AW (angry white) vote. For the AWs, the Trump and Palin rhetoric seems reasonable. Keeping them in the fold while not alienating the more moderate wing (which, sadly, are now Reaganites) requires some careful verbal balancing. At this point in the campaign, the GOP is lucky that the leftist Reagan fringe is willing to put up with a lot.
2
I am amused about all the liberal press falling all over each other to silence Trump. He has for the first time come out swinging against all the rot in our political system, including the inability to control illegal immigration, and the whole political system of virtual "employment for life" by the politicians. Lindsay Graham is the typical of the members of Congress, and he and all my fellow Republicans offer nothing new to fix our broken government. The Democrats are no better with their leftist policies to create an environment of entitlement.
Yes, he is bombastic, yes he is theatrical, and yes he says whatever he wants to say, but he strikes a cord with a lot of people. Instead of Republicans wringing their hands about him, and the Liberal press trying to destroy like they do to anyone challenging they policies, why don't the politicians analyse why he appeals to the common man. Perhaps they will be able to identify why he resonates, other than saying it is just because it is 'theater'.
We are all fed up with government. The rrepublican and democratic congressmen and senators who do absolutely to rein in spending, bloat and waste. The illegal immigrant issue has been boiling for years with nothing done about it. So, who but a Trump can fill the void, and be "politically incorrect" to finally bring the whole mess out in the open.
Will Trump become President - no. He will continue to say it like it is and identify the rot in our system, and perhaps cause change
Yes, he is bombastic, yes he is theatrical, and yes he says whatever he wants to say, but he strikes a cord with a lot of people. Instead of Republicans wringing their hands about him, and the Liberal press trying to destroy like they do to anyone challenging they policies, why don't the politicians analyse why he appeals to the common man. Perhaps they will be able to identify why he resonates, other than saying it is just because it is 'theater'.
We are all fed up with government. The rrepublican and democratic congressmen and senators who do absolutely to rein in spending, bloat and waste. The illegal immigrant issue has been boiling for years with nothing done about it. So, who but a Trump can fill the void, and be "politically incorrect" to finally bring the whole mess out in the open.
Will Trump become President - no. He will continue to say it like it is and identify the rot in our system, and perhaps cause change
4
I get fed up with people who flock to hear hate speech and don't take the time to realize that no actual solutions are being proposed.
2
Articles like this, and politicians like Kerrey, are exactly what fuels the supporters of Mr Trump.
The people flocking to his side, are people who really dislike the current government we have, and have had for the last 16 years.
Thus when Kerrey says there are ‘states that aren’t exactly mirrors of America’, if you are in one of these states, Kerrey comes across as this condescending career politician who believes your state does not count. Reinforcing the view that DC is totally out of touch with the country.
When he has 24% of polls, and gets attacked by mainstream media, called names and derided, to people this looks like the establishment running around scared.
He comes across as antiestablishment, while Hilary, Jeb, or the others in this mad circus, are all part of the establishment that is so hated by the regular folk. He’s the option for anyone who dislikes the career politicians of the last 16 years.
Is he going to win the nomination? No. The GOP establishment will not nominate him, even if he had 70% of the polls. They already made up their minds on their candidate, they just run the ‘election’ as circus and bread for the masses.
It all comes down to the basic question, do you elect the same folks that brought us down? Or do we try something entirely different now?
As long as the establishment keeps putting him down, and politicians hate him, he will be here to stay.
The people flocking to his side, are people who really dislike the current government we have, and have had for the last 16 years.
Thus when Kerrey says there are ‘states that aren’t exactly mirrors of America’, if you are in one of these states, Kerrey comes across as this condescending career politician who believes your state does not count. Reinforcing the view that DC is totally out of touch with the country.
When he has 24% of polls, and gets attacked by mainstream media, called names and derided, to people this looks like the establishment running around scared.
He comes across as antiestablishment, while Hilary, Jeb, or the others in this mad circus, are all part of the establishment that is so hated by the regular folk. He’s the option for anyone who dislikes the career politicians of the last 16 years.
Is he going to win the nomination? No. The GOP establishment will not nominate him, even if he had 70% of the polls. They already made up their minds on their candidate, they just run the ‘election’ as circus and bread for the masses.
It all comes down to the basic question, do you elect the same folks that brought us down? Or do we try something entirely different now?
As long as the establishment keeps putting him down, and politicians hate him, he will be here to stay.
4
Donald Trump has attracted a coalition that includes a lower middle class/working class voters who have real grievances about economic fairness, and upper middle class angry white retirees who's only perceived grievance is that Barack Obama was elected President. It should not be a surprise that Trump selected an affluent retirement community in South Carolina to give his stump speech. Northern retirees who have moved to the South tend to romantize the Confederacy even more then most native Southerners. They are the core supporters of the Tea Party, and logically support the Trump narrative.
1
Trump was sitting around one day, bored, and decided it would be fun to turn the 2016 election into a reality show featuring--HIMSELF! He wouldn't have to spend a penny on advertising and--even better--could build his name recognition and "brand" while basking in his favorite thing: the spotlight! Trump proves that money trumps everything. Even our elections. How low can we go.
8
Until the USA can grow a pair and stop the overwhelming influence of unfettered money in politics, we will continue to generate mediocre and worse politicians. Trump is a product of the USA- like Levi's or rap music. We need infrastructure, quality education, affordable good health care and a decent safety net - like affordable child care among many other things. So change the direction and flow of money to avoid a complete melt down. It is sad that Trump has garnered so much media attention but certainly not surprising given our appetite for stupidity
8
So here we have Frank Bruni, whose 2000 campaign coverage revealed that Al Gore was a tiresome bore (GWB was so much more entertaining and genial!) convening with Bob Kerrey, whose political contribution to American civilization is his oft-stated desire to privatize Social Security.
And what's their subject? The terrible know-nothing political leadership they've both promoted and/or embodied for years.
Meanwhile, both continue to dine out.
And what's their subject? The terrible know-nothing political leadership they've both promoted and/or embodied for years.
Meanwhile, both continue to dine out.
10
This could possibly be an orchestrated diversion. Let's not take our eyes off what the rest of the contenders are up to.
6
Donald Trump is an opportunity for the Republican Party to take a look in the mirror. This is who they have become - at least a majority by current poles. If D Trump is who they want this county to follow then they will vote for him. Let's hope whoever the Democrats see in the mirror will be someone who we all can support.
4
Trump is verbal incontinence of the highest order.
Someone should put a depenz on his mouth.
Trump makes Sarah Palin look like an upright distinguished parliamentarian.
Someone should put a depenz on his mouth.
Trump makes Sarah Palin look like an upright distinguished parliamentarian.
13
It just goes to show that once again, there is no such thing as bad ink.
5
Yes Donald Trump is an ungracious, insecure egomaniac, but he resonates with a wide swath of America, both left and right because he has balls of steel and is not financially beholden to lobbyists, special interest groups, or the political elites.
He is imperfect, embarrassing but real, and that genuine quality is what has so engaged the American electorate and shone a bright light on the shortcomings of his political rivals. He may not win this election, but he is not finished yet, and he will have a positive impact on this presidential race.
He is imperfect, embarrassing but real, and that genuine quality is what has so engaged the American electorate and shone a bright light on the shortcomings of his political rivals. He may not win this election, but he is not finished yet, and he will have a positive impact on this presidential race.
7
"It is better to keep your mouth closed and let people think you are a fool than to open it and remove all doubt." - Mark Twain
23
I am enjoying the apoplectic media ringing their hands at the 'horrible' and 'politically ridiculous' DT as if he is that much different from the other narcissistic clones who choose to run for office in this (or any other) country time and time again. DT is not particularly unique- the issue is that he 'plays the game a bit differently' and 'flaunts the rules' so others feel that he does not play fair. This generation- media and laypersons know so little about history that they are shocked shocked! by DT. To me he is simply a repeat of what is the basis of American politics.
For example In 1800 Jefferson's people accused President Adams of having a "hideous hermaphroditical character, which has neither the force and firmness of a man, nor the gentleness and sensibility of a woman." (CNN)
In return, Adams' men called Vice President Jefferson "a mean-spirited, low-lived fellow, the son of a half-breed Indian squaw, sired by a Virginia mulatto father." In our politically correct times we can't even use the 'm' word anymore, can we? And those two men had been good friends at one point in time. The examples throughout history are numerous and comical. DT is just the latest narcissist (all politicians are after all) who loves to see his name in print, in lights, and when he goes away, there will be another to take his place. Simply sit back and enjoy the show.
For example In 1800 Jefferson's people accused President Adams of having a "hideous hermaphroditical character, which has neither the force and firmness of a man, nor the gentleness and sensibility of a woman." (CNN)
In return, Adams' men called Vice President Jefferson "a mean-spirited, low-lived fellow, the son of a half-breed Indian squaw, sired by a Virginia mulatto father." In our politically correct times we can't even use the 'm' word anymore, can we? And those two men had been good friends at one point in time. The examples throughout history are numerous and comical. DT is just the latest narcissist (all politicians are after all) who loves to see his name in print, in lights, and when he goes away, there will be another to take his place. Simply sit back and enjoy the show.
7
Trump's idea for immigration, from his own mouth, is to build a wall, and who builds walls better than Trump? He wants to be president because he is good at building walls? Ridiculous.
The Republicans created this monster. I have no sympathy for them.
The Republicans created this monster. I have no sympathy for them.
15
Trump adoration and poll support reflects the sad state of American education and the naive thinking of his right wing applauders.He has enough wealth not to need financial backers and is thus independent of their moderating or encouragement influence. The GOP will not embrace him. If he runs as an independent, he is unfortunately the wrong leader.
2
Donald Trump is, of course, a symptom of a broader problem, for truly, if it was not Trump, would it not be someone else who holds public and media attention in thrall? If Donald Trump did not exist, the current state of political discourse and media would go out and invent one.
And what is the broader problem?
Sensationalism. Let's just call it a very simple term. Sensationalism has taken over our discourse. The public laps it up, and media has no choice but to respond or get left behind in ratings and clicks.
I'll be honest, if Bruni's column was titled "What should we do about Iran?" instead of "Trump column #2,007,875," I would not have read it as quickly.
But that is also the essence of sensationalism. I can read an article on Trump because it is always going to be substanceless. It will be a quick and easy read.
Trump is shallow. We are shallow. The result is what we have, a sensationalist culture. And thus does democracy end, not with a bang but with an OMG WHAT DID HE SAY?
And what is the broader problem?
Sensationalism. Let's just call it a very simple term. Sensationalism has taken over our discourse. The public laps it up, and media has no choice but to respond or get left behind in ratings and clicks.
I'll be honest, if Bruni's column was titled "What should we do about Iran?" instead of "Trump column #2,007,875," I would not have read it as quickly.
But that is also the essence of sensationalism. I can read an article on Trump because it is always going to be substanceless. It will be a quick and easy read.
Trump is shallow. We are shallow. The result is what we have, a sensationalist culture. And thus does democracy end, not with a bang but with an OMG WHAT DID HE SAY?
6
The NYT belatedly apologized for their support of the invasion of Iraq. They had the connections, but pandered to the politicians. Knight Ridder, with a small office in DC opted to investigate for themselves and got it right.
Bernie Sanders is drawing huge crowds and relying on contributions from his supporters. He is a decent man, seasoned politically and one who has avoided wallowing in the mud/filth of our political landscape. Can any of the current candidates make the same claim?
NYT, you owe your readers! You messed up big time before…let's have some reliable and fair coverage of all the candidates, not just the ones you feel are worth the print.
Bernie Sanders is drawing huge crowds and relying on contributions from his supporters. He is a decent man, seasoned politically and one who has avoided wallowing in the mud/filth of our political landscape. Can any of the current candidates make the same claim?
NYT, you owe your readers! You messed up big time before…let's have some reliable and fair coverage of all the candidates, not just the ones you feel are worth the print.
7
A fresh mouth and pride in one's large and loud ignorance were ushered into the spotlight by John McCain. Sarah Palin, Joe the Plumber ... fresh and dumb became the new black of the Republican Party. And they're still in - even more popular. Donald Trump is their Frankenstein. He and those who love him were incited by the Republican establishment who delighted in their flagrant efforts to delegitimize President Obama.
It's obvious and tragic that we cannot remain a viable nation if they enter the White House.
It's obvious and tragic that we cannot remain a viable nation if they enter the White House.
3
The old saying of be careful what you pray for you just might get it comes to mind. When Trump was leading the Birther charge against the President the right was sitting on their hands. I can't remember any of them condemning Trump. Some even went as far as saying why doesn't the President just show us his real birth certificate? What Trump was allowed to do to the President was racist and cruel. The right was enjoying the assault on the office of the president. When Trump went racist on the Mexicans there was no outrage from the right. Now when Trump is sucking all the air out of the room they are getting out the pitchforks to put the monster down. Guess no one told them it’s hard as heck to put the Genie back in the bottle after you let him out. While Trump is sucking all the air out the right is holding their breath hoping they can outlast the Monster they gave birth too. Now the Democrats are piling on Trump also. Where were they when Trump was trying to destroy the President and the Mexicans? The hypocrisy on the right and left is beyond the pale.
7
RESTEVEMcCAIN: Allow Dr. Harrison to play the devil's advocate because sometimes the devil can be very intelligent. First, no one, to my knowledge has ever actually seen the original birth certificate, only a digitalized copy. Why? Second,why did the Obama team pay millions of dollars to attorneys to have his college transcripts sealed for life? If this is true, then one may ask what could have been in the transcipts that the Obama campaign staff did not want the world to know or see?Third, your commenter writes that it was cruel to Obama to even bring the subject of the birth certificate and sealed college transcripts up as a subject of discussion. Why? If I apply to USAID for a position in a developing country, or for any federal position, I must produce my credentials and they must be able to withstand scrutiny. Why should the chief of state be any different?"DEUX POIDS DEUX MESURES(double standard)" goes the French proverb. Should there not be one standard for everyone?Personally, I respect the office and respect the man who holds it, President Obama,whom I voted for twice without regret. Nonetheless, certain questions about his background have never been answered. It is all ancient history now, and, unfortunately Obama is in the twilight of his Presidency.He will be missed by both opponents and supporters alike.
This is the best reality show playing in "real time" I've ever seen (full disclosure: I don't watch reality shows but know about them !!). That Trump is leading in the polls and the media can sell so much space by highlighting his antics does not speak well for us as an informed electorate. If the media has it right, most of us are pretty damned stupid to pay any mind to Trump. Yet, I do on account of the mere fact of how far money, bombast and uber-ego can take you in America.
1
Steve King, Louie Gohmert, Sarah Palin, none of these fine republicans were never admonished to "tone it down" by the party leaders. So now they want to draw the line on Trump? Sorry, by virtue of your past inactions, you have lost your line-drawing privileges.
6
Pollsters often get a hold of the disengaged. If the only name they know is Trump and all they know about him is that he's a wealthy businessman so he must know his way around a budget, then he'll appear to be an appealing presidential candidate. But most primary political life spans are mercifully short, and he'll be yesterday's news before too long. Meanwhile, I'm keeping my TV off.
1
This is Frank Bruni's what, fourth Trump bashing column?
Why hasn't he put down the crayons and actually discussed what Trump is saying? Is Trump too smart for the smarmy Times faux-intellectual?
Are there undocumented illegals entering the US and committing violent crimes? Is Barack Obama being made a fool of on the global stage with horrible trade and now nuclear deals? Is Obama's amnesty hurting the Black community? Has the same left wing MSM coddling John McCain and Lindsey Graham called BOTH of them worse names than Trump just did?
The hypocrisy and dishonesty of the mainstream media is on full display.
Why hasn't he put down the crayons and actually discussed what Trump is saying? Is Trump too smart for the smarmy Times faux-intellectual?
Are there undocumented illegals entering the US and committing violent crimes? Is Barack Obama being made a fool of on the global stage with horrible trade and now nuclear deals? Is Obama's amnesty hurting the Black community? Has the same left wing MSM coddling John McCain and Lindsey Graham called BOTH of them worse names than Trump just did?
The hypocrisy and dishonesty of the mainstream media is on full display.
4
If you cared at all about the black community or any other segment of America, you wouldn't support the party that keeps job scarce, wages low and health care out of reach.
3
I wonder just who the pollsters are talking to -- and whether the people being polled have any respect for government or for the polling process. Reasonable people who truly care about the future of the United States (and the world) could not possibly have learned enough yet about most of the candidates who are listed for consideration. Paying attention to polls this early in the process is rather like scheduling classes for a newborn in a specific college 18 years in the future -- way too soon to tell!
2
Trump is doing America a big big favor. All you folks are being way too self-righteous with your tut-tutting and eye-rolling. Trump is famous because the media helped him and his ego achieve this sort of fame. He is taking it to what he considers the next level and you are all complaining that instead of lining your pockets with catchy, shiny "news" he is now going rogue.
Frankie, deal with it like a grown man. If 23% of people think he is a serious candidate, then who are you to dismiss that? I like Sen. Kerrey, and he is keeping his frustrations private although he could have done a McCain or Lindsey Graham and gone on the shows of his pals and moaned about Trump is a hoity-toity high-and-mighty way they do about Obama every weekend.
America needs a Trump candidacy, and we need to see who we really are. The guy is holding a mirror to us and it is good that both "conservatives" and "liberals" are being exposed. He is probably self-immolating like David Axelrod wisely pointed out many weeks ago, but he is emitting a lot of light in the process and instead of moaning about it we need to look clearly at what is coming out of the shadows.
DEAL WITH IT!
Frankie, deal with it like a grown man. If 23% of people think he is a serious candidate, then who are you to dismiss that? I like Sen. Kerrey, and he is keeping his frustrations private although he could have done a McCain or Lindsey Graham and gone on the shows of his pals and moaned about Trump is a hoity-toity high-and-mighty way they do about Obama every weekend.
America needs a Trump candidacy, and we need to see who we really are. The guy is holding a mirror to us and it is good that both "conservatives" and "liberals" are being exposed. He is probably self-immolating like David Axelrod wisely pointed out many weeks ago, but he is emitting a lot of light in the process and instead of moaning about it we need to look clearly at what is coming out of the shadows.
DEAL WITH IT!
2
Trumped by Trump is old story in New York City. We are so used to his weird behavior and crazy talk. So of course if he goes to the heartland where no one really knows him he receives support for his weirdness. I have to admit I have a good laugh every time he opens his mouth.
4
It hard to take Trump seriously as a presidential contender, but in this age of reality TV and the following that those shows seem to have, he could become the first "reality" President.
1
I think it is funny to see Republicans falling all over themselves to criticize Trump for sliming a republican war veteran, when they were just fine when Max Cleland, a democratic war veteran, was slimed out of office.
8
Re: "To Trump or Not to Trump?" Op-Ed column, by Frank Bruni, July 22, 2015.
Trump claims that he represents the silent majority in America. If he seriously wants to be the champion of that segment of the population, he should articulate, for the benefit of his constituents, a well thought out political agenda acceptable to them. He should then add to that how, as President, he would conduct his foreign policy, especially, in relation to ISIS, Iran, China, and Russia's Putin. He should devote his speeches at the stumps to issues of unemployment, especially among African American youths; prison reforms; gun control; slave-trafficking, and global warming. If Trump comes across as a candidate with an achievable political platform, he could, cashing in on his media appeal, sustain his current status (24%) in the polls, and still be a legitimate contender for the presidency. Only a contender. The Donald has no chance against Hillary Clinton. But he can drain Republican votes for Jeb Bush, thereby ensuring the first woman's election in America as President.
Trump claims that he represents the silent majority in America. If he seriously wants to be the champion of that segment of the population, he should articulate, for the benefit of his constituents, a well thought out political agenda acceptable to them. He should then add to that how, as President, he would conduct his foreign policy, especially, in relation to ISIS, Iran, China, and Russia's Putin. He should devote his speeches at the stumps to issues of unemployment, especially among African American youths; prison reforms; gun control; slave-trafficking, and global warming. If Trump comes across as a candidate with an achievable political platform, he could, cashing in on his media appeal, sustain his current status (24%) in the polls, and still be a legitimate contender for the presidency. Only a contender. The Donald has no chance against Hillary Clinton. But he can drain Republican votes for Jeb Bush, thereby ensuring the first woman's election in America as President.
3
The key to Trump's appeal is that he is the ONLY candidate (so far) who has had the courage to question the "conventional wisdom" that continued illegal immigration is inevitable, and that it is morally wrong to even question it.
A significant portion of those on the right believe that Hispanic special interest groups like La Raza influence the media to shut down any political candidate who tries to question this conventional wisdom. The fact that Univision and NBC withdrew from covering Trump's Miss Universe Contest in response to Trump's assertion that some immigrants were "rapists," provides evidence that this belief might be well-founded.
This is strange because the argument that Trump advances,
that illegal immigration is bad for the country and should be stopped,
Is not really a liberal vs conservative issue. And it has NOTHING to do with race.
The problem is that continued illegal immigration contributes to unsustainable population growth in the US. The resources in the US are finite. For example, California is running out of water---there are too many people who have built homes in the desert. Another example: the US cannot afford universal health care, because the increase in number of doctors does not keep up with population growth.
We need policies which will bring the US to zero population growth. And stopping illegal immigration is a necessary component of that effort.
Sanctimonious liberals, like Frank Bruni, don't want people to hear this message.
A significant portion of those on the right believe that Hispanic special interest groups like La Raza influence the media to shut down any political candidate who tries to question this conventional wisdom. The fact that Univision and NBC withdrew from covering Trump's Miss Universe Contest in response to Trump's assertion that some immigrants were "rapists," provides evidence that this belief might be well-founded.
This is strange because the argument that Trump advances,
that illegal immigration is bad for the country and should be stopped,
Is not really a liberal vs conservative issue. And it has NOTHING to do with race.
The problem is that continued illegal immigration contributes to unsustainable population growth in the US. The resources in the US are finite. For example, California is running out of water---there are too many people who have built homes in the desert. Another example: the US cannot afford universal health care, because the increase in number of doctors does not keep up with population growth.
We need policies which will bring the US to zero population growth. And stopping illegal immigration is a necessary component of that effort.
Sanctimonious liberals, like Frank Bruni, don't want people to hear this message.
7
Trump's statement was more like most illegals were rapists, murderers sent by the Mexican government and only some were good people that slipped through, a statement that deserves the condemnation that it got. In fact the only "government" that we know of that purposely sent us "criminals" was Cuba under the pretense of sending dissidents. And we take ANYONE from Cuba.
Contrary to your statements, most economists fear the US will experience a labor shortage in the decades to come due to lower birth rates. It's certainly not poor illegals that have built water depleting homes in the California desert either. Sanctimonious conservatives don't want to hear this as well.
Contrary to your statements, most economists fear the US will experience a labor shortage in the decades to come due to lower birth rates. It's certainly not poor illegals that have built water depleting homes in the California desert either. Sanctimonious conservatives don't want to hear this as well.
10
Let me correct you....it has much to do with race. As does the specious claim that the US cannot afford universal health care, because.......
2
Amen Bret. Amen!
It boggles the mind that Obama and the liberal elite don't think ordinary Americans see through this. We KNOW illegal immigration is not sustainable. Liberals just think Americans are too dumb to get that or demand solutions.
It boggles the mind that Obama and the liberal elite don't think ordinary Americans see through this. We KNOW illegal immigration is not sustainable. Liberals just think Americans are too dumb to get that or demand solutions.
3
Republicans have given us Sarah Palin, Michelle Bachman and Herman Cain. They have pushed "birtherism" and other nonsense. Why does Trump surprise anyone? What it says about the Republican Party is horrifying.
29
Where most don't take him seriously ought to start thinking about it. First, why is the media devoting so much time to his insults and name calling? It is nothing more than an imitation Don Rickles act probably borrowed from his years at Atlantic City. It appears funny when directed at despised politicians. We're all guilty (including myself) when we laugh with him. Except all it does is empower him and takes away from serious candidates and issues.
Maybe it is time we ask Trump how he intends to make friends, not enemies?
Maybe it is time we ask Trump how he intends to make friends, not enemies?
4
Who said this and when?
“In the last several years, millions of undocumented aliens have illegally immigrated to the United States. They have breached our nation’s immigration laws, displaced many American citizens from jobs, and placed an increased financial burden on many states and local governments.”
Answer: Jimmy Carter, 1977. Now do you see why Donald Trump is hitting a nerve? Would you call Jimmy a "hater" and "xenophobic" like the left likes to do?
5
Not for those remarks, which were accurate and temperate. But if he threw in sensational claims about rape, and racist sneering, like Trump did, I might.
So Graham is on the left now??
1
I missed the part in your quote where Carter said they're murderers and rapists.
Perhaps that's where the accusations of hate and zenophobia come in.
Perhaps that's where the accusations of hate and zenophobia come in.
6
To Frank Bruni, the Times and the mainstream media establishment wringing its collective hands over Donald Trump (while cheering this on) I have three words:
You built that.
You built that.
13
Trump is a tiresome little vulgarian who happens to have enough money to buy a spotlight that he could not possibly earn; I don't envy serious reporters who have to decide what to do about this. The biggest problem with his sideshow is that he makes the other GOP candidates look rational.
16
Frank, that you've remained so steadfast to this narrative is admirable, I suppose. But I'm starting to worry. I mean, once Trump's meteoric fall to Earth comes (and it will, of course), your failure to tie him to the GOP & their voters will be somewhat public. The GOP'ers might even come off better than they probably deserve to by virtue of their rejection of the guy you tried so hard to link them with.
You might be outsmarting yourself here. Just sayin..
You might be outsmarting yourself here. Just sayin..
6
Donald; it's better to be thought a fool than to oen your mouth and remove all doubts!
1
Gotta love the Donald at this point in time. Saying ridiculous things that need to be said, opposing outlandish Republican ideas and candidates, and in the process lampooning a political party that is so far off track that itself is a comedy act. Sixteen candidates without a program to improve health care, education, childcare for working mothers, or retirement improvements? That is the clown act of the day...a group of men and woman, who are lost in their own ambition and zeal to become President without a clue how to make a difference. Who's really the clown here...Jeb Bush or Donald Trump or the entire Republican Party?
17
Like the frog in water on the stove, I would take the now dissenting Republicans more seriously if they'd slapped Trump down hard for his anti-Mexican rantings earlier on. No, they tip toed around those ravings, so he turned up the heat. Too late, the water's boiling, and the Republicans can't get out of the pot.
11
For starters you can remove his name from the New York State park named after him because no one who makes bigoted remarks about Mexicans and POW veterans should have their name on a public park.
10
We can't run around taking Teddy Roosevelt's name off everything. In fact, if you are going to vet every figure of the past by today's standards, there will be no one left. And a hundred years from now, they will be taking Nelson Mandela's name off monuments because he ate animal flesh and wore skins.
They were men of their time, as you are of yours. You are not the ne plus ultra of morality. Get over yourself.
They were men of their time, as you are of yours. You are not the ne plus ultra of morality. Get over yourself.
I have to give credence to an opinion expressed by Thom Hartmann, namely that Trump's role is to negate Jeb Bush, thus paving the way for the clear Koch favorite, Snot . . . er . . . Scott Walker, the slimiest prevaricator-in-chief. Just imagine --- and tremble --- at the idea of a President Walker. OMG!
16
Why does blustering, bloviating, unqualified Trump trump coverage of other candidates, especially worthy candidates like Bernie Sanders, NYT? Why not spread the attention around a bit more towards people who've served constituents admirably vs. narcissistic, xenophobic toddlers like the Donald? Dump Trump, he's unfit for office and sucking all oxygen out of the race, intentionally.
13
Mr. Bruni says,
"If we don’t discuss him, we ignore something real, in a fashion that’s irresponsible." True. But how much discussion is required to be "responsible."
A much large and much more important issue with regard to responsibility is how much can we allow this kind of excessive coverage to eclipse policy discussion.
Yes, television may most susceptible to the attraction of this buffoonery, but the Times and other print media are not demonstrating a responsible coverage of the issues either.
It is way past time to stop reporting our elections based on personalities and who has raised most money.
Trumpism continues because Tumpism works. That's on the media. Period.
Get to the issues and each candidate's position on them in depth, please.
"If we don’t discuss him, we ignore something real, in a fashion that’s irresponsible." True. But how much discussion is required to be "responsible."
A much large and much more important issue with regard to responsibility is how much can we allow this kind of excessive coverage to eclipse policy discussion.
Yes, television may most susceptible to the attraction of this buffoonery, but the Times and other print media are not demonstrating a responsible coverage of the issues either.
It is way past time to stop reporting our elections based on personalities and who has raised most money.
Trumpism continues because Tumpism works. That's on the media. Period.
Get to the issues and each candidate's position on them in depth, please.
9
I don't get your anxiety. Trump provides a great service, just like Stephen Colbert or Archie Bunker. He clarifies the trash talk of our vilest demagogues. I love that he hired Koch's ex-advisor. Would that that fact sprinkle stink on those lying villains. Trump is doing great work. Leave him alone.
9
If Trump never raises a single dollar of campaign funding his candidacy is still a direct, demonstrable and predictable result of the Citizens United decision which made money to spend the most critical factor in running for office at the national level.
10
He's our Vlad Putin. Monkey see, monkey do. Putin is an absolute product of our warped sense of democracy and The Don is too. Once again, history repeats itself. The United States is going the way of all empires before it. Let them eat Trump!
7
Gee, Frank, maybe you are smaller, but someone has to bring up the real issues plaguing America.
5
While I hate hyperbolic historical comparisons, I can't help but be reminded of how rational Germans considered young Adolph a sideshow buffoon until it was no laughing matter. It's more than a little scary to see national polls showing support for Trump, not for what they say about him, but what they say about a segment of the American public. There are far too may people who respond to a bigoted bully who talks tough on issues, even if what he spouts is pure nonsense. No one ever went broke underestimating the gullibility of the average Fox-news-watching, federal-government-hating American voter----and there are far too many of them to ignore.
17
Your hatred of hyperbolic historical comparisons is well-placed. Your comparison here is totally misplaced. Trump maybe clownish, the Republican masses may have a small percentage of Nazi-capable losers in them, but Trump is not a genocidal maniac with no sense of humor, he is a pretty decent guy who does his rich boy shenanigans in the open and in public.
In the interest of a decent and responsible conversation we all need to quieten down the hyperbole and see things plainly and with a clean heart. Trump said some despicable things, yes, but not evil things. He is glib, dismissive and so on, but he is not a bigot or anti-veteran campaigner. A lot of what we are discussing here is fluff, and we are pretending it is virtuous and profound. It is not, it is just gossip-mongering and jeering.
I do not think Mr. Trump is a serious candidate, but he should be seen as a guy who is putting his money where his mouth is - unlike the rest of the pack and the media (w)hordes who are only about money and power. Court jesters served a much nobler purpose than the humorless opportunists who say "all the right things" all the time.
Please, enough with the hyperbole everyone. We are a great nation and can handle the stuff Trump is throwing at us - if we would just shut up and try to think clearly. Cheers.
In the interest of a decent and responsible conversation we all need to quieten down the hyperbole and see things plainly and with a clean heart. Trump said some despicable things, yes, but not evil things. He is glib, dismissive and so on, but he is not a bigot or anti-veteran campaigner. A lot of what we are discussing here is fluff, and we are pretending it is virtuous and profound. It is not, it is just gossip-mongering and jeering.
I do not think Mr. Trump is a serious candidate, but he should be seen as a guy who is putting his money where his mouth is - unlike the rest of the pack and the media (w)hordes who are only about money and power. Court jesters served a much nobler purpose than the humorless opportunists who say "all the right things" all the time.
Please, enough with the hyperbole everyone. We are a great nation and can handle the stuff Trump is throwing at us - if we would just shut up and try to think clearly. Cheers.
In a country so full of heroes, one would expect to find compassion and leadership instead of endless war and self-dstruction. Dropping bombs on the Vietnamese in a stupid war, getting shot out of the sky, and surviving prison does not make you a hero. Parents who take care of their struggling children with love and patience should be our heroes. The American psyche is twisted.
11
The problem isn't that he dares speak his mind.
The problem is what is IN his mind. The fact that so many Americans seem to hold onto the same kind of thoughts is very troubling.
The problem is what is IN his mind. The fact that so many Americans seem to hold onto the same kind of thoughts is very troubling.
7
Best way to remove this guy's magnetic hold is to show him for the cynical buffoon he is. An obvious fool is no longer such an appealing dictator/news caster/candidate. Stupid people will vote for someone who seems stupider than they are (makes them look good) but they won't vote for someone who gets them laughed at.
OK, so Trump is getting too much publicity. Why three columns, Frank?
OK, so Trump is getting too much publicity. Why three columns, Frank?
Naming something brings it into a quasi-tangible form and increases its social force. And while criticizing that-which-is-named is a valid form of opposition, I think it is best to simply turn and walk away from the thing named and to create a new pathway or subject for discourse. I noted this effect when a former life-guard was in the house at 1600 Penn. Ave. Whenever the lifeguard would do/say something stupid, many artists, cultural critics, pundits would make art about it, write about it, and endlessly repeat the gaffe in the media echo chamber. This is the definition of a reactionary politic. The repeated naming of the lifeguard only increased his stature and power. The opposition does something, and the loyalists react. Again, a better path is to turn from the reaction to action, forging a new space of discourse and a new way of going ... while totally ignoring the existence of straw-brained life-guards and their syncophants.
What a load of garbage! Trump is entirely a media creation, he doesn't exist except with media care & feeding. His "measurable support" is the result of the media pumping his "brand." His support is the same support that a car wreck has, voyeurs.
Spare me the faux angst, Trump is the best thing that has happened to the media in a long time. He is the NYT's crack, you know its bad for you, but you are addicted.
Spare me the faux angst, Trump is the best thing that has happened to the media in a long time. He is the NYT's crack, you know its bad for you, but you are addicted.
3
I agree with Bob from Boston -- the scariest thing about Trump is that he makes the other Republican candidates look presentable by comparison!
5
As a Veteran I was very disturbed by the coordinated 'campaign' of running TV ADS to lie about John Kerry. Trump's ship at McCain was an ignorant shoot from the hip moment - which the media took up far more intensely then it did getting the truth out about the number of people who solemnly lied about Kerry.
As the media whines on about its Summer gift ... readers can easily find the next Trump story looking no further then the Front Page.
To the Media: spend more time covering quotes from Huckabee, Perry, Fiorina, Santorum, Walker, et al and convince the public their 'message' is any less insane then the front running Donald.
As the media whines on about its Summer gift ... readers can easily find the next Trump story looking no further then the Front Page.
To the Media: spend more time covering quotes from Huckabee, Perry, Fiorina, Santorum, Walker, et al and convince the public their 'message' is any less insane then the front running Donald.
10
Trump is truly enjoying his eccentric Presidential adventure, but this time is not about becoming Mr universe and he is not seating in the judges panel.
Not a real chance just pure act off self indulgence and why not, because he can and can.
Not a real chance just pure act off self indulgence and why not, because he can and can.
2
Thank god we had Bob Kerrey to tell us "what difference do the national poll numbers mean, he has no ground game for Iowa and New Hampshire".
Uh, wait, maybe that is one of our problems. I'm sorry that candidates need to establish their ground games for two states that don't even equal the population of my CITY.
I'm fine with Trump. Let the establishment candidates figure him out, in the meantime, Trump is leading by double digits.
Deal with it. You don't like Trump? Do a better job.
And tell Bob Kerrey to go on home, he is done in Washington, or isn't he? Tired of career politicians.
Uh, wait, maybe that is one of our problems. I'm sorry that candidates need to establish their ground games for two states that don't even equal the population of my CITY.
I'm fine with Trump. Let the establishment candidates figure him out, in the meantime, Trump is leading by double digits.
Deal with it. You don't like Trump? Do a better job.
And tell Bob Kerrey to go on home, he is done in Washington, or isn't he? Tired of career politicians.
2
Yeah because Bob Kerrey is such an American success story.
I remember his presidential aspirations rather comically, so maybe Kerrey has a problem with someone who is actually leading in the polls. He never was as a candidate for the WH.
I remember his presidential aspirations rather comically, so maybe Kerrey has a problem with someone who is actually leading in the polls. He never was as a candidate for the WH.
Beautifully and succinctly put. Let's stop letting the media and career politicians tell us how to think.
The problem with the Trump freak show is that reporters treat him as an entertainer and not a candidate. Case in point: Trump's continued claim that his first two marriages failed simply because he worked too much. Could a Gary Hart or even a Herman Cain get away with that?
4
Even in the crazy mean world of Republicans 2016, guys have the edge. Can we imagine a wealthy female politician with children by three husbands and a bad hair do getting this traction?
9
Obama opened the Arctic to drilling, and I didn't vote for that.
Obama doubled-down on $1 mil/yr per soldier in the Mideast. I didn't vote for that.
Given that whomever we elect will completely succumb to The Powers That Be on Day1 in the Oval Office I don't really think it matters whom we elect.
At Least Trump and Sanders will bow after landing a few punches and since my roads are falling apart, my economy is in shambles and my food supply is full of poison the only thing I can ask for is bread and a circus and Mr. Trump is just the thing. Pass the rye.
Obama doubled-down on $1 mil/yr per soldier in the Mideast. I didn't vote for that.
Given that whomever we elect will completely succumb to The Powers That Be on Day1 in the Oval Office I don't really think it matters whom we elect.
At Least Trump and Sanders will bow after landing a few punches and since my roads are falling apart, my economy is in shambles and my food supply is full of poison the only thing I can ask for is bread and a circus and Mr. Trump is just the thing. Pass the rye.
3
Donald Trump's success in the polls is due to his ability to tap into the reality TV, Honey Boo Boo segment of the American population. In case anyone hasn't noticed, this is what is becoming of the U.S. outside of major cities and the left and right coastal elite.
4
I think every one is missing something here. Trump is a clown, but like the great courts in other times, the jester was there to get the people in power to laugh at themselves. Our politicians are mostly all beholden to their wealthy donors and simply manipulate the masses. They are mostly all wealthy privileged people who never think of any thing as simple as their own health insurance because we the people give that to them. Our politicians have tried to stop Trump message by their usual tactics of spreading fear, but it hasn't worked this time. So many Americans are tired of being taken advantage of by dishonest politicians and Trump is pulling up the curtain on their play. Maybe we might all get to see how they really are.
7
Trump? One empty corporate suit, running against a slew of empty suits, getting media attention for merely being the hottest, largest gasbag of the bunch. What's sad it that while there are two forthright, freedom-loving, Constitution-respecting candidates in this race so far, one in each party, the corporate media coverage hardly does them justice. (As if THAT should be a surprise?)
Bernie Sanders get some attention, at least, but that's because he's his party's only alternative to the heavily corporation-supported Hillary Clinton. The GOP's most honest one of the bunch, Rand Paul, on the other hand is virtually ignored as the odd man out of a rather large group.
If nothing else, this campain - spelling very much intentional - shows that there are a lot of people who would happily follow a bully of a leader like so many sheep. Unfortunately, there's one thing they forget - that, when all is said and done, sheep end up as much ado about mutton.
Bernie Sanders get some attention, at least, but that's because he's his party's only alternative to the heavily corporation-supported Hillary Clinton. The GOP's most honest one of the bunch, Rand Paul, on the other hand is virtually ignored as the odd man out of a rather large group.
If nothing else, this campain - spelling very much intentional - shows that there are a lot of people who would happily follow a bully of a leader like so many sheep. Unfortunately, there's one thing they forget - that, when all is said and done, sheep end up as much ado about mutton.
6
I'm just really really glad he's a Republican.
11
Hilarious to see the Left get so rattled by The Donald.
Meanwhile Princess Hillary remains in hiding, terrified to answer questions from the press or explain what she stands for.
Meanwhile Princess Hillary remains in hiding, terrified to answer questions from the press or explain what she stands for.
7
Rattled?! ... oh, yes, of course we are very rattled, that's the ticket! Please someone stop him....think of the children! :)
Rattled? Hardly. Most of them are laughing.
Actually, the Left seems quite pleased that the Trump has emerged as the preferred representative of GOP thinking. As for Hillary - if she's in hiding, who's that woman in pantsuits traveling the country and making her case? Perhaps it's time to tune-out Fox and tune in the real world. Just a suggestion.
4
People all over, liberals saying Republicans are reaping what they sowed and conservatives claiming he is not one of them, are reacting to Trump's apparently improbable rise in the polls. Trump has clearly tapped into some vein, a frustrated one. Really though, Trump highlights a radical, frustrated wing of the GOP, much the same way the hippie, Vietnam War protestors did in the late 1960s and early 1970s. In those days, a quasi war developed over the supposed soul of American liberalism. One side, the so-called Old Left comprised of labor and the working class, reacted aghast at the New Left and their shaking of American society in search of some sort of nirvana. The result was a liberal movement in relative disarray for a generation.
3
Ya, well remember when America was transfixed with Paris Hilton? Or when we were all supposedly glued to Miley Cyrus? Or Duck Dynasty? Or this tabloid zombie or that reality TV moron who did something particularly cringeworthy, or a pinch of Kardashians and a dash of sports/hip-hop/celebrity domestic abuse, DUI and egging megarich neighbors? Not so unusual that you have why Trump is drawing attention. This millisecond.
It doesn't hurt Trump's drive for publicity if the republican kudzu candidates have nothing to say, have no glitter, are all superficial, unattractive and dull, dull, dull. The horde of colorless, affectless, witless, self-satisfied, republicans is most noteworthy for being utterly un-noteworthy.
That's not to say that Trump has anything going for him either. Except for that concoction on top of his head, beady eyes and his hose-pipe mouth, there isn't anything much remarkable about him. So he's a rich guy. What else is new in republican candidates lately?
Nah, it's summer, it's otherwise pretty boring. The economy is doing pretty well, the latest gun outrage only got four or was it five, and nobody has been caught doping or socking his wife this week. The cops have moved on now to killing black women for failing to signal, but that's just so not interesting.
So, the media foists this latest Trump excrescence on the all- too-willing media gawkers who probably won't vote for it, but wants to watch it poke others in the eye. In't he cute?
It doesn't hurt Trump's drive for publicity if the republican kudzu candidates have nothing to say, have no glitter, are all superficial, unattractive and dull, dull, dull. The horde of colorless, affectless, witless, self-satisfied, republicans is most noteworthy for being utterly un-noteworthy.
That's not to say that Trump has anything going for him either. Except for that concoction on top of his head, beady eyes and his hose-pipe mouth, there isn't anything much remarkable about him. So he's a rich guy. What else is new in republican candidates lately?
Nah, it's summer, it's otherwise pretty boring. The economy is doing pretty well, the latest gun outrage only got four or was it five, and nobody has been caught doping or socking his wife this week. The cops have moved on now to killing black women for failing to signal, but that's just so not interesting.
So, the media foists this latest Trump excrescence on the all- too-willing media gawkers who probably won't vote for it, but wants to watch it poke others in the eye. In't he cute?
15
There are a lot of people who are not happy with the direction the country is going. Trump seems to have tapped their angst and with it their support, at least in the polls.
I can't stand the guy.
I can't stand the guy.
13
Shun the Donald. Shun Shun Shun. He deserves no attention, no press, no nothing. He's just a big mouth who needs to stick his foot in there and plug it up.
3
Bernie Sanders gets 11,000 to a Phoenix rally and 8,000 in Dallas. Daily Mail of London covers the events, so does the Guardian. But not the NYTimes.
And Frank wonders how not to talk about Trump, the terminus of the entropy of American politics. Hint: Jared Bernstein has an op-ed today on Bernie's proposal for a financial transactions tax.
Bernie has a whole list of ideas of how to lessen American inequality and restore a semblance of economic justice to a country whose defining characteristics are the widest and deepest child poverty among wealthy nations and an obscene prison gulag.
Each election the news media takes a 12-step pledge to better cover issues of substance and be less obsessed about the horse race. And then you immediately fall off the wagon.
Bernie's 12 steps give a hopeful alternative, each one of them tried and tested: worker co-ops; free college education; a real infrastructure program; housing, health care, and a decent income for all; reversing climate change---and each of these has its own subset.
American exceptionalism is now mainly marked by mass misery in the midst of luxury and there is no reason for this.
Theres is nothing Bernie is proposing that hasn't worked successfully in other advanced democracies, and the truth is that among the club of the wealthy the U.S. has the cheapest, meanest, most miserly programs for people.
It's time to change course.
So instead of the latest Trump idiocy, cover a Bernie proposal. They have substance.
And Frank wonders how not to talk about Trump, the terminus of the entropy of American politics. Hint: Jared Bernstein has an op-ed today on Bernie's proposal for a financial transactions tax.
Bernie has a whole list of ideas of how to lessen American inequality and restore a semblance of economic justice to a country whose defining characteristics are the widest and deepest child poverty among wealthy nations and an obscene prison gulag.
Each election the news media takes a 12-step pledge to better cover issues of substance and be less obsessed about the horse race. And then you immediately fall off the wagon.
Bernie's 12 steps give a hopeful alternative, each one of them tried and tested: worker co-ops; free college education; a real infrastructure program; housing, health care, and a decent income for all; reversing climate change---and each of these has its own subset.
American exceptionalism is now mainly marked by mass misery in the midst of luxury and there is no reason for this.
Theres is nothing Bernie is proposing that hasn't worked successfully in other advanced democracies, and the truth is that among the club of the wealthy the U.S. has the cheapest, meanest, most miserly programs for people.
It's time to change course.
So instead of the latest Trump idiocy, cover a Bernie proposal. They have substance.
13
Amen.
I follow US politics because my father is American. It's a complete embarrassment that the NYT fails at almost every opportunity to get the word out on Sanders. I get that his "socialism" is scary for some people - even though they couldn't say why - but the guy is the real deal... Probably the only "real deal" candidate out there between both parties.
I follow US politics because my father is American. It's a complete embarrassment that the NYT fails at almost every opportunity to get the word out on Sanders. I get that his "socialism" is scary for some people - even though they couldn't say why - but the guy is the real deal... Probably the only "real deal" candidate out there between both parties.
2
I noticed that when Trump insulted Mexican immigrants, most people just nodded their head and said that was too bad. But now he insults a white republican and all the heavy weights are criticizing and raising hell.
IS that an accident?
IS that an accident?
7
"If we don’t discuss him, we ignore something real, in a fashion that’s irresponsible."
Mr. Bruni, you're forgetting that the media is a responsible agent for creating the "reality" of the modern day protracted primary. Trump's realness has been manufactured. The NY Times, your columns, the entire national press (large and small) has created this arena. Reality is an illusion.
Mr. Bruni, you're forgetting that the media is a responsible agent for creating the "reality" of the modern day protracted primary. Trump's realness has been manufactured. The NY Times, your columns, the entire national press (large and small) has created this arena. Reality is an illusion.
2
Trump is more of a celebrity than most of the other candidates, but I hesitate to say that he would be a worse president than the great majority of them, or indeed, than a number of real presidents whom we have actually put in office. Think about it. This is not to praise or support Trump, but only to bemoan the sad state of our political arena.
2
Like it or not Trump is the best spokesman for the modern republican party. He actually says what republicans think and feel because they get most of their world view from FOX TV and Infinity Radio. When the republican party turned its policy development over to professional entertainers, they got a big gain in voter likability. They have won many elections with this TV and Radio support. However, it also means that the voters/viewers will increasingly seek out politicians that behave like entertainers.
You will note that this has not happened on the left. Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert do not set policy for the democratic party and no democratic politicians run for office mouthing the ideas of these comedians. So no, there is no case for the old saw that the right and the left each have their own media and it all just comes out in a wash. The right has, indeed, created a monster and for now his name is Trump.
You will note that this has not happened on the left. Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert do not set policy for the democratic party and no democratic politicians run for office mouthing the ideas of these comedians. So no, there is no case for the old saw that the right and the left each have their own media and it all just comes out in a wash. The right has, indeed, created a monster and for now his name is Trump.
8
Voters are craving for a candidate who isn't a wordsmith nor a politician, but rather a "regular" guy who is bold, speaks from the heart, isn't intimidated or threatened by any party and is willing to spend his own money and lots of it. I truly understand why potential voters are enamored with Donald Trump and all his rhetoric. His approach is refreshing until it's not. This isn't a fairytale and if he wins ANY election, no one will live happily ever after.
Initially, I was not in favor of the hype and media coverage Mr. Trump was receiving. However, the more his lack of character and integrity is displayed, such as his "publicly divulging Senator Graham’s cellphone number" or inflammatory name calling of John McCain, the more informed potential voters will be of his desperate and despicable behavior. The new slogan should read "DUMP TRUMP TODAY."
Initially, I was not in favor of the hype and media coverage Mr. Trump was receiving. However, the more his lack of character and integrity is displayed, such as his "publicly divulging Senator Graham’s cellphone number" or inflammatory name calling of John McCain, the more informed potential voters will be of his desperate and despicable behavior. The new slogan should read "DUMP TRUMP TODAY."
3
I believe DT's father changed the family name from Dumpf to Trump, so your slogan DUMP TRUMP TODAY slogan works really really well.
Bankruptcy!
What if I formed a corporation, built a Casino, paid for it with a mortgage, bled off all of the operating profits with large salaries to me and my friends, sold all of our shares in the Casino, failed to make the mortgage payments, and then declared bankruptcy!
Myself and my friends might have owned most of the outstanding stock, but the net worth of the Casino Corporation might be negative (if you deduct the value of the Goodwill from the assets), so the value of these shares in the Casino at the bankruptcy will be very minimal.
What if I then re-purchased sufficient shares of the Casino to regain operating control of the Casino after the bankruptcy is final, and repeated the whole process over and over forever!
What if I formed a corporation, built a Casino, paid for it with a mortgage, bled off all of the operating profits with large salaries to me and my friends, sold all of our shares in the Casino, failed to make the mortgage payments, and then declared bankruptcy!
Myself and my friends might have owned most of the outstanding stock, but the net worth of the Casino Corporation might be negative (if you deduct the value of the Goodwill from the assets), so the value of these shares in the Casino at the bankruptcy will be very minimal.
What if I then re-purchased sufficient shares of the Casino to regain operating control of the Casino after the bankruptcy is final, and repeated the whole process over and over forever!
5
Law!
What if we had laws that prevented that sort of scamming and the will to enforce such laws freely and fairly?
What is we did not have politicians writing laws defending such practices and collecting monies from these "scammers" and the media not bothering to report on any of this objectively and instead selling us a bunch of shiny, noisy "stories" each day?
Ask better questions and you will get better answers.
What if we had laws that prevented that sort of scamming and the will to enforce such laws freely and fairly?
What is we did not have politicians writing laws defending such practices and collecting monies from these "scammers" and the media not bothering to report on any of this objectively and instead selling us a bunch of shiny, noisy "stories" each day?
Ask better questions and you will get better answers.
1
Infrastructure, Middle East, Supreme Court, carbon footprint, health care, China, Russia, civil liberties, fiscal policy, economic inequality, national security, war, immigration. In no particular order, and to name just a few, these are matters our next president must address. Serious candidates should be laying out positions on many of them today.
4
“It is not good for American politics,”
I think it is very good for American politics.
It exposes the most seamy side of Republican politics for what it is and can only reduce its influence. Either the Republican leadership will reject it or the republicans will lose the presidency. Either outtcome is good for America.
I think it is very good for American politics.
It exposes the most seamy side of Republican politics for what it is and can only reduce its influence. Either the Republican leadership will reject it or the republicans will lose the presidency. Either outtcome is good for America.
7
He has now said so many outrageous and non-sensical things, I'm given to wonder if Mr. Trump is entirely well. Some of his comments are the sort of thing people with dementia say. Anyway he won't last, and if by some freakish turn of events he does, his supporters will be getting what they deserve.
3
Trump is more of a celebrity than the other candidates, but I hesitate to say he would be a worse president than the great majority of them, or indeed, than a number of real presidents whom we have actually put in office. Think about it. To be clear, this is not to praise or support Trump, but only to bemoan the state of our political arena.
The Huffington Post did the right thing. Other media outlets should take note. Continue covering the story in the "Entertainment" section of your coverage. This is the only way to go.
4
Ironies abound. (1) The last business magnate to run for Pres. without any political experience, Ross Perot, effectively swung the 1992 election from a Bush to a Clinton through third-party candidacy. (2) Trump says that America isn't great any longer. From my view, the proof of that statement is that ANY American would support Trump for president....but 24% of GOP Primary voters? I hadn't realized America had declined so rapidly since electing a highly intelligent, steady, wise, African-american president to two terms.
3
In many TV "reality" shows, the action and dialogue are not genuine, and similarly Trump's campaign entertains audiences by pretending he is a real candidate for president. When he finally quits (fires himself) it will be because his ratings are too low to be financially profitable. If Trump claims that a soldier fails because he's captured, then as a businessman he has failed because of his many corporate bankruptcies. The only differences are that the POW is motivated by private courage and the businessman by personal profit in the public spotlight.
2
At this point I'm enjoying the Trump Show. Generally I loath reality TV, but this is the ultimate reality TV production. And it exposes all the other candidates in the Republican Primary for what they really are. Their views don't actually differ that much from what Donald Trump says; they are just careful to hide them behind code words, winks/nods, euphemisms and refusals to answer the question. All the talk about besmirching John McCain simply brings to my mind the disgusting swiftboat treatment of John Kerrey in the 2004 Presidential campaign. Done by surrogates, of course, but that was Republican campaigning at its purest. An even worse example was the treatment of Georgia Senator Max Cleland, a veteran who lost three limbs in Vietnam. He was accused of being unpatriotic by Saxby Chambliss, his Republican challenger in 2002. Unpatriotic? And guess what? Chambliss won. For Republicans besmirching a veteran is a no-no, unless there is an election at stake.
8
When this particuar dog and pony show ends and we will be stuck with Jeb. No one is going to nominate a man who wears a small mammal glued to his head like Trump. The words and ideas he spews are meant to soften us up so we will accept the bitter medicine Jeb will offer. If we let the Republicans win we will all find ourselves the victim of social engineering that's sweeping China. Our rural communities are crumpling and the last of the small farms are drying up and blowing away. Medford, Oregon looks like the new American Bangladesh. No jobs, no industries and lots of hungry people collecting scrap hoping to make enough from their efforts so they can afford a bit of food. If you doubt that social engineering has reached our shores just visit the San Francisco Bay Area. Whole neighborhoods have been turned upside down and the locals are fleeing. Liars will tell you it's the law of supply and demand. It's not. Visit and you will see social engineering at work.
2
John Kerry's political judgement of the Trump Show is of limited interest--his comments are good, but nothing new, or uniquely insightful. The interesting story would be his perspective on the Swiftboating of his military career, the glee with which the Republican Party (and, essentially, the media) accepted the Swiftboating, the recent revelation that Jeb Bush had praised and thanked the #1 Swiftboater, etc. Any thoughts on the smearing of war hero Max Cleland by Saxby Chambliss and the Republicans in the 2002 election for Senator from Georgia. That's the story to get from John Kerry.
1
oops...youve got the wrong guy....this is kerrey, not kerry
There should be a media blackout. Stop talking about him.
1
Regarding the McCain-Trump contretemps about war heroism, what mystifies me is the current knicker-twist of the GOP, when the tactic of sliming genuine war heroes of the other Party is standard operating procedure plagiarized from the Republican tactical playbook of dirty tricks.
If we can stretch our memory spans not too far back, we can recall what back-alley GOP muggers, Saxby Chambliss and Karl Rove, did to certifiable heroes Max Cleland and John Kerry.
For the GOP the only litmus test that turns military heroes into alleged chicken hearts is membership in the Democratic Party where far more members served their country valiantly in war than the chicken hawks on the other side of the aisle.
If GOP grandees object to The Donald's pusillanimity regarding McCain, they ought to take a good look in their own mirrors.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
If we can stretch our memory spans not too far back, we can recall what back-alley GOP muggers, Saxby Chambliss and Karl Rove, did to certifiable heroes Max Cleland and John Kerry.
For the GOP the only litmus test that turns military heroes into alleged chicken hearts is membership in the Democratic Party where far more members served their country valiantly in war than the chicken hawks on the other side of the aisle.
If GOP grandees object to The Donald's pusillanimity regarding McCain, they ought to take a good look in their own mirrors.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
5
It's precisely the continued coverage of this nut ball that ratchets up his bottom line. If a left-wing crazy went about spouting a similar line and engaging in similar antics, no newspaper would devote a drop of ink to the charade. Imagine, just imagine, a Commander-in-Chief going about saying the kind of things this wack-job says about honorable veterans. The real simpletons are those who devote time and energy to publicizing the verbal vomit pouring forth from this guy's mouth on a regular basis. Come to San Francisco...you can find folks in every block almost shrieking stuff of more substance that this boob puts out. Where's the endless columns about what they are saying?
5
Despite the fact that I would never vote for Trump or Sanders, I find this to be the most exhilarating elections in a long time.
2
I'm just an "armchair psychologist," but I'll give my opinion anyway, even if I'm wrong. I think Trump's problem isn't just his ego; I think he exhibits a histrionic, narcissistic personality disorder. His current behavior is also juvenile and a lot of other things. Good riddance to him once he's finally pulled offstage. Somebody, please get out the hook!
9
Trump is the perfect candidate - for the Democrats. His buffoonery appeals to what has become the hard core of the know-nothing Republican party but turns everyone else off. Go Donald!
8
McCain's mistake was accusing Trump of riling up "the crazies". Sorry, but McCain invented that when he picked Sara Palin as his running mate. He is in no position to be throwing that particular stone.
12
McCain hit it right on the head. Anyone who even thinks of supporting Mr. Trump is a "crazy" or maybe just a Fox News follower.
1
Those of us who remember Ralph and Ed and the Loyal order of Raccoons have no problem recognizing Donald's affiliation with the Sacred Nation of Lemmings. Even on this side of the border I can hear the whispered incantations and sacred codes whispered every day from the millions in Lemming Nation. Donald wears the sacred headdress of the Grand Exalted Imperial Leader very well indeed. The statue of Father Lemming will look marvelous on the White House lawn.
6
John Stewart put it best: Everybody in the GOP came to like Trump for his willingness to attack Obama relentlessly and without restraint, and it wasn't the first time they had put such a person on a pedestal (cut to Palin), except this time they've summoned a creature with 10 billion dollars of its own money only to find that its attacks are not reserved for just one man.
This was the inevitable conclusion to over a decade of using a media empire to appeal to the lowest common denominator through fear mongering and the stirring of old prejudices, it is a just dessert for those who sought to engineer such a thing - but it is a detriment to us all.
This was the inevitable conclusion to over a decade of using a media empire to appeal to the lowest common denominator through fear mongering and the stirring of old prejudices, it is a just dessert for those who sought to engineer such a thing - but it is a detriment to us all.
4
It is simple - Trump needs to be relegated to the Entertainment section of media, just as Huffington Post did. Or, even better, he should stop getting coverage of all his vitriolic showboating. We don't give 3-year olds attention when they are throwing a tantrum just to get attention, why are we giving attention to this tantrum?
4
Eventually, as with most demagogues, he will overplay his hand, and someone will rise up and say. "Sir,do you have no sense of decency" and that should be the end.
1
If you want dead silence, a blank stare, or no response to a blog post,
just type: "But the GOP will never nominate Trump"'. It's like you're crashing a party. Apparently "Telling it like it is", (whatever that means) is considered the foremost requirement for the office of president to his supporters
just type: "But the GOP will never nominate Trump"'. It's like you're crashing a party. Apparently "Telling it like it is", (whatever that means) is considered the foremost requirement for the office of president to his supporters
That's just it. What, exactly, does "Telling it like it is" mean to those to whom Donald Trump appeals? What "hard truths" is it that he's expressing? I've heard and read numerous supporters of his say that he's laying bare the awful facts which no one else will utter - but I've yet to hear one of them articulate what those truths are.
2
It is of more import to consider that from even a moderate distance it is very hard to pick this particular buffoon out of the crowd of clowns that will be on the Republican debate stage in a couple weeks.
4
In addition to his dose of honesty, he's entertaining!
4
When having enough campaign dollars became the sole criterion for electability, we set the stage for the Trumps, Kochs, Adelsons, and others among the wealthiest of our nation to control the election process. If not Trump, some other gazillionaire would soon have done the same thing, with more or less the same result. The most important thing the GOP and every thinking American can conclude from Trump's sad legacy is that we are far past the point where campaign finance reform is necessary. Without serious campaign finance reform, we will watch the last remnants of democracy die without any dignity.
4
Trump is not a patriot. He is a demagogue, without even Joe McCarthy's or Joseph Goebbels' warped belief in something larger than themselves. He is a self-promotion machine run riot, even as his "candid" pronouncements cause him to lose lucrative existing contracts and engagements. Beyond using him as a case study for medical students interning in psychiatry, I don't see how such a man, who has never held public office at any level, can be considered newsworthy as a candidate for President of the United States. And please don't point out that Grant and Eisenhower didn't hold prior elected positions either. Trump doesn't have an ounce of their integrity, or their organizational skills (millions under their command) demonstrated under the highest possible pressure: their country's existence on the line. They both rose to the occasion, and Trump? He used to host the Miss America pageant, before they jettisoned him. Enough about this buffoon.
9
I'm not going to even read this article. I'm avoiding anything with Trump in the title, as with any of the other "horse race" coverage. At this point, let the early primaries decide who the front-runners are; then I'll start paying attention. Are we really willing to devote so much of our time to such a waste? Life is too short.
1
Are we really surprised by Trump? What line has Trump crossed, that wasn't crossed years ago?
Anyone who expresses shock at Trump should be ashamed. Get real.
Anyone who expresses shock at Trump should be ashamed. Get real.
4
Amen Robert. Amen.
1
It would now appear that the NEXT INDIVIDUAL for the CLOWNISH TRUMP to attack would be another Democratic Party American Hero, - even though he wasn't captured, (as the the Clown said he only likes those who were not captured), when he waged an attack on another Hero Republican Senator John MacCain.
Since John Kerry is NOT running for office, he confronted Trump Head On!
And, by the way I do believe that our Congress has continued to Dodge a reform to our Immigration Laws. If nothing else Trumps attacks on Hispanics and the Country of Mexico should serve as a wake up call. This comment comes not from an Elitist, - in the past a Moderate Republican, now just an Independent Voter, and Trump is just a Candidate in my rearview Mirror!
Since John Kerry is NOT running for office, he confronted Trump Head On!
And, by the way I do believe that our Congress has continued to Dodge a reform to our Immigration Laws. If nothing else Trumps attacks on Hispanics and the Country of Mexico should serve as a wake up call. This comment comes not from an Elitist, - in the past a Moderate Republican, now just an Independent Voter, and Trump is just a Candidate in my rearview Mirror!
1
Nonetheless, Trumps poll numbers likely represent the tea party voters, who are mavericks and delight in Trump's "telling it like it is." These are the Jade-Helmers, the confederate flag wavers,, the haters of immigrants and the fearful of losing the power of their whiteness. If he has the money, He could form a third party. Republicans live in fear of that prospect.
When you invite vampires in, they seldom leave voluntarily.
At least Jon Stewart is happy Trump is running and doing some of his best work.
When you invite vampires in, they seldom leave voluntarily.
At least Jon Stewart is happy Trump is running and doing some of his best work.
2
As a supporter of Trump's message, I can tell you that there are tens of millions of people in this country that support immigrants, but hate that we have been overrun by illegal immigration. He is helping us bring this issue to the forefront, and we appreciate it! And don't call us crazy or haters.
1
With the help of the media, Mr. Trump has turned the presidential campaign into a particularly vulgar "reality" TV enterprise. His appeal, as he well knows, is to those elements of the electorate who equate insult with ideals and invective with policy.
Somehow, bombast is considered to be "straight talk." Mr. Trump is a promoter, and the presidential campaign has given him publicity that money alone couldn't buy. He is not really an entrepreneur because he tagged onto a disaffected and angry portion of the electorate who had no one to voice their grievances once Palin and Bachmann left the scene. He merely put a new face on an old product - like moving Las Vegas to Atlantic City.
Mr. Trump really has no interest in pursuing a political career, much less becoming president; as he repeats ad infinitum is that he has a talent for making money. The current presidential campaign is merely another means to promote himself and add to his net worth. The value he places on his enterprises is inflated by a high value attributed to his brand name, and the people who genuflect to the rich while decrying the "elites" are adding to his market value.
Perhaps it is time for the media to stop being lazy and focusing on Mr. Trump's comments and begin to ask him some serious questions about foreign and economic policies. He can only turn the election of the president into an entertainment vehicle if the media look for easy stories.
Somehow, bombast is considered to be "straight talk." Mr. Trump is a promoter, and the presidential campaign has given him publicity that money alone couldn't buy. He is not really an entrepreneur because he tagged onto a disaffected and angry portion of the electorate who had no one to voice their grievances once Palin and Bachmann left the scene. He merely put a new face on an old product - like moving Las Vegas to Atlantic City.
Mr. Trump really has no interest in pursuing a political career, much less becoming president; as he repeats ad infinitum is that he has a talent for making money. The current presidential campaign is merely another means to promote himself and add to his net worth. The value he places on his enterprises is inflated by a high value attributed to his brand name, and the people who genuflect to the rich while decrying the "elites" are adding to his market value.
Perhaps it is time for the media to stop being lazy and focusing on Mr. Trump's comments and begin to ask him some serious questions about foreign and economic policies. He can only turn the election of the president into an entertainment vehicle if the media look for easy stories.
4
Wow, vile besmircking... Here's a suggestion, Frank: don't write another word about trump until there are actual primary results to consider.
1
And you shall reap what you sow. DT is our reward for allowing the very serious and important process of electing our representatives turn into a marketing campaign for the best suppository. It's now 40 years since Jackson Browne bemoaned that "they sell us our leaders like they sell us our cars" and it is abundantly clear that we like it a very much and deserve this circus. If any of us truly want take America great again, reforming our money driven advertising centric political process would be a great place to start.
2
Mr. Trump is a proven global leader who would be effective as President growing jobs and the economy, improving immigration control, and would not undo 16 years of social progress. He respects family, hard work, and financial opportunities. Things that both republicans and democrats like. His perspective is 100% American.
Mr. McCain is not a hero because he was captured. He is a hero because he survived and thrived! Mr. Trump jolts us into diaglog, and seeing ourselves more clearly.
Mr. McCain is not a hero because he was captured. He is a hero because he survived and thrived! Mr. Trump jolts us into diaglog, and seeing ourselves more clearly.
2
I have two reactions to Trumpmania, the first serious, the second a more accurate reflection of what I really think.
The serious reflection is that with Kasich entering the fray there are now 16 declared Republican contenders; and to the extent that ANYONE is paying serious attention to candidates vying for a nomination to contend in an election that won't take place until November of NEXT year -- and a primary outcome that won't formally be decided for almost as long -- they're mightily confused with this clown car of people most they've never heard of. Trump definitely has name recognition, as he came into their homes for a time to entertain them with his "Apprentice" show. So polls are reflecting this; but his fifteen minutes are rapidly being consumed.
Then, there's what I really think.
The Donald lost me in the late 70s, when spied cavorting with the likes of Al d'Amato, George Steinbrenner and Roy Cohn at a Studio 54 I wouldn't be caught dead in even if they HAD been willing to let me in (you couldn't do the "white man's overbite" under their strobe -- heaven knows how Trump got away with it).
The Donald is entertaining, but will go away soon. Thank heavens.
The serious reflection is that with Kasich entering the fray there are now 16 declared Republican contenders; and to the extent that ANYONE is paying serious attention to candidates vying for a nomination to contend in an election that won't take place until November of NEXT year -- and a primary outcome that won't formally be decided for almost as long -- they're mightily confused with this clown car of people most they've never heard of. Trump definitely has name recognition, as he came into their homes for a time to entertain them with his "Apprentice" show. So polls are reflecting this; but his fifteen minutes are rapidly being consumed.
Then, there's what I really think.
The Donald lost me in the late 70s, when spied cavorting with the likes of Al d'Amato, George Steinbrenner and Roy Cohn at a Studio 54 I wouldn't be caught dead in even if they HAD been willing to let me in (you couldn't do the "white man's overbite" under their strobe -- heaven knows how Trump got away with it).
The Donald is entertaining, but will go away soon. Thank heavens.
2
Trump does not have my vote, but I'm glad he's running. As time goes on and media scrutiny becomes ever more suffocating, all of the major candidates have retreated into safety bubbles. Always on message, never giving off the wrong image, they mince and wince their way to the Oval Office.
The power of the mob has accomplished this dubious feat. We have very literally gone back to the culture of "The Scarlet Letter" where people are apprehended, tried, and punished by the mob for perceived crimes of ideological deviation. A person who "says the wrong thing" can expect to be mocked and insulted by a hundred different sources using escalating versions of the same verbal formulation.
Even private citizens are "on message" now, repeating nearly word-for-word the insightless snippets of their cult leaders.
Trump may have actually proven the value of extreme narcissism in public life, which is to puncture the deadening cloak of ideological conformity, maintained by people with egos too small to stand up to it.
The power of the mob has accomplished this dubious feat. We have very literally gone back to the culture of "The Scarlet Letter" where people are apprehended, tried, and punished by the mob for perceived crimes of ideological deviation. A person who "says the wrong thing" can expect to be mocked and insulted by a hundred different sources using escalating versions of the same verbal formulation.
Even private citizens are "on message" now, repeating nearly word-for-word the insightless snippets of their cult leaders.
Trump may have actually proven the value of extreme narcissism in public life, which is to puncture the deadening cloak of ideological conformity, maintained by people with egos too small to stand up to it.
3
Obviously the media have to talk about Donald Trump. But they don't have to give him the prominence they have been.
Yesterday's NBC network news program, for example, led off with a story about Donald Trump. Governor Kasich's entry into the Republican primaries was reserved for second, and even after that story, the narrative went back to Trump's standing in the polls.
The fact is, conflict makes for great ratings, especially on TV, and Trump is out there everyday creating conflict - and TV news is giving Trump all the air time he wants. TV commentators keep falling back on the metaphor about Trump "sucking up all the oxygen in the room," as if the media have nothing to do with it. But a more apt metaphor would be, Trump is playing the media like a fiddle - and the news media are willing to be played, as long as they get high-ratings sound bites out of it.
Trump isn't going to be the Republican nominee, if for not other reason because he doesn't want to be the Republican nominee - his campaign is a business campaign, not a political one. And the media are falling down on their job in pretending otherwise.
politicsbyeccehomo.wordpress.com
Yesterday's NBC network news program, for example, led off with a story about Donald Trump. Governor Kasich's entry into the Republican primaries was reserved for second, and even after that story, the narrative went back to Trump's standing in the polls.
The fact is, conflict makes for great ratings, especially on TV, and Trump is out there everyday creating conflict - and TV news is giving Trump all the air time he wants. TV commentators keep falling back on the metaphor about Trump "sucking up all the oxygen in the room," as if the media have nothing to do with it. But a more apt metaphor would be, Trump is playing the media like a fiddle - and the news media are willing to be played, as long as they get high-ratings sound bites out of it.
Trump isn't going to be the Republican nominee, if for not other reason because he doesn't want to be the Republican nominee - his campaign is a business campaign, not a political one. And the media are falling down on their job in pretending otherwise.
politicsbyeccehomo.wordpress.com
2
The main reason the GOP is squirming at the Donald is because he is getting high polling numbers and just proves what most of us- including John McCain- have known for many years... that the base of the Republican party is made up of idiots, racists and crazies.
They want to keep this under wraps but of course, the strategists like Rove have known this and make up wedge issues to pander to the lowest common denominator of voters, i.e. Republican voters in the heart of the red states. Donald won't last but he is doing damage to the GOP brand and even McCain has commented about the crazies in his party- and he should know. Of course, since he selected the genius Sarah Palin for VP- McCain has no room to talk.
They want to keep this under wraps but of course, the strategists like Rove have known this and make up wedge issues to pander to the lowest common denominator of voters, i.e. Republican voters in the heart of the red states. Donald won't last but he is doing damage to the GOP brand and even McCain has commented about the crazies in his party- and he should know. Of course, since he selected the genius Sarah Palin for VP- McCain has no room to talk.
3
Frank, methinks thou doth protest too much.
Ground game or no, it is painfully obvious that there is real support for Trump's odious bloviation within, as Mencken called it, "the booboisie." That there is a significant portion of the Republican electorate who supports him is a necessary evil, and is fair game for press coverage. Four years ago, Herman Cain became the Republican front runner, despite running a campaign that was a put on. That only Rachel Maddow was able to identify the campaign as a put on is the sternest indictment possible of the Fourth Estate. When Cain suddenly exited the campaign, with Stephen Colbert at his side, while quoting the Pokemon movie, it was obvious to all that the public and press had been scammed, yet nobody dared to mention that.
It would be much more helpful to bring out the truth about Trump, which is easily found. The multiple bankruptcies, the failure to pay creditors and contractors. His risible claim that he "knows how to bring manufacturing jobs back to America" while having a line of clothes bearing his name made in China.
How about the skin crawling creepiness of Trump saying that his daughter is so hot that he'd date her if she wasn't his daughter?
Expose the truth about Trump. The Republicans in the clown car howled when he insulted McCain, but said nothing about Trump being the most persistent pursuer of birther nonsense about our President, as recently as last year, and no Republican had a problem with THAT. Behold hypocrites.
Ground game or no, it is painfully obvious that there is real support for Trump's odious bloviation within, as Mencken called it, "the booboisie." That there is a significant portion of the Republican electorate who supports him is a necessary evil, and is fair game for press coverage. Four years ago, Herman Cain became the Republican front runner, despite running a campaign that was a put on. That only Rachel Maddow was able to identify the campaign as a put on is the sternest indictment possible of the Fourth Estate. When Cain suddenly exited the campaign, with Stephen Colbert at his side, while quoting the Pokemon movie, it was obvious to all that the public and press had been scammed, yet nobody dared to mention that.
It would be much more helpful to bring out the truth about Trump, which is easily found. The multiple bankruptcies, the failure to pay creditors and contractors. His risible claim that he "knows how to bring manufacturing jobs back to America" while having a line of clothes bearing his name made in China.
How about the skin crawling creepiness of Trump saying that his daughter is so hot that he'd date her if she wasn't his daughter?
Expose the truth about Trump. The Republicans in the clown car howled when he insulted McCain, but said nothing about Trump being the most persistent pursuer of birther nonsense about our President, as recently as last year, and no Republican had a problem with THAT. Behold hypocrites.
5
I think Trump has the left scared stiff. He's won't play along. He's saying whatever he wants – no polls, no data how his opinions are trending, hardly any staff. He's completely stolen the spotlight, landing on the front page every day. I can't remember one thing Hillary has said. Recent articles here say she had a nice dad, and is reinventing herself. Zzzzzz.
3
I think Trump has the Republican National Committee and the other candidates scared stiff. Progressives know he stands no chance of winning a national Presidential election. Probably the RNC knows that, too. His continued presence in the campaign continues to draw attention away from the real candidates. The Republican campaign both this year and in 2012 was often compared to a "clown bus." Now the RNC has a real clown on the bus, and they don't know what to do about it.
2
Donald is such an ubermensch that diapers are being ordered for everyone who calls themselves liberal. The hand-wringing, self-flagellation and caterwauling we hear is the Far Left rending its clothes and gnashing its teeth because Donald's extraordinary charisma and political acumen is clearly unstoppable, inevitable and indomitable.
FYI, Barack Obama has appeared on more late night comedy shows over the last 4 years than Jerry Seinfeld and Dave Chappelle combined, including SEVEN appearances on the Daily Show with Jon Stewart.
Clown show?
Peter, it appears that liberals are throwing stones from a glass house on this one bud.
Clown show?
Peter, it appears that liberals are throwing stones from a glass house on this one bud.
If you watch network news, you should soon come to the conclusion that the major networks are interested only in furthering their own ratings. First, they report only stories that are likely to arouse the most base public interest. Second, their female announcers/anchors appear to be selected for their centerfold appeal than their brilliance. They all look like paper cutouts of Barbie. Finally, the selected females all dress in a manner that is planned to arouse the most base instincts in viewers.
With regard to Trump himself, the candidate. All should take a good look at what The Terminator did to California. It took most of Brown's first term for him to right the financial mess that The Terminator left behind. California survived and is now flourishing; the US as a whole does not need another showman.
I think that right now, Trump is high in the polls because those who like to watch mainstream network TV recognize his name. I hope that when they enter the polling both, if not before, they will all come to their senses before casting their ballot.
With regard to Trump himself, the candidate. All should take a good look at what The Terminator did to California. It took most of Brown's first term for him to right the financial mess that The Terminator left behind. California survived and is now flourishing; the US as a whole does not need another showman.
I think that right now, Trump is high in the polls because those who like to watch mainstream network TV recognize his name. I hope that when they enter the polling both, if not before, they will all come to their senses before casting their ballot.
3
One way you can start, Frank, is to cool it on the conspicuous outrage over everything Trump says or does. The more columns you devote to him, the more publicity you're giving him. "Oh, did you hear that horrible thing that horrible Donald Trump said?" is a sure way to spread the horrible message.
Like a bee, ignore him and he'll go away.
Like a bee, ignore him and he'll go away.
Nobody dares to name the elephant in the room.The problem is not Trump nor the media.Every "civilized" country elects a leader in five to eight weeks.The antiquated system used in the US is laughed at around the world.
Until you change the process you will get the candidates you deserve.
Until you change the process you will get the candidates you deserve.
1
Republicans and their think tanks have been developing the idea that 'government can't do anything right' for years, resulting in the election of politicians who do their utmost to destroy government. the 24% of Republican voters who currently support Trump demonstrate the success of this idea - but (fortunately!) this 'kill government' contingent will never be able to garner enough support to actually result in one of their own being nominated; the GOP is not that stupid. all one has to do is see their reining in on Ted Cruz in the Senate to understand the limits of this slash-and-burn philosophy; it may please a bunch of angry, older, white males, but will ultimately prove to be a sideshow, and journalists would do well to treat it as exactly that.
3
Trump is a buffoon. That he is running for president is beyond a joke. What I think is interesting however is the extent to which he has touched a nerve, which I think is a direct reaction to our culture of political correctness.
I like to think that I am as open-minded as they come, but I am dismayed by the negative effects of political correctness. In order to move forward each of us must honestly address all contributors to any given problem. There is no one solution to the kind of complex problems our country faces, and we must not be afraid to shine light on any way WE can make improvements.
Otherwise it just becomes a matter of finger pointing, the digging in of heels and completely non-constructive escalations.
I like to think that I am as open-minded as they come, but I am dismayed by the negative effects of political correctness. In order to move forward each of us must honestly address all contributors to any given problem. There is no one solution to the kind of complex problems our country faces, and we must not be afraid to shine light on any way WE can make improvements.
Otherwise it just becomes a matter of finger pointing, the digging in of heels and completely non-constructive escalations.
1
But you still write yet another unnecessary column preaching to the choir about how the media is fueling the Trump campaign. When will it be possible to turn on the news or read the paper and not be confronted with the most recent inanity from the Trump campaign? The inanity, in case you haven't noticed, that was performed by the Trump campaign to make the broadcast and print media jump to attention and beg for more.
But wait a minute--you have noticed that you're being played, so what's the point of this column?
But wait a minute--you have noticed that you're being played, so what's the point of this column?
3
Trump has proved he has standards:
it's the "dumb" political press that he claims misrepresents him while he is used to the upstanding financial press.
it's the "dumb" political press that he claims misrepresents him while he is used to the upstanding financial press.
Much of what Trump says can be classified as nonsense. That said. much of what he says often has an element of truth. Such is the case with what he had to say about Senator McCain. As brave as McCain had to be to endure what he did, he was not a hero in the way that Sargent York was in World War One or that Audie Murphy was in World War Two. My father served in the Philippines in World War Two but he drove a truck and was never in a battle. I considered him a hero but I doubt if many other people did.
2
He has a right to run if he wants.
All these commenters and opinion writers seem actually worried that he will succeed despite their best debunking efforts.
Whatever his motives are he isn't suspected of being subtle or disingenuous.
Don Imus claimed that he was a friend of Senator McCain whom he greatly admired but thought that two more year's of torture would have seasoned him better for the political challenges and nobody I saw complained about that comment.
Trump claims to be fantastically successful and rich and could do that for USA.
Is he in fact as successful as he says? Ethical?
Could that type of success translate?
George Washington was a real estate Mogul and he worked out great.
All these commenters and opinion writers seem actually worried that he will succeed despite their best debunking efforts.
Whatever his motives are he isn't suspected of being subtle or disingenuous.
Don Imus claimed that he was a friend of Senator McCain whom he greatly admired but thought that two more year's of torture would have seasoned him better for the political challenges and nobody I saw complained about that comment.
Trump claims to be fantastically successful and rich and could do that for USA.
Is he in fact as successful as he says? Ethical?
Could that type of success translate?
George Washington was a real estate Mogul and he worked out great.
1
I wish that the level of anger against Don generated by his immigration comments would have equaled the anger he caused by his McCain comments. I suppose his immigration comments were more acceptable?
3
McCain was seriously vetted during his last run for President. Best summary was published in Rolling Stone, and should be a must read for anyone having problems with Trump's statements about McCain's history and reality.
http://www.rollingstone.com/politics/news/make-believe-maverick-20081016
http://www.rollingstone.com/politics/news/make-believe-maverick-20081016
1
Why take this so seriously? Potential voters, who think they are for Trump, are generally uniformed. Trump is neither Republican nor Democrat, nor Libertarian... He runs the one man party of Trump.
Trump is wonderful entertainment and provides comic relief to our acid upcoming election. I am going to enjoy the circus show for as long as it lasts. I hope he provides plenty of fodder for Jon Stewart and the Daily Show for the next several weeks, and that Stewart's successor is as good as Stewart in making the most of the comedic material.
Trump is wonderful entertainment and provides comic relief to our acid upcoming election. I am going to enjoy the circus show for as long as it lasts. I hope he provides plenty of fodder for Jon Stewart and the Daily Show for the next several weeks, and that Stewart's successor is as good as Stewart in making the most of the comedic material.
1
Trump is not the problem.
Though I agree that he is a "freak show."
I also agree that he's good for Democrats.
Democrats are good for the nation.
Starve the poor is not good for the nation.
Squeeze the middle class is not good for the nation.
Trump could be the guy.
The one who saves us from disastrous Republican policies.
Though I agree that he is a "freak show."
I also agree that he's good for Democrats.
Democrats are good for the nation.
Starve the poor is not good for the nation.
Squeeze the middle class is not good for the nation.
Trump could be the guy.
The one who saves us from disastrous Republican policies.
2
Measured against the empty suits who are running, he doesn't look half bad. Each of the others (including Mrs. Clinton whom you will endorse) is in the pockets of their donors. Each of them will hold their finger up to the wind to decide what to do as Mrs. Clinton did when she voted for war in Iraq. The republicans won't give the well qualified Kasich the time of day; they prefer the college drop-out Walker. I'll vote for Bernie.
5
We complain about a showman and his cheering celebrity peons. We bemoan the whole field of showmen. Instead of impatiently watching the performances play out, we need to get busy demanding a vigorous fourth estate. (With compliments to Mr. Frank Bruni.)
At a minimum, toward the end of the nation's high-stakes political contest, a corresponding set of well-researched facts can be placed alongside major players' outrageous claims and fake facts. Reporters-as-transcriptionests and interviewers acting like celebrity agents fail our nation.
How did we get into Iraq? A lot of media outlets delivered quotes from VSPs, without featuring facts a few investigative reporters had uncovered. Media, citizenry, and Congress behaved like energized sheep. (I'll never understand the votes in Congress though.) Never again.
At a minimum, toward the end of the nation's high-stakes political contest, a corresponding set of well-researched facts can be placed alongside major players' outrageous claims and fake facts. Reporters-as-transcriptionests and interviewers acting like celebrity agents fail our nation.
How did we get into Iraq? A lot of media outlets delivered quotes from VSPs, without featuring facts a few investigative reporters had uncovered. Media, citizenry, and Congress behaved like energized sheep. (I'll never understand the votes in Congress though.) Never again.
2
The timing is starting to become worrisome; he's about to burn out a good bit too soon for maximum damage. Dems and Independents should do what they can to bring the house down a little, so that he's still firmly in the mix when it begins to count. Regardless, it is great to watch even if he peaks a little too soon.
1
And so it continues...more and more publicity for Trump the Chump. When is the media going to get it? You're aiding and abetting an out and out creep.
4
George Washington
Thomas Jefferson
Abraham Lincoln
Franklin Delano Roosevelt
John F. Kennedy
Donald Trump
yikes !
Thomas Jefferson
Abraham Lincoln
Franklin Delano Roosevelt
John F. Kennedy
Donald Trump
yikes !
2
Entertainment is over. Time to put this man and his delusion to rest, buts since all media had become a tabloid I just choose to skip anything that has to do with this clown. HIs first quote about Mexican's has been overly used for only one thing, "ratings" for nothing more.
There's so many worth news about immigration to read about.
Can we move on, please?
There's so many worth news about immigration to read about.
Can we move on, please?
I don't get your anxiety. Trump serves a great service, just like Stephen Colbert's satire, or Archie Bunker in his time. He clarifies the trash talk of our vilest demagogues. I love that he's hired Koch's ex-advisor. Would that that fact sprinkle stink on those lying villains. Trump is doing great work. Leave him alone.
That the NYT's and Frank Bruni are upset with Trump's views, vulgarity and arrogance is understandable.
But what really bothers them is that he is touching themes that resonate with a huge mass of people in this country perhaps a majority.
These people don't necessarily want Trump as a player in politics but they want their concerns about rampant illegal and legal immigration into this country of people disconnected to the mainstream culture addressed.
Unfortunately, mainstream politicians are terrified of speaking publicly about their private views so they merely pander.
Consequently, we end up with a conceited brat like Trump as a voice to those concerns.
But what really bothers them is that he is touching themes that resonate with a huge mass of people in this country perhaps a majority.
These people don't necessarily want Trump as a player in politics but they want their concerns about rampant illegal and legal immigration into this country of people disconnected to the mainstream culture addressed.
Unfortunately, mainstream politicians are terrified of speaking publicly about their private views so they merely pander.
Consequently, we end up with a conceited brat like Trump as a voice to those concerns.
2
Making fun of Trump is easy; it's almost impossible not to. A certain amount of narcissism is probably required for one to join the campaign to be President. It is not, as Trump believes, sufficient reason to do so.
Turn off the lights, cameras, and microphones. Close the door in his face. Move on.
Turn off the lights, cameras, and microphones. Close the door in his face. Move on.
2
Keep it coming, Donald. You are doing the nation a service. The GOP has been too constrained by its "politically correct"ness for too long. Some people actually believe the GOP isn't a lynch mob. Thanks for telling it like it is.
I don't think that it's too much of a stretch to suggest that Trump's megalomania, his crass behavior, his defiance and utter lack of reflection would suggest serious mental illness. It will be interesting to watch him and see what happens when his campaign finally implodes.
1
Donald Trump, whatever he says or does, does not shrink me. Indeed, he cannot shrink anyone who doesn't give him access to do so. It's much like the business of inviting a vampire into one's home: no entry, no problem.
Commentators say we need to get past Donald Trump so we can have a serious discussion of the real issues. Why do they think, even without Donald Trump, that we voters will see a serious discussion of the issues? We will be treated to a barrage of negative, dishonest attack ads, and candidates' unrelenting disparagement of President Obama (who is not a candidate). I am reminded of Mitt Romney's first ad in 2012, in which he took a video clip of Barack Obama campaigning in 2008 and edited it to completely change the meaning of what Barack Obama actually said. As far as I know, Donald Trump was not in any way involved.
2
I appreciate your approach and Bob Kerrey's thoughts. But I would have liked to see some discussion of what this Trump sideshow is distracting us from, strictly in terms of Republican primary politics.
I mean, it's clear that a certain number of Americans just want to hear someone shoot of his mouth, even if he's clearly unelectable. But why would Fox News defend Trump? Because he's a major distraction from...whatever and whomever the likes of the Koch Bros and the Republican machine are pulling strings for. Trump hides the Republican sleight of hand.
I mean, it's clear that a certain number of Americans just want to hear someone shoot of his mouth, even if he's clearly unelectable. But why would Fox News defend Trump? Because he's a major distraction from...whatever and whomever the likes of the Koch Bros and the Republican machine are pulling strings for. Trump hides the Republican sleight of hand.
The ridiculously long lead-up to presidential elections is what creates America’s political freak show. If there was less time spent campaigning, and less time spent on media coverage, candidates would have less time for side-show antics.
1
The comments of John Kerry in this column are particularly relevant to Trump's unconscionable smear of John McCain. Recall that in the 2004 presidential campaign, Republicans shamefully used the "swift boat incident" to purposely distort Kerry's war record and brand him a "liar." At the time, many of my conservative Republican friends, believed the "swift boat" lie and were incensed at Kerry. Trump, in what is obviously a successful attention getting tactic, is simply taking the 2004 Republican "swift boat" lie one step further. I did not vote for McCain in 2008, but I believe he is a true American hero, and consequently Trump's comments are despicable.
You've got the wrong Kerrey. Bob Kerrey is quoted in this piece, not John Kerry.
The individual in Bruni's column is Bob Kerrey, not John Kerry.
Trump gets 24% of likely Republican voters because he's not as boring as the other candidates. But it's important to remember that still means 76% of Republican voters want someone else. Stop covering the chump and he goes away.
1
But, we need an apology from Jeb Bush, if he is going to ask for Trump to apologize to McCain. As it is exactly what Jeb did to Bob Kerry when he was running for President and those producing the Swift Boat ads. Jeb continues to be a hypocrite - asking from others for which he is unable or unwilling to do.
3
Trump is a genius at one-line come-backs!
If he makes it as far as the WI primary, where there is no party registration, I bet many Dems will vote for Trump... Just to make Walker look worse!
If he makes it as far as the WI primary, where there is no party registration, I bet many Dems will vote for Trump... Just to make Walker look worse!
1
In my comment, there is a typo: Should be "imputado,"not "diputado." Thanks
Trump is a buffoon. That he is running for president is beyond a joke. What I think is interesting however is the extent to which he has touched a nerve, which I think is a direct reaction to our culture of political correctness.
I like to think that I am as open-minded as they come, but I am dismayed by the negative effects of political correctness. In order to move forward each of us must honestly address all contributors to any given problem. There is no one solution to the kind of complex problems our country faces, and we must not be afraid to shine light on any way WE can make improvements.
Otherwise it just becomes a matter of finger pointing and digging in of heels.
I like to think that I am as open-minded as they come, but I am dismayed by the negative effects of political correctness. In order to move forward each of us must honestly address all contributors to any given problem. There is no one solution to the kind of complex problems our country faces, and we must not be afraid to shine light on any way WE can make improvements.
Otherwise it just becomes a matter of finger pointing and digging in of heels.
I don't why people are spending a great deal of time parsing and examining Trumps comments. He speaks off the cuff, appears to love his unscriptness and generally gives little thought to consequence. He's not William Jennings Bryan. But he is kid on the playground who hopes that when he picks on someone that other kids will join him. He really seems to need the audience.
Trump is a joke with no chance of winning the white house or even a major party nomination. His attraction is his willingness to disrespect the pretentious and the powerful. McCain has used his years in a POW camp to establish and to promote his political career from its outset. McCain's is not a sacred history that must not be "besmirched". Yes, I know that the PC of the day is that everybody who joins the military and goes to war is a hero; in years past heroes were people that chose to take extraordinary personal risk in order to save the lives of others. I'm not sure (and don't much care) whether McCain, a captured pilot who participated in raids over poorly defended territory, qualifies.
I would have thought that you, Frank, might have found some entertainment value in Trump's antics. The huffing and puffing about disrespecting a hero offers a bit of humor and a bit of insight into a culture that lionizes the youngsters who fight and die as directed by politicians like McCain.
I would have thought that you, Frank, might have found some entertainment value in Trump's antics. The huffing and puffing about disrespecting a hero offers a bit of humor and a bit of insight into a culture that lionizes the youngsters who fight and die as directed by politicians like McCain.
The Romans placated the citizenry with bread and circuses. And circuses need clowns which brings us to the 16 GOP inflated shoe gang of bozos. The more they give us, as entertainment, the more this reality show rip-off draws our attention. The donald hasn't thought this through or thought at all. Wait until someone mentions that he must divest himself of all business ties in order to be president and blind trust all his assets, the hurling invectives will be humongous. Presidents don't have businesses, being president is a full time job and the only asset that this Punch will bring to the White House is a very comely Judy. And a large Trump logo to hang on the portico. Bet he's just a well planned DNC plant, a 21st century Manchurian Candidate!! I think Val Kilmer could play him in the movie with Mel Brooks directing and writing the screenplay. Get busy Mel, it will be as great a mashup as The Producers plus Mars Attacks! could ever be. Mark my words, the truth is out there. Screen time for Donald and GOP!! A Comedy Tonight!!
1
Trump is the Republican and the Republican is Trump. Majority of Republicans support Trump the clown. Can I call the Republican party a Clown party? He does not criticize Obama or Hillary and he was Clinton donor. He supported Obamacare and prolife. Why is on the top in poll? It is insane.
1
The media are enabling the egocentric, uncivil behavior of Mr. Trump. Rather than use their considerable influence on attention-grabbing media manipulators, they might use a little tough love and don't feed his addiction to publicity. But since I think any coverage of presidential campaigns should be limited to no earlier than one year before elections, consider the source.
1
The real story is not Donald Trump. The real story is the mind set of a significant number of our fellow citizens who have consumed the Kool Aide served daily by Fox, right wing talk radio, blog like RedState and the ubiquitous right wing emails.
2
"And yet."
And yet, Mr. Bruni, you continue to spill ink on this subject and it merely feeds the beast. You are far too intelligent for this. Then again, the NYT has to sell papers, right?
Personally, I believe all of this nonsense surrounding Trump will fade very quickly. But before it does it might, it just might help to prod some of the Republican contenders to speak in a more forthright manner about real issues, past and present, and it could also cause one or two feather weights to merely drop out. Ted "I like Donald Trump" Cruz, for example.
And yet, Mr. Bruni, you continue to spill ink on this subject and it merely feeds the beast. You are far too intelligent for this. Then again, the NYT has to sell papers, right?
Personally, I believe all of this nonsense surrounding Trump will fade very quickly. But before it does it might, it just might help to prod some of the Republican contenders to speak in a more forthright manner about real issues, past and present, and it could also cause one or two feather weights to merely drop out. Ted "I like Donald Trump" Cruz, for example.
Donald Trump is NOT stupid. He has gotten more publicity than most of the Republican candidates combined. He has thrown in his lot with the base elements of America, just as the rest of the candidates have, only he's done it with style and panache. All the other GOP candidates have essentially said the same thing in that coded language that they imagine shields them from the kind of flack he is getting. As a liberal whose only Republican vote was for John Lindsay, I say Bravo Trump, the smartest guy in the party.
1
Trump has been wonderful at revealing the hypocrisies of the governing class. Saying out loud, very loud, all the things Republicans have spoken in code about since Nixon first started with the Silent Majority. I can't wait until the photos of the Clintons at his wedding start to be showcased. And the Mexicans, just a warm up. How long do you think Marco Rubio will last when Trump starts talking about his sugar daddy and calling him Sugar Baby. Do you think Walker has 1% of the gravitas or decency necessary to take him down. Yes, someone with the integrity of Matteo Renzi could steamroll Trump, as Renzi did Berlusconi. But integrity was something the Republicans and Hillary Clinton long ago discarded.
1
A question any remaining "moderate Republicans" should ponder:
If Donald Trump is your party's leading candidate, are you sure you're in the right party?
If Donald Trump is your party's leading candidate, are you sure you're in the right party?
3
Trump is "embarrassing" the Republican party? That's rich, what about the other 19 clowns that they have running.
1
Consider the following. First, I think Trump is doing nothing more than carving himself a place at the table. The question really is whether or not he is Ross Perot or Barack Obamaesque in his efforts. He may very well be doing this to make a path for more moderate candidates of either party.
It's clear that he is (a) saying what a lot of people are thinking; and (b) pulling in the news and other candidates to a box canyon where he'll decide what to do with them at the slaughter.
Secondly, while he is doing all of this he is gauging where it leads, like a test market. Keep in mind Obama got elected off of the Oprah Winfrey effect from a point of being far less known than Trump and black, real longs shots, and in this day and age voyeuristic t.v. sells big and the dumber the better. (Surely you can't forget Honey Boo Boo and the Kardashians here. Who do you think really votes? And if your grandma was dumb 20 years ago I can guarantee you she likely hasn't gotten smarter in her old age.)
So he isn't serious, at least about being president--yet. This is him running his brand in a test market, BUT if the test market ends up giving him a shot, don't rule him out as the next Barack Obama. That really is how he got elected to the presidency in the final analysis. I'm thinking this is going to be more like Ross Perot, though, and it's much like a toy.
It's clear that he is (a) saying what a lot of people are thinking; and (b) pulling in the news and other candidates to a box canyon where he'll decide what to do with them at the slaughter.
Secondly, while he is doing all of this he is gauging where it leads, like a test market. Keep in mind Obama got elected off of the Oprah Winfrey effect from a point of being far less known than Trump and black, real longs shots, and in this day and age voyeuristic t.v. sells big and the dumber the better. (Surely you can't forget Honey Boo Boo and the Kardashians here. Who do you think really votes? And if your grandma was dumb 20 years ago I can guarantee you she likely hasn't gotten smarter in her old age.)
So he isn't serious, at least about being president--yet. This is him running his brand in a test market, BUT if the test market ends up giving him a shot, don't rule him out as the next Barack Obama. That really is how he got elected to the presidency in the final analysis. I'm thinking this is going to be more like Ross Perot, though, and it's much like a toy.
1
Trump may not end up being the Republican nominee but his lead in many poles right now says a great deal about a segment in our population that is racist and xenophobic. We have a long way to go in our country to change still very prominent and deeply ingrained darker attitudes.
I don't know why politicians say Trump is bad for American politics. He is the embodiment of the GOP views. The difference is that he does something instead of just preventing things from being none. I would prefer that a Democrat takes the White House, but if a Republican does, I'd rather it be Trump and any of the other 'leading' GOP candidates.
Hearing Trump's off the cuff slaps and insults at his various competitors for the nomination on the BBC this morning, all I could think of was a monkey throwing his feces at the zoo visitors watching him. It's hard to believe there are an appreciable number of Americans willing to say they think he could lead the most powerful nation on the planet.
1
I'm wondering when The Donald will reveal the cell phone numbers of the remaining Republican candidates.
3
No matter how you cut it, Trump is providing some much needed comedy relief from all the bad stuff at home and worldwide. And as they say, laughter is the best medicine. The attention he's getting for holding nothing back and being unfiltered reveals how we ache for authenticity, even if it's an Archie Bunker style of authenticity. And if that means a reduction in namby pambying by candidates that would be a great contribution. Of course Archie Bunker never ran for president. But neither, in reality, is Trump. He's only pretending to be a candidate. And most know it. He just doesn't have anything better to do and is enjoying himself like any other well-heeled dyed in the wool hedonist. So to the question "To Trump or Not to Trump?" For sure, keep Trumping.
56
That's the problem.
Barack Obama exploited our "need" for comic relief (which in fact is escapism and avoidance of reality) to become President of the United States.
And where has that gotten us?
I am a Black man in Washington DC, and I work as an attorney on Capitol Hill.
Since Obama took office, there are more people in the Black community under the age of 18 starving, living in poverty or in fear for their lives than were living in captivity as slaves 150 years before Obama took office. When people of my race are suffering more under Barack Obama than we did during slavery, it's not time for jokes, we don't need Obama making a 7th appearance on the Daily Show, or reading David Letterman's Top 10 list.
Trump is bombastic, but he's also something else--fed up with the status quo content to sit and lazily stare at Kim Kardashian's backside while an arrogant, incompetent President sits in the WH taking selfies and squandering our nation's limited resources.
To Trump or not to Trump? If it gets our nation to wake up and take our country seriously again, absolutely.
Barack Obama exploited our "need" for comic relief (which in fact is escapism and avoidance of reality) to become President of the United States.
And where has that gotten us?
I am a Black man in Washington DC, and I work as an attorney on Capitol Hill.
Since Obama took office, there are more people in the Black community under the age of 18 starving, living in poverty or in fear for their lives than were living in captivity as slaves 150 years before Obama took office. When people of my race are suffering more under Barack Obama than we did during slavery, it's not time for jokes, we don't need Obama making a 7th appearance on the Daily Show, or reading David Letterman's Top 10 list.
Trump is bombastic, but he's also something else--fed up with the status quo content to sit and lazily stare at Kim Kardashian's backside while an arrogant, incompetent President sits in the WH taking selfies and squandering our nation's limited resources.
To Trump or not to Trump? If it gets our nation to wake up and take our country seriously again, absolutely.
1
The main reason T.V."succumbed to the mantra more than other media " is that it created,to great ratings ,this specific Trump ,which is indeed a side show.But that doesn't excuse us from pointing out a couple of serious double standards by most of the GOP in it's current distress over Trump's current persona's impact on their prospects in '16.There was in 2004 no distress in the GOP when the other Kerry,John had his Vietnam service attacked via what was already know as "swift boating,"which contributed significantly to Dubya's reelection.And the same GOP which currently gnashes it's teeth over Trumps current impact on,giggled at his 2012 birther attacts questioning Obama's place of birth and citizenship.Whether the swift boaters or the past Trump,most GOP candidates have been willing to let others be the attack dogs against Democrats.All that's different now,proving that turnabout is indeed fair play is one of the GOP's attack dogs has turned on them.
Inveigh against him, detest his egomania, lament the state of U.S. politics. Nevertheless, Trump is the least dangerous and egregious of the Republican candidates. If the Democrats lose the election, the nation and the world will be better off with a President who does not command the slavish loyalty of the congressional majority. All of the others toe the party line and will institute policies ruinous to the country and its citizenry. Only Trump, the unsupportable maverick, leaves America with any hope of surviving another right-wing administration. The last two almost ended America's claim to any primacy or leadership in a world that sorely needs it, bolstered by a Congress and Supreme Court in political lockstep.
3
Sometimes the Sanest reaction to an insane situation....is Insanity. We usually won't know when we've "crossed over" as individuals or as a group. "I've given up my search for Truth...and I'm looking for a Good Fantasy"--Ashleigh Brilliant.
1
I read Kerry wants to elect a great leader. I like Bernie Sanders, but he is probably not great leader material. In the complete congress there are probably no great leaders, and none as governors either. We can wish for a great man or woman, but you will not find one running. America no longer produces great leaders. Our politics are too preposterous, our sound bites too shallow, our issues too ignored. And this is where Trump comes in. By stating John McCain was not a hero he makes the point that we have so marginalized the word hero in our society that it means nothing or anything. Everyone, every veteran cannot be a hero, and maybe suffering and being tortured makes you one and perhaps it does not. Hero’s do heroic things. I am not sure being tortured qualifies as anything but tragic. And of course Rick Perry is a dummy with glasses and a dummy without them, but he does look wiser with them on. Someone needs to say it is not the costume but the person wearing it. Again Trump does this. And, if Lindsey Grahm is so serious, wise and worthy what was he doing giving Trump his phone number in the first place? He wanted some of Trump’s connections, showmanship and money. Trump is the mirror of our system, and we should laugh along and watch and listen. Maybe it will improve us. At the least Trump is entertaining.
3
Uli (and others of this stripe): I read this sentiment a lot on the comment boards: "he might make other Republican candidates look ... serious..."
I think he makes the other candidates look weak, feckless and tied to a script. The real worry is that the Democrats put up yet another candidate who is afraid "to offend". Is not this the takeaway for democrats? People are desperate for a political leader who does not speak in platitudes and scripted sentiments.
Trump has made his fellow candidates look empty. They know not what to say because there is no script for this. It would require a candidate to actually think for him or herself and to speak candidly to people in order to counter him.
Extemporaneous speech seems to be popular now. I hope the Democratic candidates find the courage to unapologetically be their own persons and to speak what they would be loathe to apologize for no matter how many brickbats are thrown by the professional brickbat throwers.
I think he makes the other candidates look weak, feckless and tied to a script. The real worry is that the Democrats put up yet another candidate who is afraid "to offend". Is not this the takeaway for democrats? People are desperate for a political leader who does not speak in platitudes and scripted sentiments.
Trump has made his fellow candidates look empty. They know not what to say because there is no script for this. It would require a candidate to actually think for him or herself and to speak candidly to people in order to counter him.
Extemporaneous speech seems to be popular now. I hope the Democratic candidates find the courage to unapologetically be their own persons and to speak what they would be loathe to apologize for no matter how many brickbats are thrown by the professional brickbat throwers.
The GOP and RNC are publicly outraged at Trump because he's criticizing and demeaning republican candidates for the presidential nomination, but yet showed no public condemnation of Trump when he demanded President Obama show his birth certificate and college transcripts to prove his U.S. Citizenship and college education. No leading republican nor the MSM for that matter, especially Fox News, condemned Trump for attacking and insulting our POTUS. In fact, they encouraged Trump's outrageous and ridiculous claims.
The GOP deserves Trump because he embodies the lunacy that exists in the republican party and its base.
The GOP deserves Trump because he embodies the lunacy that exists in the republican party and its base.
5
He's a buffoon, but he does hold the trump card. If he decides to spend some of his massive wealth on a third-party candidacy in 2016, he would ensure eight years of a Hillary presidency and might -- just might -- cause enough damage to swing the Senate back.
3
Who says Trump isn't a "real" candidate? You?
Why? Just because he says asinine things?
Show me a Republican who doesn't.
Because he spewed anti-Hispanic vitriol?
Show me a Republican who hasn't.
Because he's a Birther?
Show me a Republican who stood up and said "Obama is 100% American"
I can't, for the life of me, think of one rediculous thing that Donald Trump has said or has done that is any worse than the other 15 Republican Candidates.
I will tell you one thing;
Excluding those in the Religious Right, every single Republican and Right-Leaning friend/acquaintance I know loves Donald Trump.
Donald Trump is a farce in part because he's the equivalent of an Internet Troll who throws out dumb statements to see what sticks. But it's also becuase that's what the media is BEGGING him to do, and that's what they report on.
Like it or not, illegal immigration is NOT a popular issue in America. Even the NYT has difficulty garnering support here despite the multiple pro-illegal articles it writes daily.
Americans are tired of war. they are definitely tired of warmongers. Thus: attacking American Warmonger Numero Uno is not necessarily a bad thing.
Donald Trump is a farcical but populist-appearing candidate. Allowing him to spew his Far Right Populist ideology allows him to hide his pro-corporate agenda.
it is true: he has no ground game. But what will his actions do to the rest of the Republican Primary?
Why? Just because he says asinine things?
Show me a Republican who doesn't.
Because he spewed anti-Hispanic vitriol?
Show me a Republican who hasn't.
Because he's a Birther?
Show me a Republican who stood up and said "Obama is 100% American"
I can't, for the life of me, think of one rediculous thing that Donald Trump has said or has done that is any worse than the other 15 Republican Candidates.
I will tell you one thing;
Excluding those in the Religious Right, every single Republican and Right-Leaning friend/acquaintance I know loves Donald Trump.
Donald Trump is a farce in part because he's the equivalent of an Internet Troll who throws out dumb statements to see what sticks. But it's also becuase that's what the media is BEGGING him to do, and that's what they report on.
Like it or not, illegal immigration is NOT a popular issue in America. Even the NYT has difficulty garnering support here despite the multiple pro-illegal articles it writes daily.
Americans are tired of war. they are definitely tired of warmongers. Thus: attacking American Warmonger Numero Uno is not necessarily a bad thing.
Donald Trump is a farcical but populist-appearing candidate. Allowing him to spew his Far Right Populist ideology allows him to hide his pro-corporate agenda.
it is true: he has no ground game. But what will his actions do to the rest of the Republican Primary?
3
I find it hard to take any candidate very seriously this far ahead of the election, so I don't find DT concerning. Of course, I also don't think most of the people voting for him in the polls are serious -- perhaps there's a nihilistic angle, where people vote for DT in a poll because he's the biggest clown in a crowd of clowns. Maybe we need a serious candidate, and don't have one yet? As to the minority who may actually think DT is fit to be POTUS, they aren't nearly so worrisome as the larger group that wants to: outlaw both abortion and birth control, get rid of government regulation (including environmental protection), further slash social spending (including education), further reduce taxes and government spending (including spending on infrastructure and primary research), end immigration ,teach creationism in the schools, ban sex education, and advance us further down the road to national decline in myriad other ways, large and small.
1
It isn't the popularity of Trump that puts him in the lead, it is the disdain of the voters for the other 15 who are running.
1
All of the poll results quoted right now assume the responders are a reasonable percentage of the public sector. I would like to say that they aren't, especially right now. With the do not call list many numbers are blocked plus, private people like myself simply hang up or throw the poll away.
I wish we didn't have to be subjected to all of this so early. No wonder the campaigns cost so much. They are a four year job.
I wish we didn't have to be subjected to all of this so early. No wonder the campaigns cost so much. They are a four year job.
Rupert Murdoch is a day late and a dollar short, speaking out against Trump. The rest of the mainstream media have already fallen in line. You can barely find an article about any other of the 16 GOP candidates, and Sanders is being deliberately shut out of publicity. Trump is the mouthpiece of the Republican Party. He opened Pandora's Box and now everyone can really see just who we are. Think the Dems aren't part of this? Where is the firm, dignified response? Ours has become a country of bigots, uneducated, deliberately uniformed, emotionally-motivated bullies, blinders firmly in place. The voice of sanity has moved to the very back pages, or is to be found in "alternative" media.
Speaking of "alternative" media, there I read yesterday that scientists again are adjusting our chances of saving the planet. We have very few years left to make sweeping changes...three? five? The media could be instrumental in helping save the planet, should be. Daily headlines should be this topic. But again, it's buried in the back pages. With this approach, it won't matter if it's Trump, or Koch, or Fiorina, or Walker fiddling as the planet burns.
Speaking of "alternative" media, there I read yesterday that scientists again are adjusting our chances of saving the planet. We have very few years left to make sweeping changes...three? five? The media could be instrumental in helping save the planet, should be. Daily headlines should be this topic. But again, it's buried in the back pages. With this approach, it won't matter if it's Trump, or Koch, or Fiorina, or Walker fiddling as the planet burns.
2
I had hoped this man's 15 minutes of fame would have evaporated by now, but silly me, what was I thinking? His primary motive for making outlandish statements is to keep the fires burning in peoples' heart (which probably why I have heartburn) and the presses churning on a daily basis. After his racial attacks began to lose some punch, he hit a new low by insulting a veteran who was also a POW. Ouch. I wanted to punch him myself for making that crack, instead, he lost any and all respect I may have had for him at one point in time. I can not support nor vote for any candidate I do not respect.
Perhaps the next time (and there WILL be a next time) this individual makes another outrageous and hurtful comment, how about the press or columnists or the media not make such a big deal about it? No offense Mr. Bruni, but columns like this one merely adds fuel to the fire and this guy isn't deserving of any space in your printed world. Your columns are everything he will never be - honorable, tasteful, educational and respectful.
Perhaps the next time (and there WILL be a next time) this individual makes another outrageous and hurtful comment, how about the press or columnists or the media not make such a big deal about it? No offense Mr. Bruni, but columns like this one merely adds fuel to the fire and this guy isn't deserving of any space in your printed world. Your columns are everything he will never be - honorable, tasteful, educational and respectful.
1
The scary thing is that Trumps egotism has the potential to unite Republicans behind whoever sounds the most sane in comparison. His stupid statements make the other Republicans' stupid statements sound significantly less stupid by comparison. The longer he hangs around, the better for the other Republican candidates and the better for Jon Stuart. He even has the potential to motivate Jon not to leave The Daily Show. The Trump Slow-Motion Train Wreck is the comedian's "gift that keeps on giving." Every cloud has a silver line.
41
Bob,
Trump may make outrageous comments, but at least you know what he thinks, which is more tan I can say for all the candidates that would like to become President. Aren't you sick & tired of the same old comments & half answers from the slick politicians that only say what is Politically Correct. Raegan became President because he told the Iranian representative that if he didn't release the American Hostages, that when he became President there would be a big hole where Iran used to be. As soon as he won the election, the Hostages were released.Trump would have told them the same thing..
Trump may make outrageous comments, but at least you know what he thinks, which is more tan I can say for all the candidates that would like to become President. Aren't you sick & tired of the same old comments & half answers from the slick politicians that only say what is Politically Correct. Raegan became President because he told the Iranian representative that if he didn't release the American Hostages, that when he became President there would be a big hole where Iran used to be. As soon as he won the election, the Hostages were released.Trump would have told them the same thing..
I think Kerrey's just a wee bit jealous that his post-government grab for cash (somewhere between $5-18 million according to reports submitted the last time he ran for office) hasn't been nearly as successful as Trump's. The hypocrisy of all these pearlclutching old men (and Rachel Maddow) is easily as entertaining as the Trump campaign itself.
1
From my vantage point up north, this is frightening. In no other country that I know, could Donald Trump be a contender with a following, for a major political party.
And Bernie Sanders would be a mainstream centre-left, not a fringe candidate.
And Bernie Sanders would be a mainstream centre-left, not a fringe candidate.
3
It's interesting that the republicans are all in a lather over Trump disrespectfully attacking John McCain. I guess it finally took him unfairly attacking one of their own for them to notice what he has been doing for years. Attacking and disparaging President Obama and repeatedly calling for the president to, yet again, produce his birth certificate. Racist and inflammatory rants about Mexicans. The list goes on. But all the candidates of both parties were afraid to confront him lest turn his venom on one of them. Not to mention that he is only expressing out loud the true nature of the republican party and how low it has sunk. Now they come out in full force. This is who he is and that anyone is surprised by his craziness is amazing. He is making a complete mockery of the entire political process and has gotten away with it, while slowly rising in the polls. It is really a sad day for all of us when a mean spirited ego maniac like Trump can garner the support that he has. It speaks volumes about our nation.
2
We, as a country, understand at some level the whole electoral process is to a large degree a kabuki theater- a pro-wrestling match funded by the same folks on both sides and leading to pretty much the same outcome no matter who is elected. Like a pro-wrestling match, we allow ourselves a little collective suspension of disbelief to cheer the heroes and boo the bad guys, knowing that most all of the back-and-forth isn't real. At the same time that we hate the disingenuous and the veneer of dignity and respectability afforded our politicians, we somehow can't stop ourselves from lionizing them. We all know that Hilary Clinton isn't some scrappy defender of the downtrodden and stalwart protector of civil rights, just as we know that that Hulk Hogan isn't really a hero. But somehow we continue to play along.
Trump drops this pretense of respectability of politics and politicians. He bares in all its glorious nakedness the ugliness, stupidity, venality and arrogance of our democracy daring us to confront what we all know. It is I have to admit, in a way, refreshing. We all know that every one of the presidential candidates (on both sides of the aisle) are compelled not by some kind of burning desire to fulfill a call to public service, but rather by pretty much the same ego-driven ambition that drives Trump. It is beautiful in a way to see the hypocrisy of our system presented in such unflinching clarity.
Trump drops this pretense of respectability of politics and politicians. He bares in all its glorious nakedness the ugliness, stupidity, venality and arrogance of our democracy daring us to confront what we all know. It is I have to admit, in a way, refreshing. We all know that every one of the presidential candidates (on both sides of the aisle) are compelled not by some kind of burning desire to fulfill a call to public service, but rather by pretty much the same ego-driven ambition that drives Trump. It is beautiful in a way to see the hypocrisy of our system presented in such unflinching clarity.
3
This recent Trump circus side show is just another symptom of the problem America has getting balanced information because of the link between commercial profit and the 'media'. Frankly, the hype about the Iowa Caucuses is the great baloney out there. Those caucuses reflect nothing more than the biases of a small segment of either political party. Why do we care? Maybe because the 'media' has elevated those meaningless votes into hallowed indicators of future successes for the candidates. The truth is that the media attention turns the Iowa farce into a self-fulfilling prophesy.
1
Maybe report on Trump when he presents his views on legitimate political issues; his platform; his solutions for the country's ills.
When he talks about POLITICS.
The rest is just a side-show.
When he talks about POLITICS.
The rest is just a side-show.
1
The irony in this article is fantastic. The IRS scandal, Benghazi and Mrs Clinton's emails were all issues that were of far greater importance than Mr Trump's recent comments, yet the reporting on them were minimal and abject. You and other publications had no problem in not doing your jobs correctly, you simply swept as much of it under the carpet as possible and no investigative journalism occurred. How you would now love to ignore 'The Donald' but can't, people are going to get a say on some things that Democrats would rather not talk about, we have Mr Trump to thank for that. Where this will end I have no idea but I'm sure he has got Mrs Clinton in his sight already.
3
If readers really want to know why Trump has a following, all they need to do is consider the number of people commenting on this column who think that Bruni interviewed John Kerry and then go to great lengths either to attack John Kerry or to discuss the Swift Boat issue from 2004. Goodness, the first two words in the column are "Bob Kerry"!
I just happened to have a news channel on yesterday during Trump's appearance in South Carolina. Trump was Trump, but watching the reactions of the woman who sat just behind him to his left was instructive. I doubt Trump paid for her to be there as he paid for people to attend his announcement speech a few weeks ago. I guess she could have been pulled out of the crowd. I suppose she could have been like other people who were interviewed who said they didn't support him but wanted to hear him because he was a celebrity. But she was wearing what appeared to be a blue "Trump" sticker. Much of the time she sat almost stone faced as if she were nervous about being on camera. Then she would look at the person next to her as if she were determining the other's reaction before she herself reacted. Then she would laugh with a joyous gaffaw and applaud when others did.
The biggest problem I fear we face as a nation is not so much Donald Trump as those who support him and those who comment on things they read without any core understanding of the basic facts contained therein.
I just happened to have a news channel on yesterday during Trump's appearance in South Carolina. Trump was Trump, but watching the reactions of the woman who sat just behind him to his left was instructive. I doubt Trump paid for her to be there as he paid for people to attend his announcement speech a few weeks ago. I guess she could have been pulled out of the crowd. I suppose she could have been like other people who were interviewed who said they didn't support him but wanted to hear him because he was a celebrity. But she was wearing what appeared to be a blue "Trump" sticker. Much of the time she sat almost stone faced as if she were nervous about being on camera. Then she would look at the person next to her as if she were determining the other's reaction before she herself reacted. Then she would laugh with a joyous gaffaw and applaud when others did.
The biggest problem I fear we face as a nation is not so much Donald Trump as those who support him and those who comment on things they read without any core understanding of the basic facts contained therein.
1
For the record I am enjoying the start of the U.S. Presidential election season.
Sanders helps us articulate the liberal, progressive vision for the country.
Trump helps us articulate the conservative, regressive alternative.
Each is authentic in his own way. We grant extra points for authenticity in this country. We may disagree with what one or the other says. We cannot argue that each believes in the inherent rightness of his message. To paraphrase Nas, they come correct.
Together, they serve as the rhetorical equivalent of throwing a couple hand grenades in the overstuffed curio cabinet of dynastic family politics that is the Bush and Clinton camps. They force the junior varsity squad -- the Kaisch's, the Walker's, the Rubio's, etc. -- to react, revealing their nature in relief.
The free exchange of ideas informs us, bringing our democracy alive.
Sanders helps us articulate the liberal, progressive vision for the country.
Trump helps us articulate the conservative, regressive alternative.
Each is authentic in his own way. We grant extra points for authenticity in this country. We may disagree with what one or the other says. We cannot argue that each believes in the inherent rightness of his message. To paraphrase Nas, they come correct.
Together, they serve as the rhetorical equivalent of throwing a couple hand grenades in the overstuffed curio cabinet of dynastic family politics that is the Bush and Clinton camps. They force the junior varsity squad -- the Kaisch's, the Walker's, the Rubio's, etc. -- to react, revealing their nature in relief.
The free exchange of ideas informs us, bringing our democracy alive.
3
During the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, the US and Soviet Union were at the brink of a thermonuclear war over the presence of missiles 90 miles from the US. It was only through the direct and difficult negotiations between President Kennedy and Premier Khrushchev that the end of life on this planet was averted.
Now consider the outcome with President Trump in office.
Now consider the outcome with President Trump in office.
1
If one thinks back to the time of Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr there may be a hint of what would have happened to Donald Trump acting the way he does today. At the least, he would need to be an expert marksman to survive.
1
There's a very obvious reason that people are ostensibly flocking to support Trump, and it has less to with their stupidity, and everything to do with their sense of powerlessness.
We all know that our politics are broken. We know that entire our culture is broken. We deal everyday with a horrific medical bureaucracy, monopolistic, predatory financial service and utility companies that treat us like pond scum, and never resolve our complaints, workplaces that push us for increases in productivity that undermine our personal and family lives, yet seek to cut our compensation and benefits.
Education has also been undermined, so we have an overarching cultural ignorance. People don't get that it's 40 + years of trickle down policies that have helped destroy a middle class that kept things reasonably homeostatic.
The support for Trump isn't really support. It's disaffection; it's rage, it's desperation. It's the sense that only something or someone completely insane can stop the insanity.
And what's worse is that on a certain level, it may be true.
We all know that our politics are broken. We know that entire our culture is broken. We deal everyday with a horrific medical bureaucracy, monopolistic, predatory financial service and utility companies that treat us like pond scum, and never resolve our complaints, workplaces that push us for increases in productivity that undermine our personal and family lives, yet seek to cut our compensation and benefits.
Education has also been undermined, so we have an overarching cultural ignorance. People don't get that it's 40 + years of trickle down policies that have helped destroy a middle class that kept things reasonably homeostatic.
The support for Trump isn't really support. It's disaffection; it's rage, it's desperation. It's the sense that only something or someone completely insane can stop the insanity.
And what's worse is that on a certain level, it may be true.
7
Trump expresses the feelings of conservatives. They know their politicians are losers and they want a WINNER! They deserve it.
1
If Trump is bound to lose, remember that Trump hates losers. Does this story end with self-loathing?
1
One can only hope.
Why is anyone surprised that a person (Trump) who offers simple solutions to complex problems, speaks without regard for the facts, rejects political correctness, revels in the spotlight and has not a gracious bone in his body has commanded the attention of the media? That combination of characteristics has been the meat and potatoes of this industry since the 1970's.
4
The devil's in the details. How is he going to create all those jobs? How is he going to create that intimidating military (and what is it going to cost)? How is he going to make Russia, Iran, North Korea respect us and get us winning again, what ever that means? How is he going to stop people crossing our borders? For a guy who couldn't answer the reporter's question about which foot got him out of military service, he is long on outrageous news bites but comes up short on substance. PT Barnum said it best, "There's a sucker born every minute." And The Donald wants their votes.
2
Simple: He'll create jobs by telling people they're fired. Boom: job openings. Military not intimidating enough? It's fired. Russia? Putin. Fired. People sneaking over borders? They're fired! Now buy my book! And my ties! And my mattresses!
Trump appeals to people in the way that Judge Judy appeals to people: it would be nice, in a way, if real-life problems could be solved just by yelling at them. The trouble is, it doesn't actually work that way.
Trump appeals to people in the way that Judge Judy appeals to people: it would be nice, in a way, if real-life problems could be solved just by yelling at them. The trouble is, it doesn't actually work that way.
I disagree with one thing about this commentary. Yes, Trump wants to build his brand. But I sincerely believe Trump actually believes he can win the presidency. He has that kind of ego and bravura and self-delusion. He is serious about this run. You watch.
He will lose, of course. But he lives in a world where his ego says he can and no one around him will say differently.
He will lose, of course. But he lives in a world where his ego says he can and no one around him will say differently.
4
I remember Donald Trump as the man who took out a full page ad calling for the execution of the Central Park 5. He was well aware of how this ad simply stirred up the racial hysteria that surrounded that case. He pandered to the long held racial stereotypes about "black savages" and threats to white womanhood.
He intentionally poisoned the atmosphere for simple due process of law and a fair trial. And when years later all five were found to be innocent because the real perpetrator had been overlooked by the police, he refused to issue an apology or even an admission that he was wrong. He refused to recognize, despite supporting scientific evidence that police can skillfully coerce a confession from an innocent person.
He wore his power, his arrogance and his racism proudly, like a badge of honor, never to be questioned. After all, who should question wealth and power? And he will probably tell the public about all his black "friends" who know him to be free of bias and prejudice.
But his record tells a different story. That ad and the way that he handled it is what sociologist would call "objective racism," an act so obviously biased that by any measures it deserves our condemnation. Yet few outside of the black community were willing to do so. The fact that the press continues to falter in telling that story to the public speaks to the influence of power and money and the bankrupt nature of this whole so called election process.
He intentionally poisoned the atmosphere for simple due process of law and a fair trial. And when years later all five were found to be innocent because the real perpetrator had been overlooked by the police, he refused to issue an apology or even an admission that he was wrong. He refused to recognize, despite supporting scientific evidence that police can skillfully coerce a confession from an innocent person.
He wore his power, his arrogance and his racism proudly, like a badge of honor, never to be questioned. After all, who should question wealth and power? And he will probably tell the public about all his black "friends" who know him to be free of bias and prejudice.
But his record tells a different story. That ad and the way that he handled it is what sociologist would call "objective racism," an act so obviously biased that by any measures it deserves our condemnation. Yet few outside of the black community were willing to do so. The fact that the press continues to falter in telling that story to the public speaks to the influence of power and money and the bankrupt nature of this whole so called election process.
11
Trump is the personification of the George Bush/Sarah Palin phenomenon: That "In America, everyone has a chance to be president"...Although I think Adlai Stevenson may have coined the phrase, and it's been repeated countless thousands of times, no one really believed it until we woke up in November, 2000...sorry, make that January, 2001 (Thanks SCOTUS). Then in '08, Palin, a political neophyte and perennial side show barker, tapped into the fury of some voters at the prospect of an Obama presidency. What didn't work for her in one way paid of handsomely in another: She went into the Sarah Palin business which proved so lucrative, she bailed on her Alaskan governorship and spent the next several years making money. So, after the GOP and the frightening constituency they created with irresponsible and inflammatory rhetoric, spent more than a decade demonstrating that you didn't have to be very smart and you could say practically anything that came into your head and still making a ton of money, Trump's venture into presidential politics may be a lot more logical than we think. Besmirching McCain? Who cares? When the GOP swift boated John Kerry there was hardly a ripple from the right. The only reason there's one now is that - again - the soft, lily-white underbelly of Republicans is seeing the clear light of day. THAT is what the uproar is about.
9
Trump represents the culmination of republican politics in America. There were plenty of crazies on the republican side which were never reigned in by the party. People like the birthers, those who said that Pres Obama was born in Kenya, was a Muslim, did not believe in God, was not a Christian, was a lier ("you lie!"). The ugly jokes and cartoons depicting the president and his families as monkeys which were emailed among the republican political establishment. The list goes on ... It should not be surprising that a belligerent Trump has emerged. The only surprising thing for the republicans is that he is attacking their own. They would gladly have cheered him on if he had spoken in such a vile way about the Democrats. They are getting a taste of their own medicine
190
Trump is saying out loud what the Republicans have been imlying in coded messages, for years. He has uncovered their carefully wrapped package and disclosed its mean contents.
What you "elites" don't understand, is that millions and millions and millions of legal U.S. citizens appreciate Trump's totally candid approach to political office. We are tired of your media spin/lies/distortions. We are tired of the bought and paid for, corrupt Washington politicians with their carefully weighed "opinions" and talking points. We are heartened by having someone who answers to nobody else, other than voters. You people are so clueless about what it means to be an American, and how damaging most of your core beliefs are to this nation!
8
What you "real Americans" don't understand is that Trump is a phony, a liar, and a cheap huckster taking advantage of a genuine desire among people for honesty in politics.
Enjoy the ride, as Trump is playing you rubes for suckers; and it's not the first time the silent majority has been played, as voting for Reagan back in the day was a prime example of people voting for the Hollywood image of a President, and not the reality.
Enjoy the ride, as Trump is playing you rubes for suckers; and it's not the first time the silent majority has been played, as voting for Reagan back in the day was a prime example of people voting for the Hollywood image of a President, and not the reality.
30
You don't need to be "elite" to recognize the fact that The Donald has no answers to anything, candid or otherwise. He rants about immigration (or at least about Mexican immigrants) but hasn't told us what he'd do to seal the border. Nor has he told us what he'd do about the "illegals" who are currently here, including the ones who are presently working for him. What would he do about the economy, the deficit, income inequality, gun rights, reproductive rights, Iran, ISIS, Russia, China, Celebrity Apprentice.... anything? Trump "answers to nobody else" because he's so wealthy (thanks to his employees and his late father) and so vain that he doesn't think he has to. Is that what it means to be an American? If so, we're living in two different countries.
12
Bob, I can't imagine anything more "elite" than white male billionaires buying media attention and political office.
1
As Bruni correctly notes, discussing Trump reward his bad behavior while ignoring it might be construed as being irresponsible. This is perfect case of damned if you do and damned if you don't.
But that looks at this issue from the media's perspective. What if we looked at it from the averagee. American citizen's perspective. We, the viewers and readers, are enthralled by these freak shows and so the media feeds it to us. If only we decided to be less voyeuristic and more analytical, the media will drop Trump faster than a hot potato.
So let us look at ourselves in the mirror and recognize that we are getting what we asked for and deserve. Nothing more, nothing less.
But that looks at this issue from the media's perspective. What if we looked at it from the averagee. American citizen's perspective. We, the viewers and readers, are enthralled by these freak shows and so the media feeds it to us. If only we decided to be less voyeuristic and more analytical, the media will drop Trump faster than a hot potato.
So let us look at ourselves in the mirror and recognize that we are getting what we asked for and deserve. Nothing more, nothing less.
15
Trump is running an entertaining gag campaign, but not nearly as entertaining as Colbert. If you are going to have comedians running for president, at least make them top-tier comedians.
13
I compare Trump to the Tea Party phenomenom.
Seems they'd have about 10 people show up at a rally with misspelled signs , maybe a guy in a tricorn hat. They made no sense, were woefully misinformed and generally made damn fools of themselves.
But they sure were entertaining in their blatant ignorance and the media loved them.
Problem is we laughed at them, ogled them, just knew nobody with a lick of sense could take these people seriously. We didn't confront them and expose their nativism, inherent bigotry and not so thinly veiled racism.
Fast forward to the present and these clowns dominate our US Congress.
We laughed, they voted.
Seems they'd have about 10 people show up at a rally with misspelled signs , maybe a guy in a tricorn hat. They made no sense, were woefully misinformed and generally made damn fools of themselves.
But they sure were entertaining in their blatant ignorance and the media loved them.
Problem is we laughed at them, ogled them, just knew nobody with a lick of sense could take these people seriously. We didn't confront them and expose their nativism, inherent bigotry and not so thinly veiled racism.
Fast forward to the present and these clowns dominate our US Congress.
We laughed, they voted.
217
If you know down deep that you cannot be the "Commander In Chief," the best working alternative is to be "Ad Hominem In Chief."
3
“It is not good for American politics,” Kerrey said.
Or the republic. Choosing leaders is a serious business. And we have pretty much abandoned much claim to being a serious country. Every word spoken about the odious Trump or his Republican colleagues is a word not spoken about the very real and urgent issues we have to face. Unsexy issues like infrastructure may not engage us, but then most of us haven't died in a bridge collapse.
Somehow, we have become much more interested in the idea of things rather than the things themselves. And we do that at our peril. We make Bill Cosby a wise and admirable man because he played a wise and admirable man. We valorize John McCain as a war hero and speak not a word about his rather unsettling personal life in and out of the service. And now all of us liberals are smugly denouncing the "clown car."
It isn't. It is very dangerous for any of us to think that for one single second. These are dangerous (mostly) men. Let's not forget that when the clowns get off the car it's usually to pretend to enact mayhem on the other flows and the audience.
Biggest difference here--the mayhem isn't pretend.
So please, NYT and others, keep writing about Mr. Trump and all the candidates, but let's talk about them as real people with real plans for our country. But please, talk about them, about their ideas, and about what their ascendancy would mean to the future of the United States.
Or the republic. Choosing leaders is a serious business. And we have pretty much abandoned much claim to being a serious country. Every word spoken about the odious Trump or his Republican colleagues is a word not spoken about the very real and urgent issues we have to face. Unsexy issues like infrastructure may not engage us, but then most of us haven't died in a bridge collapse.
Somehow, we have become much more interested in the idea of things rather than the things themselves. And we do that at our peril. We make Bill Cosby a wise and admirable man because he played a wise and admirable man. We valorize John McCain as a war hero and speak not a word about his rather unsettling personal life in and out of the service. And now all of us liberals are smugly denouncing the "clown car."
It isn't. It is very dangerous for any of us to think that for one single second. These are dangerous (mostly) men. Let's not forget that when the clowns get off the car it's usually to pretend to enact mayhem on the other flows and the audience.
Biggest difference here--the mayhem isn't pretend.
So please, NYT and others, keep writing about Mr. Trump and all the candidates, but let's talk about them as real people with real plans for our country. But please, talk about them, about their ideas, and about what their ascendancy would mean to the future of the United States.
153
Joan is right. We laughed and mocked W and got him for eight years. The percentage of Americans who a) respond to the Republican egomaniacs who all seem to feel qualified to lead the nation, and b) actually vote, is not huge, but grows along with national ignorance about the world and the issues important to our future. The rest of the voters seem to feel too smart and superior to deign to turn up at the voting booth.
I fear for our country and yes, the planet, too.
I fear for our country and yes, the planet, too.
Not to dispute for a minute, but it is awfully hard to talk about Trump's or any GOP presidential candidate's "ideas."
www.endthemadnessnow.org
www.endthemadnessnow.org
I think it's been eminently clear to the vast majority of us -- witness the .001% approval rating the Congress has gotten for many years now, with the GOP Clown Party in charge -- that the Republican party is bereft of any real candidates.
The witlessness abounds, every day, every time every candidate attempts to says anything.
The Clowns have been busy saying outrageous things, in Faux Nudes, in the Congress, anywhere they can appear in the media, for one, simple reason: they have no ideas. They've had no ideas since 1946. They harp on the same three notes, over and over again. And so, the outrageous things are the only things that keep them at all in the public eye.
In this sense, Trump is absolutely the best GOP candidate of them all! He's won their game, single-handedly! In a fragile party saying and doing anything it can to prevent its becoming a ghost, soon to be swept aside, Trump is King.
He's outwitted the witless.
Kasich may prove the only exception.
If there were a real world any more, we'd be choosing between Kasich, and Sanders. That would be a real contest, with real participants, talking about real issues.
But no, we live in a Marvel Universe now of comic book heroes and monsters with multiple crawly appendages, so it'll be Trump vs. Hillary.
You wait and see.
The witlessness abounds, every day, every time every candidate attempts to says anything.
The Clowns have been busy saying outrageous things, in Faux Nudes, in the Congress, anywhere they can appear in the media, for one, simple reason: they have no ideas. They've had no ideas since 1946. They harp on the same three notes, over and over again. And so, the outrageous things are the only things that keep them at all in the public eye.
In this sense, Trump is absolutely the best GOP candidate of them all! He's won their game, single-handedly! In a fragile party saying and doing anything it can to prevent its becoming a ghost, soon to be swept aside, Trump is King.
He's outwitted the witless.
Kasich may prove the only exception.
If there were a real world any more, we'd be choosing between Kasich, and Sanders. That would be a real contest, with real participants, talking about real issues.
But no, we live in a Marvel Universe now of comic book heroes and monsters with multiple crawly appendages, so it'll be Trump vs. Hillary.
You wait and see.
12
The problem is that sometimes these guys win (see, e.g., George W. Bush, who rode Bill Clinton's zipper problem, Ralph Nader's megalomania and a doofus Palm Beach County clerk's inanity to the White House). And who do they beat? DINOs. The country can't win for losing.
The Republicans showed the nature of their clown show when they booed Huntsman for daring to show his mastery of Mandarin by speaking a few words of Chinese. The best Republican candidate, the one who would have given Obama a run for his money was booed out of the hall as if he were a down-and-out jerk. Trump is right in throwing clownish behavior at the Republican establishment. What are they but a collection of Emperors without clothes who still claim to be well-dressed.
Kudos to Mr. Bruni for highlighting the ambivalence that so many of us feel around the Trump issue.
I am gleeful watching all these chickens coming home to roost at once, while also experiencing some guilt over how unseemly it is to be gleeful at such a vile spectacle.
I think it's in part because Trump somehow does have a finger on the pulse of the American unconscious, and hucksterism seems to be part of the American psyche.
Trump doesn't like losers that get captured, no matter how honorable their behavior. Don't his supporters realize that Trump would consider most of them 'losers' too?
For the time being, Trump does capture the Republican electorate. Maybe the end result will be that he forces the Republican Party to grow up.
If that is his legacy, everyone will owe Trump a debt of gratitude.
I am gleeful watching all these chickens coming home to roost at once, while also experiencing some guilt over how unseemly it is to be gleeful at such a vile spectacle.
I think it's in part because Trump somehow does have a finger on the pulse of the American unconscious, and hucksterism seems to be part of the American psyche.
Trump doesn't like losers that get captured, no matter how honorable their behavior. Don't his supporters realize that Trump would consider most of them 'losers' too?
For the time being, Trump does capture the Republican electorate. Maybe the end result will be that he forces the Republican Party to grow up.
If that is his legacy, everyone will owe Trump a debt of gratitude.
7
Perhaps Trump is the clown that will end the circus and somehow a true leader will emerge out of the chaos to help reset our sad global situation...
4
A new Adolf perhaps?
2
Pres. Obama has been a true leader. The whole world sees that and also notices what a laughing stock the Republicans have made of America. The Republicans are the masters of the international clown show. The Democrats have nothing to match that show. Thank goodness.
You know at first and right to couple days ago I wanted Trump to go away, cause I basically can't stand him. But I've changed, I think it's great. That bit about Lindsey Graham was fantastic. You ( meaning the powers that be, including this paper) wanted chaos and now you've got it. And I'll point out like some other folks, Bernie Sanders drew 25,000 people over the weekend in two very red states, and not a mention in any major media, including this paper. But CNN made a big deal out of Trump's 1100 people over and over. Ah yes The United States.
36
I live in Arizona and have followed this whole issue of the Trump/Sanders appearances. The Phoenix fire chief noted that the Trump speech had 4,200 people in attendance (this in a red state) whereas the Sanders speech drew over 11,000; interesting. Not sure about what this will actually mean in 2016.
The refreshing thing about Trump is this: What you see is what you get. Over and over and over ad nauseum. He is a narcissist, a jerk and and deserves to (but doesn't) have his clueless, smiling face on the cover of a book by Aaron James, the name of which the grey lady has doggedly declined to allow me to slip into Comments lest it offend some tender eyes among us. An anatomical reference that describes Trump so precisely he deserves to have the copyright, or at the very least direct mention in the dictionary definition as a synonym.
What you see...
Picture Trump with any one of the leaders of our ally nations. Picture these prime ministers and presidents as they smile and nod and acquiesce to every one of The Donald's proclamations and demands. Can't see it? Neither can I. Now picture him knee to knee with Putin or Xi Jinping. Ooops!
Those who ardently support Trump must accept, have to believe, that the United States is so powerful, so self-sufficient, that it needs no friends on this planet. They are, as is Trump, deluded.
Trump will not, cannot change. He is immutable. What Trump feels he needs and believes he deserves, the planet Earth in its entirety is not capable of providing.
Turn off the lights, pull the plug on the microphone. Move on.
What you see...
Picture Trump with any one of the leaders of our ally nations. Picture these prime ministers and presidents as they smile and nod and acquiesce to every one of The Donald's proclamations and demands. Can't see it? Neither can I. Now picture him knee to knee with Putin or Xi Jinping. Ooops!
Those who ardently support Trump must accept, have to believe, that the United States is so powerful, so self-sufficient, that it needs no friends on this planet. They are, as is Trump, deluded.
Trump will not, cannot change. He is immutable. What Trump feels he needs and believes he deserves, the planet Earth in its entirety is not capable of providing.
Turn off the lights, pull the plug on the microphone. Move on.
11
Trump is the little boy who is pointing at the Republicans and crying out that they are naked, which they are. And so is he. As for worries that Trump would look out of place with world leaders, just how "in-place" did Dubya look? For non-Americans in the world, Dubya was a disgrace and a laughing-stock. It was bad enough, before that, when the Americans elected a geriatric Alzheimer's patient. Then Dubya. The War President. The relief was so great when Obama became president that he immediately received a Nobel Prize, just for getting rid of Dubya. Trump would not surprise the world as leader of the Americans. After the sainted actor and the gut-wrenching war pres., nothing can surprise foreign leaders, not even a Pres. Donald Trump.
2
Alright, I confess. I've been watching and reading everything about The Donald. Especially the other Republican candidates' lame responses to the insults Trump hurls at them. Their embarrassment and outrage is like watching royalty getting pie thrown in their faces.
The only way Trump can keep this fifteen minutes going is to keep saying something dumber than his last dumb thing. So far, he's doing it.
To all the reasonable people out there, I say enjoy the moment. He's not our crazy, drunk uncle who has been let out of the asylum. He belongs to the Republicans.
The only way Trump can keep this fifteen minutes going is to keep saying something dumber than his last dumb thing. So far, he's doing it.
To all the reasonable people out there, I say enjoy the moment. He's not our crazy, drunk uncle who has been let out of the asylum. He belongs to the Republicans.
16
Mr. Kerrey and Mr. Bruni kvetch as if Mr. Trump has tracked mud on their pristine white carpet.
But the American political landscape is a filthy rug, with politicians openly performing favors for paying customers.
The reason for Trump's success, and the reason he just keeps rising in the polls, no matter how much pundits like Bruni and Kerrey attack him, is that people are sick of the whole game, from the politicians who sell them out to the commentators who sell their bruised sensitivities.
This is a whorehouse we're talking about. Rules of decorum are kind of beside the point.
We readers of the New York Times may not like the manner in which the ruffian Trump is upsetting the apple cart of American politics. But even sophisticated observers like us know that the apples are rotten and the owners of the cart cannot be trusted to sell an honest product.
Mr. Bruni is a chef. He should recognize the value of cleansing one's palate from time to time.
But the American political landscape is a filthy rug, with politicians openly performing favors for paying customers.
The reason for Trump's success, and the reason he just keeps rising in the polls, no matter how much pundits like Bruni and Kerrey attack him, is that people are sick of the whole game, from the politicians who sell them out to the commentators who sell their bruised sensitivities.
This is a whorehouse we're talking about. Rules of decorum are kind of beside the point.
We readers of the New York Times may not like the manner in which the ruffian Trump is upsetting the apple cart of American politics. But even sophisticated observers like us know that the apples are rotten and the owners of the cart cannot be trusted to sell an honest product.
Mr. Bruni is a chef. He should recognize the value of cleansing one's palate from time to time.
10
It's an interesting concept to recommend "cleansing one's palate" with a defecation hose.
Donald Trump would be selling mattresses in a storefront if not for his father, Fred Trump, may he rest in peace; a self made millionaire who gave Donald his first million, and baled him out of self made financial holes more times than we will ever know. Fred is the reason Donald's braggadocio could never be more than, well, braggadocio. The Donald is well qualified for one job and one job only, media celebrity. Which he is currently playing to the hilt. People easily forget how The Donald topped both Hillary and BHO in yesteryear's polls.
9
Scabs without originality or pertinence are stacked up trying to be President out of egotism, nothing genuine at all.
If you have no experience in public policy issues, you are not qualified. It's just that simple. He wouldn't hire himself for President on that premise.
If you have no experience in public policy issues, you are not qualified. It's just that simple. He wouldn't hire himself for President on that premise.
7
Trump is really only the latest symptom of the woeful state of American politics, which, if we were say the size of Norway, would entertain the rest of the civilized world. Remember Sarah Palin? Half the country was prepared to put her in the Vice-President's office at the White House and only a heart attack away from the Oval Office. I was in the UK for their recent national election and found myself astonished by politicians of all stripes who were very smart, informed, and could think on their feet in the face of tough questions from voters. Oh what a breath of fresh air it was and oh how depressing it is to see the great American presidential election circus unfold again.
187
This is what the anti-intellectual movement has brought us. I've been to Europe 5 times. I've always been amazed at how well informed most Europeans are, no matter their educational backgrounds. They actually read.
1
The Brits do not presently have a leader of Pres. Obama's intellect and stature. The general quality of British lawmakers is probably a bit superior to American Congress critters and the parties who behave like clowns are marginal over there. More significant is the British electorate. Considering the whole population, they are better-educated, more lucid, and more politically-involved than Americans. They also have many more hundreds of years of tradition and institutional solidity behind them. They view the growing American love affair with concealed guns and unconcealed automatic weapons as barbaric. Dubya's theft of the 2000 election and his subsequent career as Commander in Chief were also shocks to the special British-American relationship. Nowadays, Brits would not be overly surprised if Trump were elected president. When they think that things cannot get any worse with the USA, the American voters usually come with a surprise or two to astonish the world. Hail to the Trump? So what else is new?
pmaxmont: Thanks for your response and your insights. I'm not so sure history is as big a factor as the cultural isolation of the United States. The distance across the Atlantic was a component in founding this country. Shuttle diplomacy could have had a rather different result. But now only about 3% of the American population travels overseas each year. Many Americans cannot conceive of how other countries run things differently. Government policies play a role in that; people simply don't have the means even if they want to travel. Prosperity is not as widely spread in this country as in the other advanced nations. As for education I see no reason the United States should not want and or be able to achieve the best system in the world.
1
All one needs to know is Trump rhymes with Chump.
9
Good call--along with bump, clump, stump and grump.
Right, but there are so many things far worse for American politics than the ephemeral carnival-du-jour of The Donald. Citizens United pops to mind as the nation's democracy-buster-du-siècle.
Sadly, this noxious Supreme Court decision will not evanesce into the nearest septic tank when folks tire of today's degrading histrionics. The consequences of Citizens United will continue to be felt for a very long time.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
Sadly, this noxious Supreme Court decision will not evanesce into the nearest septic tank when folks tire of today's degrading histrionics. The consequences of Citizens United will continue to be felt for a very long time.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
11
Mr. Bruni this column is so ridiculous. And so yesterday's news. The media and the Reps seem like a bunch of envious kids who gang up against the best and fastest in the room. Trump snapped at McCain's military record after McCain attacked the sanity of his supporters, calling them crazies. (I am one of this offended supporters, independent voter, and PhD holder, and one of the most cautious persons you'll meet, not crazy). Nobody in the media ganged against McCain for what he said and I don't recall him defending John Kerry when he was attacked for his stellar war record). In the end, Trump is entitled to his opinion as to what he considers a hero, and the fact that McCain sang against America while prisoner doesn't make him a real Zamperini) All is fair in a presidential campaign. Kerrey too was mum when GOP bashed John Kerry a real hero, in 2004, so his venting for the NYT now is irrelevant on principle, just relevant for his envious case against Trump. I wasn't always a fan of Trump and I never watched The Apprenticed. The more media bashed him recently the more I went to the source and listened to his interviews on YouTube, especially the one for NBC. This man is no fool and no buffoon (like I had been tempted to think after the outpouring of nasty epithets from the media) and USA would be lucky to have him as a president. He is the only breath of fresh air in this campaign, all the others are cookie cutter politicians desperate for power (Hillary Clinton anyone?)
2
I'm curious what subject your PhD degree is in if you consider yourself an "offended" Trump supporter. What is it about his campaign that an intelligent man would support?
You really want an egotistical buffoon for President? A man with no ideas except self congratulation? What planet are you living on?
Trump is part of what I would call the sizeable Sarah Palin wing of the Republican Party. A set of people who say things many Republicans believe but not willing to publicly admit. Romney's 47% freeloader comment gave us a rare glimpse of a mainstream Republican pandering to this part of the base. This is why the other candidates were so reluctant to condemn Trump until his stupid comments about McCain. What the polls really say is that 24% of Republicans are hate filled bigots who will admit they like someone who openly expresses that hatred. There are probably many more who share that hatred but will not admit to favoring a candidate who verbalizes it. In short Trump ideas resonate with a very significant part of the Republican base and that is why he is ahead in the polls. The media has not suppressed his comments and they are probably exploiting them a bit to sell adds but they could never honestly suppress comments from a leader in the early polls. The real news is that the Republican party has very serious ethics and integrity issues they can no longer hide.
12
It is a crying shame that the NYT does not give Bernie Sanders as much attention as it does to Donald Trump.
36
We need to remember that the NYT (a great newspaper) is a part of the establishment, and Bernie really scares the establishment.
Trump is saying what is in the minds of a small minority of tea party types; Sanders is saying what is in the minds of a large majority of all of us.
That is scary to the Bill Clinton branch of the Democratic Party.
Trump is saying what is in the minds of a small minority of tea party types; Sanders is saying what is in the minds of a large majority of all of us.
That is scary to the Bill Clinton branch of the Democratic Party.
I agree. For whatever reason The amazing amount of people who have shown up at Sanders rallies is not really talked about. Can you believe over 11,000 people in Phoenix compared to 4,200 for Trump. These are official numbers.
The Republican Party that launched vile attacks on two genuine war heroes - the Republican Party of Swift Boat ads targeting John Kerry and the attacks questioning Sen. Max Cleland's patriotism - very much deserves Donald Trump.
20
Does anyone have the vaguest idea of what The Donald would do if he were elected President? Does The Donald? We haven't heard a single proposal on any issue whatsoever- including immigration (what would he do to seal the border?). All we know is that he hates Mexicans and anyone who badmouths him for hating Mexicans. Is that an agenda? Anyone who would cast their vote for such a person obviously doesn't take the fate of the nation seriously and should be forcibly restrained from entering a polling booth.
10
He doesn't know how to make a serious policy proposal. He doesn't have any experience in politics. He's doing what he knows how to do - it represents the extent of his talents.
"Trump, Trump, Trump!" Bruni wails, as he writes his second column about the media hound in three days. What's wrong with this picture?
www.newyorkgritty.net
www.newyorkgritty.net
5
Many thought Hitler a buffoon. Now Trump is no Hitler. However, the enthusiasm with which his xenophobic views, which is code for racist, are embraced by so many Americans is a disgrace.
A very serious look has to be taken at voter suppression, unlimited spending on election and the steady decline of the middle class to name only a few. Because the next buffoon may not be so easy to identify.
A very serious look has to be taken at voter suppression, unlimited spending on election and the steady decline of the middle class to name only a few. Because the next buffoon may not be so easy to identify.
4
Bernie sanders for president .why is there no coverage of him?
Fortunately this is no Weimar Republic.
Hey Frank -- remember that column about Marco Rubio ... how we were going to be hearing about him? Nix -- it's all been JEB, JEB, JEB, TRUMP, TRMP TRUMP.
And Trump is the oozing sewer of bad America -- the people who want to riled up into hating and degrading somebody, and love to watch a hair-pulling fight over something stupid.
Every cloud has a silver lining: Trump has made Christie invisible. Christie was the big mouth easterner who "told it like he saw it." I thought Christie had no hope: bridge problem & collapse of his tax "fix" -- but to be one-upped at the sneer game by Trump must be galling.
When it is over though, it's just going to be JEB.
And Trump is the oozing sewer of bad America -- the people who want to riled up into hating and degrading somebody, and love to watch a hair-pulling fight over something stupid.
Every cloud has a silver lining: Trump has made Christie invisible. Christie was the big mouth easterner who "told it like he saw it." I thought Christie had no hope: bridge problem & collapse of his tax "fix" -- but to be one-upped at the sneer game by Trump must be galling.
When it is over though, it's just going to be JEB.
2
The Republicans - with support from the media - were more than happy to let Trump run wild during his "birther" phase. Well, now they will have to endure the consequences of his running for President phase. Live by the sword, die by the sword.
98
Frank Bruni writes ....'Television has succumbed to the mantra more than other media, because it in particular thrives on theater.....But those of us at newspapers and websites have definitely done our part.....
Indeed, is not the NY Times' slogan.....'All the News that's Fit to Print' ?
Indeed, is not the NY Times' slogan.....'All the News that's Fit to Print' ?
5
Is anyone really surprised that this is what we've come to? Donald Trump is just another symptom of our political system gone haywire. It is Democalypse 2016. If a pollster called me tomorrow, I would absolutely claim to be a Republican (I am not) and tell him I absolutely support Donald Trump (I do not). Is there a law that says I have to be honest with pollsters? I know there is no chance that the media and the candidates will discuss the real issues, and so faced with a two-year "campaign," I will settle for second best. Bring on the sideshows!
5
GOP = The Greedy Old Party. Remember most of the GOP candidates are narcissists who believe everything they are paid to say and will say or do anything for money. This political system is a joke at best. Bernie Sanders is the only one brave and smart enough to respect the truth and the voters.
9
"Kerrey conceded: “I don’t think you can really ignore it. But you have to evaluate, with some expertise, what his odds of being the Republican nominee are. And they’re practically zero.”"
Were I Kerrey--or anyone of stature in the political arena--I wouldn't make such bold statements, which only incite the Donald.
But I would like to see more soul searching among serious candidates of both parties about what Trump's self-trumpeted grandiosity really signifies in 2015. Because to me it's becoming more and more indicative of a coarsening culture that pays more attention to sideshows than main acts, that values "reality show" carnival atmosphere more than finding sound solutions for serious issues.
I think what's driving all this is the low-information voter, sucked into entertainment that substitutes for political action. Let's face it, for too many, politics and public policies--with all their details, nuances, mounds of paper, and far-reaching consequences--can be very boring for those whose attention span equates to that of a gnat.
The old adage, we get the leaders we deserve has never been more a propos, now that we are obviously getting the candidates we deserved by our nonstop demand for all things crazy, simplistic, crude, and loud. The Clown Car of GOP candidates has morphed into a big world circus that is exposing decades of serious ADD and lack of intellectual curiosity in the US electorate.
Were I Kerrey--or anyone of stature in the political arena--I wouldn't make such bold statements, which only incite the Donald.
But I would like to see more soul searching among serious candidates of both parties about what Trump's self-trumpeted grandiosity really signifies in 2015. Because to me it's becoming more and more indicative of a coarsening culture that pays more attention to sideshows than main acts, that values "reality show" carnival atmosphere more than finding sound solutions for serious issues.
I think what's driving all this is the low-information voter, sucked into entertainment that substitutes for political action. Let's face it, for too many, politics and public policies--with all their details, nuances, mounds of paper, and far-reaching consequences--can be very boring for those whose attention span equates to that of a gnat.
The old adage, we get the leaders we deserve has never been more a propos, now that we are obviously getting the candidates we deserved by our nonstop demand for all things crazy, simplistic, crude, and loud. The Clown Car of GOP candidates has morphed into a big world circus that is exposing decades of serious ADD and lack of intellectual curiosity in the US electorate.
8
Some 200 days before the first meaningful votes are counted, Bob Kerrey has no more right to say that Trump's chances of being the Republicant nominee are near zero than the Times does to insist that Bernie Sanders has no chance of being the Democratic nominee.
From the GOP that spawned Lee Atwater and Karl Rove, it is ironic to hear howls from candidates (exception Ted Cruz), in reaction to Trump's blunt speech. Why have a thoughtful debate on issues when you can have a soundbite?
As Shakespeare wrote,
For ’tis the sport to have the engineer
Hoist with his own petard.
As Shakespeare wrote,
For ’tis the sport to have the engineer
Hoist with his own petard.
3
People like Frank Bruni have catapaulted Trump to his current eminence as a political performance artist. Bruni may disapprove of him, but, like a lot of media writers who have no special expertise or political philosophy and so are drawn to personality politics, he keeps coming back for more. He even took the time to compile a quiz comparing Berlusconi and Trump. Like Sarah Palin, Trump is easy to write about, mainly because he generates all the copy. He is a caricature and requires little in the way of research or analysis. Bruni may protest all he wants, but like many in the media, he has done his share to inflate this vanity balloon that floats above the US right now. Trump is enjoying his hot air cruise in the media heavens, but he couldn't have done it all on his own.
11
Dear Frank,
As kerry sums up his remarks, "It's going to be hard to pick the nest President"I couldn't agree with him more. It's impossible to pick a leader out of the choices we have, because none of the declared candidates including Hillary,seem worthy of the Presidency.We have suffered through enough Presidents that lacked the leadership & the intellect to be President, & now we have a selection of empty suits including pant suits,who simply do not offer the public a sense of confidence.That is why Trump is creating such a stir, he is the only one who really speaks his mind even if he's at times outrageous in his comments, you know what your getting.Being politically correct is not his concern, speaking his mind is far more important.
He's creating such interest because he is a breath of fresh air, and has awakened the public to a campaign that before his announced his candidacy was boring at best, with the same old ,same old agendas that represent both failed political parties. The public is tired of having to pick the lesser of two evils.
As kerry sums up his remarks, "It's going to be hard to pick the nest President"I couldn't agree with him more. It's impossible to pick a leader out of the choices we have, because none of the declared candidates including Hillary,seem worthy of the Presidency.We have suffered through enough Presidents that lacked the leadership & the intellect to be President, & now we have a selection of empty suits including pant suits,who simply do not offer the public a sense of confidence.That is why Trump is creating such a stir, he is the only one who really speaks his mind even if he's at times outrageous in his comments, you know what your getting.Being politically correct is not his concern, speaking his mind is far more important.
He's creating such interest because he is a breath of fresh air, and has awakened the public to a campaign that before his announced his candidacy was boring at best, with the same old ,same old agendas that represent both failed political parties. The public is tired of having to pick the lesser of two evils.
3
Now the public is "privileged" to have its pick of the lesser of three evils.
Frank, I usually read your column even before Krugman's, but enough already!
I don't trust polls anymore than I trust the ages that people claim to be on On-Line dating sites,(I'm a senior). Are you guys in the media beating the Trump drum because the re=publicans are so damn boring? He does make good copy if your writing a society column or on the schmutz pages of the NY Post. We all enjoy gossip but it has now worn thin, Please, ladies and gentlemen of the press, don't try to dignify this clown by commenting on his ranting.
I don't trust polls anymore than I trust the ages that people claim to be on On-Line dating sites,(I'm a senior). Are you guys in the media beating the Trump drum because the re=publicans are so damn boring? He does make good copy if your writing a society column or on the schmutz pages of the NY Post. We all enjoy gossip but it has now worn thin, Please, ladies and gentlemen of the press, don't try to dignify this clown by commenting on his ranting.
5
Trump appeals to the, "I wish I can be as brash crowd!" They appear to be a combination of timid wannabe's, and circus attendee's amused by the, "Freak Show" du jour! But, they're out there. Americans are a diverse group.
His supporters might be those, that have been bitten a few times, survived, and gave up caring about anyone, but themselves. Too, there are plenty of thoughtless folks on either side of the bell curve and hate mongers, whose tendencies, Trump is willing to exploit.
We live in a democracy, (imperfect or not). I doubt the arrogant, schadenfreude will win, but the world has survived worse.
,
His supporters might be those, that have been bitten a few times, survived, and gave up caring about anyone, but themselves. Too, there are plenty of thoughtless folks on either side of the bell curve and hate mongers, whose tendencies, Trump is willing to exploit.
We live in a democracy, (imperfect or not). I doubt the arrogant, schadenfreude will win, but the world has survived worse.
,
3
Where were all these upstanding, pro-veteran types who are defending John McCain when John Kerry was swift-boated? Trump's remarks are in poor taste but guess what? They are accurate, for a change. Whereas the swift-boaters were lying about Kerry's war record.
229
Trump's remarks about McCain were not accurate. Turning down an early release from that torture chamber, the Hanoi Hilton, even though he had suffered grievous wounds, the effects of which are still obvious, and choosing to remain with his fellow POWs more than qualifies him as a hero.
America often seems to fall in love with the guy who clearly doesn't give a damn. I'm afraid to say it but the last candidate who won their heart with this approach was George W. Bush.
9
as opposed to a nation of liberals that voted for a "community organizer" who had never done anything of value in his life...because he was a "black person"
Trump's popularity tells more about his supporters than about Trump himself - they believe whatever the right wing puts in front of them.
As for Trump himself, he is having FUN - saying whatever he feels like at the moment and damn the torpedoes. He doesn't care, and doesn't have to care.
As for Trump himself, he is having FUN - saying whatever he feels like at the moment and damn the torpedoes. He doesn't care, and doesn't have to care.
9
Kerrey is wrong when he says Trump is not good for American politics. He's very good because he shows us how twisted and foolish politics has become, and how great a distance exists between politics and good government. Trump is the end of the line for politics. Kerrey is part of that lineage.
6
By speaking and writing about Trump - whether recounting his "vile besmirching" of McCain's captivity in Vietnam or his shouting out Senator Grahams cellphone number - you, the print, online and social media, bring attention to the bad boy behaviour of this most unacceptable candidate for the Presidency in 2016. Mr. Trump lives for publicity, for listening to his name echoed from sea to shining sea. It is incomprehensible that this enfant terrible is leading the throng of GOP/Tea Party clowns in the race for the Presidency. From time immemorial theatre or slapstick has grabbed the attention of the hoi polloi, hungry for bread and circuses. The Huff Post in relegating Trump coverage to the entertainment section did the right thing. The odds of Trump surviving the present welter of nonsensical antics are slim to none. He is as fascinating as the sword-swallower, the fat man, the bearded lady in America's quadriennial sideshow of Republicans running for the Presidency. This bloviating clown is reviled by even those who admire his business acumen and hubris. Alas, for the crumbling Republican Party, there are no great leaders among the multitude of declared wannabe presidents. Can we truly imagine a Scott Walker, a Rick Santorum, a Bobby Jindal, a Mike Huckabee, or even a JEB! (last name Bush) as a great leader, as our next President? Can we truly imagine Joe Biden as our next President? Yes!
5
Trump is testing the validity of the old PR axiom "there is no such thing as bad publicity." And Bruni wrings his hands while providing more free publicity on some of the most exclusive real estate in the Fourth Estate, the Times' Op-Ed Page. What's wrong with this picture?
It would be far more helpful for Bruni to, say, give over a column to the campaign platform of Bernie Sanders. God knows you won't find it anywhere else in the Times. And Bruni won't find himself with the urge for a hot shower after writing about Trump.
It would be far more helpful for Bruni to, say, give over a column to the campaign platform of Bernie Sanders. God knows you won't find it anywhere else in the Times. And Bruni won't find himself with the urge for a hot shower after writing about Trump.
If any of the field of GOP candidates were doing or saying anything, The Donald would not be news. He knows how to fill a vacuum with hot air.
9
Sour grapes from Mr. Kerry. He takes himself and American politics too seriously. He needs to lighten up and realize what the rest of us have: they are all self-aggrandizing clowns and buffoons. Some of them just hide it a bit better.
2
A whole lotta people thought Jesse Ventura's campaign was a joke, too, but he was serious and proposed serious things for our state. In the end, we elected him and he was not a bad governor; in fact, he changed Minnesota politics in a positive way. Of course, he turned out to be a nutball _after_ he left office, but that's neither here nor there.
Trump, on the other hand, already is a nutball. His campaign is one long infomercial for his reality shows. And if, G-d forbid, he wins, count on the White House being his new boardroom.
We live in serious and dangerous times, and we need a president who will be able to address both domestic and foreign relations with finesse. Donald Trump is not that man and while he is amusing for the moment, he will not win an election.
Of course, if he gets the GOP nod, We, the People will have proof positive that they really are the Clown Cavalcade Party and have no interest in actually governing this nation on behalf of We, the People.
But then again, that's really not news, is it?
http://wifelyperson.blogspot.com/
Trump, on the other hand, already is a nutball. His campaign is one long infomercial for his reality shows. And if, G-d forbid, he wins, count on the White House being his new boardroom.
We live in serious and dangerous times, and we need a president who will be able to address both domestic and foreign relations with finesse. Donald Trump is not that man and while he is amusing for the moment, he will not win an election.
Of course, if he gets the GOP nod, We, the People will have proof positive that they really are the Clown Cavalcade Party and have no interest in actually governing this nation on behalf of We, the People.
But then again, that's really not news, is it?
http://wifelyperson.blogspot.com/
8
If one were to isolate all of the candidates who made outrageous claims against Obama and continued on in the face of reality, few would be left to run. The point is that ridiculous behavior doesn't seem to have any currency in a run for President. We've endured the McCain smear of Kerrey's war time service and VP candidate Palin sputtering more foolishness that didn't deserve to be printed. But, alas, we have a media that feeds off idiocy disguised as controversy. His Egoness seems to understand the lust for nonsense that exists in the American psyche. I remember reading Henry Miller's "Air Conditioned Nightmare," a lifetime ago when folks were struggling to attain the "Dream." This was the outgrowth of the "Greatest Generation," leaving the great blood bath of WWII behind and trying to celebrate mindless materialism. WWII caused the USA to become a world power because it could out produce the rest of the world and IBM was king. We are now living in the post WWII era and what do we have? Illusionists who believe in an America that never was except in the movies and TV. We now have TV that calls itself "reality TV." It is so far from reality it's laughable, but we sit there cheering the idiocy! Politics and reality do not seem loving bedfellows. Just watch the Ads with a jaundiced eye and you'll get my meaning. And so, we have his Egoness reaching for that inner core of ignorant chauvinism. Let the chips fall! I'm more interested in the reaction to him than him.
50
Trump will flame out, hairpiece and all. My hope is that he loses his fame and fortune like Jeff Bridges' vile character in "The Fisher King." Could not happen to a most-deserving jerk.
5
In the dictionary next to "Bully" is a picture of Trump. His vitriol makes me squeamish. How 24% of Republicans can be in his court is just mystifying.
8
I listened to an interview on NPR of Trump admirers. They all were enamored of Trump's "breath of fresh air," as one interviewee put it. But not a single word of Trump speaking any real truth. Trump draws crowds the way traffic accidents and circus freak shows draw audiences.
1
Mean-spirited, petty, vindictive, crass, trust-breaking, and racist. And he leads the pack of Republican candidates in the polls.
Makes sense...
Makes sense...
27
And yet, even Senator Lindsey Graham, who is now feeling Trump’s wrath because he had said earlier this summer that he wanted the other GOP candidates to call out Trump for hurting the party name, did not fully denounce The Don. Graham should have said that Trump’s comments about Mexicans were not just bad for Republicans politically, they were insulting, wrong, and harmful to our nation by fueling the fires of fear and stereotyping. That would have been leadership – looking beyond one’s immediate interests.
13
It's the news media that led the merging of entertainment & politics, beginning with the Reagan presidency. By the time Senator Kerry was slandered by the GOP & their Swift Boat Klan, journalists had taught us that to expose or challenge someone (or at least Republicans) for political lies or for ignorance wouldn't be "objective." If Mr. Trump were elected to office, or if he had a Fox news show, you'd all be on bended knee before him.
3
Along the way in his limelight obsessed, exhibitionist existence, Trump decided to be the Republican Party's "id"--probably when he stirred up all the birther nonsense about Obama and managed to make a political career out of it. No complaints from the RNC then, and Fox (Not)News ran all the way to the bank with the birther ridiculousness.
Trump is merely acting out the Republican strategy pushed to its absurdity.
As if the manufactured, well-funded Tea Party weren't absurd enough, enter The Donald to go beyond the pale (where else was there to go, anyway?)-- even besting the most outrageous GOP presidential candidates, such as Cruz, Huckabee, Perry, & Dr. Carson.
Nixon started it with his calculating selling of the president, dirty tricks campaign, and southern strategy--all based on manipulative PR and pandering to the worst in the white American psyche.
Our PAC & Koch brothers' campaign financing, Citizens United, and our politics-as-horse-race, and focus-on-the-bizarre American media set the stage for a grandstanding candidate like Trump, who could ratchet up the rhetoric and insult, play the bad boy unleashing Americans' pent-up frustrations and hostility, and entertain a bored, poorly informed citizenry disgusted with American politics and politicians.
Trump has trumped the other GOP candidates and reflects in the rawest, most absurd terms what our political system has become--cash, brash, and trash.
We are looking in the mirror and seeing Donald Trump
Trump is merely acting out the Republican strategy pushed to its absurdity.
As if the manufactured, well-funded Tea Party weren't absurd enough, enter The Donald to go beyond the pale (where else was there to go, anyway?)-- even besting the most outrageous GOP presidential candidates, such as Cruz, Huckabee, Perry, & Dr. Carson.
Nixon started it with his calculating selling of the president, dirty tricks campaign, and southern strategy--all based on manipulative PR and pandering to the worst in the white American psyche.
Our PAC & Koch brothers' campaign financing, Citizens United, and our politics-as-horse-race, and focus-on-the-bizarre American media set the stage for a grandstanding candidate like Trump, who could ratchet up the rhetoric and insult, play the bad boy unleashing Americans' pent-up frustrations and hostility, and entertain a bored, poorly informed citizenry disgusted with American politics and politicians.
Trump has trumped the other GOP candidates and reflects in the rawest, most absurd terms what our political system has become--cash, brash, and trash.
We are looking in the mirror and seeing Donald Trump
115
Trump and the Repubs make hate regimes of old seem dignified in comparison, even though they use the same "Big Lie" technique.
The spotlight on Mr. Trump has been very troubling to be sure, inflating his ego, reassuring him of his own dubious importance and elevating him to a political stature, which clearly he does has he has not earned, but for mockery.
What is most troubling is that the man who spews hatred and nonsense now leads the pack among Republican voters and was the first, and in some cases the only story on just about every news program for the entire day yesterday.
Even more troubling than the ranting and babbling red face of Mr. Trump, is the reincarnated series of attacks from other candidates that assert Democrats are "like Hitler," which receives so little media attention, even as the inherent irony of this accusation appears to escape the television "pundits."
Though the New York Times has been understandably loathe to compare any candidate to Hitler, it is past time for them to examine some of these Republican candidates --- and the dynamics and tactics of fascism in their concurrent distortions of history, their scapegoating of the poor, the sick, those whom they label "deviant."
Hitler is gone and history will judge him, but the dynamic of fascism is a different story, and one that begs conversation in these troubling times.
In the aftermath of the South Carolina massacre, inspired by extremist right-wing propaganda, it is urgent that we closely examine those who would lead our country down a path of hatred, persecution and war?
mlouisemarkle
What is most troubling is that the man who spews hatred and nonsense now leads the pack among Republican voters and was the first, and in some cases the only story on just about every news program for the entire day yesterday.
Even more troubling than the ranting and babbling red face of Mr. Trump, is the reincarnated series of attacks from other candidates that assert Democrats are "like Hitler," which receives so little media attention, even as the inherent irony of this accusation appears to escape the television "pundits."
Though the New York Times has been understandably loathe to compare any candidate to Hitler, it is past time for them to examine some of these Republican candidates --- and the dynamics and tactics of fascism in their concurrent distortions of history, their scapegoating of the poor, the sick, those whom they label "deviant."
Hitler is gone and history will judge him, but the dynamic of fascism is a different story, and one that begs conversation in these troubling times.
In the aftermath of the South Carolina massacre, inspired by extremist right-wing propaganda, it is urgent that we closely examine those who would lead our country down a path of hatred, persecution and war?
mlouisemarkle
10
In following both papers and television, I am getting increasingly disturbed by the extrapolations that are being made on Trump's by now infamous remark on McCain. What Trump said was that McCain owes his reputation as a hero to the fact that he was a prisoner of war and that fact does not constitute heroism. Now, this interpretation of heroism may be disputed but it is being used to say that this is an insult to veterans, that he has criticized McCain's military service and is being viewed as a kind of lèse majestè. Trump did not say anything about the nature of his military service, only about his being called a hero. There are many gradation of honorable service before achieving heroism. He further said that in war he prefers that soldiers be not taken prisoners. It reminded me of George C. Scott's remark to his soldiers in "Patton": 'I don't want you to die for your country. Let the other son of bitch die for his".
I consider Trump totally unqualified to be president, if not dangerous, and I wouldn't vote for him for dog catcher, but the idea that he cannot express his own opinion about a commonly held characterization, seems to me not in keeping with his rights, incorrect as they may be.
I consider Trump totally unqualified to be president, if not dangerous, and I wouldn't vote for him for dog catcher, but the idea that he cannot express his own opinion about a commonly held characterization, seems to me not in keeping with his rights, incorrect as they may be.
7
Maybe these points will help you deal with your anguish about Donald's mistreatment:
1) The additional little fact is that McCain remained a prisoner of war, undergoing torture, etc., rather than take early release. Sooo... while you might make the - specious - argument that being shot down and captured doesn't make one a war hero, his subsequent actions seem to.
2) The other additional little bothersome fact is that McCain broke both legs when he was shot down. That and I guess the torture earned him a Purple Heart? We decorate the military for being killed or wounded in action with a Purple Heart. That's 'cause we consider wounded veterans heroes Frank.....
So ya, rest assured Frank, Trump's comment was insulting to veterans.
1) The additional little fact is that McCain remained a prisoner of war, undergoing torture, etc., rather than take early release. Sooo... while you might make the - specious - argument that being shot down and captured doesn't make one a war hero, his subsequent actions seem to.
2) The other additional little bothersome fact is that McCain broke both legs when he was shot down. That and I guess the torture earned him a Purple Heart? We decorate the military for being killed or wounded in action with a Purple Heart. That's 'cause we consider wounded veterans heroes Frank.....
So ya, rest assured Frank, Trump's comment was insulting to veterans.
The sad thing is that in most respects, I think Trump accurately represents the personality and thinking of his fellow Ivy League country club Republicans.
17
The conservative echo chamber has been ramping up ignorance and hatred for years now. They have created a hyperbolic stage and it seems inevitable that a hyperbolic candidate like Trump would step forward to grab the limelight.
16
For a couple decades, GOP candidates, winners and losers alike, have practiced sneering, obstructing, and lying. Trump just does it better than the rest.
Have at it!
Have at it!
19
Trump surely likes to use bombast to deliver a message.
At least some of his messages resonate with more people than the establishment wants to admit, across all party lines.
Democrats and Republicans are so eager to pander Hispanics that they are afraid to say what the majority of Americans believe. Uncontrolled, illegal immigration is not good for the country and hurts lower income people the most. Legal immigration is good for the country and those immigrants should be welcomed. Trump comes right out and says this without a concern about whether one group or another's feeling will be hurt.
The media relishes reporting, not always accurately, on Trump, the Republican's non-establishment candidate, while ignoring Bernie Sanders, the Democrat's non-establishment candidate. I wonder why that is.
At least some of his messages resonate with more people than the establishment wants to admit, across all party lines.
Democrats and Republicans are so eager to pander Hispanics that they are afraid to say what the majority of Americans believe. Uncontrolled, illegal immigration is not good for the country and hurts lower income people the most. Legal immigration is good for the country and those immigrants should be welcomed. Trump comes right out and says this without a concern about whether one group or another's feeling will be hurt.
The media relishes reporting, not always accurately, on Trump, the Republican's non-establishment candidate, while ignoring Bernie Sanders, the Democrat's non-establishment candidate. I wonder why that is.
7
Contrary to the experts, I believe Trump will break out and extend his lead after the Fox debate. Is it not wonderful how all of the political and media elites are flummoxed by Trump's success!
5
“Yeah, 5,000 people showed up at your event,” he said. “I could get 5,000 people to show up at the bearded lady. He is, in his way, a freak show.”
I'm not a huge fan of Mr. Trump, but let's be honest, 5,000 people won't show up to see Mr. Kerrey.
I'm not a huge fan of Mr. Trump, but let's be honest, 5,000 people won't show up to see Mr. Kerrey.
4
Mr. Kerrey wasn't claiming that 5,000 people would show up to see him.
Trump, Palin, Zimmerman, etc. all people who just need celebrity. These are people who must be in the limelight. They cannot bear anonymity. They have all become famous or infamous for different reasons but none of them good reasons. They all play on peoples basest emotions. In better times they would have been marginalized or even in jail. Today they are celebrities. The campaign for the president use to be a serious and thoughtful affair. Now it is a carnival sideshow. The candidates vie to be the most ridiculous and say the most ridiculous things they can possibly say. And more the pity there are Americans who agree with them. Can we go back to celebrating morality, veracity, accomplishment and respect or will we just continue to devolve?
We must stop listening to these "candidates" and just start reading of their accomplishments or the lack there of. Listening to this nonsense is painful for those of us who hold the value of our democracy in our hearts.
We must stop listening to these "candidates" and just start reading of their accomplishments or the lack there of. Listening to this nonsense is painful for those of us who hold the value of our democracy in our hearts.
10
What is a crying shame is that Donald Trump, not Bernie Sanders, a serious candidate with intelligent and thoughtful positions on important issues, is the person getting attention from serious news organizations suvh as the NYT.
12
Trump tops the polls because he brings out the inner child, the inner Internet troll. I wonder how many people who cheer him on wouldn't actually vote for him, but they adore that he makes other people froth at the mouth.
Think of the GOP field as like the WWF wrestling or 'reality' TV. The latter in particular, regardless of superficial variations, follow a rigid underlying formula: assemble an assortment of rambunctious exhibitionists in some kind of closed system or space, and count on them to behave badly. Invariably there's at least one designated buffoon/provocateur whose role is to keep moving the goalposts for outrageousness.
Big Brother; Jersey Shore; The Bachelor; Marriage Boot Camp; Real Housewives; and the GOP pre-primary presidential race. Donald Trump is The Situation.
There is an up side, though. In this day and age of 'shaming' and 'I'm so offended! End of discussion!!', people - no doubt including some who, if they stopped a moment to think, would be appalled at the company they're keeping - will say they like Trump because he won't let himself be intimidated and speaks what passes for his mind. They applaud not necessarily what he says but that he won't be stopped from saying it. I'd never vote for an idiot like him but I see this as a valuable function, and in that sense he's channeling a very real discontent which you ignore or dismiss at your peril.
Think of the GOP field as like the WWF wrestling or 'reality' TV. The latter in particular, regardless of superficial variations, follow a rigid underlying formula: assemble an assortment of rambunctious exhibitionists in some kind of closed system or space, and count on them to behave badly. Invariably there's at least one designated buffoon/provocateur whose role is to keep moving the goalposts for outrageousness.
Big Brother; Jersey Shore; The Bachelor; Marriage Boot Camp; Real Housewives; and the GOP pre-primary presidential race. Donald Trump is The Situation.
There is an up side, though. In this day and age of 'shaming' and 'I'm so offended! End of discussion!!', people - no doubt including some who, if they stopped a moment to think, would be appalled at the company they're keeping - will say they like Trump because he won't let himself be intimidated and speaks what passes for his mind. They applaud not necessarily what he says but that he won't be stopped from saying it. I'd never vote for an idiot like him but I see this as a valuable function, and in that sense he's channeling a very real discontent which you ignore or dismiss at your peril.
5
I get it. Mr. Trump has determined that running for president would make a great "reality" TV show. Like all "reality" TV shows, everyone knows that the action is contrived and bears no resemblance to the real world, and yet people still watch, just to see what wacky adventures the actors will have. My guess is that the Donald Trump Show will continue on some cable channel long after he has been eliminated from the debates or any other serious consideration.
2
About those billions being spent in our elections! In this digital age should it take well over a year to run a presidential campaign? And why should it cost the probable equivalent of every American teacher's annual salary to conduct presidential campaigns for all the candidates? A total overhaul of our entire elective system should be happening except that the current owners of our government (not we the people) won't allow that to happen.
6
Mr Trump is obviously using up too much of the political oxygen. Now, Mr Bruni, how about a column devoted to the anti-Trump -- that is, why much of the media is virtually ignoring Bernie Sanders even though he is clearly not crazy and has been pulling large crowds because of his policies and not because of showmanship. Even the Times usually hedges its stories about Mr Sanders in some way so that you "know" (usually from just the headline) that you are not supposed to take him seriously. What's up with that?
10
What does he really want?
Isn't that a good question for most (including I she) of the 15 others. At the end it will be Walker, Rubio and Bush with a big shoot out in FL to eliminate down to 2 (and do not bet big that the ABB's can not win in the convention). So what do the others want for their endorsement/war chest? Cabinet seat? Ambassadorship? Book sales? A new talk radio contract?
Trump then....a Manhattan casino might be nice...
Isn't that a good question for most (including I she) of the 15 others. At the end it will be Walker, Rubio and Bush with a big shoot out in FL to eliminate down to 2 (and do not bet big that the ABB's can not win in the convention). So what do the others want for their endorsement/war chest? Cabinet seat? Ambassadorship? Book sales? A new talk radio contract?
Trump then....a Manhattan casino might be nice...
1
Trump is unique in that he doesn't need Super PACs or contributions to his campaign. Instead, he's free to say what he wants, doesn't need to bow down to the media interests, liberal or conservative, or ask a series of panels to figure out the best phrases to use to entice voters. Trump gets to state how he feels, how a portion of America feels, the portion of America which has seen its job outsourced to Mexico/China in the pursuit of corporate profits, and their anger is palpable.
Does Trump appeal to me? Yes, because I am sick of all the double-talk politicians engage in. This country needs a straight-shooter, probably not Trump, but someone who is not a politician, does not have a team of 'consultants' to get their message out.
Bernie is like this, but he is unelectable due to his the fact there is a strong fabric of individualism in this country, and he appealing to the lowest common denominator with his 'free health care. free school!'
Does Trump appeal to me? Yes, because I am sick of all the double-talk politicians engage in. This country needs a straight-shooter, probably not Trump, but someone who is not a politician, does not have a team of 'consultants' to get their message out.
Bernie is like this, but he is unelectable due to his the fact there is a strong fabric of individualism in this country, and he appealing to the lowest common denominator with his 'free health care. free school!'
2
We pay taxes so health care and schools aren't free, they're something we all contribute to and we all benefit from them, even if we don't use them directly.
I think that Trump is a closet Democratic operative whose aim is to destroy the Republican party. He is the original Trojan Horse. In fact, I think that he is a closet Hillary supporter.
Don't believe it? Neither do I.
Don't believe it? Neither do I.
1
How should we size him? By ignoring him, maybe...
2
What in the world is wrong with being a woman with a beard? There is a lot wrong with being Donald Trump. Or being John McCain for that matter.
3
Who gave us Citizens United?
If you are going to have billionaires run the party, why not have one run for president?
It is a crime against the USA, but what goes around comes around.
If you are going to have billionaires run the party, why not have one run for president?
It is a crime against the USA, but what goes around comes around.
5
Are this many really supporting Trump? Surely they are claiming they do to pollsters only because he is the only name they recognize. That is not because of any policies he has, but because of The Apprentice etc.
3
See, but you're thinking logically about what is really needed here. What he has to do is convince sheep to follow, that's all.
Postcard to Paris - 'Dear Pauline, you asked about politics in America, of which I know little, but I will send a few observations of my own. As a Nation, we vote Republican as a rule, and our mutual friend always thought Democrats where slightly inferior.
These elections are a turning point for America and the legacy we are leaving our next generation. You mentioned at first that you were not quite sure of the President and it is only now that he is being recognized as extraordinary by a few of us.
Yesterday, you mentioned an affinity for horses, and Hillary Clinton is a 'Power Horse' to be reckoned with. The other presidential hopefuls appear to have a case of foot and mouth disease.
It is down to the wire with Jeb Bush, a recognizable name, and a Scott Walker, both Republicans, the latter gaining in momentum and pacing himself. As for Mr. Trump, once an American Idol, who has worked himself into a lather, it is a pity to see any horse in such a state, set loose in a crowd with cowboys watching a rodeo show.
On a note aside, did I tell you my retired boss, considered one of our greatest American economists, once gave me a scolding when he accepted an invitation from Senator John Kerry to lunch in Washington, only to return and mention that I had sent him to the wrong Kerry but that everything was fine because he was also a friend of his.
More later if interested. Today we are entertained by seeing Trump break a leg in a crippling way at the cost of America.
These elections are a turning point for America and the legacy we are leaving our next generation. You mentioned at first that you were not quite sure of the President and it is only now that he is being recognized as extraordinary by a few of us.
Yesterday, you mentioned an affinity for horses, and Hillary Clinton is a 'Power Horse' to be reckoned with. The other presidential hopefuls appear to have a case of foot and mouth disease.
It is down to the wire with Jeb Bush, a recognizable name, and a Scott Walker, both Republicans, the latter gaining in momentum and pacing himself. As for Mr. Trump, once an American Idol, who has worked himself into a lather, it is a pity to see any horse in such a state, set loose in a crowd with cowboys watching a rodeo show.
On a note aside, did I tell you my retired boss, considered one of our greatest American economists, once gave me a scolding when he accepted an invitation from Senator John Kerry to lunch in Washington, only to return and mention that I had sent him to the wrong Kerry but that everything was fine because he was also a friend of his.
More later if interested. Today we are entertained by seeing Trump break a leg in a crippling way at the cost of America.
1
Dear Mr. Bruni,
In the last presidential contest (Obama and Romney), the popular vote was 52% for Mr. Obama and 48% for Mr.Romney. Mr. Trump is only stirring the "roots" of the new GOP/TP/KOCH AFFILIATE exposing what much of the populace, the conservative populace, actually believes and feels. Remember, these folks hang on every word coming from Fox, shudder, News and will brook no argument against their beliefs no matter how factual that argument be (ACA is working? According to my Tea Party neighbors, the numbers are all bogus and the truth is available only on the Fox Network or certain "bloggers").
The truly scary part is the lack of participation in our "participatory democracy". People are voting in fewer and fewer numbers allowing the slim possibility, but all too real possibility, that "The Donald" may actually become the nominee of the GOP/TP/K.A. and may become president!
On the other hand, with his "alienation" factor (Goodbye Hispanic vote, so long veterans, especially if you were a P.O.W. and who knows what next) my guess is that each day Mr. Trump is "on the stump" his chances of being elected head to "the dump" as even HE would have to figure out that carrying the "nut cases" of the Republican Party vote wise is not going to be enough to win the election.
In support of this, I will gladly wear a "Trump For President" button as he's the best thing to have come down the pike for the Democrats.
In the last presidential contest (Obama and Romney), the popular vote was 52% for Mr. Obama and 48% for Mr.Romney. Mr. Trump is only stirring the "roots" of the new GOP/TP/KOCH AFFILIATE exposing what much of the populace, the conservative populace, actually believes and feels. Remember, these folks hang on every word coming from Fox, shudder, News and will brook no argument against their beliefs no matter how factual that argument be (ACA is working? According to my Tea Party neighbors, the numbers are all bogus and the truth is available only on the Fox Network or certain "bloggers").
The truly scary part is the lack of participation in our "participatory democracy". People are voting in fewer and fewer numbers allowing the slim possibility, but all too real possibility, that "The Donald" may actually become the nominee of the GOP/TP/K.A. and may become president!
On the other hand, with his "alienation" factor (Goodbye Hispanic vote, so long veterans, especially if you were a P.O.W. and who knows what next) my guess is that each day Mr. Trump is "on the stump" his chances of being elected head to "the dump" as even HE would have to figure out that carrying the "nut cases" of the Republican Party vote wise is not going to be enough to win the election.
In support of this, I will gladly wear a "Trump For President" button as he's the best thing to have come down the pike for the Democrats.
4
Science: The Antidote To The Toxin Of Fear
“And you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” -John 8:32
The fundamental appeal of Donald Trump is that he says that which many people think but are afraid to say, and he says that which the mealy-mouthed, feckless, hypocritical Republican candidates never would dream of saying with the possible exception of Ted Cruz.
“When governments fear the people, there is liberty. When the people fear the government, there is tyranny.” -Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826)
A majority of productive Americans fears its government or should. A majority of productive Americans understands that the federal government has become corrupt, self-serving, and tyrannical.
Forget it being time for a "great leader". There is no one savior to save us from ourselves.
It’s time for a new and different political party ... an apolitical party based upon the science of human behavior. Can there be such a thing? Yes.
Politicians will fight it. Lawyers will fight it. Ideologues will fight it. Members of the Big Media will fight it.
Read. Learn. Think. Act.
Science says, “Behavior has its consequences.”
http:inescapableconsequences.com
“And you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” -John 8:32
The fundamental appeal of Donald Trump is that he says that which many people think but are afraid to say, and he says that which the mealy-mouthed, feckless, hypocritical Republican candidates never would dream of saying with the possible exception of Ted Cruz.
“When governments fear the people, there is liberty. When the people fear the government, there is tyranny.” -Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826)
A majority of productive Americans fears its government or should. A majority of productive Americans understands that the federal government has become corrupt, self-serving, and tyrannical.
Forget it being time for a "great leader". There is no one savior to save us from ourselves.
It’s time for a new and different political party ... an apolitical party based upon the science of human behavior. Can there be such a thing? Yes.
Politicians will fight it. Lawyers will fight it. Ideologues will fight it. Members of the Big Media will fight it.
Read. Learn. Think. Act.
Science says, “Behavior has its consequences.”
http:inescapableconsequences.com
1
Trump should be acknowledged for "changing the conversation" in the same way that Bernie Sanders has been recognized. Like Sanders, Trump has tapped into voter anger. They are both very big "complainers" and unlikely to accomplish one-tenth of what they are claiming they will do.
The media simply hasn't figured out how to handle candidates that will never be president. Especially when it comes to republicans, they are drawn to the most outrageous like a moth to a flame and appear just as ridiculous for doing so.
The media simply hasn't figured out how to handle candidates that will never be president. Especially when it comes to republicans, they are drawn to the most outrageous like a moth to a flame and appear just as ridiculous for doing so.
7
@ AACNY
Trump is currently comfortably the leading Republican candidate according to most polls. So the media is supposed to ignore the leading Republican candidate. Are you completely obtuse?
Trump is currently comfortably the leading Republican candidate according to most polls. So the media is supposed to ignore the leading Republican candidate. Are you completely obtuse?
10
I don't believe that the two figures, Trump and Sanders, should be in the same sentence. For one, Trump is bad for the society, unlike Sanders. Second, Trump is so wrong and misinformed in so many ways, while Sanders is helping people become better informed and aware of the society and its ills attributed to unwise and ideology-based policies and structural issues. Sanders is in a close touch with the reality and real America, while Trump is living in his own delusional world. His mind is toxic and polluted with predatory, greedy, "everything goes" capitalism; so only venom is coming out of his mouth.
1
Trump has not changed the conversation regarding anything other than Trump. Which was his goal. It is annoying that people paint his asinine remarks as stimulation for an intelligent debate about serious issues. They are nothing of the kind. They are simply red meat for the far right and click bait for Trump's brand building exercise.
No one takes the man or his remarks seriously, or fails to recognize their patent shallowness. They are not meant to, nor are they, stimulating thoughtful debate about serious issues effecting the nation.
Please stop trying to elevate the Trump experience to anything more meaningful than what it is: the hijacking of the electoral process for the leader of the free world by a money grubbing individual who measures a person's value solely by his net worth.
Trump reflects the worst of American values. He is capitalism distilled to its essence. And an odious essence it is, in his case. But that he has followers, of any magnitude whatsoever, is what should be concerning to us. That America has become so unmoored that a buffoon like this can command the allegiance of the right is testimony to just how adrift we are as a country. We no longer know who we are, how we're supposed to act, whom to admire and what behavior to condemn. We are adrift.
A country like this can never be great. Nor can it pretend it has the moral fiber to lead the free world. If great nations die, this is what the beginning of the slide must look like.
No one takes the man or his remarks seriously, or fails to recognize their patent shallowness. They are not meant to, nor are they, stimulating thoughtful debate about serious issues effecting the nation.
Please stop trying to elevate the Trump experience to anything more meaningful than what it is: the hijacking of the electoral process for the leader of the free world by a money grubbing individual who measures a person's value solely by his net worth.
Trump reflects the worst of American values. He is capitalism distilled to its essence. And an odious essence it is, in his case. But that he has followers, of any magnitude whatsoever, is what should be concerning to us. That America has become so unmoored that a buffoon like this can command the allegiance of the right is testimony to just how adrift we are as a country. We no longer know who we are, how we're supposed to act, whom to admire and what behavior to condemn. We are adrift.
A country like this can never be great. Nor can it pretend it has the moral fiber to lead the free world. If great nations die, this is what the beginning of the slide must look like.
1
The Trump phenomenon's blend of entertainment and politics is unnerving, but because the general election is sixteen months from now it's easy to dismiss. With the populist right energized, the revenue opportunity is high for Roger Ailes and right wing radio hosts at the same time that most voters perceive their civic stakes as low. Should we be concerned? Well, Rupert Murdoch is concerned enough to have spoken out publicly against Trump, clear evidence that he threatens the Republican national brand. Whether a weak Republican party is bad or good for the country is the much larger and more difficult question.
36
The best Republican party is a nonexistent Republican party. It has ceased to stand for anything of value.
. . . and yet, in his own inchoate way, Trump raises questions that no one dares ask publicly - what constitutes heroism, does McCain's life story meet that definition, how do we reward heroes? Were McCain's exploits comparable to those of Alvin York and Audie Murphy? Read any Medal of Honor citation - how does McCain's story compare?
I hold McCain in highest esteem for having endured 5 years as a POW, and believe that our nation owes him an immense debt of gratitude for his suffering. But I don't owe him my vote, and he will never get it. McCain's story has carried him along a remarkably successful career, but I cannot see that it provided him with the skill set to be a President or a Senator.
I hold McCain in highest esteem for having endured 5 years as a POW, and believe that our nation owes him an immense debt of gratitude for his suffering. But I don't owe him my vote, and he will never get it. McCain's story has carried him along a remarkably successful career, but I cannot see that it provided him with the skill set to be a President or a Senator.
28
What few seem to realize, and I presume that most who read this will get my inference, is that Trump is to the political arena what a certain denizen is to the 'Net; a Troll. His whole intent in the political game is to stir the pot and, being the premiere narcissist that he is, promote himself for the usual self-interested reasons albeit it aggressive clown fashion. There's probably a modicum of truth in the editorials statement that he's doing this for financial gain. Despite his claims he's really not that good of a businessman. I wonder what he would have made of himself without Daddies money to springboard him.
In any case the best way to deal with a Troll, at least on the 'Net, is to ignore him. It sucks the oxygen out of his world and deprives him of the sustenance he needs. However; given this is Politics the likelihood of it happening is nil. It would require that traveling circus, popularly known as the Media, to do the ignoring and have I mentioned financial gain? Media is first and foremost a business, and an information source a distant third to that which is number two for them, entertainment. As can be clearly seen by their focus they, too, are self-interested in keeping the clown that is Trump square in center ring until closer to the commencement of the main event. It's early in the season, things are a bit staid in the (political) game, so such as a Trump keeps the masses entertained ahead of the main event, and it profits them nicely.
In any case the best way to deal with a Troll, at least on the 'Net, is to ignore him. It sucks the oxygen out of his world and deprives him of the sustenance he needs. However; given this is Politics the likelihood of it happening is nil. It would require that traveling circus, popularly known as the Media, to do the ignoring and have I mentioned financial gain? Media is first and foremost a business, and an information source a distant third to that which is number two for them, entertainment. As can be clearly seen by their focus they, too, are self-interested in keeping the clown that is Trump square in center ring until closer to the commencement of the main event. It's early in the season, things are a bit staid in the (political) game, so such as a Trump keeps the masses entertained ahead of the main event, and it profits them nicely.
10
The whole Republican scheme lacks credibility. I am unable to find within their candidates a man I would consider voting for or ever conceive of leading our country.
BUT, we all need to remember that Republican voters show up at the polls and will choose one of the candidates before us. That scare the heck out of me and it should scare the heck out of Democrats country wide.
BUT, we all need to remember that Republican voters show up at the polls and will choose one of the candidates before us. That scare the heck out of me and it should scare the heck out of Democrats country wide.
19
I'm sure it will. The only real question now is who the Democratic candidate will be: Hillary Clinton or Bernie Sanders? Either one is capable of beating any of the GOP field of self-involved fools.
What? Ego in this Republican political field! Frankly, its good to know that DADA is alive and well and there is a candidate that brings a base level to this field of absurdity. A war hero like McCain singing 'bomb, bomb, bomb Iran' after supporting the Iraq debacle sending troops in with inadequate armor or regional knowledge base and then the Walter Reed slippage... and ultimately inviting West Wing Nut Candidate Sara Palin to the bridge party. Hmmmm....'War Hero' does not a president make...Reality TV is Reality in the mindset of so many who are removed from the complexity of governance in todays dogfight for control. Hearing Trump say 'I will build an army that will never go to war because it is so feared by opponents' is not so far from the rhetoric espoused by many wingers on all subjects- that if i say it- it will happen- just lik. e that! We are just spectators in a field we have less and less control of, so getting behind 'The Donald' - a selfie on a schtick- is a vote for the 'ridiculosity' that is unfortunately a coming reality and not because of the 'Donald'- but in spite of him!
9
@Greg Metz: "selfie on a schtick" is priceless. Thank you!
Trump is Reagan without the phony smile. He's the culmination of Nixon's "southern strategy," using any form of hate to win.
It's a little late now for any Republican to express shock.
It's a little late now for any Republican to express shock.
19
Donald Trump is a jack ass... He has nothing to add to the conversation but is interested only in lining his own pockets... He is a loser... John McCain, war hero or not, has famously said, bomb, bomb, bomb Iran and would be happy to take the United States into war with just about anyone... His first reaction is almost always where can we start a war... I am sorry he fought in Vietnam, I am sorry he got captured, I am really sorry he was tortured (something to remember when after 9/11 the United States was happy to engage in), and I am truly happy he got out alive and was able to return home to his family... Hero status is nuanced and Mr. McCain is a hero to many and that is OK by me but his political career has not been heroic and perspective is always a good thing...
24
In the first half of the 20th-century, what hugely successful political figure used the following tactics…all of which Trump is now using to similar effect in the first half of the 21st-century:
1. A great showman willing to say anything, no matter how outrageous, to draw attention to himself
2. Accused the ruling political and industrial leaders of being traitors, bunglers, and incompetents and thus responsible for most of the economic and international woes of the country
3. Accused a minority group of being made up entirely of evildoers who were conspiring to take away jobs of white people and who were also and always ruthlessly criminal in their conduct, stealing and raping whenever possible.
4. Paid special attention to his grooming as part of his theatrical presentations before mass audiences.
5. Gained immense popularity by making wildly false statements in a totally sincere manner so as to bond with the masses.
6. Pronounced that a woman’s place is in the home making babies and nowhere else.
7. Advocated a stronger and more aggressive military establishment.
8. Claimed that he was the only person who could possibly restore honor and prosperity to his country.
The answer is, of course, Adolf Hitler…another famous demagogue.
Trump that Donald.
1. A great showman willing to say anything, no matter how outrageous, to draw attention to himself
2. Accused the ruling political and industrial leaders of being traitors, bunglers, and incompetents and thus responsible for most of the economic and international woes of the country
3. Accused a minority group of being made up entirely of evildoers who were conspiring to take away jobs of white people and who were also and always ruthlessly criminal in their conduct, stealing and raping whenever possible.
4. Paid special attention to his grooming as part of his theatrical presentations before mass audiences.
5. Gained immense popularity by making wildly false statements in a totally sincere manner so as to bond with the masses.
6. Pronounced that a woman’s place is in the home making babies and nowhere else.
7. Advocated a stronger and more aggressive military establishment.
8. Claimed that he was the only person who could possibly restore honor and prosperity to his country.
The answer is, of course, Adolf Hitler…another famous demagogue.
Trump that Donald.
13
Indeed a sad affair, this Trumpet swan has made a carnival of what otherwise is a serious event — but, is it?
https://twitter.com/AlvaroMalo05/status/623801246453923840
https://twitter.com/AlvaroMalo05/status/623801246453923840
1
Americans on the whole,mostly because of all the apps and other gadgets surrounding us, have very short attention spans. So no matter how outrageous
Mr Trump gets, he will begin to bore us very shortly, and what is that phrase? "Relegated to the dust bin of history."
Mr Trump gets, he will begin to bore us very shortly, and what is that phrase? "Relegated to the dust bin of history."
6
Once again, Trump acts like an emo 15 year old adolescent engaged in a FaceBook snit war, and his base cheers. This is just getting better with each and every passing day! To all you normal, sane, rational people out there leading normal, sane, rational existences . . . have a look at Duh Donnul. Have a look at his cheering base who thinks that he's just a breath of fresh air. Take a good, long look at the kind of people who are his partisans. Look at their posts. Listen to how they talk. Then ask yourself if these are the kind of people you want to be running the government at some point in the future.
Is THIS is how you want to see your government run? Is this the level of political discourse and campaigning you think we should have? If you're a republican, is THIS what you are prepared to accept? Donald Trump is the new face of the GOP. What does that have to say about YOU that you let a bloviating braggart like THIS hijack what was once a proud and principled party which served the nation well and honorably? And seriously, can you possibly imagine this ill-tempered clown with access to nuclear launch codes?
If so, then you have my sympathies, my contempt, and my unalterable opposition. This nation deserves better than Donald Trump. The republican party, what remains of it, deserves more than a jumped up Benito Mussolini with a really bad combover and considerably less self control. Look at him and ask yourselves if THIS is what you want the future of your party to be.
Is THIS is how you want to see your government run? Is this the level of political discourse and campaigning you think we should have? If you're a republican, is THIS what you are prepared to accept? Donald Trump is the new face of the GOP. What does that have to say about YOU that you let a bloviating braggart like THIS hijack what was once a proud and principled party which served the nation well and honorably? And seriously, can you possibly imagine this ill-tempered clown with access to nuclear launch codes?
If so, then you have my sympathies, my contempt, and my unalterable opposition. This nation deserves better than Donald Trump. The republican party, what remains of it, deserves more than a jumped up Benito Mussolini with a really bad combover and considerably less self control. Look at him and ask yourselves if THIS is what you want the future of your party to be.
194
Unfortunately, the "base" wants just this. Their ideal candidate died by his own hand in his bunker in April 1945.
The Donald and The Ronald are the two bookends of the modern republican party. The only difference between the two: Reagan knew how to turn on real charm, Trump...not so much.
Other than that, no difference.
Other than that, no difference.
Well, we tolerated 8 years of chicken hawk Bush and his irrelevant reality invasion of Iraq. After that, anything goes! We've been lucky to have Mr. Obama for 8 years.
Republicans are horrified by Trump not because they disagree with him necessarily, but because he represents the unfiltered id of the Republican party at this sorry point in its existence. The other GOP candidates can't really denounce his stated opinions because they have to go back to their constituents and endorse pretty much the same things Trump has been saying, but coached in the usual dog-whistle, encoded language that has until now allowed them to fly under the radar of media outrage.
Meanwhile they're getting a free ride while the media ignores them to focus on Trump's latest boorish, befuddled rant. But the problem remains: as a GOP candidate, how do you distance yourself from Trump while still remaining extreme enough to appeal to the Tea Party, the evangelicals, and the other fact-challenged crazies that who would actually vote Republican in 2016?
Meanwhile they're getting a free ride while the media ignores them to focus on Trump's latest boorish, befuddled rant. But the problem remains: as a GOP candidate, how do you distance yourself from Trump while still remaining extreme enough to appeal to the Tea Party, the evangelicals, and the other fact-challenged crazies that who would actually vote Republican in 2016?
204
My guess is that Trump sees this as a money-making proposition, basically black-mailing the GOP to force them to have to eventually pay him millions to shut up, drop out of the race, and go back to graffitti-ing ugly buildings with his name.
3
We have elected worse.
9
Oh, let me guess...
...But probably not since before the Civil War (e.g. James Buchanan).
Please stop bad-mouthing Franklin Pierce, James Buchanan and George Bush. In comparison to Mr. Trump, they would all deserve to have their faces on our currency.
There are two general points to the United States of Greed, Guns, God and Gomer Pyle.
The first point is best articulated by one of the world's most gifted narcissists, statesmen, diplomats and humanitarians:
"The point is that you can't be too greedy."
- Donald Trump
The second point is that there are a remarkable number of Americans who never received a respectable education, never developed critical thinking, never visited another country and whose main 'information' sources are fomenting fountains of disinformation such as FOX News, Rush Limbaugh, Glenn Beck and hate radio.
When you combine celebrity greed (The Donald) with a populace that has been systematically hypnotized to think affordable healthcare is evil, it's no surprise that you get 2015 Republistan, an incoherent semi-national state that thrives on angry incoherence, cognitive dissonance and religious denials of reality.
Donald Trump is little more than a richer, urban version of the hypocritical, freeloading Cliven Bundy FOX news hero who refused to pay taxes for his cattle grazing on federal land. Bundy eventually imploded when he showed his true idiotic colors and publicly wondered whether blacks were "better off as slaves".
Trumpdy Dumpty will eventually suffer the same implosion as Cliven Bundy because that is what Republican America is today - a collection of inarticulate ignorance, stupidity, misinformation and uncritical thinking that repeatedly self-combusts on its own volatile, low-IQ fumes.
The first point is best articulated by one of the world's most gifted narcissists, statesmen, diplomats and humanitarians:
"The point is that you can't be too greedy."
- Donald Trump
The second point is that there are a remarkable number of Americans who never received a respectable education, never developed critical thinking, never visited another country and whose main 'information' sources are fomenting fountains of disinformation such as FOX News, Rush Limbaugh, Glenn Beck and hate radio.
When you combine celebrity greed (The Donald) with a populace that has been systematically hypnotized to think affordable healthcare is evil, it's no surprise that you get 2015 Republistan, an incoherent semi-national state that thrives on angry incoherence, cognitive dissonance and religious denials of reality.
Donald Trump is little more than a richer, urban version of the hypocritical, freeloading Cliven Bundy FOX news hero who refused to pay taxes for his cattle grazing on federal land. Bundy eventually imploded when he showed his true idiotic colors and publicly wondered whether blacks were "better off as slaves".
Trumpdy Dumpty will eventually suffer the same implosion as Cliven Bundy because that is what Republican America is today - a collection of inarticulate ignorance, stupidity, misinformation and uncritical thinking that repeatedly self-combusts on its own volatile, low-IQ fumes.
499
Well said!
What is depressing is that there appears to be no landing for this country's spiraling free-fall into ignorance and willful stupidity.
What is depressing is that there appears to be no landing for this country's spiraling free-fall into ignorance and willful stupidity.
1
Ah, but will this country suffer the same implosion. I'd say yes, and it's going on right now, with our crumbling infrastructure.
The GOP WANTS an ignorant populace without the ability to weigh facts and think critically--skills essential to an on-going Constitutional democracy.
The DOES NOT want a Constitutional democracy: they want permanent power in an authoritarian state of sheep that is rapidly becoming a dungheap.
Yes, they're that evil...and stupid.
The GOP WANTS an ignorant populace without the ability to weigh facts and think critically--skills essential to an on-going Constitutional democracy.
The DOES NOT want a Constitutional democracy: they want permanent power in an authoritarian state of sheep that is rapidly becoming a dungheap.
Yes, they're that evil...and stupid.
1
Who knew the English language had so many adjectives.
And yet, not enough to address the magnitude of the depravity you attempt to describe.
Always a joy to have your take on things.
And yet, not enough to address the magnitude of the depravity you attempt to describe.
Always a joy to have your take on things.
1
It is total media irresponsibility to give large amounts of newsprint to Donald Trump on a daily basis while ignoring most everyone else who is running. Last Saturday night Democrat Bernie Sanders had 11,000+ people at event in Phoenix where, at the same venue, smaller room, Trump drew 4000 the week before. Trump made news, Sanders did not. Nor did Sanders receive any coverage when he does 800 in Dallas the next day or 5300 in Houston last Sunday evening. What has happened to the integrity of the press? There is just no rhyme or reason to the coverage of candidates. One thing is for certain, it has nothing to do with the issues and everything to do with sensationalism.
44
I think it's politics, rather than sensationalism. Attacking Trump is a way of elevating the other GOP crackpots. If they eventually have to, the media will turn their sensationalist attention to Sanders, and they will do everything they can to destroy him.
1
That should have read 8,000 (eight thousand, not eight hundred) in Dallas
@charlotte scot: You speak of no coverage for Bernie Sanders and I agree. When a person is consistently pulling in thousands WITHOUT the press coverage - that's a WOW in my book. But yet...nothing! And it burns me when pundits equate Trump and Sanders! As if they're both 'kooks'. Well one 'kook' has been serving in the US Senate for quite some time now and has served in many, many other public offices all his life. What has Trump done? Spent and lost his daddy's money! Oh, yes, he's rich. But he's had 4 bankruptcies. He's had three wives. He's a kook without any thoughts of policy. Now, Sanders? Sanders is all about policy! And he's telling us all and he's resonating with those policy statements with the people. Trump is just bloviating. When a pundit - such as Kathleen Parker - equates them, they are only showing their own ignorance, I'm afraid. I hope the Big Media - who is the entity getting very rich in presidential elections - will wake up and do an honest, real job of covering Sanders. But I don't have much hope, actually. They've got their marching orders by their owners. And We the People will get who Big Media wants and the Establishment is telling Big Media who it wants.
1
It's all just noise, no substance, saying words just to hear yourself talk. DT has very little, if any, respect for the office of president. Jet setting across the country spewing out inconsiderate, hateful nonsense making a mockery of our political process is a waste of our time and money. This country has serious problems, we need serious people with honest to goodness answers to these problems. This joke of a campaign is doing further damage to our nation.
3
But then you just don't call another person a "jackass" in public.
2
During the 2012 election when Trump was questioning whether or not the president was born in the US, when asked every single repubican, including McCain and Lindsey and et al were quoting the freedom of speech. Questioning whether or not McCain is a hero or not, isn't that freedom of speech! Shouldn't he have the freedom to say so!
5
The critics of Trump were no where to be found when the right wing slandered Kerry with "swift boat". I can see why they are silent about Trump slandering McCain.
The critics let the whole draft-dodging Bush administration force the US into an endless war with nary a cry of "liar" so why would anyone expect the GOP Trump followers to care that he has center ring in their circus tent. It matters not who is driving the clown car that is the GOP presidential candidate race. With any luck it will veer off the road along the way so that others who actually care about the future of America can drive on safely.
The critics let the whole draft-dodging Bush administration force the US into an endless war with nary a cry of "liar" so why would anyone expect the GOP Trump followers to care that he has center ring in their circus tent. It matters not who is driving the clown car that is the GOP presidential candidate race. With any luck it will veer off the road along the way so that others who actually care about the future of America can drive on safely.
94
Trump is a blessing for the GOP. They clearly need an ongoing reason not to clarify their position on issues. And, to have their stealth preference draped with a concern for civility in tone-manna from heaven.
The GOP field has such a range of absurdity, opportunism, banality and thuggery they seem constantly attempting to wiggle out of their own jackets. What better way that to point and say "Wow, you thought I was a bum, look at him".
At least Trump looks like he is having a good time.
The GOP field has such a range of absurdity, opportunism, banality and thuggery they seem constantly attempting to wiggle out of their own jackets. What better way that to point and say "Wow, you thought I was a bum, look at him".
At least Trump looks like he is having a good time.
47
Thank you, Mr. Kerrey.
4
One side-effect of Trump-bashing is that writers like FB can suggest that the rest of the GOP field is spotless.
3
Um ... you're new here, aren't you? To suggest that Mr Bruni considers the rest of the GOP field to be spotless is to suggest near-total ignorance of Mr Bruni's political stance on your part.
We are 1.5 years from Election Day 2016. If there is a con being staged here, it is by the press, which apparently is pretending to be unable to tell the difference between a popularity poll and an actual voter preference poll -- for the purpose of selling this Man Bites Dog story during a dull news season.
The alleged Horse Race should stay right where it was invented: Fox and MSNBC.
The alleged Horse Race should stay right where it was invented: Fox and MSNBC.
2
Covering Trump delivers more viewers without offending any advertisers. It will continue until the viewers tune out.
1
If you think about it as "performance art" it's really quite brilliant and whole lot of fun. Here's this guy with so much money that those other egos, that would buy candidates, can't touch him. What he's doing, whether consciously or otherwise, is showing the other republican candidates up as tiny little men. Even the "ego" thing works. The correct answer for McCain would have been: "He's right, I'm no hero. I was just doing my job and things went badly for me. I did what I could to hang on ..." But moral outrage over a putative "hero" being called out as just another human? That is hilarious to me. Meanwhile, the other candidates are throwing fits over "Donald" ruining all of their fun. I trust the American people to sort this out soon enough, but until then; give me more!
75
In this case, I am with the Huffington Post. Put Trump in the Entertainment section.
5
The problem for Republicans is that Trump does resonate with the voters they have courted for years. That's why some like Bush (are we seriously considering another Bush presidency? Didn't we get wars the last 2 times) are cautious in condemning him, 'cause they don't want offend those right wing cranks they all depend on.
BTW, Ted Cruz is from Canada
BTW, Ted Cruz is from Canada
7
what the coverage of this blimp really is exposing (but i have little hope it will change) is the way the presidential candidates are pruned out... the elite candidates are created by the news media by getting the most coverage, getting the highest ratings, being leaders in the polls, etc... and therefore get invited to the debates (especially the republican) which is not democratic. it is based entirely on the media's desire to get eyeballs. Real, serious candidates are often not invited as a result. this is wrong. can we use the trump sideshow to reveal this truth and change it?
2
I think the question is more about how seriously to take Donald Trump's candidacy. Suppose the media coverage were to demand a focus on issues and policy positions? Would that weed out celebrity candidates without a need to resort to saying "You can't play"? I don't doubt that the eyeballs of the audience like the drama of a celebrity candidate and may turn away from policy discussions, but as other commenters routinely say in these threads, an uniformed electorate (and an electorate that balks at becoming informed) is a real problem. Is there something we can do about that? It might be a little like trying to get students to avoid junk food in school cafeterias without having the option of removing it.
4
Jay Rosen addresses Trump and contemporary political coverage very nicely: "Trump’s media coverage to date reflects a basic weakness of how journalists cover elections more generally – one I’ve talked about in previous posts: it tends to describe election contests in terms of candidate personalities and campaign tactics rather than focusing on candidates’ issue stances and expertise." I fault the New York Times for falling into the same trap. Mr. Rosen's original article appears here: http://bit.ly/1IebXEM
10
The saddest and most frightening part of all of this is who all the Republican contenders are, and Trump actually fits perfectly. That any of these folks are serious contenders from the party that had Nelson Rockefeller and John Lindsay, among others suggest that the bar continually grows lower with Trump and Jindal and Huckabee all in competition with each other to be the chief bottom feeder. There really is nothing to say because it's well beyond spectacle.
8
When a clownish fraud mocks the conniving frauds, do we really need to insist he shut up, so the conniving frauds can pursue their course? As to the media, mostly it serves up nothing substantive at any time. If it ever mentions anything important and true, it always offsets it with an "on the other hand the frauds believe (believe! Haha) xyz."
3
I am amused to see all the religious phonies on CNN fawning over this thoroughly profane man.
13
I think Donald Trump would be a successful President. A President Trump will reopen and renegotiate trade deals and treaties that have cost millions of Americans their jobs - and our economy its health. He will be much less colorful than Teddy Roosevelt, who was much more brash. But he will be treated with respect on the world stage, especially as he reclaims the manufacturing base we have lost. There is little doubt that he can defeat the "feckless," "bloviating" bunch we have become unfortunately accustomed to. The world is often amused by tough-talking New Yorkers, but Donald Trump has made so many significant achievements that he cannot be dismissed. Power to him!
The reason for Trump's current political success, specifically the success of the comments he makes on this or that subject?
Trump although not exactly on the mark with probably most of his comments still hits close enough to raise some difficult questions too many people glibly dismiss. I will tackle two of his most recent and controversial comments--the one about Mexicans which is well enough known not to need to state in full and the one about whether McCain is a war hero.
Although Trump put the problems of the southern border (Mexico) in disgusting fashion the question of how the U.S. is going to assimilate people crossing from the south has not at all been explained in satisfactory fashion. In other words, one can be the most liberal person in the world, completely caring, and still observe that Latin American countries in general have a very poor history of overcoming class difference and that one can easily see in such societies a White on top and Native American below division. So how exactly will the U.S. succeed in not creating a new underclass where such societies have obviously failed? I advocate a public call for intermarriage, interbreeding etc. the problem is so serious...
As for McCain being a war hero, it takes no great intellect to observe that rarely do we have great heroes of war translating easily to politics today. We do not allow Caesar or Napoleon or even an Audie Murphy. We settle for "hero enough". Which of course is skeptical situation...
Trump although not exactly on the mark with probably most of his comments still hits close enough to raise some difficult questions too many people glibly dismiss. I will tackle two of his most recent and controversial comments--the one about Mexicans which is well enough known not to need to state in full and the one about whether McCain is a war hero.
Although Trump put the problems of the southern border (Mexico) in disgusting fashion the question of how the U.S. is going to assimilate people crossing from the south has not at all been explained in satisfactory fashion. In other words, one can be the most liberal person in the world, completely caring, and still observe that Latin American countries in general have a very poor history of overcoming class difference and that one can easily see in such societies a White on top and Native American below division. So how exactly will the U.S. succeed in not creating a new underclass where such societies have obviously failed? I advocate a public call for intermarriage, interbreeding etc. the problem is so serious...
As for McCain being a war hero, it takes no great intellect to observe that rarely do we have great heroes of war translating easily to politics today. We do not allow Caesar or Napoleon or even an Audie Murphy. We settle for "hero enough". Which of course is skeptical situation...
1
We are not a serious nation and Trump blatantly illustrates it. The media likes the sideshow but really waits for a "real" campaign that fills their coffers with ads ad nauseum that attack ideas and promote fake issues and candidates more fake than Trump. The basic issue is that this nation is a third world country with a huge wealth disparity and we won't address that basic issue. We love to make war, arm everyone, and ignore the demise of our nation and the majority of its citizens. Discuss climate change, overpopulation, the environment: never, it's too real. Watch the sideshow, entertain the masses with drivel, and don't expect civility in any aspect of our "culture."
96
That sounds like a description of the Third Reich had it won World War II.
What is all this handwringing about?
The only thing a citizen needs to run for president in this country is campaign $$$. That's what we're reduced to now - have you got millionaires of dollars? Trump does? Can't stop him!
This bellyaching by the GOP is bald-faced hypocrisy. Trump insulting veterans? Jeb Bush supported the appalling Swift Vote Veterans who smeared John Kerry in 2004. Trump not qualified? Says who? The GOP let Pizza Man clown Herman Cain trash their debates in 2008. Trump dangerously not qualified? I've been seeing GOP consiglieris Steve Schmidt and Nicole Wallace offering 'political expertise' on numerous tv shows, they who worked their behinds off making Sarah Palin "appear" to be a credible nominee. If they really cared about this country they would have insisted McCain remove Palin from the ticket or threatened to out her as a nut. But hell no, Schmidt and Wallace cared more about their precious careers than Palin being a trainwreck. And don't let McCain off the hook - he picked that idiot. Shame on him. Trumps' racism? Hey, remember George H.W. Bush's racist use of "Willie Horton" to scare the population in 1988? The GOP's always used dog whistles.
I'm not even going there about legendary GOP disgrace George W. Bush.
Trump's appalling. But he appears much smarter than Koch Brothers stooge Scott Walker. Nobody but Trump is talking about how stupid some of those guys are.
The GOP deserves Donald Trump. We don't. But they earned him.
The only thing a citizen needs to run for president in this country is campaign $$$. That's what we're reduced to now - have you got millionaires of dollars? Trump does? Can't stop him!
This bellyaching by the GOP is bald-faced hypocrisy. Trump insulting veterans? Jeb Bush supported the appalling Swift Vote Veterans who smeared John Kerry in 2004. Trump not qualified? Says who? The GOP let Pizza Man clown Herman Cain trash their debates in 2008. Trump dangerously not qualified? I've been seeing GOP consiglieris Steve Schmidt and Nicole Wallace offering 'political expertise' on numerous tv shows, they who worked their behinds off making Sarah Palin "appear" to be a credible nominee. If they really cared about this country they would have insisted McCain remove Palin from the ticket or threatened to out her as a nut. But hell no, Schmidt and Wallace cared more about their precious careers than Palin being a trainwreck. And don't let McCain off the hook - he picked that idiot. Shame on him. Trumps' racism? Hey, remember George H.W. Bush's racist use of "Willie Horton" to scare the population in 1988? The GOP's always used dog whistles.
I'm not even going there about legendary GOP disgrace George W. Bush.
Trump's appalling. But he appears much smarter than Koch Brothers stooge Scott Walker. Nobody but Trump is talking about how stupid some of those guys are.
The GOP deserves Donald Trump. We don't. But they earned him.
379
Apparently if your commentary is sufficiently vile and ridiculous you don't even need the cash. In its attempt to grab an audience our news media are all too willing to pick up your commentary at no charge. So in that respect Trump does know how to efficiently expend his resources.
As an unwilling viewer of the charade I can appreciate the relative quietude he has foisted on the rest of the RNC clown car.
As an unwilling viewer of the charade I can appreciate the relative quietude he has foisted on the rest of the RNC clown car.
fast & furious. just dropped in to say that you nailed it. Thanks! --Mike Friedman
Amen!
Why is Donald Trump so popular?
Could it be because nobody thinks the "mainstream" Republicans are worth voting for?
Just sayin'
Could it be because nobody thinks the "mainstream" Republicans are worth voting for?
Just sayin'
3
Generals are often guilty of fighting the last war and therefore losing the next war. Maybe yhe po;itical expertise is wrong and Trump can win with his current plan (?). Maybe a candidate no longer needs an organization to win the Republican nomination. Maye the suffocating free publicity he gets is enough persuasion for those who don't care to think much about politics. I saw a sign on the back of a truck yesterday, hand-lettered: "Trump-Mojo Rising". Moreover, even without considering him, the Republican candidates are about as inspiring as a urinary tract infection. But the right has to nominate someone. Don't they? They can't plan to just steal the Presidency. OMG
3
Apropos Bruni's Trumpusconi: after all is said and done Trump got off scot-free in his diverse bankruptcy issues, not being sentenced in numerous court cases and banned from holding political office; Berlusconi did. Both are of course abusing their power but probably Trump has more leeway in being generous money-wise. Forget the theatrics; Berlusconi is a convicted criminal instead.
"vile besmirching of McCain’s military record."
I remember the GOP gleefully assaulting the military honor of John Kerry and Max Cleland without any sense of shame.
It's a little late now to bemoan any GOP tactic. It will do and say anything to win, with the ultimate prize being more gratuitous tax cuts for the wealthy.
Nothing has changed for the GOP since 1980.
I remember the GOP gleefully assaulting the military honor of John Kerry and Max Cleland without any sense of shame.
It's a little late now to bemoan any GOP tactic. It will do and say anything to win, with the ultimate prize being more gratuitous tax cuts for the wealthy.
Nothing has changed for the GOP since 1980.
440
It was John Kerry and Max Cleland that they swift boated not Bob Kerrey who is also a vet.
1
David Henry,
I agree with every you wrote, but the Republicans have been doing us harm since they nominated Richard Nixon in 1960 and 1968. It hasn't stopped and thanks to their love of deregulation our main source for news has become home to people like Trump. "American Ninja Warrior," gets more viewers than our national news. Exceptional, huh?
I agree with every you wrote, but the Republicans have been doing us harm since they nominated Richard Nixon in 1960 and 1968. It hasn't stopped and thanks to their love of deregulation our main source for news has become home to people like Trump. "American Ninja Warrior," gets more viewers than our national news. Exceptional, huh?
"Nothing has changed for the GOP since 1980."
I disagree. They've gotten worse, much worse, and more so all the time. So much extremism in a mad scramble for a few percentage points in 200-voter samples so they can make the big circus on Fox "News".
Let's face it. If you have 16 declared candidates for the highest office in the land, the most powerful office in the world, three of whom have never held public office at any level, you do not have a coherent political party.
I disagree. They've gotten worse, much worse, and more so all the time. So much extremism in a mad scramble for a few percentage points in 200-voter samples so they can make the big circus on Fox "News".
Let's face it. If you have 16 declared candidates for the highest office in the land, the most powerful office in the world, three of whom have never held public office at any level, you do not have a coherent political party.
Trump is the most talented clown in a clown car that's full. It is a disgrace to the intellect of this nation that he appears anywhere, even as 'entertainment' on television; it is utterly appalling that anyone of his toxic caliber could get within spitting distance of a presidential race, just as it was horrifying to think of Palin a heartbeat away from the Pesidency. Get him off the air.
60
I fear that it images the American intellect which Has been on a downward trend for years, "American Exceptionalism" as defined by the GOP.
1
Trump is not he story.
The story is that 24% of Republican voters actually think like him; agree with him.
Republican based media created this monster by feeding daily doses of hate speech to that constituency for over a decade.
Why is the media blaming Trump? He's businessman first. He is merely exploiting an existing niche market.
The frightful thing is that so many Americans agree with him.
The story is that 24% of Republican voters actually think like him; agree with him.
Republican based media created this monster by feeding daily doses of hate speech to that constituency for over a decade.
Why is the media blaming Trump? He's businessman first. He is merely exploiting an existing niche market.
The frightful thing is that so many Americans agree with him.
222
Yes, that is the story. The fact that 24% of the electorate support him is the story and should be the story but unfortunately there has been little focus on this topic. Is it Fox News or is Fox News merely taking advantage of those who need for some psychic reason to stay in some world that never existed.
1
True, but The Donald parades his execrable willingness to debase an entire nation in its own eyes and to make the USA a world laughing stock for his own megalomanic assault on serious political dialogue.
For this, The Donald is entirely culpable.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
For this, The Donald is entirely culpable.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
2
Yet, another article about Trump...
It's funny how recently there's a proliferation of articles about the media's coverage of The Donald.
By analyzing the Trump media overdrive, you're still giving him free publicity.
It's funny how recently there's a proliferation of articles about the media's coverage of The Donald.
By analyzing the Trump media overdrive, you're still giving him free publicity.
7
What is significant about the popularity of Trump is his constant ridicule of the political class whose bald self-interest and incompetence has reached a breaking point in the minds of a significant portio of the American electorate. He is the anti-politician, who fits in with American's historical fascination with the renegade, the outlaw. He gives voice to the widespread disgust with America's political leadership vacuum and the disconnect between what voters want and what they are getting in their elected officials.
If he is so unlikely to win, then why do members of the political class - including Kerrey and McCain - give him his attention. The lady doth protest too much....
It is not inconceivable that Donald Trump could be elected President by riding this wave.
If he is so unlikely to win, then why do members of the political class - including Kerrey and McCain - give him his attention. The lady doth protest too much....
It is not inconceivable that Donald Trump could be elected President by riding this wave.
5
Palin was the other one that got so much attention.
Certainly Trump seems no more ridiculous than Reagan or GW Bush did before the media started treating them with kid gloves.
2
He is also unfit to become president. Somehow you left that out.
I loved Hillary's comment about Trump in a recent speech: "At last I have an opponent whose hair invites more comment than mine." We all know that he's just a stupid narcissist, but whether he makes his Republican primary opponents look good by comparison is a worry.
85
The media has reported to greater or lesser degree the antics of many a so-called fringe candidate in past election seasons.
But Trump is not a fringe candidate. He is a top-tier candidate. Vile, outrageous and bombastic he may be but he is near or at the top of recent polls. I doubt very much that he needs a 'ground game' to get his voters to their precincts on election day.
So enough with the hand-wringing. Let him roll and cover him. Is he ugly? Of course he is. And so is American politics.
But Trump is not a fringe candidate. He is a top-tier candidate. Vile, outrageous and bombastic he may be but he is near or at the top of recent polls. I doubt very much that he needs a 'ground game' to get his voters to their precincts on election day.
So enough with the hand-wringing. Let him roll and cover him. Is he ugly? Of course he is. And so is American politics.
9
America has too many important issues to be discussed along the path to electing our next leader to waste time with a blowhard like Trump. He is a master self-promoter and that is it, period. He is a terrible businessman who has cost investors many more billions than he claims to be worth - thus, Donald Trump has been a net cost to America since his birth. Put him away in the closet with his hair dresser and lets get back to the business of fixing America.
Trump: Colbert writ large.
Comedy, not tragedy.
Laugh at him - not with.
.
Comedy, not tragedy.
Laugh at him - not with.
.
11
There were GOP people down South who took Colbert seriously and were ready to vote for him. Seems like a small step for the DNC to float a real fake candidate. Call it payback.
Ouch, you're right Secretary Kerry. Trump has a year to learn how to do politics. That's why everybody is watching him.
2
wrong Kerry. I do believe Mr. Bruni's referring to Bob Kerrey, former GOP governor then senator from Nebraska. Gotta watch those homophones!
http://wifelyperson.blogspot.com/
http://wifelyperson.blogspot.com/
2
Unfortunately, there is only one candidate in each party, Trump and Sanders, who provide unfiltered, unsanitized, unedited, un-media-tested, un-focus-grouped, expression of their true beliefs, whatever they may be.
And while neither is likely to be raising a right hand on the capitol grounds in 1917, both provide a welcome relief from the cant and blather that characterizes contemporary politics.
I think I would vote for a cannibal if he would eat his opponent on the six o'clock news.
And while neither is likely to be raising a right hand on the capitol grounds in 1917, both provide a welcome relief from the cant and blather that characterizes contemporary politics.
I think I would vote for a cannibal if he would eat his opponent on the six o'clock news.
6
This is the take away from Trump-moment: the electorate wants to be spoken to in real terms-- the electorate understands that political speeches are meaningless and meant to secure votes.
Can never forget Mitt Romney's statement to NAACP convention: ...if you knew what was in my heart you'd vote for me...
Still burning question: why don't we know what's in your heart, Mitt and what exactly are you telling us??
Can never forget Mitt Romney's statement to NAACP convention: ...if you knew what was in my heart you'd vote for me...
Still burning question: why don't we know what's in your heart, Mitt and what exactly are you telling us??
It's odd that Bruni interviews Kerrey to argue that Trump is a lightweight freak show. Kerrey's own presidential campaign was derailed by the Swift Boat ads, ads that were hardly run on television but that became the fodder for a similar made-for-television distraction. Military retirees who intended to vote Republican (not a surprising group of voting preference to find - retired military Republicans - except that these few retirees had served on swift boats, too) and made an ad denouncing Kerrey's medals. The campaign anticipated that Bush and Chaney were "chicken hawks" - Bush has served in preferential duty to avoid going to Vietnam, Cheney never served - and that their lack of genuine service but predilection for unfunded wars of choice would become an issue - so Rove had those ads created, they were barely run on TV, but that freak show or side show still changed the course of the election (along with a memo from Bush's commander that was planted to also be a sideshow at CBS). I think Kerrey is right about the lack of substance but his own history indicates the capacity of our country and it's election processes to be derailed by silly unsubstantive side shows.
2
The Swift Boat ads were against John Kerry, not Bob Kerrey.
1
John Kerry, our Secretary of State, was challenged by the swift boat ads. Bob Kerrey, former Nebraska Senator, is a Medal of Honor recipient. Your points are good ones, however they're not about Bob Kerrey.
3
Uh...wrong Kerrey
In the end, Trump is doing us a favor, and I'm not talking just about the damage he's doing to his party. What he's doing is bringing to the surface the nature of politics for a surprisingly large portion of our population.
For those folks, there is no 'conversation' any more, no nuance. This is a choose up sides, shirts and skins, trash talk game, where as soon as you've picked your side anything goes. Every thing that Obama (or any 'liberal') does or says is wrong and no degree of slander or mockery is out of bounds. Because he's on the other team. This has been going on on Facebook (for example) and in other forums (like comments in the NY Times) for a long time. There's no need for even the illusion of thoughtful consideration or discussion of any issue. It's just us vs. them.
But it goes the other way too. All Christians are idiots. All southerners are stupid, backwards racists. I saw more than a few liberals on these pages rather defending Trump's judgment of McCain because, well, he's McCain. We mock, we laugh and there is no possibility that we're ever going to seriously consider anything that any Republican says. It's laughable before they utter it.
Us. vs. them. Trash talk. Nothing is beyond the pale. We've picked our sides and that's the end of that discussion. And it just keeps getting worse. Trump has put that on the front pages if we care to look hard enough and look both ways.
For those folks, there is no 'conversation' any more, no nuance. This is a choose up sides, shirts and skins, trash talk game, where as soon as you've picked your side anything goes. Every thing that Obama (or any 'liberal') does or says is wrong and no degree of slander or mockery is out of bounds. Because he's on the other team. This has been going on on Facebook (for example) and in other forums (like comments in the NY Times) for a long time. There's no need for even the illusion of thoughtful consideration or discussion of any issue. It's just us vs. them.
But it goes the other way too. All Christians are idiots. All southerners are stupid, backwards racists. I saw more than a few liberals on these pages rather defending Trump's judgment of McCain because, well, he's McCain. We mock, we laugh and there is no possibility that we're ever going to seriously consider anything that any Republican says. It's laughable before they utter it.
Us. vs. them. Trash talk. Nothing is beyond the pale. We've picked our sides and that's the end of that discussion. And it just keeps getting worse. Trump has put that on the front pages if we care to look hard enough and look both ways.
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False equivalency. There is no such thing as a "typical" American, but there is a lot more mis-information coming from those who espouse a typical southern attitude. Typical since the Civil War, that we owe them something because they got beat being traitors to their Nation.
Not all southerners, but enough so that the gop can count on them to keep the south red.
Not all southerners, but enough so that the gop can count on them to keep the south red.
"there is no possibility that we're ever going to seriously consider anything that any Republican says. It's laughable before they utter it."
Hate to poke a spike into your false-equivalence balloon, but the overwhelming majority of what today's Republicans say is laughable AFTER they say it as well.
Hate to poke a spike into your false-equivalence balloon, but the overwhelming majority of what today's Republicans say is laughable AFTER they say it as well.
Donald Trump is the Republican party.
The Republicans stood by and did nothing to stop the swift-boating of John Kerry. In fact, at the Republican convention delegates wore fake Purple Heart stickers disguised as band aids.
Trump is the Republican Id and Ego. There is no Superego, at least not in the Freudian sense.
The Republicans stood by and did nothing to stop the swift-boating of John Kerry. In fact, at the Republican convention delegates wore fake Purple Heart stickers disguised as band aids.
Trump is the Republican Id and Ego. There is no Superego, at least not in the Freudian sense.
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Not to mention that the Republicans did nothing to stop Trump's "birther" nonsense.
1
Debate questions for Donald Trump: What are you thoughts on the Middle East, specifically ISIS and the on going violence in Iraq, Afghanistan and Syria?
What defines a war hero?
How much would you spend on a coffee table?
What defines a war hero?
How much would you spend on a coffee table?
22
Bomb them, bomb them, bomb them, and bomb them. Would be his most likely answer. I not sure 'diplomacy' 'multilateralism' and 'soft power' are concepts he would employ or even comprehend.
1
Trump's answers: "Squash ISIS, take over Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria. A war hero is anyone who serves the country and does not try to turn his service into personal gain. I'd spend as much as I want on a coffee table, because I'm rich, because I worked hard, and I want to bring prosperity back to America. I think the last coffee table I purchased was $7 or $8 million."
He'll ride the coffee table question a long, long way, because everybody wants a nicer coffee table, and many will vote precisely on that point. It's the essence of the current conservative idea, and Trump is saying it better than anyone.
He'll ride the coffee table question a long, long way, because everybody wants a nicer coffee table, and many will vote precisely on that point. It's the essence of the current conservative idea, and Trump is saying it better than anyone.
The Republicans howl! How can we let Trump debate? Everyone knows he's not a REAL candidate?
So what exactly IS a real candidate? One with cred. One who people sould want to vote for. Here's a sample of what real Republicans are like.
- disbelieve basic scientific facts
- throw snowballs in Congress
- think the government is invading Texas (too bad it isn't)
- would like to deprive the poor of health care for moral reasons
- enact laws requiring probes into a woman's privates (a worthy exception to their doctrine of less government intrusion)
- cannot understand why it hurts African-Americans to see Confederate flags flying over government buildings, and and fail to understand why this is an important issue
- scapegoat Latin-Americans
- scapegoat African-Americans
- gerrymander election districts and restrict voting rights to gain seats in the House
- had no problem whatsoever distorting the war record of a Democratic Senator who is now our Secretary of State.
- receive fantastic amounts of PAC money from ultra-wealthy donors who end up ghost-writing government policies.
- are the politicians of choice for white supremacists and religious fanatics
And now we are outraged because Trump is somehow worse than the rest of them? They're all the same inside. Only difference is that Trump is a better showman and has way more media experience. If Trump makes the Republicans squirm, they deserve it and I will be amused, so long as none end up in the White House.
So what exactly IS a real candidate? One with cred. One who people sould want to vote for. Here's a sample of what real Republicans are like.
- disbelieve basic scientific facts
- throw snowballs in Congress
- think the government is invading Texas (too bad it isn't)
- would like to deprive the poor of health care for moral reasons
- enact laws requiring probes into a woman's privates (a worthy exception to their doctrine of less government intrusion)
- cannot understand why it hurts African-Americans to see Confederate flags flying over government buildings, and and fail to understand why this is an important issue
- scapegoat Latin-Americans
- scapegoat African-Americans
- gerrymander election districts and restrict voting rights to gain seats in the House
- had no problem whatsoever distorting the war record of a Democratic Senator who is now our Secretary of State.
- receive fantastic amounts of PAC money from ultra-wealthy donors who end up ghost-writing government policies.
- are the politicians of choice for white supremacists and religious fanatics
And now we are outraged because Trump is somehow worse than the rest of them? They're all the same inside. Only difference is that Trump is a better showman and has way more media experience. If Trump makes the Republicans squirm, they deserve it and I will be amused, so long as none end up in the White House.
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They are not "all the same," though too many of the radical fringe in the Republican have a strangle-hold on the Party and there is too little courage among "moderates" to speak up. Democrats suffer the same lack of spine, but for Berney.
That said and though I don't support his politics, John Kasich is a Republican who does not march to the tune of the Tea Party, who has had the courage to say no to extremism in his support for a road to citizenship for illegal immigrants, in his support for a ban on assault weapons and in his approval of the Medicaid provisions of the ACA. He is a decent man who sadly will not even be a voice in the so-called "debates." Where are the rest of them?
That said and though I don't support his politics, John Kasich is a Republican who does not march to the tune of the Tea Party, who has had the courage to say no to extremism in his support for a road to citizenship for illegal immigrants, in his support for a ban on assault weapons and in his approval of the Medicaid provisions of the ACA. He is a decent man who sadly will not even be a voice in the so-called "debates." Where are the rest of them?
Nice summation. Already Trump's ravings on immigration has Jeb Bush suggesting that his position on the status of the many folks from south of our border, who have lived and worked here for decades, does not include a path to citizenship. A real profile in courage; of course, he is in a pickle as 7 years of priming the pump of xenophobia and ignoring (encouraging?) the vile, hate filled excesses of right wing media's mission of denigrating the current president and half of it's citizens by his party to gain power has taken a mighty toll.
As for me, I find Trump coverage almost as nauseating as the man himself and am doing my best to avoid it, even as I send this comment. The damage to this country is horrifying to watch as so many seem to thrive on hate. During the Republican convention of 2004, delegates sported mocking Purple Heart bandaids to make fun of Sen. John Kerry, mild in the scheme of things, but a harbinger of what has come since.
As for me, I find Trump coverage almost as nauseating as the man himself and am doing my best to avoid it, even as I send this comment. The damage to this country is horrifying to watch as so many seem to thrive on hate. During the Republican convention of 2004, delegates sported mocking Purple Heart bandaids to make fun of Sen. John Kerry, mild in the scheme of things, but a harbinger of what has come since.
1
Well played, sir!
>
It is the GOP that has made him what he is, so let them deal with him. They loved him when he was after Obama; they courted and wanted his blessing in recent elections; etc....
It is the GOP that has made him what he is, so let them deal with him. They loved him when he was after Obama; they courted and wanted his blessing in recent elections; etc....
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Bruni has done a service. By taking Trump critically, he has asked some of the right questions: what his popularity means, and whether it bears comparison with the rise of other charismatics - hucksters, dictators, non-entities, and real players in history.
I'd add that there's a significant population of non-idiots who enjoy Trump on the stump because most of the rest of our political discourse has become boring, false, evasive and hypocritical, and The Trump Stump has the appeal of other theater: in a spectacle that feeds off transgression and provocation, it speaks what feels like truth.
Clearly veterans deserve love, gratitude and respect, and clearly it violates a national taboo to brazenly insult a famous POW. But Trump's grandstanding insult, puncturing the taboo, implicitly raised a worthwhile public question: how we might speak more truthfully about things. McCain, after all, is the war hero whose sacrifice made him so immune from criticism that he was allowed to give us Sarah Palin, and still enjoys the standing of a national hero. How can we change? The same country that postures in earnest about of the sacredness of war heroism is, in fact, deeply hypocritical in many of its beliefs and actions where politics, patriotism and moral behavior are concerned.
Has any other candidate this year made a single comment to break through the droning cliches of the news cycle?
I'd add that there's a significant population of non-idiots who enjoy Trump on the stump because most of the rest of our political discourse has become boring, false, evasive and hypocritical, and The Trump Stump has the appeal of other theater: in a spectacle that feeds off transgression and provocation, it speaks what feels like truth.
Clearly veterans deserve love, gratitude and respect, and clearly it violates a national taboo to brazenly insult a famous POW. But Trump's grandstanding insult, puncturing the taboo, implicitly raised a worthwhile public question: how we might speak more truthfully about things. McCain, after all, is the war hero whose sacrifice made him so immune from criticism that he was allowed to give us Sarah Palin, and still enjoys the standing of a national hero. How can we change? The same country that postures in earnest about of the sacredness of war heroism is, in fact, deeply hypocritical in many of its beliefs and actions where politics, patriotism and moral behavior are concerned.
Has any other candidate this year made a single comment to break through the droning cliches of the news cycle?
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Bernie Sanders.
"Has any other candidate this year made a single comment to break through the droning cliches of the news cycle?"
Bernie Sanders makes them every day. but the media prefer a show.
Bernie Sanders makes them every day. but the media prefer a show.
I think Kerrey and all the other politicians are missing the point. The reason Trump and Sanders are getting the exposure and support they are is due to one thing, the truth. In spite of Trump's showmanship people appreciate that he is telling you what he really thinks, how refreshing, the truth. Try getting that from a politician, telling people whatever they want to hear and then doing whatever the money wants when they get in office. It's disgusting. The only thing worse is the people that vote for these liars. All of them, Democrat and Republican alike.
We should have a new type of election with a box, "none of the above".
If none of the above gets the most votes, you run the election over. Then let us see how many of these clowns get elected. Maybe we would get some truly altruistic candidates.
We should have a new type of election with a box, "none of the above".
If none of the above gets the most votes, you run the election over. Then let us see how many of these clowns get elected. Maybe we would get some truly altruistic candidates.
16
What if what he 'thinks' is worthless? Honesty is admirable regardless of the content, therefore Trump is admirable for his supposed truth-telling?
"I think Kerrey and all the other politicians are missing the point. The reason Trump and Sanders are getting the exposure and support they are is due to one thing, the truth. "
Content optional? Is that it?
Content optional? Is that it?
If I may be permitted a politically-incorrect analogy, Donald Trump is the Republican Party's tar baby. This is somewhat rich, a self-fulfilling prophecy, for from the night Barack Obama was first elected to the presidency (November 4, 2008), the GOP has been unrelenting in its ugliness to sabotage the will of the electorate. The trail of insults and disparagements to the President need not be recounted here. The GOP game plan was replete with innuendos and smears and demonstrable falseness unworthy of citizenship. Enter Donald Trump, who has been among the most vocal and nettlesome practitioners of "the big lie." The GOP establishment and its fringe, the Tea Party, never once went public with an unmistakable repudiation of Trump's (or any other's) vile calumnies. Indeed, the party continues, to this day, to revel in its brand as an obstructionist body and happy to do it. Now they find that the monster they fed has turned its appetites on them and they're in a panic. Trump's antics have exposed the leprous underside of the American electorate as well as the philosophical and ideological principles of one of the country's two major parties. He can't win and his party knows it, but what now, to do, except to be under the same tent with, essentially, the cancer that they once laughed off but now fear to find is their very own? Water seeks its own level.
251
"Water seeks its own level."
I think you mean "Sewage seeks its own level."
I think you mean "Sewage seeks its own level."
Reagan created this 500-kb. gorilla; now it sleeps anywhere it wants to. Too bad the conservatives in Congress, at Fox--Murdoch, Koch, Trump, et al, never read to the end of The Fountainhead: the part where the opinion-maker to the masses is hoist with his own petard, and the masses turn on him. Ayn Rand may be appalling on a lot of levels, but she got that one right. What will the (admittedly few) Republicans in Congress do with this particular gorilla?
1
Remember in 2008 McCain held a press conference to declare that he had Trump's endorsement.
Forgive me these comments but there is more to the story. Firstly, unbridled praise for veterans unjustly suggest that there is intrinsic community value for joint and serving in the U.S. Military. Young people with notions of heroics and service easily fall for false, shallow praise with their decisions regarding warrior suitability and Nationalist pride. The cause and effect is a marginally grateful nation as wounded veterans have little to show for service. Additionally, unlimited military support give National leaders too much power for the "military option" because there will always be another crop of willing volunteers that will thoughtlessly join and willingly die. However, the thousands that are busted up, maimed and mentally affected cannot seem to get social traction and proper care live a dubious life with periodic praise and thin support. Also, leaders are not held to account for massively stupid blunders that start unnecessary war irrespective of how many are killed and maimed. The Trump/Kerry dust up shows an irrational coverup of how ill prepared the U.S. Is regarding making war and continuing a Nationalist lie that by joining and serving you're protecting a grateful nation. The U.S. is only grateful if veteran acceptance and care is not too expensive. Young people are nuts to join because they often become too damaged to live in America proper.
69
But we do say " thank you for your service". Great comment.
1
Anti-War = Anti-Peace
War is the last resort when diplomacy fails. To reject war is to reject peace because your enemies won't.
That said, Mr. Brady is correct to the extent that most wars are ill-conceived and ill-executed. Our current "War On Terrorism" is an example. Only the needless, egregious blundering of Bush the First and his war-loving cabal got us into this mess. Now, the question is, How do we get out of it?
See "Did Bush Burn The Koran?" at: http://nationonfire.com/category/government/foreign-relations/ .
War is the last resort when diplomacy fails. To reject war is to reject peace because your enemies won't.
That said, Mr. Brady is correct to the extent that most wars are ill-conceived and ill-executed. Our current "War On Terrorism" is an example. Only the needless, egregious blundering of Bush the First and his war-loving cabal got us into this mess. Now, the question is, How do we get out of it?
See "Did Bush Burn The Koran?" at: http://nationonfire.com/category/government/foreign-relations/ .
1
I 100 percent agree with you.
Didn't Donald say, "Who's Lindsey Graham."? Well I guess any and all who criticize Trump are also nobodies. So, eventually, the only somebody left will be Donald, himself. Good luck with that. Signed: Who's ggallo
3
Trump is sort of the Republican field's bearded lady that everyone want to see but then afterwards, so what? Trump the comet, will soon exhaust his 15 minutes in the Republican race and go on to shovel money into his bank account. In the interim our political system sinks ever deeper into the quagmire.
11
By downplaying Mr. Trump and his fantastically entertaining antics, is Fox News finally living up to its claim of being "Fair and Balanced"?
Brief side note. While using a tablet to compose this literary gem of a comment, I typed "Fair and ..... " and would you believe my tablet predicted the next word to be "Balanced"?!?!
I don't know about you, but I immediately put on my conspiracy hat (made entirely of tin foil). First there was Diebolt, and now this . . .
Brief side note. While using a tablet to compose this literary gem of a comment, I typed "Fair and ..... " and would you believe my tablet predicted the next word to be "Balanced"?!?!
I don't know about you, but I immediately put on my conspiracy hat (made entirely of tin foil). First there was Diebolt, and now this . . .
7
Trump's service to the U.S. people is already enshrined in gold for revealing the myth of Mac Cane, a bomber of civilians, (civilians who subsequently saved his life and gave him medical treatment) who made a career of having spent the duration of that shameful war in jail, claiming to have been tortured, probably as Hilary claimed to have been "shot at on the tarmac in Iraq," and spending the rest of his career propounding mindless war, mayhem, mass murder, bombing and destruction all around the world.
10
You can dig at McCain for other aspects of his military career, but the man cannot move his arms above his chest from his years as a POW.
1
I see Trump as the logical extension of the corruption and stupidity of American politics, especially as represented by the Republican Party. Trump is a wealthy man who can finance his own campaign. As I recall, fewer than 150 individuals provided more than 80% of the total funding for the last Presidential campaign. And when one looks at the people running for the Republican nomination, one is struck by how dismal these people are. None can begin to hold a candle to Obama, a genuinely intelligent and thoughtful man. Yet these are the best the GOP has to offer. In the face of this, Trump is simply a slightly more extreme example of the same kind of thing - a deeply unserious man who will say whatever appeals to the worst tendencies of his target audience. This seems to be what most conservative movements do, which is a sad comment on how far the movement has fallen. But I don't see much difference between a Donald Trump or a Scott Walker or Mike Huckabee. It's just a difference in presentation.
158
A further "logical extension of the corruption and stupidity of American politics" is the collective media yawn over Bernie Sanders approach to campaigning and governing. He doesn't have great hair or an inspiring oratorical style; he just keeps saying sensible, honest things about our real problems and issues to ever-larger audiences, none of whom were paid or recruited to be there. In contrast to Hillary Clinton, who seems to be awakening from a well-polished penchant for evasiveness and ambiguity, Bernie presents a straightforward list of things we ought to do to make our lives, our country, and its future better. Talk about "a difference in presentation."
For that, the media response hovers somewhere between bemused indifference and gentle ridicule. My hope is that the status quo is akin to an underground fault steadily building pressure, and that when it's released by a mass awakening that the usual suspects are basically frauds and Bernie is the real deal, the resulting earthquake will dwarf anything we've seen since a certain one-term senator ran his long shot to the White House in 2008.
For that, the media response hovers somewhere between bemused indifference and gentle ridicule. My hope is that the status quo is akin to an underground fault steadily building pressure, and that when it's released by a mass awakening that the usual suspects are basically frauds and Bernie is the real deal, the resulting earthquake will dwarf anything we've seen since a certain one-term senator ran his long shot to the White House in 2008.
There is a large difference.
You are absolutely right, 150 people determine who runs this country. Maybe even less, way less. They buy elections like race horses, and tell us which one of their puppets won.
The main difference between Mr Trump and the rest, is he is not taking the money from those 150, and the rest of the field, Democrat or Republican, depend on their money to even have a campaign.
You are absolutely right, 150 people determine who runs this country. Maybe even less, way less. They buy elections like race horses, and tell us which one of their puppets won.
The main difference between Mr Trump and the rest, is he is not taking the money from those 150, and the rest of the field, Democrat or Republican, depend on their money to even have a campaign.
Frank. Rather than interview Bob Kerrey, interview some of Trump's supporters. That could be more revealing of the Republican "mind"-set, America's failed political system and our very sick democracy.
46
Donald Trump is Donald Trump. Nothing new here folks. Just the same ol' same ol' we know and love to hate. The realization by the rest of the contenders for the Republican nomination is watching this man trump the rest of them so easily it is vexing. And, and, may just lead the rest of them to mimic his behavior. The show has just begun!
3
The horror...the horror....
1
"he’s putting on a show"
But not a reality show.
Still, maybe Trump's good for the political process. They do say you have to hit bottom before you can start to recover.
But not a reality show.
Still, maybe Trump's good for the political process. They do say you have to hit bottom before you can start to recover.
14
Trump is the monster that the GOP created. When he became
birther in chief, the GOP did not say anything, they played along.
When he slimed Latinos, they played along. Now that he's gone
after McCain and Graham, they don't know what to do. The MSM
sees this is like the accident on the Southern State. They are
lookie lous. The real test is whether any of the others in the GOP
field will stand up to him. Bullies only understand one thing-a bunch
in the snout. As the Bible says, you reap what you sow.
Trump is today's GOP and they are him Llorame un rio.
birther in chief, the GOP did not say anything, they played along.
When he slimed Latinos, they played along. Now that he's gone
after McCain and Graham, they don't know what to do. The MSM
sees this is like the accident on the Southern State. They are
lookie lous. The real test is whether any of the others in the GOP
field will stand up to him. Bullies only understand one thing-a bunch
in the snout. As the Bible says, you reap what you sow.
Trump is today's GOP and they are him Llorame un rio.
16
They have a loose cannon on deck from Hell.
Shades of Joe McCarthy. The establishment didn't really hit back til he went after the U.S. Army. Until then he served the Republican Party admirably.
1
That New York real estate mogul, like most of his fellow Republicans, has failed to articulate any reasonable policies for the country. His lack of policies is matched by his opponents vacuous policies.
12
Trump reveals the lack of seriousness and substance, and regrettably also the the xenophobia and the racism, at the heart of the modern Republican party. Immigration? Build a wall! Health care? Defund Obamacare! Sensible gun regulation? Unconstitutional! Iran? Let's take away ALL of its nuclear capabilities! (How? Don't bother me with details. Though we might try bombing them into submission.) Same-sex marriage? Amend the Constitution! Economics? Deregulate and cut taxes on the rich! Infrastructure? Privatize! And so on.
Though I do have one worry. Trump's such a complete loon that he might make other Republican candidates look undeservedly serious and Presidential by comparison.
Though I do have one worry. Trump's such a complete loon that he might make other Republican candidates look undeservedly serious and Presidential by comparison.
31
The only way to measure a figure like Trump is to sum up his egregious insults, divide them by the (lack of) blowback from the Republican leadership, and your result is the mental state of the GOP. Donald Trump and the necrotized flesh he uncovered is one in the same, but amputation is off the table.
9
Senator Kerrey is a Medal of Honor recipient. A humble, admirable and compassionate man; a hero. The media should let Mr. Trump wither, dry up and blow away as is his inevitable fate.
7
That former Senator Kerrey is not the former Senator Kerry who is presently Secretary of State.
1
It's good business covering a train wreck. And folks wonder what does Trump really want. Simple, he really wants to be President. Take him at his word.
Egomaniac and paranoid are alike in the sense that they validate themselves no matter what. So waste not the energy on the buffoon and let him entertain. The scarier scenario is that there are so many crazies resonating with him. But then it is not surprising. A troubled individual will find something to latch on to, whether it is a dead religious extremist or a xenophobe
7
His "measurable support, at least for now" qualifier in your column really underscores the dubious rationale for your near obsession with Donald Trump. In fact, it is no different than the sensationalist journalism that adorns the front-page of grocery store tabloids. Did he say it? Yes. It is outrageous? Yes. Would a single American know it without the journalists chasing after each utterance? Absolutely not.
So, is Donald Trump really a "viable" candidate who is polling at uncomfortably high levels or is he merely a sensation polling at high levels by virtue of the derelict news machine that follows him and then slaps the cheeks on their face in horror? Hmmmm.
Part of this whole faux-story is really an effort by Liberal news outlets to paint the man with Republican colors, implying that this is the heart that beats deep within the White and male beast that is all Republicans and Conservative people. And part of it is an attempt to provide Trump with enough loft that he enters the race as an Independent, allowing Hillary Clinton the opportunity to win the White House well short of a plurality.
So the real question is how far legitimate journalists and their supposedly legitimate papers are willing to contort themselves in justifying their continued coverage of this circus act?
My guess is that it will run for awhile. Just like his stupid television shows where we got a chance to laugh at people trying to work for him.
Welcome to free America. It knows no bottom.
So, is Donald Trump really a "viable" candidate who is polling at uncomfortably high levels or is he merely a sensation polling at high levels by virtue of the derelict news machine that follows him and then slaps the cheeks on their face in horror? Hmmmm.
Part of this whole faux-story is really an effort by Liberal news outlets to paint the man with Republican colors, implying that this is the heart that beats deep within the White and male beast that is all Republicans and Conservative people. And part of it is an attempt to provide Trump with enough loft that he enters the race as an Independent, allowing Hillary Clinton the opportunity to win the White House well short of a plurality.
So the real question is how far legitimate journalists and their supposedly legitimate papers are willing to contort themselves in justifying their continued coverage of this circus act?
My guess is that it will run for awhile. Just like his stupid television shows where we got a chance to laugh at people trying to work for him.
Welcome to free America. It knows no bottom.
3
Are you blaming the media for the popularity of Trump as candidate? I have to say that's a very special concept. Right wing Republicans influenced by editorials in the NYT! Ha! I suppose it must be the fault of the liberal media that there are now 17 (or is it 18?) Republicans in the race. If this unregulated party is any clue about how our government would look if the R's should ever succeed at deregulating Washington, we're in big trouble. But, hey, wouldn't it be a hoot!
As a lifelong Democrat I am so thrilled to see the pomposity and irrationality of THIS GOP being exposed by a huckster. I am rooting for The Donald. I want him on that Wall. I want him on that debate stage when Jeb Bush says "My Brother kept us safe". Now I know you should not really hope for what you want to come true but in this case I really am hoping for that. As a matter of fact I hope Jeb is between Trump and Chris Christie and says that ludicrous statement that he has said several times. The NY Venom that he will receive is well deserved. Trump is no more a ludicrous candidate than Jeb Bush. The GOP has lied and "trumped" up so much hate and ignorance in their voters that HE is what you get for that 35 years of lies.
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The only way to bring Trump's ludicrous circus act to a halt is for all the other Republican hopefuls to refuse to share a debate stage with this self-absorbed buffoon. Trump knows he is a pretender but he will continue his onslaught until the media ignores him. That is highly unlikely because his tabloid antics attract the kind of attention we pay to train wrecks. It's no surprise that Trump leads in the polls - just look at the voters to which he panders.
2
Please forgive me for dabbling in Theory, as I was dubiously taught to do in graduate school, but I believe French philosopher and Critical Theorist Guy Debord, in 1967, introduced us all to Donald Trump in his book "The Society of the Spectacle." Since publication, his book has become nothing but truer and more prescient. We are a society that has been taught since childhood to crave spectacle -- celebrity, inane blockbuster movies, Las Vegas, house-flipping frenzies, new cars, and of course two-billion dollar political campaigns -- but to shun content, purpose. We have grown accustomed to believe spectacularly bad behaviour is really nothing more than telling the truth, which makes truth part of the spectacle.
When will we ever learn?
When will we ever learn?
22
We will be best served if we consider the Donald to be Lord Voldemort reincarnated ("he whose name is not to be spoken").
One of the saddest tragedies I have seen in my medical career occurs in a closed space such as a large storage tank or similar part of a ship called a void. One person enters and drops from lack of oxygen, then a rescuer enters and then another. All succumb to suffocation.
Donald Trump is a void, sucking the oxygen out of the room. He denies us our opportunity and responsibility to discuss the issues that need airing: income inequality, the environment, global warming, equality of all persons, poverty, rebuilding and maintaining infrastructure, the nuclear genie, our place in and responsibility in the world, the waste of incessant incarceration, etc.
He exploits our love of entertainment at the expense of substance and our belief in the simple answer and quick fix for any problem.
Bread and circuses.
Our only quick fix for this trickster is silence and I, for one, shall not mention his name again.
One of the saddest tragedies I have seen in my medical career occurs in a closed space such as a large storage tank or similar part of a ship called a void. One person enters and drops from lack of oxygen, then a rescuer enters and then another. All succumb to suffocation.
Donald Trump is a void, sucking the oxygen out of the room. He denies us our opportunity and responsibility to discuss the issues that need airing: income inequality, the environment, global warming, equality of all persons, poverty, rebuilding and maintaining infrastructure, the nuclear genie, our place in and responsibility in the world, the waste of incessant incarceration, etc.
He exploits our love of entertainment at the expense of substance and our belief in the simple answer and quick fix for any problem.
Bread and circuses.
Our only quick fix for this trickster is silence and I, for one, shall not mention his name again.
9
Former Navy SEAL Bob Kerrey, awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for his service in Viet Nam should have highlighted the military disasters that resulted from war dodging Commanders In Chief like Reagan and Bush the war criminal.
Only someone who have never seen the horror, brutality and inhumanity that is war would needlessly commit other people's children to do what they were too cowardly to do themselves.
Only someone who have never seen the horror, brutality and inhumanity that is war would needlessly commit other people's children to do what they were too cowardly to do themselves.
33
Trump is a populist. His style is a combination of overthrowing taboos and projecting a new reality.
The McCain case is a good example. There isn't much courage needed for bombing a country from several miles high. And given his belligerent behavior it doesn't look like McCain learned much about the nature of war during his stay in Vietnam. Would it really have made a difference if he had been imprisoned in Mexico instead of North Vietnam? So Trump is right to see an opportunity to hit.
Bruni doesn't understand populism. He writes in terms of target groups like evangelicals and Republican-leaning independents. But it is the nature of populism that it breaks the dilemma's of old politics by throwing up other issues that are considered more important.
Just consider this: if Trump was really seen capable of breaking up the network of vested interests and stagnation that controls Washington, wouldn't there be a lot of Americans prepared to vote for him - even if they rejected all his other ideas?
Of course there are reasons to doubt that Trump can do this and his campaign might implode at some time. But at least for the moment he is pretty good at creating the impression he can.
The McCain case is a good example. There isn't much courage needed for bombing a country from several miles high. And given his belligerent behavior it doesn't look like McCain learned much about the nature of war during his stay in Vietnam. Would it really have made a difference if he had been imprisoned in Mexico instead of North Vietnam? So Trump is right to see an opportunity to hit.
Bruni doesn't understand populism. He writes in terms of target groups like evangelicals and Republican-leaning independents. But it is the nature of populism that it breaks the dilemma's of old politics by throwing up other issues that are considered more important.
Just consider this: if Trump was really seen capable of breaking up the network of vested interests and stagnation that controls Washington, wouldn't there be a lot of Americans prepared to vote for him - even if they rejected all his other ideas?
Of course there are reasons to doubt that Trump can do this and his campaign might implode at some time. But at least for the moment he is pretty good at creating the impression he can.
16
McCain's heroism does not lie in his throwing bombs, but rather in his refusal to betray his fellow countrymen. Trump, in contrast, entered the family business and has manipulated municipalities to cover his risk. Every time one of those ventures pans out, Trump sells out the local citizenry. He has thrown his bombs all over this city and I resent our having to pay for his atrocities.
"Just consider this: if Trump was really seen capable of breaking up the network of vested interests and stagnation that controls Washington, wouldn't there be a lot of Americans prepared to vote for him - even if they rejected all his other ideas? "
The thing all of the fringe dwellers supporting Bernie Sanders to Donald Trump have in common is they imagine that some bloviating politico saying what they want to hear has a chance of getting congress( a wholly owned subsidiary of big business) to do what they want.
It isn't going to happen. We can't even get them to agree on something as obvious as global climate change and you somehow think they are going to magically fall apart and weep in wonder at Donald Trump or Bernie Sanders?
Grow up. You need a cage fighter for President. Or someone like Mr. Obama who can out-think them (admittedly not difficult with the brain trust currently in Congress) not some ideologue who stands around spouting words that people like to dream.
I'm sure we all remember that childhood nursery rhyme: If wishes were horses...
The thing all of the fringe dwellers supporting Bernie Sanders to Donald Trump have in common is they imagine that some bloviating politico saying what they want to hear has a chance of getting congress( a wholly owned subsidiary of big business) to do what they want.
It isn't going to happen. We can't even get them to agree on something as obvious as global climate change and you somehow think they are going to magically fall apart and weep in wonder at Donald Trump or Bernie Sanders?
Grow up. You need a cage fighter for President. Or someone like Mr. Obama who can out-think them (admittedly not difficult with the brain trust currently in Congress) not some ideologue who stands around spouting words that people like to dream.
I'm sure we all remember that childhood nursery rhyme: If wishes were horses...
I think we are all sick of the Trump reveling - what appalls me is the people
that gather at his meetings with his name on their t-shirts - normal looking
for the most part and extol this weirdo , applauding his unforgivable mouthings.
Who are they? They don't look disenfranchised, poor or downtrodden so that
they might be angry at the system. Are these the birthers, tea partiers, racists,
anti-govt. fringe elements of America? Or are they just plain ignorant, uninformed masses that like the Romans in their colosseum, enjoying a spectacle
barbaric proportions?who in god's name are these people?
that gather at his meetings with his name on their t-shirts - normal looking
for the most part and extol this weirdo , applauding his unforgivable mouthings.
Who are they? They don't look disenfranchised, poor or downtrodden so that
they might be angry at the system. Are these the birthers, tea partiers, racists,
anti-govt. fringe elements of America? Or are they just plain ignorant, uninformed masses that like the Romans in their colosseum, enjoying a spectacle
barbaric proportions?who in god's name are these people?
36
If the people in Trump's audiences had ever heard their own kids bluffing, bloviating, bragging and bullying on the playground the way Trump does on the stump, someone would have been sent to time-out.
1
They are people who demand simple answers to complex problems and Trump offers them answers that they can understand. Neither party has solved the problem of illegal immigrants crossing our Southern border. Republican candidates to a man ( or woman) keep referring to this problem and make promises to address it. Nothing specific, of course. Along comes Trump and he says that he will build a long wall across the border and make the Mexican government pay for it. For many- this solves the problem and they believe that Trump will get it done. He has told them that he will.
27
They are the far right of an already extreme base. Throw them red meat and they will jump on it. The truth has no part in Trumps bloviating.
1
Frank, he's the cock of the walk thinking the sun rises because he crows. Trump is also a gift to wannabes, those average schnooks - whom he does not like - who check their intellect the moment they get up in the morning to face work, wistfully admiring his wealth. Their only revenge is when they will eventually turn on him, their smug, self righteousness the only power they have over him.
He's only doing this to puff up the legend-in-his-own-mind for himself. I bet he has no interest in becoming president. The work is too difficult for the monetary return.
He's a sad comment on our country, a land of greedy narcissists enabled by a weird, democratic/unfettered capitalism run amok.
He's only doing this to puff up the legend-in-his-own-mind for himself. I bet he has no interest in becoming president. The work is too difficult for the monetary return.
He's a sad comment on our country, a land of greedy narcissists enabled by a weird, democratic/unfettered capitalism run amok.
10
These folks don't just choose themselves. America stands idly by and accepts the insult of buffoons and fools on our political stage. We are getting exactly what we asked for.
10
How often must it be said? Republicans sniggered and enjoyed the blood-letting when Trump was savaging the President of the United States. I'm not backward when it comes to criticism, but there's no shortage of fodder in US politics for genuine debate and criticism. When criticism is based on lies I'm not surprised, but when "leaders" wallow in it and writers ignore it, I'm appalled. Trump. Palin. Betsy McCaughey. Michelle Bachman. Fox and similar gangs of mercenaries! The list is too long for this comment!
You Republicans reap what you sow. And FB is forced to have recourse to a Democratic war hero to find criticism of Trump? That says it all!
You Republicans reap what you sow. And FB is forced to have recourse to a Democratic war hero to find criticism of Trump? That says it all!
16
You are correct when you say, "If we discuss Trump, as I’ve done in several columns, we reward his bad and transcendently self-serving behavior." The 24/7 Trump-athon that passes for the media during these "dog days" of summer only serves the enhance Mr. Trump's bad-boy, anti-establishment image. Unless you and your media colleagues are willing to provide more than superficial coverage of a superficial man and do the hard work of investigating Mr. Trump's business career that reveal his flaws and misdeeds, you are only playing into his hands. And for now, The Donald seems to hold all the "Trump cards."
6
"...we reward his [Trumps]
Let us never forget when Trumps "bad and transcendently self-serving behavior" was directed at Obama instead of Republicans the entire rightwing was completely happy with it. Let us also not forget that when the rightwing was swift boating with lies the war record of John Kerry they had no problem with that either.
Let us be very clear that as offensive as Trump's "bad and transcendently self-serving behavior" it is, it is still serving a public purpose to remind us just how "bad and transcendently self-serving" is the behavior of the entire rightwing.
Be forewarned, the time will come when Trump turns his unwanted attention toward the left and it will interesting to see were the rightwing stands on that.
Let us never forget when Trumps "bad and transcendently self-serving behavior" was directed at Obama instead of Republicans the entire rightwing was completely happy with it. Let us also not forget that when the rightwing was swift boating with lies the war record of John Kerry they had no problem with that either.
Let us be very clear that as offensive as Trump's "bad and transcendently self-serving behavior" it is, it is still serving a public purpose to remind us just how "bad and transcendently self-serving" is the behavior of the entire rightwing.
Be forewarned, the time will come when Trump turns his unwanted attention toward the left and it will interesting to see were the rightwing stands on that.
23
Isn't it obvious what Donald Trump is doing for the Republican Party? By being his vulgar, noisy, shallow self, this huckster is making the rest of the field look relatively sensible. Meanwhile, behind the smokescreen provided by his mediagenic antics, the 'serious' candidates are able to jocky for position, line up contributors, and continue the Republican project of subverting our national institutions.
Please stop giving this clown ink!
Please stop giving this clown ink!
9
If you are talking about his "popular" support, I believe the sample size for the poll you cite was 300 people. So, 24% of 300 people polled - about 72 people overall - would vote for trump if the election were held today. And this result is most probably because they spent the morning watching non-stop media coverage of this political arsonist.
1
More than 5,000 people have showed up for Bernie Sanders, a candidate and a man of intelligence, integrity, ethics, ideas, and decency. And yet Trump is on every front page, and in every headline.
For the main stream media, this election is about who and what sells: ratings, eyeballs, clicks, and advertising dollars. It needs to stop pretending otherwise, and examine its own true motivations.
For the main stream media, this election is about who and what sells: ratings, eyeballs, clicks, and advertising dollars. It needs to stop pretending otherwise, and examine its own true motivations.
29
If you think Trump is nasty, look what happens if by some slim chance Bernie Sanders wins the Democratic nomination. The right will mount the most hate filled Presidential campaign in history. Count on it.
America is all about what sells
2
I'm a bit confused by Trump's divulging of Graham's phone number. Do we no longer have a 7 second delay on all television? Isn't that especially risky around Trump?
2
Hopefully someone in the media can find some Bill Cosby type of material in Trump's life.
No seven second delay on cell phone camera video posted to You Tube.
I see Trump as the anti-politician that the country yearns for...abet maybe not quite as crass. I personally don't think being a politician on the public dole your whole career is worthy of touting leadership qualities. Perhaps the Donald is what this country needs at the moment of our diminishing influence around he world....at least they may start to fear us again....as we are the laughing stock of the world at the moment!
4
No doubt Trump will cause an immense increase the viewers at the first of the Republican debates, despite his chance of being nominated being zero. I'm sure the TV network execs are quite pleased about that, the Republican party far less so.
Unfortunately for the GOP the polls placing him at or near the top of the heap have no real meaning. Maybe they need to find another potential candidate with entertainment value (and equally low electability) to place high in the polls and spar with him. For example, Judge Judy could be equally acerbic and Dr. Phil could provide an on-air analysis of The Donald; either could add real entertainment value to the first debate.
Unfortunately for the GOP the polls placing him at or near the top of the heap have no real meaning. Maybe they need to find another potential candidate with entertainment value (and equally low electability) to place high in the polls and spar with him. For example, Judge Judy could be equally acerbic and Dr. Phil could provide an on-air analysis of The Donald; either could add real entertainment value to the first debate.
4
Trump is popular because he says many things that people are thinking but are afraid to say.
10
The people who support Trump aren't "thinking." They're reacting like ignorant children.
4
What a sad thing to contemplate. One of the most important qualities of an adult is NOT saying everything that you are thinking, but speaking in a thoughtful and appropriate way after due consideration. I would think that would be especially important in a president, in fact mandatory.
5
I wish The Donald would calm down just a little bit. He has the potential to change the course of history, but must rein in his histrionics. Bear with me.
At the current rate of gaffe acceleration, The Donald will implode by late summer. He reminds me of a guy getting applause from a crowd as he chugs beer and dances on tables. Eventually he'll puke and the party will be over.
But perhaps, if he calms down, he can remain just viable enough to last until the real action starts in places like Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina. There, the admittedly small number of GOP primary voters with full frontal lobe development will reveal that they told pollsters they liked him because it had no effect on anything. They really like slightly less crazy candidates. When the real action starts, the Republican establishment will take him down ferociously, as they did to upstarts like the Newt in the past.
When this happens, The Donald will be furious. So furious that he will become the third party candidate of GOP nightmares. There is probably a 5-10% chunk of conservatives who will vote for Trump just because they think his hair is real, that he is actually rich, and that he will help them get on reality television. This will guarantee that Bernie (please, god) or Hillary (well, if you must) will win in a landslide.
So, my fellow sane Americans, join me in hoping that the media attention continues unabated and that The Donald remains viable as long as possible.
At the current rate of gaffe acceleration, The Donald will implode by late summer. He reminds me of a guy getting applause from a crowd as he chugs beer and dances on tables. Eventually he'll puke and the party will be over.
But perhaps, if he calms down, he can remain just viable enough to last until the real action starts in places like Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina. There, the admittedly small number of GOP primary voters with full frontal lobe development will reveal that they told pollsters they liked him because it had no effect on anything. They really like slightly less crazy candidates. When the real action starts, the Republican establishment will take him down ferociously, as they did to upstarts like the Newt in the past.
When this happens, The Donald will be furious. So furious that he will become the third party candidate of GOP nightmares. There is probably a 5-10% chunk of conservatives who will vote for Trump just because they think his hair is real, that he is actually rich, and that he will help them get on reality television. This will guarantee that Bernie (please, god) or Hillary (well, if you must) will win in a landslide.
So, my fellow sane Americans, join me in hoping that the media attention continues unabated and that The Donald remains viable as long as possible.
56
Yes, just like Romney, Trump will believe that God is on his side no matter what the polls say.
Hate is a part of the American story. Mr. Trump is well on his way to becoming yet another hate filled hero of the republican's. USA! USA!
8
Well, money is speech, and Trump has a lot of it.
10
I all honesty, Trump is the most honest, non-corrupt candidate running for our Presidency. He is not afraid to speak the truth. He owes nothing to any lobbies or the likes of Koch brothers. For once we have a candidate, likes of whom we have not seen in a long time. Bravo Mr. Trump. God willing, all the way to the White House!
8
Donald Trump is a gift to the Democrats.
5
I for one say thanks, but no thanks.
Donald Trump is a real-life example of a troll -- identical to the trolls we meet every day posting nasty anonymous comments on internet discussion forums, except he has a bigger platform. And as with all trolls, who feed on attention whether positive or negative, the way to make them go away is to ignore them. Hence the well known saying, Do not feed the trolls.
This will be my last comment on the subject. I've already forgotten who we're talking about - he no longer exists for me, and I hope Frank Bruni also stops writing about him.
This will be my last comment on the subject. I've already forgotten who we're talking about - he no longer exists for me, and I hope Frank Bruni also stops writing about him.
5
The sad irony is that we're laughing at Donald Trump.
But Chris Christie?
Marco Rubio?
Ron Paul?
Jeb! No-Last-Name?
Scott Walker?
Ted Cruz?
Rick Perry?
Bobby Jindal?
Mike Huckabee?
Ben Carson?
Rick Santorum?
Lindsey Graham?
These people we do not laugh at. Because we think these are serious people.
Are we serious?
But Chris Christie?
Marco Rubio?
Ron Paul?
Jeb! No-Last-Name?
Scott Walker?
Ted Cruz?
Rick Perry?
Bobby Jindal?
Mike Huckabee?
Ben Carson?
Rick Santorum?
Lindsey Graham?
These people we do not laugh at. Because we think these are serious people.
Are we serious?
410
We laugh with Trump at the other pitiful fools who beg us for the power to negotiate the social contract for us.
3
The candidates you mention ARE serious.
Seriously bad for America.
Seriously bad for America.
5
Robert makes a very good point. And, looking at this list from a Presidential reality point of view makes it very short, vanishingly so. We may well have a battle of dynasties during Summer of 2016.
"I noted that some of his [Kerry's] fellow Democrats were reveling in Trump, who was causing the Republican Party grief."
Count me as one of those Democrats. I've got the popcorn ready for the first debate. I want to watch the Republican chorus line bend themselves into pretzels trying to distance themselves from Trump while trying to attract Trumps supporters.
Bruni is right; Trump is in this for the ego trip. That is why the Republican nightmare of a third party presidential run by Trump is a very real possibility.
Frankenstein is on the loose in the Republican Party!
Count me as one of those Democrats. I've got the popcorn ready for the first debate. I want to watch the Republican chorus line bend themselves into pretzels trying to distance themselves from Trump while trying to attract Trumps supporters.
Bruni is right; Trump is in this for the ego trip. That is why the Republican nightmare of a third party presidential run by Trump is a very real possibility.
Frankenstein is on the loose in the Republican Party!
13
If anyone bothers to actually consider what it is those in the Republican field are actually offering as planks to their potential platform it would be clear that they along with Mr. Trump could use them to reconstruct another older Tower; that of Babel.
3
The media, including Mr. Bruni, will continue to cover Donald Trump as long as they can use him as a cudgel with which to beat Republicans. The media were thrilled when they could announce something like: "Jeb Bush took 1 day, 7 hours, 13 minutes and 20 seconds to disagree with Trump,and even he didn't really condemn Trump, did he?" The media started this circus by demanding the Republicans respond to Trump's antics and then accusing the Republicans of being complicit or weak, if they didn't respond with some precision of language and timing that should be reserved for serious matters. (By the way, why hasn't Hillary Clinton commented on Planned Parenthood?) Further evidence that the media only cover Trump because they think it will hurt Republicans is the fact that they never ask or comment on the fact that he has supported Democrats more often than he has supported Republicans and he is pro-choice. Here is the bad news, Mr. Bruni, he is not hurting the Republicans. The eventual Republican nominee, probably Bush, Walker, or Rubio, will only look better after being compared to the Mr. Trump. As for the polls, Mr. Bruni and the rest of the media know that they are meaningless, driven by name recognition and sensationalism, which by the way the media is driving.
3
If you live by the sword, there is always the possibility you might die by the sword. It doesn't matter that Trump was once a democrat. The Republicans used him as a birther to weaken Obama politically and block any programs he wanted to push through congress. just as they used all those inquiries and Monica Lewinsky to weaken Bill Clinton. Just as they used guns, gays, and religion to manipulate voters. Well, those voters are running amok and there is a danger they just may stampede the golf course and run right through the country club.
P.S. Planned parenthood has two responsibilities. To give parents the ability to bring wanted children into the world. And through birth control--I'm not saying abortion here--to keep the population down and keep our country from turning into one continuous suburb with box stores and corporate brand names.
P.S. Planned parenthood has two responsibilities. To give parents the ability to bring wanted children into the world. And through birth control--I'm not saying abortion here--to keep the population down and keep our country from turning into one continuous suburb with box stores and corporate brand names.
3
@J.D.: Thanks for providing another example how the media falsely conflates Trump with Republicans. I don't know of a single major Republican figure who ever bought into the whole Birther issue. Two announcements in Honolulu papers regarding Barack Obama's birth occurred contemporaneous with his birth. No rational person would think that he was born anywhere else. Obama loved the Birther issue, because the media used it to paint all his opponents as whackos, which is why he took so long to release his long form birth certificate. He purposely fed the controversy.
3
I suspect that many who show up at Donald Trump's appearances, do so for his "entertainment" -what will he say next?-value alone. As for the media, he is the gift that keeps giving in the slow news dog days of summer. I am just as guilty as the next person of a morbid fascination with this appalling buffoon and his outrageous pronouncements, but it makes a little ashamed that I should give him even a minute of my time and attention. He deserves nothing but contempt.
8
My pet theory is that Trump is the Democrat's Trojan Horse, the Republicans let the Trump through the gates, and end of Republicans. American is a two party system, and before there were Republicans there were Whigs.
3
Trump works for the Clintons. You are right. After they are finished there may not be a GOP.
1
Carl, we can only hope.....this is not our fathers' Republican Party. What to call this bizarre group is debatable. If the saner heads in whatever party this is would come together and eject the lunatic element, they might have a prayer of building a new party from the ground up.....and get to keep their name.
1
There ought to be a middle ground between giving lots of free publicity to you-know-who and irresponsibly ignoring an undeniable factor in the prelude to the Republican candidates’ debate.
Journalists could vow never to write or mention the name of you-know-who, but have an identifier other than the name.
With apologies to the old Carl Reiner-Steve Martin film, journalists could simply refer to “The Jerk”. We all would know who you meant.
Journalists could vow never to write or mention the name of you-know-who, but have an identifier other than the name.
With apologies to the old Carl Reiner-Steve Martin film, journalists could simply refer to “The Jerk”. We all would know who you meant.
2
I like Bob Kerrey. He makes a lot of sense except he is missing the point, with his good old days decorum based nostalgia. There were no good old days. American politics has always been contentious, Trump is just using his star power to crush the opposition. Remember, things were so nasty between Hamilton and Burr they fought a duel. Andrew Jackson fought duels against his rivals, especially after they insulted his wife. There are endless accounts of political disputes in our history. It's probably the recent politically correct movement, with its own forms of backstabbing, that temporarily changed our perceived political customs. That era is ending, as the endless gridlocks and big money dynasties have pushed a frustrated electorate to demand action in an era of stagnant economic growth. Before the modern era of the last 50 years, people went to the courthouse to see cases for entertainment and discussed issues, Trump as a candidate is creating a bully pulpit that is causing people to get interested and get involved, so its not business as usual anymore.
8
Good thinking. Now that open carry and stand yr ground are here, next step: bring back legalized dueling. So cool.
What is disturbing about Trump the clown is not so much Trump himself but that there is more than an infinitesimal number of people who think he is fit to be President. Those that think so are also people for whom the toxic stuff coming out of his mouth is "telling it like it is". No less disturbing is that the other candidates thought besmirching McCain was too much but the tirade on illegal immigrants of a certain color may have been a bit much but not beyond the pale.
24
Trump is the equivalent of a media appetizer helping to pass the time until the real campaign starts. There is, as Kerry points out, close to zero chance that he will actually win the nomination and yet he can fill precious minutes of airtime and pages of print.
Similarly, when Lance Armstrong showed up at this year's Tour de France for some charity ride (publicity?), he got a lot of media attention despite the fact that he wasn't even in the real race. Trump is a lot like Lance: we want him to go away but until he does we'll keep watching and clicking links...
Similarly, when Lance Armstrong showed up at this year's Tour de France for some charity ride (publicity?), he got a lot of media attention despite the fact that he wasn't even in the real race. Trump is a lot like Lance: we want him to go away but until he does we'll keep watching and clicking links...
18
Orgon: It's Kerrey...Bob.
1
The man has no plan. His fire and brimstone is only smoke and mirrors. It's entertaining in a despicable way to watch him stand at the microphone and disparage John McCain and Lindsay Graham. Ultimately, it's not Trump making a fool out of himself that's so disturbing, it's the throngs of foolish, uninformed supporters who will eventually be the ones to suffer the indignity of ridicule.
47
It could be all of us who suffer, because those foolish, uninformed supporters also vote.
Turnout will be very important in 2016.
D to go forward.
Turnout will be very important in 2016.
D to go forward.
3
Right you are!
I want Donald Trump to go all the way to the Republican National Convention next summer because I am a Democrat. He seems to have consolidated all the angry, confused, and uninformed voters (people who watch Fox News, ouch!) behind him.
Ted Cruz, Bobby Jindal, Rick Santorum, Scott Walker, and Mike Huckabee (the entire Republican field of nobodies); all wish they could be Donald Trump sitting high in the polls. Donald Trump, Kim Kardashian 2016!
Ted Cruz, Bobby Jindal, Rick Santorum, Scott Walker, and Mike Huckabee (the entire Republican field of nobodies); all wish they could be Donald Trump sitting high in the polls. Donald Trump, Kim Kardashian 2016!
205
@Joseph WIlson
Some deep analysis here. We should all want Hillary Clinton to win the White House with 40% of the vote.
And that will tell us what about the ruling mandate from the White House?
That's right absolutely nothing.
The Democrats put forward a lying and ancient candidate whose only claim to legitimacy is her gender (at least until a woman transitioning to a man runs in 20 years).
And the Liberal media put forward a circus clown and hang a Republican sign around his neck.
The losers are all of us. We will step up to the poll and vote for highly discredited candidates who pull well short of pluralities to win.
Kind of like Europe.
Now there's a basket-case. Just not Sweden, right?
Some deep analysis here. We should all want Hillary Clinton to win the White House with 40% of the vote.
And that will tell us what about the ruling mandate from the White House?
That's right absolutely nothing.
The Democrats put forward a lying and ancient candidate whose only claim to legitimacy is her gender (at least until a woman transitioning to a man runs in 20 years).
And the Liberal media put forward a circus clown and hang a Republican sign around his neck.
The losers are all of us. We will step up to the poll and vote for highly discredited candidates who pull well short of pluralities to win.
Kind of like Europe.
Now there's a basket-case. Just not Sweden, right?
2
How can you say I am "....angry, confused and uninformed......?"
I read the New York Times!
Trump is merely saying things that people are afraid to say. Let the man have his say. He will not win but he will get people excited about the election.
I read the New York Times!
Trump is merely saying things that people are afraid to say. Let the man have his say. He will not win but he will get people excited about the election.
5
Joseph Wilson
Speaking of High Poll status and Political National Committees, enthusiastic young volunteers from both Parties are now hard at work in New York, targeting our senior citizens on the phone with requests for funds.
They sound aggressive, they do not explain what or why they are supporting the candidate they are representing, they show no interest in what the senior American has to relay or answer their questions.
'Hang up on these heavy breathers', I told a friend the other day. Do not engage in a discussion with them, do not waste your time'. Hoping that both Parties, Republicans and Democrats, responsible for our political Campaigns will cease with these intimidating tactics.
Speaking of High Poll status and Political National Committees, enthusiastic young volunteers from both Parties are now hard at work in New York, targeting our senior citizens on the phone with requests for funds.
They sound aggressive, they do not explain what or why they are supporting the candidate they are representing, they show no interest in what the senior American has to relay or answer their questions.
'Hang up on these heavy breathers', I told a friend the other day. Do not engage in a discussion with them, do not waste your time'. Hoping that both Parties, Republicans and Democrats, responsible for our political Campaigns will cease with these intimidating tactics.
2
Putting coverage in the Entertainment section seems reasonable. There could be a subsection for the Palin variety of theatre of the absurd.
74
More people read the Entertainment Section of HuffPo than the Politics, so Arianna ended up helping Trump, although the intention had been to minimize him.
What? Kerrey says DT is principally interested in promoting his brand? Surely not! Please, please not another Trump column. And an editorial too. DT must love it.
How do we size him up? This satire by Andy Borowitz fits perfectly and turns our disgust into delight.
“Trump Says He Heroically Avoided Capture in Vietnam by Staying in U.S. “
BY ANDY BOROWITZ July 18.
(The Borowitz Report)
“Presidential candidate Donald Trump revealed a little-known episode of personal heroism from his youth on Saturday, telling an Iowa audience that he narrowly avoided capture in Vietnam by remaining in the United States for the duration of the war.
“The Cong were after me,” Trump said, visibly stirred by the memory. “And then, just in the nick of time, I got my deferment.”
The former reality-show star said he had never shared his record as a war hero before because “I don’t like to boast.”
He said that he only disclosed the episode now because “the way this nation treats our deferment veterans is a disgrace.”
Trump complained that he received no official commendation or medal for his heroism, calling the lack of recognition “shameful.”
“Those brave Americans who, like me, avoided being captured by not serving at all—we are the true heroes,” he said.
Trump’s tale of valor appeared to move many members of his audience, some of whom waited in line after his speech to thank him for his lack of service.”
How do we size him up? This satire by Andy Borowitz fits perfectly and turns our disgust into delight.
“Trump Says He Heroically Avoided Capture in Vietnam by Staying in U.S. “
BY ANDY BOROWITZ July 18.
(The Borowitz Report)
“Presidential candidate Donald Trump revealed a little-known episode of personal heroism from his youth on Saturday, telling an Iowa audience that he narrowly avoided capture in Vietnam by remaining in the United States for the duration of the war.
“The Cong were after me,” Trump said, visibly stirred by the memory. “And then, just in the nick of time, I got my deferment.”
The former reality-show star said he had never shared his record as a war hero before because “I don’t like to boast.”
He said that he only disclosed the episode now because “the way this nation treats our deferment veterans is a disgrace.”
Trump complained that he received no official commendation or medal for his heroism, calling the lack of recognition “shameful.”
“Those brave Americans who, like me, avoided being captured by not serving at all—we are the true heroes,” he said.
Trump’s tale of valor appeared to move many members of his audience, some of whom waited in line after his speech to thank him for his lack of service.”
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Meridith, Meridith, Trump is no Brian Williams of NBC, thank you. No rumor mongering please!
3
There is unintended wisdom in your parody. The heroes of Viet Nam were, in fact, those of us who refused to serve and found ways to avoid service. Viet Nam was a fool's war, a death trap and it was the honorable thing to do to avoid service.
4
Chuck Mella, as I note in a response that has not appeared, so I will reiterate the points:
Though I was against the war in Vietnam, I would not call the draft-dodgers heroes. Hardly! They were not acting on principle; or rather, they suddenly discovered pacifist ethics when it came to the possibility of them getting shot at. Had it not been for the draft very few of those privileged white kids who would have spared the war a thought. When their lottery number came up, they could hide behind multiple deferments, skip to Canada, or get a complaisant family doc to diagnose a 4-F condition. Like the WW I song went: 'Send out my brother, my sister or my mother, but for Gawd's sake don't send me!' In that war, and in WW II, conscientious objectors did alternative service, or went to prison for their principles.
Sorry, no respect here.
Though I was against the war in Vietnam, I would not call the draft-dodgers heroes. Hardly! They were not acting on principle; or rather, they suddenly discovered pacifist ethics when it came to the possibility of them getting shot at. Had it not been for the draft very few of those privileged white kids who would have spared the war a thought. When their lottery number came up, they could hide behind multiple deferments, skip to Canada, or get a complaisant family doc to diagnose a 4-F condition. Like the WW I song went: 'Send out my brother, my sister or my mother, but for Gawd's sake don't send me!' In that war, and in WW II, conscientious objectors did alternative service, or went to prison for their principles.
Sorry, no respect here.
3
Donald Trump is not becoming bigger.
The rest of us are becoming smaller.
The rest of us are becoming smaller.
198
There’s an irony in the fact that I’ve read a dozen columns about the irrelevance of Donald Trump’s candidacy. These columns would be unnecessary if there was any hope that the American public could tell one end of a horse from the other, but that hope fades when we add up all of the Obama haters, the conspiracy theorists, the anti-immigration zealots, and racists, homophobes, misogynists, fundamentalists and other low- or no-information voters of every stripe. Individually, they’re laughable, or sad. As a group, they may well elect the next president. The danger is especially great when the Democratic front-runner has flaws that put off her base and energize the opposition.
And even if Trump is rejected in a national election, should we breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that there are Huckabees and Cruzes and, for God’s sake, Jindals out there waiting for their turn? At least Trump provides a bit of comic relief. There’s nothing funny about the rest of the Republican lineup.
The fault is not in our TV stars, but in ourselves. We’ve reached a point where we can’t trust the American public to elect a sensible, or even a sane president. If we need columnists to point out that Trump is a disaster we’ve already struck the iceberg. It’s just a matter of time before we sink into irrelevance as a country.
And even if Trump is rejected in a national election, should we breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that there are Huckabees and Cruzes and, for God’s sake, Jindals out there waiting for their turn? At least Trump provides a bit of comic relief. There’s nothing funny about the rest of the Republican lineup.
The fault is not in our TV stars, but in ourselves. We’ve reached a point where we can’t trust the American public to elect a sensible, or even a sane president. If we need columnists to point out that Trump is a disaster we’ve already struck the iceberg. It’s just a matter of time before we sink into irrelevance as a country.
722
"hope fades when we add up all of the Obama haters, the conspiracy theorists, the anti-immigration zealots, and racists, homophobes, misogynists, fundamentalists and other low- or no-information voters of every stripe. Individually, they’re laughable, or sad. As a group, they may well elect the next president."
Especially as we recall they elected, and re-elected, the last president.
Especially as we recall they elected, and re-elected, the last president.
11
gemli - There's also the fact that Trump's ego seems to require a near 24/7 media presence, apparently to make up for the fact that he's not Number 1; in fact, his teeny eensy tiny wallet is ranked by Forbes as not even being in the top 120 wallets in America - and many of those whose massive, huger wallets so much bigger than his belong to women. Must drive the Donald to distraction :)
5
Yes, they got it right for the first time in fifty years. Hopefully, we won't have to wait another fifty years.
3
"But is his engorgement our debasement?
“It is not good for American politics,” Kerrey said."
No, he is not debasing our politics. Our politics are already debased.
He is showing us our politics for what they really are. He is the most spectacular clown in the clown bus. But we have a clown bus even without him, and it isn't the first time around either for the clown vehicle as politics.
I see Trump as doing a service, the same service as a mirror, or a well done parody.
Look at this, and see what our politics really is.
“It is not good for American politics,” Kerrey said."
No, he is not debasing our politics. Our politics are already debased.
He is showing us our politics for what they really are. He is the most spectacular clown in the clown bus. But we have a clown bus even without him, and it isn't the first time around either for the clown vehicle as politics.
I see Trump as doing a service, the same service as a mirror, or a well done parody.
Look at this, and see what our politics really is.
531
mark - Indeed; after all, Trump is just practicing on McCain the same tactics (which we don't agree with whatsoever) that GOP'ers used on Sen. Kerry during 2004's Swift Boating of a decorated veteran:
http://thinkprogress.org/politics/2015/07/20/3682278/breathtaking-hypocr...
Fortunately, at the time in 2004, the honorable McCain decried the Swift Boat tactics:
http://www.nbcnews.com/id/5612836/ns/politics/t/mccain-deplores-anti-ker...
but the RNC and the Karl Rove-driven 2004 re-election campaign were drowned out by crickets.
Trump is the fruition of what GOP'ers have been gestating since 1980, juiced by the wealth/income inequality they gleefully promote as success, blessed by the Citizens United/McCutcheon decision SCOTUS that John Roberts presides over; the slime Trump splashes up as he speeds down the curb-side lane rightfully drenches every GOP'er waiting for the 2016 bus :)
http://thinkprogress.org/politics/2015/07/20/3682278/breathtaking-hypocr...
Fortunately, at the time in 2004, the honorable McCain decried the Swift Boat tactics:
http://www.nbcnews.com/id/5612836/ns/politics/t/mccain-deplores-anti-ker...
but the RNC and the Karl Rove-driven 2004 re-election campaign were drowned out by crickets.
Trump is the fruition of what GOP'ers have been gestating since 1980, juiced by the wealth/income inequality they gleefully promote as success, blessed by the Citizens United/McCutcheon decision SCOTUS that John Roberts presides over; the slime Trump splashes up as he speeds down the curb-side lane rightfully drenches every GOP'er waiting for the 2016 bus :)
15
Look at it this way. Toto has pulled back the screen and afforded us to opportunity to view the one percent running Oz. I think it is good for the country. Let Trump, Murdoch and the rest of them fight it out in the middle of our living rooms. Then maybe, finally, we will see it for what it really is. No sanctimonious speeches or Supreme Court edicts to block our view. No allusions to patriotism and religion to blind us. There it is before our very eyes. The one percent acting like five year olds.
12
Trump's the Repubs out of control,
A Vocal Selfie on the whole,
No better no worse,
Just a wannabe curse,
On winning is taking a toll.
An inadvertent Trojan Horse
He may end in bitter remorse
But to Bernie he's dandy,
To Hillary, candy,
With his bull in China Shop course.
A Vocal Selfie on the whole,
No better no worse,
Just a wannabe curse,
On winning is taking a toll.
An inadvertent Trojan Horse
He may end in bitter remorse
But to Bernie he's dandy,
To Hillary, candy,
With his bull in China Shop course.
107