As far as I know, not one of the other Republican candidates nor any Republican congressional leaser has said they will not support Trump if he is the nominee. That in itself is amazing and depressing.
39
Does anything ever really change all that much? The Voldemort of candidates -- he whose name shall not be mentioned -- is very smart and knows how to say things in ways that are both inflammatory and capable of being disavowed. And he tells Big Lies. It's just Joe McCarthy all over again ("I have a list in my pocket..." no he didn't). McCarthy caused rampant terror because hs accusations were Big Lies, the kind that take real work to refute, and nobody's listening any more by then anyway. The media at the time no doubt loved his headline making quality, but they also dreaded saying anything negative because they could see the ruined lives McCarthy had created. Trump's refuters are many but get little real attention: would you rather watch the fire or the ashes? Trump is the conflagration.
11
Charles I no longer submit comments but do submit corrections. You refer to "racist" in the American conventional sense of white race vs black race apparently believing in "races" and that Syrians do not belong to the American-invented white "race". The correction is that Syrians are "white by law", that is American law.
9
As usual Mr. Blows hits the nail directly on the head. We need more journalists like this, willing to tell the truth to power... especially the omnipotent media, both liberal and conservative, whose main goal these days is to shill for marketers and corporations.
8
Since Charles Blow seems to believe that there is a hope that Trumpism (or Cruzism) is a beast that can be slain or controlled, I count him among the optimists.
8
Freedom from being politically incorrect:
A platform and shield for the unleashing of suppresed bigoted views.
A platform and shield for the unleashing of suppresed bigoted views.
14
I can't believe the media or anyone even takes this guy seriously. His words come out stream-of-consciousness, without any evidence of an internal editor operating inside, without any indication he has thought about how they might affect others and his own campaign. Yet we're supposed to regard this blather as something of true import and substance? To me it's a joke, a caricature, yet another of his dandelion seeds that blow away in the wind, landing who-know's-where to germinate yet another weed.
8
What's scary too is Barron's has run two cover stories in the last month denigrating Trump. In both cases, those stories brought swift and vitriolic replies via the mailbag. Now, one would think Barron's average readership is a cut above those that fall for his race-baiting, fear-mongering approach but the responses were nearly unanimous in their disgust with Barron's for printing what they viewed as libelous stories. It truly is worse than you think it is.
21
I know the media cannot criticize voters but instead refer to them euphemistically as "low information voters." But the hateful, dangerous, fascistic Trump is a threat to our democracy because of the people who enable him. Those enablers should be described for what they are - ugly Americans.
22
I blame the media in all forms including the political talk shows for bringing out the worst in society just because it sells. All political candidates including DT should be given equal coverage. Even worst than the excessive free Trump coverage is that they give to the Kardashians , a family whose only claim to fame is an Olympic Winner.
8
Trumps candidacy is the (former ) middle classes response to globalization. Globalization has made jobs disappear. Globilization has made it possible for immigrants to come here and get benefits that the (former) middle class must work two or three jobs to shoulder. These factors make otherwise reasonable people fall for the histrionics of a Trump.
18
What's interesting is that the Democrats and basically all the left wing (people and politics) in the US don't "get" why Trump is gaining momentum. The Liberal left created Trump in a way that everyone refuses to believe much less accept. The left is as much or more guilty of the failure to compromise on social and safety issues as is the "Right". Throw in the insensitivity to the rising national debt and there you have it.
This utter failure to compromise on multiple issues (and there are several) has been an extreme dissatisfier for the conservatives. One analogy would be stretching a rubber band. The elastic principles cause it to either break or snap back once it's reached it's maximum "stretchiness". That's essentially what has happened. I don't blame the left for being scared but they have only themselves to blame.
This utter failure to compromise on multiple issues (and there are several) has been an extreme dissatisfier for the conservatives. One analogy would be stretching a rubber band. The elastic principles cause it to either break or snap back once it's reached it's maximum "stretchiness". That's essentially what has happened. I don't blame the left for being scared but they have only themselves to blame.
3
While it's hard to disagree with Mr. Blows sentiments toward the-reality-show-host-masquerading-as-a-leader, or his indictment of the media for their participation, the irony is that Mr. Blows vilification of all Republicans, his attempts to fan the flames of hatred toward them, and his attempts to rationalize it all, are philosophically and psychologically nearly identical to the anti-Muslim sentiment he is condemning.
Underlying his arguments is the core premise that conservatism is fundamentally based on xenophobia and selfishness. There is no acknowledgement that "the other side" may have admiral motives and valid arguments, even if different conclusions are arrived at. (Which, dear NY Times reader, I'm quite sure you agree with.)
And fanning those particular flames is NEVER going to actually accomplish anything constructive. Except, perhaps, secure one a cushy gig at a newspaper. Ask Paul Krugman.
Instead of spewing hatred and bile, I'd like to see some of these writers propose ways that two sides could find agreement. Or show sympathy for the ignorant Americans who apparently believe that insulting people in 140 characters is an important skill for leading the free world. Why hasn't anybody written about the sorry state of U.S. public school civics classes, such that Americans are so easily duped and misled by demagogues?
No, much easier to simply write off the other side as evil and vile.
Guess what? The conservative press is doing the same thing to you.
Underlying his arguments is the core premise that conservatism is fundamentally based on xenophobia and selfishness. There is no acknowledgement that "the other side" may have admiral motives and valid arguments, even if different conclusions are arrived at. (Which, dear NY Times reader, I'm quite sure you agree with.)
And fanning those particular flames is NEVER going to actually accomplish anything constructive. Except, perhaps, secure one a cushy gig at a newspaper. Ask Paul Krugman.
Instead of spewing hatred and bile, I'd like to see some of these writers propose ways that two sides could find agreement. Or show sympathy for the ignorant Americans who apparently believe that insulting people in 140 characters is an important skill for leading the free world. Why hasn't anybody written about the sorry state of U.S. public school civics classes, such that Americans are so easily duped and misled by demagogues?
No, much easier to simply write off the other side as evil and vile.
Guess what? The conservative press is doing the same thing to you.
11
Yes
The media is to be blamed for making Trump a household name. I no longer watch the news programs like CNN because every time I put them on they are
noting what Trump said, where and what. The talk shows are even worse interviewing him ad nauseam Equal time is not given to any of the other candidates, democratic or republican, yet this is a acquirement. It is time for all to speak out and collectively say that he is damaging our country at home and ab roadhome and abroad.
The media is to be blamed for making Trump a household name. I no longer watch the news programs like CNN because every time I put them on they are
noting what Trump said, where and what. The talk shows are even worse interviewing him ad nauseam Equal time is not given to any of the other candidates, democratic or republican, yet this is a acquirement. It is time for all to speak out and collectively say that he is damaging our country at home and ab roadhome and abroad.
8
One might think that when conventional politicians see enemies everywhere that Americans would think that the people they elect are either slightly crazy, or are manipulating them; instead, they’ve made their leader’s enemies their own enemies, and the figment has become reality. Trump is a very real response to a reality created by those politicians. In an inverted world, he is the honest man among frauds.
4
What is everybody so apoplectic about? He only wants to temprorarily stop the immigration from muslim countries until we can figure out if people are slipping through with nefarious intentions. He did not recommend exterminating muslims in their mosques for God sake!
14
Keep Trump in the headlines and the headlights. Trump is like when you walk into a dark room and turn on the lights and all the rats scatter. Trump is shining a light on the right and they are acting like a cat on a hot tin roof. The right is too scared to run and too scared to fight. Every one of the candidates on the right who dares tangle with Trump gets bloodied. Everybody hates the Bully Trump but none of them have enough courage to stand up to him. They are all waiting for the other guy to confront Trump. Really bugs the right that almost forty per cent of their followers can openly support a sexist and racist like Trump. Trump is so crass that he says in public what they only say in the cloak rooms and Gin Mills they frequent. They are in such a tight spot that now they are forced to defend the rights of Muslims to practice their religion. Who would have ever thought we would see this day. Jeb Bush showed us he could stand toe to toe with the Bully Trump by calling him Unhinged. I am sure I wouldn’t want Jeb on my side in a dark alley if that’s the best Mano y Mano he could muster. Waiting on the tough guy from Jersey who loves to tell lady school teachers to sit down and shut up to take off his gloves on Trump. You know the same tough guy who threw his female staff member under the bus for his little misadventure on the George Washington Bridge. They are same guys who never miss a chance to call our president a wimp because he makes war the last option unlike them.
20
If there were actual economic security and fairness in wealth distribution, a la Sanders, there wouldn't be hordes of angry white men lashing out at anyone and everyone they perceive as having even less power than themselves. You'll never get within a mile of a Koch brother, so might as well beat up a Mexican.
14
"Attacking the front-runner for what he says is like attacking his supporters themselves, because he is voicing their deeply held views. He has mainstreamed the marginalized and the mocked."
Has anyone come up with a profile of the typical Trump voter? Education level, income, ability to give accurate facts on issues, social attitudes? If the typical Trump voter is poorly educated, dependent on government aid he criticizes, misinformed, and nastily prejudiced, two things are true. One, the media need to give these people serious adult education. Two, the Republicans should be ashamed of relying on such people, and should apologize to the nation for pandering to them.
Has anyone come up with a profile of the typical Trump voter? Education level, income, ability to give accurate facts on issues, social attitudes? If the typical Trump voter is poorly educated, dependent on government aid he criticizes, misinformed, and nastily prejudiced, two things are true. One, the media need to give these people serious adult education. Two, the Republicans should be ashamed of relying on such people, and should apologize to the nation for pandering to them.
9
"The current Republican front-runner is what happens when the media plays footsie with a demagogue."
And the more the media plays footsie the higher his ratings go. He couldn't buy the amount of exposure the media is giving him for free. And to think all this free exposure given to a member of the media's opposition party.
And the more the media plays footsie the higher his ratings go. He couldn't buy the amount of exposure the media is giving him for free. And to think all this free exposure given to a member of the media's opposition party.
5
Mr. Trump is as outrageous as Mr. Bloomberg, not because of their followers, or their political party (which is easily changed). Billionaires can say and do what they want and a sizable number of less sophisticated people think that their economic prowess makes them right on all subjects. It is time for all to turn against the billionaires with tax reform that makes them pay according to their wealth rather than their largely hidden income. Candidates that want to eliminate the Estate Tax should be eliminated.
7
I regard myself as a liberal, sectarian person. I tend to vote the straight Democratic ticket at all levels. This recent article from the Atlantic Monthly has caused me to rethink my generous attitude towards Islam as perhaps too sectarian and generous:
http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2015/03/what-isis-really-wan...
http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2015/03/what-isis-really-wan...
11
"Not only would this prohibition be completely impractical and xenophobic, in practice it would most likely be racist."
Whites are people who come from Europe and the Middle East, so a ban on Muslims would not be racist.
Whites are people who come from Europe and the Middle East, so a ban on Muslims would not be racist.
3
Of all the major religions, ISLAM is the most diverse and not racial whatsoever. Those who say so are using a stereotype of a Muslim as an Arab from the Middle East, hence "brown skinned". But there are white Muslims and black Muslims, and Indian Muslims, and Pakistani Muslims, and many, MANY Asian Muslims.
It is the largest religion in the world, with almost 2 billion adherents. It covers a vast swath of the world, many nations and cultures and languages.
I have no problem with Muslims at all. I have Muslim neighbors. My husband is employed by a Muslim company, and has a Muslim boss (they celebrate Ramadan very seriously each year). We have no issues with them, nor they with us.
But there is a real and present danger here of ISIS planting terrorist cells in our neighborhoods, and "turning" young people radical online. And we need to do what has to be done, in order to stop this.
It is the largest religion in the world, with almost 2 billion adherents. It covers a vast swath of the world, many nations and cultures and languages.
I have no problem with Muslims at all. I have Muslim neighbors. My husband is employed by a Muslim company, and has a Muslim boss (they celebrate Ramadan very seriously each year). We have no issues with them, nor they with us.
But there is a real and present danger here of ISIS planting terrorist cells in our neighborhoods, and "turning" young people radical online. And we need to do what has to be done, in order to stop this.
10
Jeeesh! The NYT and most of its readers STILL don't get it: Trump is the only candidate who even acknowledges the existence of lower middle class and working class whites, AT ALL, with the possible exception of Sanders. The politicians who are supposed to be representing this long suffering group are for the most part bubble dwelling limousine liberals, to coin a great phrase used by another poster. It is glaringly obvious to working class whites that the globalist elites despise them, so why should they choose one of them as a candidate? Where are their votes supposed to go? And, btw, I remember reading years ago that the Democrats were making a marketing decision to favor "minority" groups over older, "paler" voters, so they brought this on themselves.
17
Yes, it drives you crazy when you despise someone for being different but, subconsciously you know they are right.
9
"(I don’t even use that man’s name in my columns anymore. That avoidance can drive some readers crazy, but he drives me crazy, so there, we’re even.)"
Mr. Blow, I'm one of those readers. I don't like or support Trump (or the other GOP candidates), but not printing the name of your column's subject is unjournalistic and shallow, particularly when you keep dedicating your time on the large stage of the NYT Op-Ed page to talking about him. If you don't want to publicize Trump, stop writing about him. If you want to work for the newspaper of record, then write your perfectly reasonable opinion in a professional manner and create a public record that will be comprehensible to people in the future.
I agree almost 100% with Mr. Blow's views on Trump and the current state of the GOP, but his style is inappropriate for a NYT columnist.
Mr. Blow, I'm one of those readers. I don't like or support Trump (or the other GOP candidates), but not printing the name of your column's subject is unjournalistic and shallow, particularly when you keep dedicating your time on the large stage of the NYT Op-Ed page to talking about him. If you don't want to publicize Trump, stop writing about him. If you want to work for the newspaper of record, then write your perfectly reasonable opinion in a professional manner and create a public record that will be comprehensible to people in the future.
I agree almost 100% with Mr. Blow's views on Trump and the current state of the GOP, but his style is inappropriate for a NYT columnist.
10
Let's face it: Trump is an entertaining candidate we all love to hate. Am I reading what Hilary Clinton is doing? No so much. But Trump is so bombastic and so unpredictable that I feel I am watching some reality show contestant and not a candidate for president. What crazy thing will he do next? How much more will he push the envelope? Will he move to the top or get 'voted off the island?' I could never EVER vote for this man and yet... I watch and read about him. That's the sad truth.
33
I don't think he is a gift to the Democratic party at all. He brings all of us down with his horrible dialogue. I for one would welcome an honest Republican candidate who can have an honest debate instead of this lowest-common-denominator bravado. He is bad for Democrats, Republicans, and the country at large.
16
I heard that there is a new Republican PAC named, " Big Mouth Gasbags R US ", a tribute to both The 'Frontrunner' and Rush Limbaugh. It is also a rare use of the Truth to describe the Republican Party.
10
The one who shall not be named is our ISIL. Attack him and more acolytes join him and may begin acting out. How to deal with a person who does not follow the rules--he will soon need to share plans on how he intends to accomplish his hate platform. "We're going to look into that" will soon wear thin.
11
Yes, Trump leads. But folks that are probably even more scary, since they're already in our national government, are saying equally off-the-wall things.
Didn't Cruz say he's "carpet bomb" ISIS into oblivion. Does he even know what a carpet bomb is and what it does?
And didn't he suggest that the Planned Parenthood madman might actually be a "transgender leftist activist"--packing a bunch of nasty prejudices into one disgusting mouthful?
I wish these guys had to eat their own toxic words.
Didn't Cruz say he's "carpet bomb" ISIS into oblivion. Does he even know what a carpet bomb is and what it does?
And didn't he suggest that the Planned Parenthood madman might actually be a "transgender leftist activist"--packing a bunch of nasty prejudices into one disgusting mouthful?
I wish these guys had to eat their own toxic words.
32
Donald Trump is the gift that keeps on giving for those who demagogue the GOP via identity politics.
But despite what Charles Blow and his friends would have us believe, Mr. Trump does not represent the Republican Party.
Trump is no Republican as never has been. He is merely using the primary processes for his own egocentric ambitions.
When he does not get the nomination, he will run as an independent, which will split the vote and Hillary Clinton will be elected president.
And if that's not a gift, I don't know what is.
But despite what Charles Blow and his friends would have us believe, Mr. Trump does not represent the Republican Party.
Trump is no Republican as never has been. He is merely using the primary processes for his own egocentric ambitions.
When he does not get the nomination, he will run as an independent, which will split the vote and Hillary Clinton will be elected president.
And if that's not a gift, I don't know what is.
"I don’t even use that man’s name in my columns anymore."
Sticking one's fingers in one's ears does no make a problem go away, it just makes one look silly with hands aside one's head.
Sticking one's fingers in one's ears does no make a problem go away, it just makes one look silly with hands aside one's head.
10
Wrong! If the press had followed Blow's admonition, Donald wouldn't be getting all the free publicity he's enjoying. Press agents search their clients' name in print daily, whether good or bad, to measure public awareness. Blow's column today would not snag the agents' clippings.
3
"How much damage will he and his supporters do to the national dialogue and this country’s international standing in the meantime?"
"In the meantime"? No, you missed the point, Mr. Blow. His followers won't disappear no matter what happens in 2016. They won't stop being angry with the government and with the rest of us who don't share their views. They won't stop believing they're right.
How do we reach them? How do we get them to change their minds? How do we get them invested in reality and real solutions to our problems? How do we make them resistant to demagoguery? Because if they can be seduced by one serial liar masquerading as a presidential candidate, they can be seduced by others. Their desire for a strongman who will sweep in and make things right (get the trains running on time, if you will) is dangerous. How do we break the fever?
"In the meantime"? No, you missed the point, Mr. Blow. His followers won't disappear no matter what happens in 2016. They won't stop being angry with the government and with the rest of us who don't share their views. They won't stop believing they're right.
How do we reach them? How do we get them to change their minds? How do we get them invested in reality and real solutions to our problems? How do we make them resistant to demagoguery? Because if they can be seduced by one serial liar masquerading as a presidential candidate, they can be seduced by others. Their desire for a strongman who will sweep in and make things right (get the trains running on time, if you will) is dangerous. How do we break the fever?
29
Our country has had its share of bigots and xenophones in the spotlight and sometimes even in positions of power. And they have done considerable damage to innocent individuals, groups and our national spirit. But we have progressed as a society despite them and their worst efforts. We've made amazing recent progress on many social fronts - gay marriage, health care, gender equality, transgender rights and respect, environmental awareness - and are on the move in other important social fronts like Black Lives Matter.
All of these changes threaten the proponents of a patriarchal, individualistic society. And they are scared and lashing out. Their day is passing. Too slowly and intermittently for certain, but passing none-the-less.
The GOP has become the party of the scared, reflecting a lack of faith in themsleves and our society. If I were them I would get busy figuring out how to make the most of the opportunities that change brings instead of whinning and crying, and lashing out in bigotry and crassness.
Change takes courage - and there isn't a single Republican I can think of who is showing any courage whatsoever.
All of these changes threaten the proponents of a patriarchal, individualistic society. And they are scared and lashing out. Their day is passing. Too slowly and intermittently for certain, but passing none-the-less.
The GOP has become the party of the scared, reflecting a lack of faith in themsleves and our society. If I were them I would get busy figuring out how to make the most of the opportunities that change brings instead of whinning and crying, and lashing out in bigotry and crassness.
Change takes courage - and there isn't a single Republican I can think of who is showing any courage whatsoever.
24
Rick, I would just say that your observation is an excellent example of the uncompromising liberal stance. It's essential for the USA to realize that a liberal perspective of "We've made amazing and recent progress on many social fronts" runs contrary to conservative values. Both the left and right have to accept that compromise is an essential fiber of the nations make up. Your idea of progress may well be common in your circle of society just as conservatives' values are in the theirs'.
3
Trump espouses everything the conservative right stands for in the US, but never says out loud. His appeal is that he is perceived as honest, and is extraordinarily honest relative to his lying, hypocritical opponents. How many of us were subject to the hatred-spewing discourse of conservative, right wing relatives over our Thanksgiving tables? Or since Obama took office ... his blackness obscuring everything he said or did, a testament to the enshrinement of bigotry in this country. We like to think of ourselves as good people because we treat our loved ones with respect, but being "good" is more about how we treat the ones we do not love. In that scenario, we fail miserably ... the conservative views remain the harshest when directed toward the under privileged, anyone who has not achieved success ... a group doubling in size every year. Say what you will about Trump... at least his vitriolic rhetoric honestly reflects his party's attitudes. THAT is why he is leading in the polls among consevative voters. Liberals who vote their consciences are not included among his supporters, just quietly waiting to cast their votes.
9
It's the presidents responsibility to create compromise and agreement. It's not the left or right legislature or either politiclal groups's responsibility. We may attempt to assign responsibility for this failure to diversity or conservative values but the buck stops at the president's office. The president has failed at this plainly and simply. Some presidents are good at it like Bill Clinton was, others not so good. Obama is in the "not so good" category.
2
Where on earth did you get an idea like that!?! When, on the day President Obama took office, the the republican party took an oath to reject any proposal he made, any chance of compromise went out the window. Truth be told ... this is the most divisive, fear-mongering, bigoted and downright immoral group that ever defaced the country since its inception as a democratic union. In Trump, they reap what they have sown.
11
TCWNGU (the candidate whose name goes unmentioned) strikes me as being a Trojan Democrat. He's infiltrating the GOP to steer them off the rails to make room for Presidentess Clinton. Let's not forget that TCWNGU's popularity in the polls is only based on those who agree to participate in such surveys and who claim to be likely primary voters, ie, a small percentage of Americans voting in the general election. That said, I agree with Blow, a TCWNGU candidacy guarantees a Clinton presidency (presidentessy?)...and maybe that's TCWNGU's objective from the start.
2
I don't get it. It's true that, out of the world's 1.5 billion Muslims, a few are terrorists. But it's also true that, during World War II, a relatively small number of German "Christians" slaughtered 6 million Jews while the Roman Catholic Church looked the other way. We don't blame all Christians for the Holocaust. Why should we blame all Muslims for the acts of the terrorists?
We all know the answer, of course. Trump, Cruz, et al. think that the way to political power lies in finding an enemy, demonizing him, making the voters afraid of him, and convincing the voters him that you alone can protect them. Hitler did it. Mussolini did it. Joseph McCarthy did it. All demagogues do it. Here comes Trump.
We all know the answer, of course. Trump, Cruz, et al. think that the way to political power lies in finding an enemy, demonizing him, making the voters afraid of him, and convincing the voters him that you alone can protect them. Hitler did it. Mussolini did it. Joseph McCarthy did it. All demagogues do it. Here comes Trump.
16
We don't blame all the peaceful Muslims for the acts of a few terrorists Muslims. However, President Carter stopped travel and immigration from Iran. Try to think of it like you would infection control or perhaps a quarantine. It's an action that attempts to prevent further spread (negative behavior in this case) while we find a vaccine or cure. It's only one of many quite reasonable actions to enhance safety. Closing the Northern & Southern borders, taking down terrorists internet sites, creating a safe zone in Syria, stepping up our military action, and freezing financial assets are all components of a sensible approach. Political correctness has a very diminished & small part to play in the safety of our citizens. If it touches your family at some point n the future you may alter your perspective. I hope it does not.
4
"He is dangerous, but only because he has enough followers to make him dangerous."
Which brings to mind a line from my favorite comic, George Carlin: Think how dumb the average American is. And half of em' are even dumber than that."
We are reaping what we have sown.
Which brings to mind a line from my favorite comic, George Carlin: Think how dumb the average American is. And half of em' are even dumber than that."
We are reaping what we have sown.
18
I'm no fan of Trump, but "fascism"? Is Trump advocating for a one party dictatorship? Is he advocating for national control of industry? Do you have any idea what "fascism" means, or has it just become an all-purpose insult?
From the Concise Encyclopedia of Economics:
"Where socialism sought totalitarian control of a society’s economic processes through direct state operation of the means of production, fascism sought that control indirectly, through domination of nominally private owners. Where socialism nationalized property explicitly, fascism did so implicitly, by requiring owners to use their property in the “national interest”—that is, as the autocratic authority conceived it. (Nevertheless, a few industries were operated by the state.) Where socialism abolished all market relations outright, fascism left the appearance of market relations while planning all economic activities."
From the Concise Encyclopedia of Economics:
"Where socialism sought totalitarian control of a society’s economic processes through direct state operation of the means of production, fascism sought that control indirectly, through domination of nominally private owners. Where socialism nationalized property explicitly, fascism did so implicitly, by requiring owners to use their property in the “national interest”—that is, as the autocratic authority conceived it. (Nevertheless, a few industries were operated by the state.) Where socialism abolished all market relations outright, fascism left the appearance of market relations while planning all economic activities."
8
As a Democrat, I say that we stop criticizing Trump. He is what a majority of Republicans want for whatever reason. All journalists are doing is trying to persuade Republicans that he is the wrong man. Since no Democrat is going to vote for him, why are we as Democrats trying to convince the Republicans to vote for a more moderate candidate who may have a better chance of becoming president than Trump in the General Election.
For God sake and the country's sake we need Trump to be the final Republican candidate for President.
This will guarantee a Democratic victory for the White House and sweep many democratic candidates into office on the winner's coattails.
For God sake and the country's sake we need Trump to be the final Republican candidate for President.
This will guarantee a Democratic victory for the White House and sweep many democratic candidates into office on the winner's coattails.
8
And as this nightmare unfolded over the summer, it was painful to watch The New York Times fall in line. I can only imagine how many readers were writing to the editors to predict this very outcome. Day after day after day of Trump headlines.
And here we are.
And here we are.
17
I don't think that's a totally unfair criticism. The Times has certainly contributed to the demagogue's omnipresence, but it's also important to note that with the exception of one brief spurt by Carson, the demagogue has always led the pack. Hence, when the mob leader makes an outlandish new statement (which is almost daily) it wipes his competitors off the front page but for an occasional one or two line reaction buried within the body of the story.
The ugly truth is that 35% of Republican voters are currently supporting the candidacy of a fascist and most are not NYT readers. That percentage is sure to climb should he become the party nominee. In the end, people are responsible for their own choices. The demagogue's one great talent is exploiting their ignorance and feeding their base fears.
The ugly truth is that 35% of Republican voters are currently supporting the candidacy of a fascist and most are not NYT readers. That percentage is sure to climb should he become the party nominee. In the end, people are responsible for their own choices. The demagogue's one great talent is exploiting their ignorance and feeding their base fears.
So Mr Blow's answer is MORE media meddling? Wow. When will people finally realize that Trump's popularity is linked less with his own ramblings than America's distaste of Obama and the media's unabashed support and unquestioning defence of all things Left?
7
I second Charles Blow. The media helped to a large degree to create this monster. He was given so much free airtime again and again. Even now his strident rants are given an inordinate amount of airtime. Let the media give more time to other candidates in both parties. Has any television station or program given Martin O'Malley anywhere near the same company average? Or Hilary Clinton? Or or Bernie Sanders? Or Jeb Bush? The list could go on and on. Almost every day there is extended coverage of his outrageous and despicable pronouncements. Asking the media to stop covering him is uunrealistic but the media can certainly cut back. Right now all they are doing is feeding his ego.
9
Washington, D.C.'s closeted insiders, including the liberals as well as the lamentable Mitch McConnell, are stunned. The personal destruction methods have always worked before - but not now. Who changed the rules?
The liberal media was able to take apart Mitt Romney by remote control like a jeweler disassembling a watch - just look at the 7th-grade comments Gail Collins made about Mitt for that year or two. It was all lies and garbage, but it worked. This creepy stuff has always worked.
Now Trump is outlandish! - but nothing sticks. This is because the moody, uncaring loner in the White House is outrageous in his ''surrender liberalism'' and this has got patriotic people scared.
As a new guy at this, Trump has taken much of his Muslim plan back, and more will undoubtedly be taken back as time goes on. But the liberal media, especially their gate guards at the Times, can't even find Trump supporters who care that much about his extravagant pronouncements. But al least he can remember it well enough that he doesn't need a teleprompter.
If Trump become familiar enough that his polling negatives go down, the race will be between him and Cruz, and if millennials are as tough on liars as they are reported to be, Hillary won't have a prayer.
The liberal media was able to take apart Mitt Romney by remote control like a jeweler disassembling a watch - just look at the 7th-grade comments Gail Collins made about Mitt for that year or two. It was all lies and garbage, but it worked. This creepy stuff has always worked.
Now Trump is outlandish! - but nothing sticks. This is because the moody, uncaring loner in the White House is outrageous in his ''surrender liberalism'' and this has got patriotic people scared.
As a new guy at this, Trump has taken much of his Muslim plan back, and more will undoubtedly be taken back as time goes on. But the liberal media, especially their gate guards at the Times, can't even find Trump supporters who care that much about his extravagant pronouncements. But al least he can remember it well enough that he doesn't need a teleprompter.
If Trump become familiar enough that his polling negatives go down, the race will be between him and Cruz, and if millennials are as tough on liars as they are reported to be, Hillary won't have a prayer.
2
I suppose if I were a progressive I too would resort to name calling. I mean, what does the DIM party offer? A failed president, a scandal ridden leading candidate who lacks qualifications and is in large part responsible for the middle east mess, and a socialist. Yea, I think I'd go to my thesaurus and start finding all the nasty adjectives I could.
Like fascist. That's a good un. And racist. Even better. I'd just like for Charles to define his terms. How does he define fascist and what exactly has Trump done to "inch closer" to all-out fascism? I know your devoted acolytes don't care, it gives them a thrill when you make ad hominem attacks, but I'm curious as to what evidence you have that Trump is a fascist?
Or that other Republicans are. My guess -- you don't agree with their ideas but you also know that the DIMS are unlikely to win in 2016 based on Obama's record and HRC's pant suit ensembles. So, best attack. Rally the base. After all, all you have to do is throw around terms like white privilege, xenophobia, racism, pro-cop, climate denier, racist -- and now fascism -- much easier than mounting arguments in support of DIM positions. CAUSE THERE AIN'T ANY.
Like fascist. That's a good un. And racist. Even better. I'd just like for Charles to define his terms. How does he define fascist and what exactly has Trump done to "inch closer" to all-out fascism? I know your devoted acolytes don't care, it gives them a thrill when you make ad hominem attacks, but I'm curious as to what evidence you have that Trump is a fascist?
Or that other Republicans are. My guess -- you don't agree with their ideas but you also know that the DIMS are unlikely to win in 2016 based on Obama's record and HRC's pant suit ensembles. So, best attack. Rally the base. After all, all you have to do is throw around terms like white privilege, xenophobia, racism, pro-cop, climate denier, racist -- and now fascism -- much easier than mounting arguments in support of DIM positions. CAUSE THERE AIN'T ANY.
10
The New York Times has been stoking Trump's campaign from its inception by according him more prominent and regular coverage than any other Republican candidate. The only other candidate accorded more coverage by the Times has been Hillary Clinton.
My guess is that the Times has been motivated by:
-Click bait considerations. Trump's outrageousness attracts readers' attention.
-Trump's continuing base of support.
-The Times' desire to ensure the election of Hillary Clinton. A Trump nomination would attract independents and some Republicans to the Clinton camp.
How else to explain that the "paper of record" assiduously covers Trump and Clinton, while providing at best limited coverage to all other presidential candidates?
I am tremendously disappointed by the shallowness and unevenness of the Times' political coverage this year.
My guess is that the Times has been motivated by:
-Click bait considerations. Trump's outrageousness attracts readers' attention.
-Trump's continuing base of support.
-The Times' desire to ensure the election of Hillary Clinton. A Trump nomination would attract independents and some Republicans to the Clinton camp.
How else to explain that the "paper of record" assiduously covers Trump and Clinton, while providing at best limited coverage to all other presidential candidates?
I am tremendously disappointed by the shallowness and unevenness of the Times' political coverage this year.
14
While "the Republican frontrunner" was getting much more attention from this paper, and all the other media, than he deserved, one candidate was getting much less.
I am referring to the Senator from Vermont.
I am referring to the Senator from Vermont.
10
So far, Mr. Blow, you are the closest person in print in the NY Times to say what's really happening in this country. But you have not gone far enough. The man whose name you dare not mention is just the symptom - and manifestation - of what lies in the heart of so many Americans these days, a bent for fascism.
The next election will be very interesting.
The next election will be very interesting.
19
Here's a thought
Maybe Donald Trump can be viewed not as the downfall of the GOP, but rather as an analogy. If the other GOP contenders cannot not lead against him -- how can they expect to lead against the other issues facing this country from the economy and income disparity to terrorism.
Maybe Trump is the canary in the coal mine.
Maybe Donald Trump can be viewed not as the downfall of the GOP, but rather as an analogy. If the other GOP contenders cannot not lead against him -- how can they expect to lead against the other issues facing this country from the economy and income disparity to terrorism.
Maybe Trump is the canary in the coal mine.
5
Do not mention Trump in any news article, TV program or in any other public forum. Removing publicity from him will deflate his balloon and let serious candidates present themselves in all their shabby glory.
3
The one who's name shall not be spoken seems confused about his mission - he repeatedly crows over his place in the polls which has convinced me that he just wants to win the contest and get the first place trophy. His goal of "winning" does not seem to include actual governing of the United States were he to achieve that goal. But I suppose that makes sense as he likely wouldn't have much time for that since he would be overseeing the construction projects he would immediately implement: Walls being built across the southern and northern borders, 60 feet high and 20 feet thick. Not to mention staffing all ports of entry with Muslim Detectors.
5
One of the most remarkable things about the Republican politicians' response to Donald Trump is their blatant, spineless fear of him. This is supposedly the party of morality and values, who pride themselves on their toughness (they'd take out ISIS, slap down Putin and put the Chinese in their place), but they can't even muster the nerve to call out a racist bigot bully in their own party. The best thing about the Trumpenstein Monster is he exposes the Republican leaders for what they are, empty rhetorical windbags pandering to the extremists of their own creation.
15
So many people, including serious political pundits, express the belief that, in the end, Trump won't be the GOP nominee. Even if he becomes their candidate, surely, they believe, he can never win the general election. I warn you not to take Trump lightly. I was aghast to read comments in the NY Times and Washington Post, both with a decidedly liberal readership, that mostly supported Trumps proposal to ban Muslim entry into the US.
7
You know that if that man wins the nomination he will change his tune from the hiss of a snake to the calm reasonable voice of the snake in the Garden of Eden. But no matter what happens we must remember the hiss and not fall prey to the snake oil salesman as so many Republicans have done already.
4
I don't think I want to elevate the ridiculous Mr. Trump to the status of "He Who Must Not Be Named." That's far more credit than he deserves. He is a schoolyard bully, and the things he says are offensive in more ways than one, including their sheer cringe-inducing stupidity. What does he even mean, "until we figure out what is going on"?? When will that be? And how will we know when we have "figured it out"? Also, seems to me we know exactly what is going on. That isn't the issue.
But Trump has never understood "the issues." He can't navigate complexity. He only understands sales.
I'm also convinced that his lead in the polls has much to do with the media's obsessive coverage of him. The more the liberal editorial boards and columnists show their contempt for him, the more the Republican voters want to rally behind him.
This article marks the fifth piece about Trump in two days in this newspaper. But the man is a joke, an unintellectual cretin who cares about nothing but money and fame. Republicans: when are the big kids coming to the table?
But Trump has never understood "the issues." He can't navigate complexity. He only understands sales.
I'm also convinced that his lead in the polls has much to do with the media's obsessive coverage of him. The more the liberal editorial boards and columnists show their contempt for him, the more the Republican voters want to rally behind him.
This article marks the fifth piece about Trump in two days in this newspaper. But the man is a joke, an unintellectual cretin who cares about nothing but money and fame. Republicans: when are the big kids coming to the table?
4
I agree with those who place blame for Trump's rise on the TV media. Many cable tv news channels (Fox and MSNBC in particular) were doing all Trump all the time in September and October. Morning Joe even let him call in and critique the first Democratic debate! That is not how they would treat any other front runner. I hope those enablers who laughed at his outrageous comments are more sober now. Clearly ratings are king.
4
I don't think Mr. Blow accomplishes much by not using his name. If he really wants to make a stand, then do not write at all about him. Mr. Blow should direct his writing to the Democratic candidates he so ardently supports.
5
In order to be a successful president of the United States, the person has to listen to advisors, even to opponents. That person has to respect all opinions for what they are, acceptable expressions of a democratic society. Even mentioning religious credentials is unacceptable.
All we have to do is look at the history of the past two thousand years to understand how destructive and ineffective those religious conflicts have ended. Crucifixion and martyrdom are never the end of a belief; they are usually a beginning with no end.
All we have to do is look at the history of the past two thousand years to understand how destructive and ineffective those religious conflicts have ended. Crucifixion and martyrdom are never the end of a belief; they are usually a beginning with no end.
Rump is just sowing the fields that have been sown by republicans for decades now. He and his followers have conflated courtesy and decency with political correctness, all the while hewing to the party line of uninformed and uniformed thinking.
Next column, Charles, should be about Bernie Sanders if you really want to counter the Rump nonsense.
Next column, Charles, should be about Bernie Sanders if you really want to counter the Rump nonsense.
6
I recognize you're in the media biz Mr Blow but it seems to me like the attention to Trump and his response to it results from our election being stretched out not just to a season but a multiyear campaign that never ends. Trump will never win a single election and yet he's getting a full year of free press from clowns chattering about him and tut-tutting or defending him.
1
My guess is that, if it hasn't already, soon Trump's image and words will appear in a lot of ISIS recruitment videos...more free advertising and branding for this candidate...It would be funny if it weren't so terrifying.
1
The people who support Trump are not listened to by the "serious people" you refer to in your article. Politicians failed to lead these people out of the past, choosing instead to play politics with their fears. This failure has created the political space for Trump to flourish by stoking fear, anxiety and racism. He promulgates his hateful "solutions" to the shame of the USA worldwide. His candidacy is damaging and dangerous. All Americans who disagree with Trump need to stand up and say so loud and clear without delay.
2
One in 4 people still believes the sun revolves around the earth - that's 25%.
If we assume 40% are registered as Republicans, and 35% of them believe something, that amounts to 14% (35% of 40%).
It's hard for me to understand why the media focuses so much attention on a view held by only 14% of the people.
If we assume 40% are registered as Republicans, and 35% of them believe something, that amounts to 14% (35% of 40%).
It's hard for me to understand why the media focuses so much attention on a view held by only 14% of the people.
7
The 21st century is going to need pluralistic multi-cultural leadership. Folks will protest and pontificate and spread anger, but that is the way of the past, not of building a workable prosperous future. If you don't want to live in a rainbow world, go buy yourself an island and live on it. No thanks to backwards leadership.
2
He who shall not be named frightens me because he does not consider the possibility that he may be wrong about anything. He said that there is no other choice but to halt the immigration and visits of Muslims into our country. This is the kind of mentality that might say — if things get worse — that there is no choice but to imprison suspicious people, suspend Habeas Corpus, even declare martial law in various parts of the country. I can see this person who shall not be named taking these actions because, as he states, he considers himself smarter than anyone else and sees no other option. What we would have then is a fascist state.
This is exactly what General John L. DeWitt did to the Japanese Americans in 1942. The Trump supporters constantly argue that Trump should get his way, round up the Muslims and put them in concentration camps. Why not? After all, FDR did it. Well FDR never spouted off on a daily basis that we should do this. It was all the bigots who hated economic competition with Japanese Americans who spouted off. And probably no one more than General DeWitt.
How does this man do it?
How does a man who comes to a bridge tournament only equipped for gin rummy become the front runner for Republican candidacy to the Presidency?
Could it have anything to do with Movement Conservatism, and the kind of fires the Republicans have been stoking for decades now?
How does a man who comes to a bridge tournament only equipped for gin rummy become the front runner for Republican candidacy to the Presidency?
Could it have anything to do with Movement Conservatism, and the kind of fires the Republicans have been stoking for decades now?
3
Another headline today confirmed Trump's "base's" life experience - the middle class in the US is now the minority, outnumbered by the poor, and with most assets owned by the elite. Trump voters' anger is based on economics more than racism.
2
The GOP is ticked because Trump has blown their cover. They secretly believe all of these things, and want to do the things trump suggests, but they prefer are covert methods, like working from statehouse to statehouse via ALEC and other lobbying groups.
Now they are out in the open. Trump has simply revealed the underlying grotesquery that operates the GOP machine from behind the curtain. I seriously doubt he intended to do that, he was just looking to feed his attention addiction, make some money, and improve his business standings.
Now they are out in the open. Trump has simply revealed the underlying grotesquery that operates the GOP machine from behind the curtain. I seriously doubt he intended to do that, he was just looking to feed his attention addiction, make some money, and improve his business standings.
7
At last, a responsible journalist has employed the word "megalomania" to he who shall not be named.
"Pop-psyche" is normally suitable only for cocktail party games ("Oh, she's obviously tocophobic" or "he clearly has an Oedipus complex"), but in the unnamed one's case, the diagnosis seems inescapable. Look up megalomania, study its basics, then compare what you've learned with the way the unnamed one behaves in all he does and says. Q.E.D.
(I'd add narcissism, but that might be going too far afield... or would it?)
"Pop-psyche" is normally suitable only for cocktail party games ("Oh, she's obviously tocophobic" or "he clearly has an Oedipus complex"), but in the unnamed one's case, the diagnosis seems inescapable. Look up megalomania, study its basics, then compare what you've learned with the way the unnamed one behaves in all he does and says. Q.E.D.
(I'd add narcissism, but that might be going too far afield... or would it?)
5
We all are so accustomed to seven years of narcissism and arrogance in the White House that the terms don't pack any negative power any more.
1
Yes, that's the meme, isn't it... arrogance over an oh-so cooperative Congress.
But with The Donald, we can be assured of complete comity even if there's a Democratic Congress. I mean he's said as much, hasn't he? (Hasn't he?...)
But with The Donald, we can be assured of complete comity even if there's a Democratic Congress. I mean he's said as much, hasn't he? (Hasn't he?...)
CB has not written a thoughtful, well crafted article, designed to stimulate a reasoned debate, but a crude political tract. Given my opinion of most of your liberal commenters, whom I regard as ill educated, incapable of objective analysis,and slaves to outmoded shibboleths, I am not surprised that the vast majority egg CB on, agreeing with virtually everything he says. How childish, infantile to announce that you won't deign to even mention a candidate's name because you find him unlikeable..This does not exemplify professional journalism, but is the expression of a temper tantrum..But temper tantrums shut down intelligent debate. Rather than attempt to destroy DT, Mr. BLOW should take the initiative of requesting an interview with him. He might emerge with a more balanced view of his subject.
10
I reject your premise that Mr. Blow is a journalist.
The standard for pundits and partisan ideologues is, well - there is no standard...
The standard for pundits and partisan ideologues is, well - there is no standard...
4
A.H. knows of an earlier time when this was actually an independent news source. Now that the NY Times is merely a functionary partner of the Democratic Party and of world socialism, we see daily how much smaller a party outlet is than the independent voices that ruled journalism for so long.
But how many people working here wouldn't have even gotten interviews at those real newspapers of an earlier age?
But how many people working here wouldn't have even gotten interviews at those real newspapers of an earlier age?
5
Something about your response suggests that you are not really interested in "reasoned debate." Unless that consists of hurling insults.
4
I would like to offer a simple proposal which I believe is guaranteed to rescue us from this right-wing insanity:
Relieve Iowa of its first to vote status.
Perhaps replace it with Ohio, which is more representative of our citizenry. Or better yet, all states vote at once.
All of this ultra-conservative posturing and one-upmanship is done to curry favor with a handful of ultra-"conservative" (not sure what it is precisely that they conserve) pastors in Iowa whose parishioners who, once told who to support, essentially determine who our next President will be.
Relieve Iowa of its first to vote status.
Perhaps replace it with Ohio, which is more representative of our citizenry. Or better yet, all states vote at once.
All of this ultra-conservative posturing and one-upmanship is done to curry favor with a handful of ultra-"conservative" (not sure what it is precisely that they conserve) pastors in Iowa whose parishioners who, once told who to support, essentially determine who our next President will be.
8
Mr Blow is right that Trump has risen because of the media. Yet despite the media's apparent dismay, it continues. The only time recently I have seen any of the other candidates covered on TV or in the news is to report on what they are saying about Trump. And we allow it to happen because we are entranced by the spectacle. It's like watching a slow motion train wreck - you can't pull your eyes away. "They" say that we get the government we deserve. My fear is that we the people are going to prove this statement absolutely correct and it terrifies me.
6
I have sympathy for Trump - the children. As Ivanka tries to build her Trump brand, her father destroys it. When this bloviating buffoon's sham campaign is over, his post campaign life will be radically different than it was before. Lucky he doesn't need the money.
4
Blow is correct - Trump is just articulating what his audience is thinking. His rhetoric increases (not) coincidentally when a poll shows him dropping. He holds up a bible when he's in the South, and no doubt will hold up a Smith & Wesson when he visits someplace out west. He's anything and everything to anyone who will support him. AND his *brilliance* is that when he does say something provocative, he adds just a little kernel of truth to allow people to quietly nod their heads and say to themselves, hmmm, that's what I've been thinking too! My greatest hope is that once the primaries begin, and he is asked specifically what his foreign policy, domestic agenda is etc. but newspeople with guts and authority, that his house of cards will fall apart. Generalities and rhetoric *should* only get you so far.
6
Do the math: The Republican Party, for the last 100+ years the party of wealthy agricultural landowners, big business, career military leaders, and money capitalists ("The business of America is business."), represents far too few actual people to ever win elections, particularly on the national scale. Therefore, they have had to hoodwink other voters into voting for the GOP brand - not because they themselves benefit; in fact, the opposite - but by appealing to the basest, meanest, most backward social-issues voters, the ones nobody else wants. This was the basis of the Southern Strategy and the social issue-based conservative "movement". That and a dose of good old-fashioned paranoia.
Bernie Sanders' millionaires and billionaires still own the show, but really - how many of them are there? Hundreds? A few thousand, counting relatives and close employees? Now is the time when the tail starts to wag the dog: the hoodwinked know-nothings who can be sold any backwards bill of goods are showing those PC white-shoe Republicans up at the country club who's in charge at the polls: the mass of older, whiter, less-educated, bible-thumping voters they dragooned into the cause.
You baked your cake, GOP - now let them eat it.
Bernie Sanders' millionaires and billionaires still own the show, but really - how many of them are there? Hundreds? A few thousand, counting relatives and close employees? Now is the time when the tail starts to wag the dog: the hoodwinked know-nothings who can be sold any backwards bill of goods are showing those PC white-shoe Republicans up at the country club who's in charge at the polls: the mass of older, whiter, less-educated, bible-thumping voters they dragooned into the cause.
You baked your cake, GOP - now let them eat it.
6
What Pottree chose to ignore is that the GOP is the ONLY home for the majorities of religious, capitalist, and patriotic people in the U.S. As immigrants realize what a godsend the American opportunity really is, they also will join these other majorities.
Here's your measuring stick: how many current officeholders WANT to be photographed next to Mr. Obama? How many wanted to in 2010, 2012, or 2014?
Here's your measuring stick: how many current officeholders WANT to be photographed next to Mr. Obama? How many wanted to in 2010, 2012, or 2014?
it is my fervent hope that the GOP fragments and dissolves when Hillary Clinton wins by a landslide. The GOP will have to reform, welcoming back those lonely moderates and newly independent. The revised Republican Party at the center right will allow the Democrats to move back to the left, where they haven't been since Ronald Reagan scared them off.
7
Bravo Mr. Blow !
A perfect summation of the horror that is Trump and the GOP.
A perfect summation of the horror that is Trump and the GOP.
8
There is NO way this guy who shall henceforth remain nameless (good idea Charles!!) REALLY wants to be prez. NO WAY. He’s not stupid and he KNOWS that he’d actually have to work with lesser mortals as prez. In business he can bully and then just walk away, if he doesn’t like the deal. The saddest thing that Charles discusses is that there isn’t much daylight between this talk and the rest of the field. Personally I saw it in the 2008 election and it’s flaring early this year -people that get radicalized by this message. I had long time friends…..one really good friend….basically disown me for having a liberal opinion. In a recent published letter from Mohammad Ali (and I’ve read this from other people) states that he’s seen and been treated well by a different nameless man. Apparently the nameless has radicalized himself. Really, though, and as someone else mentioned….in some iteration or another….going back to the Nixon southern strategy….the Republicans have used race or gender bias as hatred and fear to get people to the polls. This party of no new ideas once again tweaks a stale, lame strategy…..merely upping the ante.
4
Let us not forget that Trump is articulating precisely the same viewpoint regarding refugees that Jeb Bush and Senator Cruz advocated just a couple weeks ago when their criteria for admission to the U.S. that one be a Christian. From that viewpoint, perhaps Trump is more inclusive since he would presumably allow Buddhists, agnostics, Hindus, and others into the country. Basically, in my opinion, they're all saying the same bigoted concepts and notions for immigration.
8
On one hand, the success so far of this front-runner is a gift from the electoral gods to the Democratic Party. His winning the Republican nomination would be the best-case scenario, not only for the presidential race but also for down-ballot Democrats.
But the question becomes: How much damage will he and his supporters do to the national dialogue and this country’s international standing in the meantime?
He is dangerous, but only because he has enough followers to make him dangerous. Without them, he would be what he has always been: another crass man saying crass things to which few serious people listened.
-------------------------------------------
I remember when George HW Bush chose Dan Quale for his vice-presidential pick. All of the liberal reporters at the Southtown Economist in Chicago laughed and laughed, and hooted at how Bush had just sealed his fate as non-electable.
Joke was on them.
Bush won, even with young Quale on the ticket.
Be careful all of you liberal journalists who think Trump is a gift to the Democrats. Counting numbers has never been your strong point. MEG
But the question becomes: How much damage will he and his supporters do to the national dialogue and this country’s international standing in the meantime?
He is dangerous, but only because he has enough followers to make him dangerous. Without them, he would be what he has always been: another crass man saying crass things to which few serious people listened.
-------------------------------------------
I remember when George HW Bush chose Dan Quale for his vice-presidential pick. All of the liberal reporters at the Southtown Economist in Chicago laughed and laughed, and hooted at how Bush had just sealed his fate as non-electable.
Joke was on them.
Bush won, even with young Quale on the ticket.
Be careful all of you liberal journalists who think Trump is a gift to the Democrats. Counting numbers has never been your strong point. MEG
3
There is a movement afoot in England to keep Trump out of their country.
If Trump becomes President, the rest of the world will probably pay to build a "beautiful wall" around the U.S. to keep us all in!
If Trump becomes President, the rest of the world will probably pay to build a "beautiful wall" around the U.S. to keep us all in!
14
And maybe the Mexicans will pay for the wall after all, to keep the fleeing Americans out.
4
If Trump wins, Canada will have a refugee problem.
(Let is be known that I said this first here!)
(Let is be known that I said this first here!)
2
Blow appears correct about Trump's brand building, but I wonder if Trump wants to win the presidency. The patience, comity and cooperation needed to get things done in the check-and-balances of our federal govt do not suit his temperament. Sure, the presidency is the "bully pulpit," and Trump's idiocy is flat-out dangerous for the country, particularly in inciting homegrown ISIS supporters.
On a pragmatic note, he doesn't have an experienced talent pool to draw on for a cabinet, etc. Even jerks like Carl Icahn would flounder when they discovered that just issuing orders isn't enough to move the Congress, the courts and the people. I fear that the so-called Republican Party's strategy of gumming up the workings of government has created the chaos into which Trump has stepped, and placed our country in peril in the process.
The real question is: what's Trump's exit strategy? As in the case of Ben Carson, his support may evaporate as voting approaches. Cruz is the weasel positioned to pick up Trump's support and he'll develop a more palatable demeanor. And Cruz against Clinton stands a better chance, based on Cruz' appeal to the lower instincts and his debating skills, but limited by his boorishness. Perhaps Trump goes independent and throws the election.
This is a very fluid situation that demands that sensible people vote their conscience, with the nation's best interests and its standing in the world top of mind.
On a pragmatic note, he doesn't have an experienced talent pool to draw on for a cabinet, etc. Even jerks like Carl Icahn would flounder when they discovered that just issuing orders isn't enough to move the Congress, the courts and the people. I fear that the so-called Republican Party's strategy of gumming up the workings of government has created the chaos into which Trump has stepped, and placed our country in peril in the process.
The real question is: what's Trump's exit strategy? As in the case of Ben Carson, his support may evaporate as voting approaches. Cruz is the weasel positioned to pick up Trump's support and he'll develop a more palatable demeanor. And Cruz against Clinton stands a better chance, based on Cruz' appeal to the lower instincts and his debating skills, but limited by his boorishness. Perhaps Trump goes independent and throws the election.
This is a very fluid situation that demands that sensible people vote their conscience, with the nation's best interests and its standing in the world top of mind.
16
Trump's suggestion to suspend all foreign Muslim access to the country is of course a bad idea for any number of policy reasons, even though it is certainly within the power of the government to effect. We should, however, exhaustively scrutinize all such applicants for admission, however long it takes, be it months or years, and keep careful track of any who are allowed entry.
4
One small call-out in an otherwise typically excellent column. Trump's supporters are not "the marginalized and the mocked." They may feel themselves besieged, but to paint with a broad brush probably would be overwhelmingly white and lower-middle to middle class and self-define as Christian. Perhaps this group feels their hold on cultural and economic power slipping, but they are most eagerly sought-after by political candidates, and they seem to be the ones doing most of the mocking.
6
The problem runs deeper than the GOP and the media's love of tapping emotion charged incidents and invective for readership. It comes from a willingness to exploit unreason for profit or power. The "left" has its own analogous sub-sect of new age remedy peddlers and enablers, which along with many other practices across the political spectrum, reveal a deeper core problem: Our society green-lights the cynical use of persuasion that is not based on establishing the merits of the case with integrity and care, but is instead based on feel-good or feel-bad speculation and innuendo, narratives that give the persuadee a sense of meaning, even if it is based on falsehoods, half-truths, fallacious but persuasive inferences, or is unjustly at someone else's expense - whatever persuades, regardless of the means.
In my neck of the woods, some pharmacies peddle homeopathic remedies, not because there is even a jot of evidence for them, but because the pharmacies want the customers. Because they want the business, they pander to their customers' bad reasoning instead of calling it out. And in doing so as a pharmacy - as a respected profession-based retailer - they paint the remedies as the result of responsible inquiry, when the remedies are anything but.
As long as we have a system that condones and incentivizes these actions - whether by the GOP or pharmacy - we will have large swaths of people who are encouraged to reason poorly and encouraged to feel righteous about it to boot.
In my neck of the woods, some pharmacies peddle homeopathic remedies, not because there is even a jot of evidence for them, but because the pharmacies want the customers. Because they want the business, they pander to their customers' bad reasoning instead of calling it out. And in doing so as a pharmacy - as a respected profession-based retailer - they paint the remedies as the result of responsible inquiry, when the remedies are anything but.
As long as we have a system that condones and incentivizes these actions - whether by the GOP or pharmacy - we will have large swaths of people who are encouraged to reason poorly and encouraged to feel righteous about it to boot.
8
So stop writing about Donald Trump. Period. Really stop, no matter what he says or does. You guys did a good job blacking out Bernie Sanders until very recently. It's time to stop giving free advertising to this fascist monster.
13
Trump is the next step in the Republican journey to let loose the suppressed racism and bigotry that has been nurtured since Nixon's Southern Strategy. First, we went from the relatively benign wink-wink. nudge-nudge, eye-rolling over Obama as president. Then, encouraged by right-wing talk radio and then Fox News, the eye-rolling and hushed racist/bigoted talk among the likeminded was allowed into the open by Republican leadership which encouraged the birther talk and all the rest. Emboldened further by social media, the latent racism/bigotry has been groomed until it has blossomed into full blown out-in-the-open displays that we see with Trump that have emboldened his followers to a fever pitch. The genie is out of the bottle for the Republican Party but the real question is how will it be put back, or will it move into its final malignant stage and do real, permanent harm to this country?
8
Why are you, Charles, and so much of the press wasting time on any of the Republican candidates? They are all bigots and misogynists with economic policies that will further destroy the vast majority of the country's working people.
Examine the policies of Bernie Sanders and Hillary Clinton in depth and give an update ["Still nutjobs."] once every couple months.
It is the devotion of the press to repeating every vile thing the Rs say that fuels their hate and ignorance.
Examine the policies of Bernie Sanders and Hillary Clinton in depth and give an update ["Still nutjobs."] once every couple months.
It is the devotion of the press to repeating every vile thing the Rs say that fuels their hate and ignorance.
5
When I was in fifth grade in the fifties, I became rather obsessed with Hitler and the concentration camps. I read Anne Frank's diary and went on to adult books about them. (I was a serious child). I wrote an essay about it. How, I asked, could one man put to death so many people? How did it happen? And why didn't the Jews leave? Couldn't they see what was happening? Why didn't they just leave? I would have, I said, to myself. I would have left. And I always comforted myself with being an American and knowing it could never happen here.
And now I see it happening. It's unfolding right in front of us all like a very slow motion train wreck. We are derailing and tipping over, I can feel it. Trump is taking us to all out fascism. Muslims have become the Jews. Outlandish ideas are being gobbled up by people who are fearful and, like a virus, it is spreading fast.
It's too late for me to leave. But my daughter? I'd like to see her leave this place. She is not mainstream. She could become a target of hatred and discrimination.
It truly brings back all the feelings I had in fifth grade, a recognition for the first time in my life of pure evil and the question of how could it happen?
Just open your eyes in America and see how it's done. I am not afraid of terrorists from abroad. I am very worried about those angry people who follow Trump because he's 'strong' and 'decisive'. If enough of the electorate want him, I fear for America.
And now I see it happening. It's unfolding right in front of us all like a very slow motion train wreck. We are derailing and tipping over, I can feel it. Trump is taking us to all out fascism. Muslims have become the Jews. Outlandish ideas are being gobbled up by people who are fearful and, like a virus, it is spreading fast.
It's too late for me to leave. But my daughter? I'd like to see her leave this place. She is not mainstream. She could become a target of hatred and discrimination.
It truly brings back all the feelings I had in fifth grade, a recognition for the first time in my life of pure evil and the question of how could it happen?
Just open your eyes in America and see how it's done. I am not afraid of terrorists from abroad. I am very worried about those angry people who follow Trump because he's 'strong' and 'decisive'. If enough of the electorate want him, I fear for America.
20
Mr. Blow:
You write:
"On one hand, the success so far of this front-runner is a gift from the electoral gods to the Democratic Party. His winning the Republican nomination would be the best-case scenario, not only for the presidential race but also for down-ballot Democrats." REALLY?
What's that old saying about Hubris? "Hubris goes before a fall."
Yes, many people "assume" that Trump will go down to certain defeat in Nov. 2016. But the man will say anything. Look at the way he went after Carly Fiorina's "face" and then said he was only critical of her "persona". Lokk at the way he criticized Fox News' Megyn Kelly for bleeding out of her "wherever".
We could expect that Trump's attacks on Hillary to be even worse.
There is another old saying: "Be careful what you wish for. You might get it."
You write:
"On one hand, the success so far of this front-runner is a gift from the electoral gods to the Democratic Party. His winning the Republican nomination would be the best-case scenario, not only for the presidential race but also for down-ballot Democrats." REALLY?
What's that old saying about Hubris? "Hubris goes before a fall."
Yes, many people "assume" that Trump will go down to certain defeat in Nov. 2016. But the man will say anything. Look at the way he went after Carly Fiorina's "face" and then said he was only critical of her "persona". Lokk at the way he criticized Fox News' Megyn Kelly for bleeding out of her "wherever".
We could expect that Trump's attacks on Hillary to be even worse.
There is another old saying: "Be careful what you wish for. You might get it."
4
What damage can Trump do to our international reputation that has not already been done by Bush's wars in Iraq, his torture program and our continuing drone program (where we often don't know who is being targeted)?
How exactly are Trump's words worse than the hundreds of thousands dead in Iraq?
We should count ourselves lucky that the vast majority of the world knows ordinary Americans are not to blame for Bush's actions.
How exactly are Trump's words worse than the hundreds of thousands dead in Iraq?
We should count ourselves lucky that the vast majority of the world knows ordinary Americans are not to blame for Bush's actions.
3
The D and Thanksgiving
More and more, America can be seen as a parody of the classic ‘Home for Thanksgiving’ spectacle, that once-a-year weekend that many of us have only recently survived where relatives who claim to love each other try desperately to get through a common meal by sidestepping the explosive subjects of politics, religion, and life-long grudges that, if given any vent, will blow the stuffing out of the turkey. The great fear in these happy events is that someone, usually an errant, tipsy uncle will spill the beans of ancient secrets and expose the hard truth that those around table have gathered not in common affection, but rather, in servitude to desperate myths of family and shared heritage. The instant the uncle speaks, it’s all over. The D is our national, bean-spilling uncle.
Lincoln’s “mystic chords of memory” are sadly long dead in American life. We have become a people of irreconcilable and dangerously polar-opposite differences politically, spiritually and morally. “United We Stand” is meaningless, and the longer D rants, the more fissures of an unrepairable national life are exposed.
I don’t know where all of this horror is leading us, but maybe, The D is actually doing us a great service to finally realize that we are not family, and that, like the million promises angrily made at the end of a million, grueling Thanksgiving weekends, we can find the means to separate ourselves from each other and say, “I won’t be coming back next year!!”.
More and more, America can be seen as a parody of the classic ‘Home for Thanksgiving’ spectacle, that once-a-year weekend that many of us have only recently survived where relatives who claim to love each other try desperately to get through a common meal by sidestepping the explosive subjects of politics, religion, and life-long grudges that, if given any vent, will blow the stuffing out of the turkey. The great fear in these happy events is that someone, usually an errant, tipsy uncle will spill the beans of ancient secrets and expose the hard truth that those around table have gathered not in common affection, but rather, in servitude to desperate myths of family and shared heritage. The instant the uncle speaks, it’s all over. The D is our national, bean-spilling uncle.
Lincoln’s “mystic chords of memory” are sadly long dead in American life. We have become a people of irreconcilable and dangerously polar-opposite differences politically, spiritually and morally. “United We Stand” is meaningless, and the longer D rants, the more fissures of an unrepairable national life are exposed.
I don’t know where all of this horror is leading us, but maybe, The D is actually doing us a great service to finally realize that we are not family, and that, like the million promises angrily made at the end of a million, grueling Thanksgiving weekends, we can find the means to separate ourselves from each other and say, “I won’t be coming back next year!!”.
7
Trump's suggestion to temporarily ban foreign Muslims from entering the US makes perfect sense if we look at radical Islam in the same way we look at dangerous virulent contagious diseases. like Ebola - we stop potential carriers of it from areas of the world where it is known to be flourishing from entering the US until we can put in place procedures to inoculate ourselves from harm.
That's what Canada and Australia did during the last Ebola crisis, they suspended visa applications from the West African countries where widespread transmission of the disease was in progress. And that's what we should do with Muslim sects who preach radical fundamentalist Islamic ideology of the kinds financed by the Saudi's and other Muslim nations who support those extremist religious views.
That's what Canada and Australia did during the last Ebola crisis, they suspended visa applications from the West African countries where widespread transmission of the disease was in progress. And that's what we should do with Muslim sects who preach radical fundamentalist Islamic ideology of the kinds financed by the Saudi's and other Muslim nations who support those extremist religious views.
2
Calling Donald Trump an idiot is not one of those things you will find on a list of the world’s most arduous tasks. Sure, Trump is a clown. But he’s a very rich and a very famous clown. And he’s really not much more clownish than many of the current contenders or some serious contenders in the past.
Trump is espousing views that are shocking , the insults and slurs against other Americans makes him no better than the Barbarians that are attacking us. Trump needs to be attacked for his views, every day of the week and twice on Sundays. As unpleasant as he may be, let’s not take our eyes off of him. We cannot ignore this fool.
Trump is espousing views that are shocking , the insults and slurs against other Americans makes him no better than the Barbarians that are attacking us. Trump needs to be attacked for his views, every day of the week and twice on Sundays. As unpleasant as he may be, let’s not take our eyes off of him. We cannot ignore this fool.
1
"Without them, he would be what he has always been: another crass man saying crass things to which few serious people listened."
There's the rub.
The GOP cannot lay claim to being a "serious" political party anymore, they
long ago forfeited that right, which is why Trump has so easily been able to hijack it.
He's really nothing more than a male version of Sarah Palin with a lot more money and a better act.
There's the rub.
The GOP cannot lay claim to being a "serious" political party anymore, they
long ago forfeited that right, which is why Trump has so easily been able to hijack it.
He's really nothing more than a male version of Sarah Palin with a lot more money and a better act.
2
"He is dangerous, but only because he has enough followers to be dangerous"
Exactly. The column isn't a diagnosis of Trump so much as a diagnosis of today's Republican party.
Exactly. The column isn't a diagnosis of Trump so much as a diagnosis of today's Republican party.
4
What I've been wondering about lately is: if the folks who are attracted to Trump's campaign appearances REALLY like the way he acts out when he doesn't get his way - how are they going to react when he's eliminated at or before the Republican convention? Doesn't anybody recognize how effective he is at teaching bad behavior? He's a bully's, gun toting dream come true!
2
I doubt Trumpolini will prevail to president of the USA.
For one we are hardly a model of ethnic nationalism at this point, there's too much diversity to let a German-American xenophobic white nationalist rule this diverse territory with an Iron Heel. He'd need to install a High Tower-type military dictatorship.
It seems that Trumpism is a Republican problem. The Don doesn't seem to be drawing populist support but from one narrowly-defined minority Caucasian contingent of malcontents (notwithstanding a few pastors somehow swept away by the Art of the Deal behind closed doors).
The civic service that the Don is generously gifting this nation, is the fracturing of the Republican cabal of corporate & military-industrial oligarchs running their mega-church minions to tip the scales against an apathetic electorate.
The damage from that alliance of plutocrats & their peons has been devastating for America for decades. The rest of us should be grateful to Trumpism for tripping up the otherwise lockstep right wing.
For one we are hardly a model of ethnic nationalism at this point, there's too much diversity to let a German-American xenophobic white nationalist rule this diverse territory with an Iron Heel. He'd need to install a High Tower-type military dictatorship.
It seems that Trumpism is a Republican problem. The Don doesn't seem to be drawing populist support but from one narrowly-defined minority Caucasian contingent of malcontents (notwithstanding a few pastors somehow swept away by the Art of the Deal behind closed doors).
The civic service that the Don is generously gifting this nation, is the fracturing of the Republican cabal of corporate & military-industrial oligarchs running their mega-church minions to tip the scales against an apathetic electorate.
The damage from that alliance of plutocrats & their peons has been devastating for America for decades. The rest of us should be grateful to Trumpism for tripping up the otherwise lockstep right wing.
3
Earth to Paul Ryan: Donald Trump is the frontrunner of your Party because he DOES represent your base. This is the Republican Party that has been created by hate driven political rhetoric abetted by Fox News and Rush Limbaugh. The other Republican contenders are saying much the same thing, just not with as much bluster. Mr. Ryan yours is the Party of xenophobia, misogyny, and guns, with a dash of cruelty thrown in.
Excellent column.
Excellent column.
6
You do realize that the front-runner is about to get another big media trophy… Time Magazine’s Person of the Year… unless Time Magazine somehow finds a way to bend their traditional definition of “Person of the Year” into the kind of pretzel logic Republicans use to define “conservatism.”
According to Time Magazine, their selection isn’t the most admirable person… but rather, the person who’s had the greatest impact on national and world events. Does The One Who Must Not Be Named have any viable competition? Can Time cancel their Person of the Year issue? Can they invent some kind of wacko logic that puts someone... anyone... else in the lead?
Maybe Paul Ryan can help. After all, he’s the one who believes “conservatism” means no regulations on anything Republicans support and no freedom on anything they don’t.
Here’s a thought… maybe a big salty pretzel should be Person of the Year.
According to Time Magazine, their selection isn’t the most admirable person… but rather, the person who’s had the greatest impact on national and world events. Does The One Who Must Not Be Named have any viable competition? Can Time cancel their Person of the Year issue? Can they invent some kind of wacko logic that puts someone... anyone... else in the lead?
Maybe Paul Ryan can help. After all, he’s the one who believes “conservatism” means no regulations on anything Republicans support and no freedom on anything they don’t.
Here’s a thought… maybe a big salty pretzel should be Person of the Year.
2
In an inaugural address, Thomas Jefferson explained why Americans should have no fear of people like Donald Trump by stating that "error of opinion may be tolerated where reason is left free to combat it." Trump is not the President; he does not speak for the United States or for the American people; at this point, he does not even speak for the Republican Party whose leaders finally understand that Trump is a dangerous demagogue whose nomination would imperil the existence of the GOP for the foreseeable future.
2
NPR did it again this morning, excusing Trump supporters' racism, bigotry, and xenophobia as legitimate concerns about terrorism and national security. I'm sorry, but if that were really so, they'd be in favor of gun restrictions (at least so that terrorists can't legally buy them) and would understand that demonizing all Muslims is EXACTLY what ISIS wants, degrading our national security.
No, Trump has tapped into the ugliest side of humanity, a trait that has been encouraged and inflamed by the modern Republican Party and it's media apparatus: Fox News, Rush Limbaugh, and all the other voice spreading fear and hate for profit.
No, Trump has tapped into the ugliest side of humanity, a trait that has been encouraged and inflamed by the modern Republican Party and it's media apparatus: Fox News, Rush Limbaugh, and all the other voice spreading fear and hate for profit.
2
The media has been actively complicit in creating Trump the Candidate, the news media has supported his buffoonery, and now a member of the news media does a bit of breast-beating about it. It's all very predictable: the manipulation, then a pause for faux guilt, and the spectacle continues. Trump offers "news" on the cheap and the news corporations love it. Higher ratings, more ad sales, increased income. It's a sorry thing to watch.
3
Perhaps one positive side effect the Orange Haired Man has spurred: Global disgust to xenophobic reactions to terrorism. Countries all over the world are speaking up. Peaceful Muslim leaders are getting more face time, more media attention. Just this morning there was a quote from Muhammad Ali calling for Muslim leadership to stand up. The Orange Wave of Hatred will lose its momentum as we all confront it and call it for what it is: ignorant, rooted in irrational fear, xenophobic, and wrong.
The republicans now need to cut ties with the Orange Party types if they want claim any trace of legitimacy. Somehow, I don't think that is possible with Ted Cruz right behind Trump talking about making "sand glow" with a military strike. Disturbing.
The republicans now need to cut ties with the Orange Party types if they want claim any trace of legitimacy. Somehow, I don't think that is possible with Ted Cruz right behind Trump talking about making "sand glow" with a military strike. Disturbing.
3
Not using his name--appropriate and brilliant. The word should be expunged from the english language.
1
From day one,when he royally came down the escalator of his building,the show was the message.For us,outside the US,who are fortunate to have civil elecions,the show is truly entertaining.Then,the show became a rating bonanza and the media jumped on the bandwagon,with some crass of their own, like CNN or MSNBC who genuflect everytime the show appears. A show, like a drug dealer, requires addicts and this show is masterful at manipulating its users.The show's brilliance is its ability to convince a whole nation that its goal is the presidency.It is not.All it craves is attention,the show
will make more money in book deals,speaking events and tv deals than a paltry presidential salary.But until next November,the show must go on.
will make more money in book deals,speaking events and tv deals than a paltry presidential salary.But until next November,the show must go on.
2
I agree with Mr. Blow about the "incestuous" relationship between Trump and the media. So why is Mr. Blow writing yet another column about him, knowing that Trump feeds on the attention? How about a column on the shockingly racist remarks that Justice Antonin Scalia made yesterday in oral arguments on the Fisher case?
2
Scalia's remarks were based on published statistics. Blame them..
Nixon's "southern strategy"did not have substance, it was merely the promulgation of a process/road map to tap into the existing racist hate of the other, that "they" were coming! Same old same old now, EXCEPT the frightened racist are getting bolder. Of course with one of "them" in the white house it is not that surprising.
Charles, I wish you could convince your newspaper and all of the other media outlets to stop covering he-who-shall-not-be-named. Let him fade into the abyss!
5
Donald Trump has been created by Barack Obama. Obama's lack of leadership is making everyone afraid to leave their homes in some parts of the country. He has devastated the middle class economically that he all but ignores. His handling of ISIS is comical if it wasn't so tragic. Our police have been made ineffective as the socialist agenda takes hold with the help of Obama's cronies, Rahm and Bill DeBlasio. Even Black America has to admit that they have been taken for a ride by Barack as they have made no progress over the last 6 years. His last speech to the Nation was all politics with no focus on solutions. It was completely focused on making sure that the opposition is blamed for Baracks ineffectiveness as President. Thank God we have an election coming up. Lastly, I doubt Donald can get elected but he has made America interested in change and a move away from the Obama legacy.
2
"Obama's lack of leadership is making everyone afraid to leave their homes in some parts of the country." Try to analyze your own statement here. You are in far, far greater danger of being killed in a car accident than in a terrorist attack, but you don't stop driving. Try to think with reason rather than emotion.
3
why does "the media" keep nouning the elements of out political dilema like they are chess pieces and the public is just the tail of the dog. Here is an example of plain speak that "everyone is afraid to say": it is the people who support Trump that are to blame - the stupid and ignorant people who support him that need to be criticized. Of course no one will do that because the likely effect would be to drive them even further to extremes, and then they would hoist their hero on their shoulders and become the barbarians that we all knew Americans could be. It is "the people" that are advancing this crime against humanity.
Charles, I agree with your analysis that the media has created this monster. So, surely the obvious corollary would be for the mainstream media to completely withdraw all coverage. Even articles such as this feed the beast.
2
The sight of journalists sitting by mutely on Morning Joe as Trump pontificates endlessly over the phone, or of Chris Matthews turning over his entire show to live coverage of a Trump rally, is an appalling example of lazy journalism. There's little doubt this gift of free air time has contributed to Trump's rise in the polls.
3
Trump is popular because he is the only candidate that echoes Rush Limbaugh and the rest of the AM radio big mouth bigots that his supporters lap up every day. It is hard to believe that the "Republican establishment" does not realize this - that is why they are reluctant to take him on. At least, their conceit that the Republican base is mostly upset about the budget deficit, taxes, and the other favorite issues of the plutocrat wing of the party is laid to rest.
2
Respectfully, Mr. Blow, the name is not the issue. Please use your bully pulpit to call on your colleagues in the media to join you in actually reporting on Trump the candidate, the mogul, the businessman, the person. To look into his business dealings, interview his associates, paint a real-life picture that gets beyond the bluster. You're spot-on with this column as a start. Now let's see the Fourth Estate as a whole begin to do its job and bring us the actual story.
The Donald is Trumping the media.
2
Donald Trump is the coal-mine canary. His meteoric rise and popularity among a particular "marginalized and mocked" demographic fundamentally reveals their felt/real level of dis-empowerment and vulnerability. It's a symptom of a serious societal 1% imbalance that hurts some more than others. A symptom we can ignore, do something about, or continue to experience mayhem that gets stirred up by that in-need demographic turning for help to fools gold believing it's the real thing rather than just a shiny fake.
5
I confess I was guilty of finding Mr. Trump entertaining when his campaign began. Then I noticed how CNN was broadcasting his rallies in almost their entirety during prime time, and I started to get apprehensive. His success is undoubtedly mostly a creation of the media. I never thought I'd hear myself saying this, but I would now beg the media to start giving equal time to Bush, Rubio, Cruz et al.
3
Democrats are equally to blame for the rise of Trump. For instance, at this point in time it's completely insane to sell the fiction that it's perfectly safe to import tens of thousands of Syrian "refugees" whose backgrounds can be vetted and guaranteed to have no involvement (or potential involvement) in terrorist activities. Everyone knows such claims are bogus. We have seen the failure of the DHS in preempting the terrorism that wracked San Bernardino recently. Democrats appear to be more concerned with foolish idealism, or pandering to minority voters, than they are with the needs and wishes of the bulk of the American population. Tin eared politics from limousine liberal elitists in the Democrat Party mirror the politics of currently unpopular EU cloud walkers like Angela Merkel, and provide the food that feeds the proto-fascism we're seeing in the US as well as Europe. BOTH parties are to blame for this.
4
Correct. It seemed impossible three weeks ago, but now I think the Republicans have a chance of winning in 2016. For just the reasons you stated.
The media are no doubt complicit in the rise of the current Republican front runner. After all his outrageous comments sell well to those who love him as well as to those who despise him. And selling stories has always been what the news is about. But here's a story the media will not write about because it entails no outrage and no suspense: the Republican party today is a shambles; the Democratic nominee will win. It's already over. Even Reince Priebus knows that. The really interesting story is what will happen to the Republican party in the next few years.
1
Trump is a Tyrant not a Fascist, there is a difference. Clearly he does not deserve to be elected nor does he deserve all the attention but the TV media are feeding the frenzy and that too is irresponsible.
Focus on his failed policy and lack of intellectual skills. Trump lacks the critical decision making skills needed to be President. HIs bumbling clumsy approach shows he has studied policy nor does he care to. Trumps way is to guess at it then react, learn a little and carry on like a drunk who doesn't understand why a woman wants to be left alone. Most of the country want Trump to leave us alone!! His verbal assault is similar to the verbal sexual assaults women face on the streets daily.
Do we want 4 years of constant crazy nutty comments while wondering what President Trump will say or do next. Being predictable is somewhat necessary because a stable nation can't be run by the irrational, the angry nor the uneducated. Trump is all of that and much much more!
Focus on his failed policy and lack of intellectual skills. Trump lacks the critical decision making skills needed to be President. HIs bumbling clumsy approach shows he has studied policy nor does he care to. Trumps way is to guess at it then react, learn a little and carry on like a drunk who doesn't understand why a woman wants to be left alone. Most of the country want Trump to leave us alone!! His verbal assault is similar to the verbal sexual assaults women face on the streets daily.
Do we want 4 years of constant crazy nutty comments while wondering what President Trump will say or do next. Being predictable is somewhat necessary because a stable nation can't be run by the irrational, the angry nor the uneducated. Trump is all of that and much much more!
1
Mr. Blow claims that Trump's "winning the Republican nomination would be the best-case scenario, not only for the presidential race but also for down-ballot Democrats."
I am not so sure about this. Remember that President Obama probably first won his 2008 election because of the timing of the Great Recession. In October of 2008, when giant Wall Street firms were collapsing all around us and the world financial system seemed in imminent danger of collapse, Obama seemed calmer and a lot more "presidential" than John McCain, and this helped tip many voters in Obama's direction.
In a Trump vs. Clinton race, I am terrified of a similar "October Surprise," this time provided by Islamist terrorists (who would love to influence an American election and bring on the apocalyptic prophesy they hold so dear.)
It seems to me that a big terrorist attack in October of 2016 could very well scare many U.S. voters into voting for this xenophobic, warmongering demagogue. In which case, we would certainly NOT have the "best case" political scenario Blow envisions. Instead, we would face an epic political disaster for America and the world.
I am not so sure about this. Remember that President Obama probably first won his 2008 election because of the timing of the Great Recession. In October of 2008, when giant Wall Street firms were collapsing all around us and the world financial system seemed in imminent danger of collapse, Obama seemed calmer and a lot more "presidential" than John McCain, and this helped tip many voters in Obama's direction.
In a Trump vs. Clinton race, I am terrified of a similar "October Surprise," this time provided by Islamist terrorists (who would love to influence an American election and bring on the apocalyptic prophesy they hold so dear.)
It seems to me that a big terrorist attack in October of 2016 could very well scare many U.S. voters into voting for this xenophobic, warmongering demagogue. In which case, we would certainly NOT have the "best case" political scenario Blow envisions. Instead, we would face an epic political disaster for America and the world.
2
More balance is desirable in your selection of comments to be published. "Au premier abord,"percentage of anti Trump comments compared to those critical of the author seems to be in the vicinity of 80 to 40 percent. I wrote a comment criticizing CB, but respectfully, and suggesting way in which he could have added gravitas to the piece, could have "fattened it up."Even suggested a book by former professor in order that CB might deepen his understanding of fascism, since I believe he employs the word irresponsibly. We can all learn from each other.tThanks for your consideration of the above.
2
When I listen to Trump, and begin to laugh at his outrageous notions, I stop in my tracks when I see the thousands who have flocked to view the Great White Hope and pay homage. Many seem to be good and decent folk who really see President Obama as an enemy, their enemy, second only to the terrorists. They have become so disgusted and delusional they are willing, no wanting, to embrace an obvious demagogue. I guess that is what occurs when a specific group of citizens, a shrinking working class white majority, grows desperate with a feeling of losing importance and growing impotence.
When I hear Donald Trump's latest screed on his "Solution", though he now couches that as being "temporary", to the War On Terror and "Radical Islamic Jihadist", by calling for a ban on Muslims entering the US, I can't help but recalling a similar call to action many moons ago in another country we fought a World War with but is now a strong ally: First, they came for the Jews.
DD
Manhattan
When I hear Donald Trump's latest screed on his "Solution", though he now couches that as being "temporary", to the War On Terror and "Radical Islamic Jihadist", by calling for a ban on Muslims entering the US, I can't help but recalling a similar call to action many moons ago in another country we fought a World War with but is now a strong ally: First, they came for the Jews.
DD
Manhattan
1
And its time to truly ignore this guy and propose reasonable policies for not only opening our arms to refugees, but finding ways to help them develop as Americans once they arrive; to find the right mix of revenues and spending to build a just and thriving society; to re-train our police to accord with the highest values we hold, as difficult as this makes their job -- and maybe help them with more self-policing (working with OUR police force to create safe neighborhoods). We need an all out call for acting on these and other needs. Obama has actually laid the groundwork for this with Obamacare, new environmental regulations, and getting our economy off its knees after the fiasco of 2008. We need a clear, articulate set of policies to further this, while clarifying what we are doing overseas to join with others to make the world better.
2
If Rump secures the (R) nomination, democrats will be wise to heed the antiestablishment sentiment that it conveys, and nominate Bernie Sanders.
Sanders has the support from moderates, incuding conservatives who might otherwise vote (R), which would be a winning strategy.
These coservatives dislike HRC and have for a long time. They see her as unprincipled, unethical, and as bought and sold as the other establishment candidates. However, many of my (r) friends are behind Bernie because they know he is principled and he doesn't dabble in identity politics.
If HRC wins the nomination, (D) voter turnout will be low and that is an almost surefire way to guarantee an (R) victory. If Sanders wins the nomination, he not only turns out millennials but also poor folk who dont usually vote as well as swing voters. Rump and HRC only turn out the base, and Rump's is more rabid.
Sanders has the support from moderates, incuding conservatives who might otherwise vote (R), which would be a winning strategy.
These coservatives dislike HRC and have for a long time. They see her as unprincipled, unethical, and as bought and sold as the other establishment candidates. However, many of my (r) friends are behind Bernie because they know he is principled and he doesn't dabble in identity politics.
If HRC wins the nomination, (D) voter turnout will be low and that is an almost surefire way to guarantee an (R) victory. If Sanders wins the nomination, he not only turns out millennials but also poor folk who dont usually vote as well as swing voters. Rump and HRC only turn out the base, and Rump's is more rabid.
1
Dear Mr. Blow,
I agree completely with you--do not mention the man's name. I wish we had a press that was thoughtful and educational. Thank you for column.
This country has become a scary place.
I agree completely with you--do not mention the man's name. I wish we had a press that was thoughtful and educational. Thank you for column.
This country has become a scary place.
3
How much of this is due to our current "democratic" primary system?
When you hold an election where less than 5% of the voters bother to vote, it's not democratic. Instead, you get party stalwarts who push away moderates and select the shrillest voices they can find. These voters want someone who doesn't compromise. Combine that with the gerrymandering of congressional districts, and you have one fine dysfunctional government.
When you hold an election where less than 5% of the voters bother to vote, it's not democratic. Instead, you get party stalwarts who push away moderates and select the shrillest voices they can find. These voters want someone who doesn't compromise. Combine that with the gerrymandering of congressional districts, and you have one fine dysfunctional government.
2
The voters supporting Trump are the same low information voters that the Republicans have been exploiting for decades. They've pandered to them with the same xenophobic single-issue issues, like immigration, guns, and even the notion that healthcare equals communism. And while they keep them busy with these "issues", they pick their pockets with the other hand. Is it any wonder that a demagogue has been able to collect all of the worst elements of this pandering and put them in a single basket, and then lure them away from the establishment party? What's amazing to me is that Republicans are surprised by this, because they've been exposed to this risk for a long time.
Ultimately this is all good, because it will force the party toward the center. Republicans have survived on the support of a blockhead constituency for a long time, and as this support goes away they will need to become a real political party again.
Ultimately this is all good, because it will force the party toward the center. Republicans have survived on the support of a blockhead constituency for a long time, and as this support goes away they will need to become a real political party again.
2
The biggest problem with what's his name and his followers as well as the Republican party is their use of stereotypes. Muslims, liberals, intellectuals, government, poor people, and on and on are demonized. Fear and hate are the fuels that unite them.
1
You can't blame the media to "play tootsie" with Donald Trump and keep writing op-eds about the man. Even if he was to appeal to 30% of the GOP electorate that would still be around 13-15% of the national vote. Let's also keep in mind that many of the people polled today will not vote for him at primaries let alone on election day so I would even discount that number to approx. 10%. Yes this is still a large number but it wouldn't be the first time that a demagogue gets 10% of a frustrated electorate excited... If had to blame someone for this farce I would rather look at the GOP which allowed Trump to be part of the party's primary roster to start with. Like many other independent voters I would have liked to hear policy differences between serious contenders such as Bush and Kasich but all I'm hearing instead is an escalade of fear mongering arguments and horrible plans...
Our Constitution demands the separation of church and state --- thank God -- and that is where we can stand on who can be here, but one suspects the Republicans will have difficulty with upholding this principle too. Islam holds religion to be part of the state and that is where their problems begin.
If the NYT and other mass media outlets treated Trump in the same fashion as they have Bernie Sanders (a man who is speaking directly to the issues that matter), it would certainly slow his rise. But it seems we no longer live in a world where intelligent, insightful and meaningful issues matter to journalists. It's all about the celebrity and outrageous for entertainment value. I never thought I would see this in my lifetime.
1
Excellent commentary. Every evening when I turn on ABC news I find the rantings of this blowhard to be among the top news stories of the evening no matter how silly they are. It is so obvious that ABC and many other media organizations are out for strong ratings and the revenue that goes with it, they will sell the very thing they are supposed to be doing - telling the news - down the drain. This blowhard is the Frankenstein monster of the money media in America, except he owns the pitchforks and torches the mob is holding as they storm the castle.
4
Trump is a showman/salesman. He is giving his GOP audience exactly what they want to hear. Blame the supporters who have continued to raise him up in the polls and give him all the free media attention he could possibly want.
The GOP in general has been veering into crazy land for decades- really since Reagan. You could say Nixon but he was best known as a crook; the real damage was done by Reagan. If you hear what they all say- especially Cruz- but really, all of them- they all espouse much of the same hateful rhetoric as Trump but without the same entertainment value. The GOP is a corrupt political party with no values, no ideas and no morals whatsoever.
The GOP in general has been veering into crazy land for decades- really since Reagan. You could say Nixon but he was best known as a crook; the real damage was done by Reagan. If you hear what they all say- especially Cruz- but really, all of them- they all espouse much of the same hateful rhetoric as Trump but without the same entertainment value. The GOP is a corrupt political party with no values, no ideas and no morals whatsoever.
3
Trumpism represents a failure of our politics, more specifically, a failure of the intellectual elites behind both parties. The libertarian Right and the identity obsessed Left are the real source of the political polarization we suffer from. Republicans have disaffected whites convinced Democrats have abandoned them. When the Left insists all whites are privileged and all American institutions are structurally and irredeemably racist, when the left tells whites they are unconsciously biased, and that whiteness is the root of all evil, is it any wonder they are willing to follow people like Trump? These are ordinary people who believe in self-reliance and personal responsibility; their fear of Muslims is rooted in the reality that Muslim extremists are killing people not racism. Trump is exploiting their fear.
The Left has provided the ammo the Republicans use to tell them that Democrats only care about minorities and women’s’ rights and aren’t interested in doing anything for them. Just as the libertarian Right provides the ammo Democrats use to scare minorities and women of Republicans. As the intellectual output of the Left and Right filters down to politicians and media personalities and becomes the political rhetoric we listen to everyday, we create an ever-tightening noose of polarization that strangles our politics. Nowhere is there a unifying voice. The failure of the intellectual elites to imagine a way out of this predicament is the real reason Trumpism exists.
The Left has provided the ammo the Republicans use to tell them that Democrats only care about minorities and women’s’ rights and aren’t interested in doing anything for them. Just as the libertarian Right provides the ammo Democrats use to scare minorities and women of Republicans. As the intellectual output of the Left and Right filters down to politicians and media personalities and becomes the political rhetoric we listen to everyday, we create an ever-tightening noose of polarization that strangles our politics. Nowhere is there a unifying voice. The failure of the intellectual elites to imagine a way out of this predicament is the real reason Trumpism exists.
2
Fantastic post, Benjamin!
Put into historical context, the Reagan years were terrible for America both socially and economically. The reasons for that assertion are myriad and I'm not going to list them individually. The Reagan agenda was, however, definable and in stark contrast to that of Carter and Mondale whom he ran against and defeated. There were 2 parties with differing views of the world, the economy and society and yet once elected Reagan was able to work with Congress in a way that accomplished many of his goals without destroying the fiber of American politics. Tip O'Neill recognized the mandate that Reagan had won and moderated some of the more extreme elements of Reagan's agenda and the government continued functioning. With this current campaign, political civility has been shattered beyond recognition. While it was on it's last legs starting with the stolen 2001 election, any pretense of respect and decency from the GOP towards their opponents is GONE GONE GONE. Our political discourse has sunk into the abyss and I for one can't wait for it to be OVER. I only wish I could tune out entirely but, alas, I'm BOMBARDED continually with every ugly detail, making each day's news as unpleasant as could possibly be. Hateful comments are being thrown around with abandon (Mexican rapists). Lies are being reported as truths (911 celebrations). Our democratic model is a national disgrace and with Trump's rise, has American unity, always tenuous, been forever shattered?
3
It is the duty of the President to protect the citizens. It has been the goal of the Democrats and the president to undo the protections that were in place and to worry more about international opinion and standing than the safety of US citizens.
Since you can't look at a Middle Eastern person and determine if they are radical or not, it takes some work and investigation to determine their motives (see California massacre). So if the USA does not have adequate systems in place to determine if a person is a radical, is it really out of line to place a ban on persons who might be a problem in the interest of national security until appropriate systems are in place?
The President has a duty to protect and the authority to institute a ban. He also has the authority to increase measures to protect those under his care. He should do this in an aggressive manner.
Trump may not be politically correct, but he is expressing what the majority of US citizens want based on polls taken after his comments. Regardless of what the NYT or Mr. Blow thinks, the average US citizen does not care about what the International Community thinks but wants their wive, husbands, children and family safe.
And the number of folks who think this President and Congress can make them safe is decreasing at an increasing rate.
Since you can't look at a Middle Eastern person and determine if they are radical or not, it takes some work and investigation to determine their motives (see California massacre). So if the USA does not have adequate systems in place to determine if a person is a radical, is it really out of line to place a ban on persons who might be a problem in the interest of national security until appropriate systems are in place?
The President has a duty to protect and the authority to institute a ban. He also has the authority to increase measures to protect those under his care. He should do this in an aggressive manner.
Trump may not be politically correct, but he is expressing what the majority of US citizens want based on polls taken after his comments. Regardless of what the NYT or Mr. Blow thinks, the average US citizen does not care about what the International Community thinks but wants their wive, husbands, children and family safe.
And the number of folks who think this President and Congress can make them safe is decreasing at an increasing rate.
3
Wrong! The President swears an oath to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution.
2
You imagine a cocoon of safety surrounding American families with Trump in office, but the only things his policies could possibly protect at this point are our own ignorance of history and wholesale fear of the "other." My guess is that, if it hasn't already, soon his image and words are going to appear in a lot of ISIS recruitment videos...more free advertising and branding for the candidate...
1
"The success so far of this front-runner is a gift from the electoral gods to the Democratic Party. His winning the Republican nomination would be the best-case scenario, not only for the presidential race but also for down-ballot Democrats." My biggest fear is that this may be wishful thinking. I thought the same things about Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush -- that they were ignorant demagogues who surely couldn't win. The fact is that we take such people seriously here in elections, and buffoonery is no bar to the Presidency.
5
An excellently penned op-ed from Mr. Blow which captures the lunacy of the Good Ship Lollipop campaign commandeered by Captain Trumpet. While many are wringing their hands about what this man's growing popularity means for the reputation of the US abroad, others are laughingly going along with the ride.
So far he's managed to insult and/or mock via Twitter or on the campaign stunt, the disabled, Mexicans, women, Iowans, Seventh Day Adventists, Muslims, reporters, the government, veterans like John McCain & African Americans or claim that certain events happened even if there isn't any evidence (e.g. he saw thousands cheering during 9/11) His pattern is to say something outlandish about the current target group & then afterwards claim that he either didn't say it or that they're his "good friends". He claims he's friends with "the Blacks" or "women love him, he'll take care of them" or "Hispanics love me" while posing at the border. He believes that he is the king & that "the kingdom come, thine will be done" applies to him as he is like God to the masses who flock to see him.
The worrying aspect about Mr. Trump is that there isn't any clear cut evidence that he wouldn't act out on his racist, xenophobic, sexist rhetoric if elected President. Maybe he'd become so intoxicated with his own power that he would use Executive authority to deport all undocumented immigrants, ban mosques, treat women as sex objects or humiliate the disabled by denying them rights.
So far he's managed to insult and/or mock via Twitter or on the campaign stunt, the disabled, Mexicans, women, Iowans, Seventh Day Adventists, Muslims, reporters, the government, veterans like John McCain & African Americans or claim that certain events happened even if there isn't any evidence (e.g. he saw thousands cheering during 9/11) His pattern is to say something outlandish about the current target group & then afterwards claim that he either didn't say it or that they're his "good friends". He claims he's friends with "the Blacks" or "women love him, he'll take care of them" or "Hispanics love me" while posing at the border. He believes that he is the king & that "the kingdom come, thine will be done" applies to him as he is like God to the masses who flock to see him.
The worrying aspect about Mr. Trump is that there isn't any clear cut evidence that he wouldn't act out on his racist, xenophobic, sexist rhetoric if elected President. Maybe he'd become so intoxicated with his own power that he would use Executive authority to deport all undocumented immigrants, ban mosques, treat women as sex objects or humiliate the disabled by denying them rights.
8
Trump is making a mockery of politically correct behavior. This was a long time coming. Only the unhinged can hear his message (which is why he is leading the pack of "losers"). He plays the cards he holds against the cards he sees: hypocrisy, obfuscation, falsity. This diatribe he spews is, in the final analysis, a curative for deepest flaw: self-deceit. He is both a harbinger and a messenger to his unwitting credit. He is a mirror to our souls and we don't like what we see. The more he is honest, the more he is scorned. Seems apocrophal, or Biblical, to me. I think he's a force for change, and by God who can truly believe that's not what we need?
1
Thanks for not using The Donald's name. I hope this is your last column about him, and that the next one will finally be about Bernie Sanders, the most honest and cogent politician in the race (according to the Quinipiac poll).
For whatever reason, the New York Times has been allergic to writing about him.
For whatever reason, the New York Times has been allergic to writing about him.
5
Your are a brilliant editorial writer, often providing insight into an important and underwritten about segment of our population. Please look at yourself in the mirror and ask, "What did Pogo say " and heed the answer.
The lynch mob that was incited by Limbaugh, Beck and their ilk was already in the streets with their pitchforks, ropes and torches. Trump just got out in front of them and appointed himself their "leader."
3
I have a hard time understanding the anti-Muslim attitudes of several of my friends, who are otherwise very kind, loving, give-you-the-shirt-off-their-backs types. They are the first to reach out with food, clothing, shelter, etc in a crisis. Yet they see me as the foolish, ignorant one, blind to the imminent danger posed by those who follow a religion of violence. When I show them the Bible, filled with equally horrifying violence, they get very angry and frustrated. Why are Good people letting Fear win?
4
Charles, being angry at Trump is a waste of energy. You are correct that the media has made this candidate. Fox, Limbaugh, and everyone else, including the NYTimes have contributed to his rise. So, will the Times publish a column about how to turn it around? Five stories above the fold everyday, but none about Trump? Stories about the base, such as the Colorado Springs killer, Robert Dear, inspired to kill by what he hears from the right wing? What will fix the problem now?
I'm more concerned about what Ryan is expressing. "What was proposed yesterday is not what this party stands for, and more importantly, it's not what this country stands for." For the first time, Republicans are on the defensive, put there by one of their own. They built this situation of hate, racism, misogyny, religious fundamentalism gone wild. They embraced the fringe to empower themselves. They created this monster. Now it's out of their control. Ryan sounds weak, sounds shocked. But I believe the shock is not about Trump's views, but about the inability of the GOP to control him. He is forcing them to denounce the racist, bigoted views they've clung to for decades.
The GOP should be the group to fix this, but can they? Can they back off 50 years of reaction to the Civil Rights movement? Just in case they can't, the rest of us need to have an effective plan in place so that we don't go down the same road as Germany circa 1935.
I'm more concerned about what Ryan is expressing. "What was proposed yesterday is not what this party stands for, and more importantly, it's not what this country stands for." For the first time, Republicans are on the defensive, put there by one of their own. They built this situation of hate, racism, misogyny, religious fundamentalism gone wild. They embraced the fringe to empower themselves. They created this monster. Now it's out of their control. Ryan sounds weak, sounds shocked. But I believe the shock is not about Trump's views, but about the inability of the GOP to control him. He is forcing them to denounce the racist, bigoted views they've clung to for decades.
The GOP should be the group to fix this, but can they? Can they back off 50 years of reaction to the Civil Rights movement? Just in case they can't, the rest of us need to have an effective plan in place so that we don't go down the same road as Germany circa 1935.
3
Republicans are demanding that American Muslims must fix the problem of ISIS.
Well, I demand that Republicans be held accountable and that they fix the problem of demagoguery and fascism within their party.
Well, I demand that Republicans be held accountable and that they fix the problem of demagoguery and fascism within their party.
5
It appears more certain Trump is echoing the sentiments of a right-wing, extreme, xenophobic populace base. This increasingly large demographic knows exactly what the ramifications of Trump's demagoguery may hold for their targeted minority de jour. Today it's the Muslims. Pre-Paris and San Bernardino they decried religious persecution from the gays. These overwhelmingly white privileged middle-class bigots have no tolerance for anyone unlike themselves. If Republican party leaders are nervous, it's because they fueled the poisonous rhetoric for years. Let them reap what they sow.
4
I wonder if people love Trump as much as they hate -- people they call "liberals" and the "politically correct." Every time I read comments from Trump supporters, it sounds more about some deep down anger at their fellow Americans than it is about whatever it is Trump represents.
11
Wouldn't you say the feeling's mutual, paula? On these very Comment boards, I've encountered some of the harshest rhetoric yet. Most aimed at conservatives.
He who must not be named has a following. Yesterday I was at the supermarket on Long Island. The kids at the register were studying for a religion final at the local Catholic High School and were asking each other questions, reviewing. A woman at the next register loudly started telling them that this country is going down the tubes because no one can talk about Jesus in public anymore. They largely ignored her and she went on to loudly proclaim that Trump is right, America is for Christians and the kid looked at the other one and said "Tell me about the Council of Trent." Trumps supporters are out there, they do not want anyone not like them in this country and they are pretty scary. The more outrageous he gets, the more they love him.
5
Wait until he hold a rally in the stadium of Nurenberg with SPFX by Leni Reifensthal.
1
The long awaited and expected awakening is showing no sign of happening. The Republicans are rewriting the definition of Democracy and the loser will be America. In fact, we are losing already.
I am getting tired of reading about what a loser Trump is. Now I'm ready to see someone to respect and such a person isn't available in the Republican Party.
I am getting tired of reading about what a loser Trump is. Now I'm ready to see someone to respect and such a person isn't available in the Republican Party.
5
Islam is not a race, it's a religion. Our country has no legal obligation to admit any immigrants, or visitors, especially ones whose values are not consistent with ours. Therefore it's not "racist" to deny entry to any group or individuals who may wish to destroy our way of life. One of the most important missions of our government is to protect its citizens, not put them in danger by falling all over itself with political correctness to the detriment of its own people.
5
It is bigoted to exclude people just because they practice a religion. Such an act may be legal but that doesn't make it any less bigoted or fearful. Muslims qua Muslims do not with to destroy our way of life.
This is a "straw man" argument. You are completely avoiding the real offense - religious bigotry. And it is a cheap trick to conflate all Muslims with "any group or individuals who may wish to destroy our way of life."
1
Are you sure that every Muslim is incompatible with our way of life? Do you even know how wrong it is to label them all the same? Is someone shooting up an abortion clinic consistent with our way of life? Is the seeking of ways to deny American citizens the right to vote consistent with our way of life? Many may not know this, but one of the major ways to define racist behavior is to hold the group responsible for the actions of individuals inside that group.
Ryan and GOP leadership know exactly what Trump is: the unvarnished long-standing GOP mentality personified. The dog whistle plays like a violin and they're shocked, shocked by the tune.
4
I heartily agree with the decision not to even mention this clown's name, but I believe it's utterly necessary to hold responsible those who created this jerk--and by naming names. Yes, and even he has apologized for it--it was David Letterman. There! I've said it. We now know whose fault it was. He gave the clown air time. And he has millions. He should spend those millions by supporting the other Republican contenders who have at least democratic (small "d") sensibilities.
Oops, maybe that's not the solution... OK, Letterman, you're off the hook for now.
Oops, maybe that's not the solution... OK, Letterman, you're off the hook for now.
2
The current problem is that the GOP (Groping Outdated Party) has created a Monster, just as real as Mary Shelley's', and its in their very own image. Literally everything that, let's call him, "Frank" says is what the Party has been espousing--albeit only subliminally--for years.
This Republican problem is best viewed within their own fringe: Christian bigots; racists; White Supremacists and "Chicken Hawks". They were comfortable "back in the day" when: they had become the populist religion; they had conquered the Original Americans and enslaved the Africans; Jim Crow enabled them to kill at random; same-sex relationships were unspoken of; and they realized that they could send other people's (mostly poor) kids into War--a place they and their sons had never gone themselves.
And, then along came "The Frank". He says what they have always believed--but out loud! And the media has found a way to fill pages and hours upon hours with his diatribes. "Frank" makes up the damnedest stories, and tells them without even batting a hair-lash. And, he spews his hatred equally, to one and all--but, just not to people like "Us"!
But, now the GOP has realized that they really do, in fact, have a problem on their hands. How do they put "Frank" back in the closet? And, just to make things even worse, he has threatened to break-out into another place.
http://thetruthoncommonsense.com
This Republican problem is best viewed within their own fringe: Christian bigots; racists; White Supremacists and "Chicken Hawks". They were comfortable "back in the day" when: they had become the populist religion; they had conquered the Original Americans and enslaved the Africans; Jim Crow enabled them to kill at random; same-sex relationships were unspoken of; and they realized that they could send other people's (mostly poor) kids into War--a place they and their sons had never gone themselves.
And, then along came "The Frank". He says what they have always believed--but out loud! And the media has found a way to fill pages and hours upon hours with his diatribes. "Frank" makes up the damnedest stories, and tells them without even batting a hair-lash. And, he spews his hatred equally, to one and all--but, just not to people like "Us"!
But, now the GOP has realized that they really do, in fact, have a problem on their hands. How do they put "Frank" back in the closet? And, just to make things even worse, he has threatened to break-out into another place.
http://thetruthoncommonsense.com
2
Since the launch of the vile Trump campaign, and even before during his knowingly unsubstantiated birther carnival during which GOP leadership remained mute, I have seen Trump simply channeling the xenophobia of the entire Republican Party, the petri dish for Trumpism.
Now that the toxic brew of bigotry is bubbling out of control, ciphers like Jeb Bush, Matco Rubio and Chris Christie cry crocodile tears of condemnation over the bombastic way that their own bigotry has been broadcast, perhaps on a more modest scale but bigotry nonetheless.
Give us a break, GOP. And while you're at it, how about a demand for Trump's long-form birth certificate? Who knows? He may have been born on another planet. After all, people are sayin'....
www.endthemadnessnow.org
Now that the toxic brew of bigotry is bubbling out of control, ciphers like Jeb Bush, Matco Rubio and Chris Christie cry crocodile tears of condemnation over the bombastic way that their own bigotry has been broadcast, perhaps on a more modest scale but bigotry nonetheless.
Give us a break, GOP. And while you're at it, how about a demand for Trump's long-form birth certificate? Who knows? He may have been born on another planet. After all, people are sayin'....
www.endthemadnessnow.org
7
It may be a lot of things, but Queens is not another planet. You don't even need a visa to visit there - yet.
The idea that The Donald was NOT born in Queens is about as credit-worthy as the notion that President Obama was NOT born in Hawaii. That said, I take your twist of irony.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
www.endthemadnessnow.org
By my count there are 3 headline articles about Trump today, all negative. I think the Times is out of touch with mainstream America, and instead of dismissing Trump, needs to figure out why he is resonating. Otherwise, he is going to keep getting bigger.
Take his Muslim immigration stance. The press bombards us with ISIS entering through the Syrian immigration crisis. Pictures abound of the California shooters going through customs. The Government has no answers to how terrorists will not get through our immigration process. Most normal Americans want to protect their families. The press and Government created this mess.
Take his stance on illegal immigration. He says that it brings down the wage rate for the middle class. On the Daily Show about a month ago, there was an clip of an old interview with Bernie Sanders, with the exact same position. So this pretty much covers the political spectrum.
Take his stance on trade. I am in manufacturing and have seen first hand how our trade deficit has decimated the middle class. If you want to talk seriously about income disparity and global warming, look at our trade numbers. We took away a major avenue for people to make it into the middle class by sending our jobs abroad. And we sent them to a country that spews pollution (seen pictures of Beijing lately) and uses fossil fuels to ship them back half-way around the world.
Trump is a loose canon. But he needs to be effectively countered, not just dismissed.
Take his Muslim immigration stance. The press bombards us with ISIS entering through the Syrian immigration crisis. Pictures abound of the California shooters going through customs. The Government has no answers to how terrorists will not get through our immigration process. Most normal Americans want to protect their families. The press and Government created this mess.
Take his stance on illegal immigration. He says that it brings down the wage rate for the middle class. On the Daily Show about a month ago, there was an clip of an old interview with Bernie Sanders, with the exact same position. So this pretty much covers the political spectrum.
Take his stance on trade. I am in manufacturing and have seen first hand how our trade deficit has decimated the middle class. If you want to talk seriously about income disparity and global warming, look at our trade numbers. We took away a major avenue for people to make it into the middle class by sending our jobs abroad. And we sent them to a country that spews pollution (seen pictures of Beijing lately) and uses fossil fuels to ship them back half-way around the world.
Trump is a loose canon. But he needs to be effectively countered, not just dismissed.
2
The Republican Party needs to figure out why Trump's repugnant rhetoric resonates within its ranks, and do something about it. Otherwise, the GOP is headed toward a wipeout of historic proportions in 2016.
4
They can only condescend to the economic segment of the population that supports Trump. They don't even want to understand the thinking of these "others". Too bad, as they are a good number of the people in this country... wouldn't you WANT to understand why they are responding to Trump the way they are? Do you really think it is all fear and ignorance, or are some of those people finally pushing away the mainstream politicians -- Republicans and Democrats -- for selling out their needs, and not listening to those people who helped build this country, and are the ones maintaining it daily?
You can't be serious. Is it the fault of the press and this Administration that US gun laws are what they are? Most of your mass murderers are home-grown and non-Muslim. That suggests that the threat to American families lies not in terrorists getting through US immigration, but in your countrymen's truly inexplicable infatuation with firearms.
1
Is he a real estate developer or a brander? Does he not primarily sell or franchise his "brand" to developers for their use?
3
This problem is not just Trump--it's the fact that the presidential race has become a two year media circus. We are all already know who the candidates are and what they say they stand for. We are all already exhausted and sick of the 2016 election. Enough.
4
Not to be dismissive because he has obviously reached full-steam blowhard, but paraphrasing David Axelrod a few months ago and in a language a lecherous Donald can appreciate:
This is only the bathing suit portion. The talent portion comes later.
This is only the bathing suit portion. The talent portion comes later.
3
Thank you, Mr. Blow. You nailed it. The media created this candidate. I am appalled at how the broadcast/print/social media continues to push this candidate to the front. His every utterance and move is covered at the top, above the fold, in click bait column. Meanwhile, other candidates are kept off the stage, out of sight; the real, meat and potatoes discussion of immigration, foreign policy are ignored. To me, the fact that the candidate has spent nickles and dimes on marketing/advertising proves his political freak show pays off big time.
2
The combination of mass gun accumulation by probably the same people who strongly agree with the fear and hatred DJT has tapped into, doesn't bode well for those painted as "the problem" with his broad watercolor brush.
A couple of quotes to remind us of who we are supposed to be:
"There's nothing to fear but fear itself."
"We have met the enemy and (s)he is us."
A couple of quotes to remind us of who we are supposed to be:
"There's nothing to fear but fear itself."
"We have met the enemy and (s)he is us."
1
If Trump does get the Republican nomination, it will be interesting to see which of the other candidates buries his or her condemnation of his outrageous utterances to jump at the Vice Presidential spot on his ticket. Remember "Voodoo Economics?" I don't even want to think about what being Trump's strange political bedfellow would be like.
2
On 9/11, Osama bin Laden suckered the US chickenhawks in power into willingly sacrificing huge amounts of American blood and treasure. Now, ISIS is doing round 2, once again suckering American chicken hawks (learning curves aren't for them!).
Now, the macho chickenhawks will lead us into the self-destruction of our democracy while alienating all Muslims here and abroad. Like bin Laden, ISIS knows how to tweak our testosterone and get us do their work for them.
As Pogo once said: "We have met the enemy...and he is us."
Now, the macho chickenhawks will lead us into the self-destruction of our democracy while alienating all Muslims here and abroad. Like bin Laden, ISIS knows how to tweak our testosterone and get us do their work for them.
As Pogo once said: "We have met the enemy...and he is us."
4
Trump has always been about feeding his ego, whether it be his name in lights on a building, the "star" of a reality TV show, or as a "presidential" candidate. The media feeds the beast by going stir-crazy with every utterance he makes, which gives him the headlines and buzz he craves. You can witness the pattern with regularly--just watch what happens when someone else grabs the headlines: Trump will utter something even MORE outrageous than the last time to garnish that headline. The media responds and the cycle continues.
STOP FEEDING THE BEAST!
STOP FEEDING THE BEAST!
4
Who might have predicted 50 some years ago (I know...) that the body politic, or too large a part and getting larger, has morphed into a snake. It waves the Gadsden flag while rolling on tank treads over the Constitution, the poor, the black and brown among us. No matter the head is vile; the body propels it, and its fuel is lies and misinformation. No need to specify its source. I won't write any of their names in my comment (I'm with you there, Charles).
1
The one Mr. Blow doesn't mention by name has already reeked havoc to our international relations.
Not only has the conservative leader of the British government, Prime Minister Cameron, involved himself in the debate on these shores, hundreds of thousand of people have signed on the forbid Trump to enter the UK - so many that the Parliament is now obliged to vote on it.
Even Bibi, not a friend of Democrats per se, has condemned his 'plan' to ban all Muslims from entering the US, and over a third of the Knesset has voted against him meeting Trump on his upcoming visit to Israel.
The list goes on and on.
When reading the Editorials and op-Eds of foreign publications, it becomes very clear that the rest of the advanced world thinks that the US has lost it collective sanity when parading our Republican wannabe presidential candidates around.
We once more have become the joke of the world, but one that now seems quite afraid that one of our two parties, egged on by their leadership and their mostly low educated base has already arrived at the abyss of fascism pure.
Not only has the conservative leader of the British government, Prime Minister Cameron, involved himself in the debate on these shores, hundreds of thousand of people have signed on the forbid Trump to enter the UK - so many that the Parliament is now obliged to vote on it.
Even Bibi, not a friend of Democrats per se, has condemned his 'plan' to ban all Muslims from entering the US, and over a third of the Knesset has voted against him meeting Trump on his upcoming visit to Israel.
The list goes on and on.
When reading the Editorials and op-Eds of foreign publications, it becomes very clear that the rest of the advanced world thinks that the US has lost it collective sanity when parading our Republican wannabe presidential candidates around.
We once more have become the joke of the world, but one that now seems quite afraid that one of our two parties, egged on by their leadership and their mostly low educated base has already arrived at the abyss of fascism pure.
1
The unfortunate part is if he wins the nomination, he will probably be the next President. Why do I say that, because people loathe Clinton as much, if not more, than Trump. Finally, Trump noted what people have forgotten, a liberal Democrat, President Roosevelt, threw Japanese Americans into internment camps during WWII. Trump has said more than once that we are at war. If he becomes President, I would not be surprised if he does ban all Muslims from entering the country, and round up American Muslims for internment camps. He would have the support of the Country and my guess the Courts, to do this. Just as Roosevelt had during WWII.
I don't know if I see Trump's candidacy as a bad thing, actually. The racism and xenophobia have always been there but have only ever been addressed obliquely. Perhaps it's better if it's all out in the open and people can finally acknowledge we don't live in a post-racial society.
7
The Guy you are talking about is not an ideologue who craves power. But, as you say more a pragmatic demagogue. His Art of the Deal and even his newest book talk about his negotiating prowess. He begins with the most outlandish outrageous statements to shape the debate. And steal the spotlight.
Congress has already started to talk about banning people from entering the U.S. who come from 'terrorist' states in the Middle East. Unless the rest of the Republican candidates can rally around one with courage and charisma to go after him, he could win the nomination. I don't know who that "other" guy would be.
Congress has already started to talk about banning people from entering the U.S. who come from 'terrorist' states in the Middle East. Unless the rest of the Republican candidates can rally around one with courage and charisma to go after him, he could win the nomination. I don't know who that "other" guy would be.
2
Why have we as a country not been inoculated against terrorist attacks? Did 911 not steel us? Why are we so bound to self-emoliate every time these quite predictable attacks happen? Is our way of life, our humanity and our reason so built on sand? Our overreaction is so exactly what these terrorists are aspiring to accomplish, right? What am i missing?
7
I may not want Trump in the White House and I do think, at the end of the day, if he is nominated a Republican won't be in the White House. But his remarks about Muslim immigration don't frighten me. It's part of a healthy discourse in a country that values, no cherishes, free speech. Immigration from the Middle East is the elephant in the room. It requires discussion from all points of view. The bigger risk to our country is the incessant intolerance of people like Charles Blow who make statements like this one; "I’m not sure which party Ryan has been paying attention to for the last decade, but to my eye and ear, extreme rhetoric is increasingly becoming intrinsic to the Republican Party". It would seem disagreement with Charles meets his definition of extreme rhetoric.
4
Apparently it's necessary to point out that discussion means "rational discussion," that demanding various repressions is different from discussing them, and that no, the Constitution does not prescribe unlimited free speech.
He can say whatever he wants, as far as I'm concerned. But let's not pretend that what he's bellowing isn't what it is: a bully's mishmosh of racism, conspiracy theorizing, demands for brutality and war, and cheerleading for billionaires.
He can say whatever he wants, as far as I'm concerned. But let's not pretend that what he's bellowing isn't what it is: a bully's mishmosh of racism, conspiracy theorizing, demands for brutality and war, and cheerleading for billionaires.
3
As a staunch supporter of Democratic candidates any and everywhere, I strongly support the media's continuous headlining of all this hideous man's crazed rantings and I'm proud to shout his name from the rooftops.
Keep showing the world what you really stand for. Yea Scalia.
May you blather on in louder and louder venues.
Again: Yea Scalia.
Keep showing the world what you really stand for. Yea Scalia.
May you blather on in louder and louder venues.
Again: Yea Scalia.
5
Politics is all about crass and class acting in substantive practical policy and superficial symbolic rhetoric to gain more supporters to work and vote for you over the alternative.
"I’m not sure which party Ryan has been paying attention to for the last decade, but to my eye and ear, extreme rhetoric is increasingly becoming intrinsic to the Republican Party. The front-runner is simply saying out loud what many conservatives are feeling — he’s not Svengali; he’s a crowd reader."
Nailed it. This stuff didn't start with Trump -- it's been the meat of the Republican message via Limbaugh and rightwing radio, Fox, stretching back to Reagan and his dog whistle in Mississippi and now the racism, hate etc. is in full bloom in the form of Trump. There are laws against people attempting to incite a panic by yelling "fire" in a theatre but unfortunately no laws preventing a bigot from shouting hate to incite more hate and fear. A pig's head was tossed in front of a mosque in Philadelphia out of hate for Muslims. The mayor of the city, the mayor-elect, along with clergymen of all faiths spoke at an event held to allay the fears of the Muslim community. The mayor called Trump an "axxhole" for inciting these kinds of acts. Meanwhile the vile Trump responded by calling the mayor a "lowlife." This is where we are -- the mayor of a city who is trying to run that city and keep the peace is being put in a difficult position by a politician who is running only his mouth and will not have to be the one to quell the fire when the explosion occurs in the cities of the US. Trump is a demagogue who always appeal to the worst in people.
Nailed it. This stuff didn't start with Trump -- it's been the meat of the Republican message via Limbaugh and rightwing radio, Fox, stretching back to Reagan and his dog whistle in Mississippi and now the racism, hate etc. is in full bloom in the form of Trump. There are laws against people attempting to incite a panic by yelling "fire" in a theatre but unfortunately no laws preventing a bigot from shouting hate to incite more hate and fear. A pig's head was tossed in front of a mosque in Philadelphia out of hate for Muslims. The mayor of the city, the mayor-elect, along with clergymen of all faiths spoke at an event held to allay the fears of the Muslim community. The mayor called Trump an "axxhole" for inciting these kinds of acts. Meanwhile the vile Trump responded by calling the mayor a "lowlife." This is where we are -- the mayor of a city who is trying to run that city and keep the peace is being put in a difficult position by a politician who is running only his mouth and will not have to be the one to quell the fire when the explosion occurs in the cities of the US. Trump is a demagogue who always appeal to the worst in people.
5
If you won't change the name of the state park named after him in Westchester County at least take down signs for the park on the adjacent parkway.
4
I wish that I could be as sanguine as Mr. Blow is about Trump chances of winning the Presidency, but I'm not. It seems unlikely now, but additional terrorist attacks could change that very quickly. Frightened people do irrational things.
3
"The leader of the Republican presidential field may know more about the current Republican Party’s sensibility than the Republican speaker of the House" Paul Ryan.
Not true. His over all message is identical. The difference is Ryan's message has been tweaked to fit political correctness. He uses the code, but T-rump refuses to do the same. His appeal is in his clarity, His supporters like that. No ambiguity,
Not true. His over all message is identical. The difference is Ryan's message has been tweaked to fit political correctness. He uses the code, but T-rump refuses to do the same. His appeal is in his clarity, His supporters like that. No ambiguity,
3
Mr. Blow is right about Trump, he is a vile demagogue. But, the reality is that Trump is a bi product of the false narrative that most Muslims share our values and are part of the mainstream. According to Pew research, more than 70% of Muslims back Sharia law; more than 70% believe that homosexuality and abortion are morally wrong. More than 75% believe a wife must always obey her husband. We are a country founded on the principal of freedom of religion, and Muslims have a protected right to practice theirs; but the more we pretend that most Muslims share our beliefs and values, the more Trumps vile message resonates with the masses.
5
Great point. The left romanticize how Muslims share our values. The truth is that a significant portion (minority?) of them tacitly support the positions of the so-called radicalized elements. The poll cited by Donald Trump (25% of Muslims approve of violence against Americans), though not scientific, is deeply concerning. Even if the true number were 5%, that would still be troubling. The majority of Muslims may not be interested in carrying out violence themselves, since most rational people prefer to live in peace. However, I'm not convinced that many of them don't just turn a blind eye to their suspicions. Case in point - it is preposterous to believe that the family of the San Bernardino shooters had no clue, including the mother who lived in the same home as them while bombs were being made in the garage....
1
Good article, Mr. Blow.
I'm not all that frightened by Trump. He's like a freak show exhibit at a carnival, or a specter in a horror movie.
But I am worried about his supporters, who keep Trump in the news. What has become of the USA, that so many people would support a candidate who's principles are more like Hitler or Mussolini rather than, say, Washington, Jefferson or Lincoln? That's really frightening.
I'm not all that frightened by Trump. He's like a freak show exhibit at a carnival, or a specter in a horror movie.
But I am worried about his supporters, who keep Trump in the news. What has become of the USA, that so many people would support a candidate who's principles are more like Hitler or Mussolini rather than, say, Washington, Jefferson or Lincoln? That's really frightening.
3
Why don't you ask them, DS? Or at least listen to the reasons they've already given. Some of them are much more reasonable than you'd think.
I'm not one of them, btw.
I'm not one of them, btw.
The Republican party has subtly used racism as a lure ever since Richard Nixon's "Southern Strategy". It has worked and the best evidence of that can be obtained by looking at a map of red and blue states. I have friends who I would term "rednecks", for lack of a better term, who are otherwise good people, that universally support Donald Trump. They believe, wrongfully, that Donald Trump just says what everybody really believes. None of these folks are Democrats. In my opinion, the actions of the right wing Republican party have provided legitimacy to their racial feelings. The Republican party has sowed the wind with their subtle racist policies and they are now reaping the whirlwind in the form of Donald Trump.
2
"[T]his is what happens when the media plays footsie with a demagogue." Yes, and the media has been playing footsie with demagogues of all races, and on all issues, because this is what sells, doesn't it Mr. Blow?
3
Right on the nose on every point, Mr. Blow. I have no idea if DT is a racist, just like I don't know if anyone else is until they actually do something that demonstrates they are or aren't. What DT realized is that 35% of the GOP electorate eats up rhetoric as much or more than it cares about substance or whether or not the rhetoric can actually be put into practice. If DT becomes president, he will figure out a way to distract from the fact that there is no way to export 11 million people, and throw out some other attractively outrageous (not an oxymoron) rhetoric to distract the people who voted for him and make them feel good, while doing absolutely nothing to make their lives better. Mr. Blow is correct that this all started out as a lark, but now, and if I were DT I would feel the same way, why not go for the ultimate prize? At his age, what jollies can DT get from another hotel or golf course, and isn't it all about getting his jollies? Isn't that what it's always about for DT? But controlling a country (and that is precisely what he would try to do), and we're not talking Andorra here (nothing against the beautiful co-principality, for all you co-principality fans), but the country with the third-largest population and largest economy in the world would be the mother of all feathers in his cap (sorry for the mixed metaphor). The evidence would suggest that damaging the country or the world would be of little consequence to him as long as he came out on top.
2
What is ironic to me is the willingness of the NYT (2nd article just today) to vilify what they view as their enemy, the republican party. They also refuse to vilify or name that the terrorists are Muslim or that there is any religious connection to this fact. The NYT doesn't thinks Muslims should apologize when members of their communities commit horrible murderous crimes but on the same hand think its outrageous that republicans aren't condemning and apologizing to those hurt by the words of a never elected newly self appointed republican. Can we have it both ways where we give one group a free pass based on their views because they are religious but when its political we should name and condemned them furiously with no sense of irony. At the end of the day peoples political and religious affiliations are just a choices aren't they?
4
Republican LEADERSHIP is responsible for what Trump. They CHOOSE who will or will not represent them to the nation. If he becomes their nominee, it will be because they decided (after careful deliberation) that he embodies their values and can speak to the concerns of their constituency. We are not talking about a bunch of homemade videos Trump is making in his basement, mind you. He spreads his filth at official Republican debates and functions! He is their front-runner for the Republican primary! At the same time, GOP VOTERS are also responsible for Trump. It's THEIR support that keeps him in front of other candidates. By contrast, Muslims in this country have not appointed ISIS. They do not get to choose whom among their number puts themselves on YouTube or Facebook. The millions fleeing ISIS and other extremists are evidence that they do not endorse terrorist actions. They do not choose to be slaughtered by the thousand. So no... there's no inequity in holding Republican leadership accountable for Trump.
1
So its the press's fault.
Yet the times knew better; rewind to that opinion piece back in September by Beppe Severgnini, "What Italy Can Teach America..." advising not to obsess over the Don lest you create an American Berlusconi.
Commenters including myself urged the times to stop giving the Don free press, since for him all press is good press, but he was instead lavished a never-ending stream banner ads on the front page.
That said, I'm not minding this non-Svengali drawing the seething racists out of their red-state bunkers.
They need some air & we need to take stock of just how generally hideous American society is, and why in this recently pristine, rich land of 'liberty' & opportunity, this grotesque society of greedy, anti-intellectual fundamentalist haters arose.
Let the Ugly Americans be exposed for what they are, the Trumpsters will undermine themselves, or hopefully bring down the spectre of a red-state nation.
Stop giving the Don such serious press, hire Jon Stewart to instead mock his absurdity relentlessly in a regular Op-Ed.
Instead focus your light on the genuinely excellent platform of Sanders which the Times seems to want to bury.
Yet the times knew better; rewind to that opinion piece back in September by Beppe Severgnini, "What Italy Can Teach America..." advising not to obsess over the Don lest you create an American Berlusconi.
Commenters including myself urged the times to stop giving the Don free press, since for him all press is good press, but he was instead lavished a never-ending stream banner ads on the front page.
That said, I'm not minding this non-Svengali drawing the seething racists out of their red-state bunkers.
They need some air & we need to take stock of just how generally hideous American society is, and why in this recently pristine, rich land of 'liberty' & opportunity, this grotesque society of greedy, anti-intellectual fundamentalist haters arose.
Let the Ugly Americans be exposed for what they are, the Trumpsters will undermine themselves, or hopefully bring down the spectre of a red-state nation.
Stop giving the Don such serious press, hire Jon Stewart to instead mock his absurdity relentlessly in a regular Op-Ed.
Instead focus your light on the genuinely excellent platform of Sanders which the Times seems to want to bury.
6
"Footsie" is appropriate. He became a media fetish. I was certain that one NYTimes columnist had a full out "man crush." For months the NYTimes took no pains to take a rigorous look at his record. He was given a media "hall pass" and he was able to run wild and free.
I still believe that he will ultimately serve as a Republican "Trojan Horse." The eventual nominee will leap from his belly. And that nominee is more dangerous to our nation's future. It will be none other than the Canadian Candidate, Cruz.
The "fetish" will live on with a larger microphone.
Oh, and btw, he is not stupid. The man that made a fortune on casinos has gone "all in" on a bet. He has wagered everything on another religious inspired terrorist attack. Then his repugnant and bigoted statement will sound brilliant. He will pout and pucker his lips before yelling "I told you so."
I still believe that he will ultimately serve as a Republican "Trojan Horse." The eventual nominee will leap from his belly. And that nominee is more dangerous to our nation's future. It will be none other than the Canadian Candidate, Cruz.
The "fetish" will live on with a larger microphone.
Oh, and btw, he is not stupid. The man that made a fortune on casinos has gone "all in" on a bet. He has wagered everything on another religious inspired terrorist attack. Then his repugnant and bigoted statement will sound brilliant. He will pout and pucker his lips before yelling "I told you so."
4
@Stuart, Boston: Please tell me and the others where Ferguson appears in my post. Navel-gazing? That's rather rich. Do you follow the news? I didn't make up Trump. Get a grip! Please!
2
True, "intrinsic to the GOP" sums up the circumstance with "The Donald" commanding the party and the (RNC). it is already too late to repair or fix the damage. The GOP is shattered into too many segments, ideologies really, to align for a general election.
2
I am not surprised by Trump. For years I have listened to this talk amongst my Republican neighbors---they were careful around me, but comments about minorities, about guns, about taxes, were Tump Lite. With Tump as a candidate they finally can switch from Lite Trump to Trump Draft.
4
Many of us thought Sarah Palin was beyond the pale in terms of her polarizing hateful rhetoric, and she was just a VP candidate. Trump is no aberration. He is the culmination of years of GOP politicians stoking the fires of fear by their use of increasingly extreme and divisive rhetoric. They have created their own Frankenstein. And I'm imagining the rest of the country will pay a heavy price one way or another. The horse has been let out of the barn, and the world is listening.
4
Trump is the Republican Party. A xenophobic, racist, bigoted big-mouth with tons of bravado and very little substance. Very good at bellowing about this, that and the other thing, but utterly clueless when it comes to governing.
But mark my words: when Trump finally implodes -- and he will -- he's running as a petulant Third Party candidate and then it'll be a race to the bottom between him and the GOP candidate as to who can be more hateful.
Thank god we have the uber-adult that is Hillary or we'd be even more of a laughingstock around the world than we currently are.
But mark my words: when Trump finally implodes -- and he will -- he's running as a petulant Third Party candidate and then it'll be a race to the bottom between him and the GOP candidate as to who can be more hateful.
Thank god we have the uber-adult that is Hillary or we'd be even more of a laughingstock around the world than we currently are.
6
Charles, thank you for the concise explanation as to how the front-runner got so far. He has, like it or not, built up sizable political capital on impractical - to say the least - governing ideas, where will that misguided energy send Republicans when he finally has the long-predicted train wreck? Or alternatively and truly scary, what if he doesn't get outplaced from the race? Based on your column it is fair to say the press has created a monster, I'd like to see a few well-penned dragon-slayers keep the White House from being breached. Otherwise all we're getting are feeble tilts at the windbag.
2
A crass act is hard to follow – especially when it's aided and abetted by the media. Love him or hate him, Trump's repellent views are like a drug the American public can't get enough of, and the media is a willing supplier. Kudos to Arianna Huffington for taking a stand against this megalomaniac.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/arianna-huffington/a-note-on-trump_b_87444...
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/arianna-huffington/a-note-on-trump_b_87444...
3
What you and the rest of the people, including the "Main Stream" media and every politician from both parties is unprecedented. You are all attacking Donald Trump because he is not politically correct or duplicitous or a liar, which is what all of you are. What I just said is true and is reflected by Trump's growing popularity. Adherence to political correctness enabled the last Muslim terrorist attack in the US. The neighbors of the Muslim terrorists were afraid to report suspicious activity by Muslims because they were afraid of being called racists. Where do you think they got the idea they would be called racist? They got the idea they would be called racists from you and the others I mentioned above.
3
You do know that the San Bernardino killers practiced at a shooting range where they were undoubted SURROUNDED by 'good guys' with guns who did ABSOLUTELY nothing. Explain.
1
To NYChap and others complaining about "political correctness".
A suggestion: reflect on the meaning of "political correctness." 1) It is used as way of correcting inappropriate stereotyping or correcting the use of inappropriate language --it is just somebody suggesting to another that use of some language, vocabulary, or even the implications of one's discourse is inappropriate and that the person might consider changing; 2) it can be used as a way of saying "you are limiting my right to free speech" ; 3) It has been over-used by some as an excuse to silence others -- saying "I know better than you, and that unintended slur is horrible", when in fact it is not really a slur nor intolerable.
In other words, "political correctness" can refer to something worthwhile, something overbearing, something exaggerated, or just used as a way of cutting off discussion.
So using "political correctness" to make a point can be confusing, misleading, or really just another way of saying "I disagree with you". Try to avoid using the term, and simply say precisely what you mean. It might lead to a fuller dialogue.
Political correctness had nothing to do with terrorist attacks. What are you saying here?
A suggestion: reflect on the meaning of "political correctness." 1) It is used as way of correcting inappropriate stereotyping or correcting the use of inappropriate language --it is just somebody suggesting to another that use of some language, vocabulary, or even the implications of one's discourse is inappropriate and that the person might consider changing; 2) it can be used as a way of saying "you are limiting my right to free speech" ; 3) It has been over-used by some as an excuse to silence others -- saying "I know better than you, and that unintended slur is horrible", when in fact it is not really a slur nor intolerable.
In other words, "political correctness" can refer to something worthwhile, something overbearing, something exaggerated, or just used as a way of cutting off discussion.
So using "political correctness" to make a point can be confusing, misleading, or really just another way of saying "I disagree with you". Try to avoid using the term, and simply say precisely what you mean. It might lead to a fuller dialogue.
Political correctness had nothing to do with terrorist attacks. What are you saying here?
3
You are over killing what I said. If you do not understand my use of political correctness you are among the very few. Read it again and maybe this time you will "get it". Adherence to political correctness enabled the last Muslim terrorist attack in the US. The neighbors of the Muslim terrorists were afraid to report suspicious activity by Muslims because they were afraid of being called racists. Where do you think they got the idea they would be called racist? They got the idea they would be called racists from you and the others I mentioned above.
1
A column blasting the media for giving the "entertaining jester prone to outlandishness" "airtime and column inches." The irony.
2
I'm convinced the T candidate is merely amusing himself by creating turmoil and controversy in the campaign. I doubt that he really looks forward to serving--four years of protocol and "making nice" with foreigners at receptions, etc., are certainly not on his personal agenda. His TV show is over; he misses the public attention it brought him. He'll find a way to bail before the ballots are printed.
2
Mr. Blow significantly underestimates the danger presented by a Trump nomination. Against all expectations, he might win.
2
"He is dangerous, but only because he has enough followers to make him dangerous. Without them, he would be what he has always been: another crass man saying crass things to which few serious people listened."
But there is no "without them". They're here and they've always been here. Trump has exposed the really dark, racist, scary underbelly of our society. They just didn't have a voice until now, and that voice is the pie-holed Howard Beale mad man of our era. We could just end up getting the President we deserve. I hope not, but we've never come this close.
But there is no "without them". They're here and they've always been here. Trump has exposed the really dark, racist, scary underbelly of our society. They just didn't have a voice until now, and that voice is the pie-holed Howard Beale mad man of our era. We could just end up getting the President we deserve. I hope not, but we've never come this close.
3
I don't see Trump or the other republican candidates being clearly electable. My guess is that they will trot out Mitt Romney at a tactical moment. This gives him time to see what sells and what doesn't. He doesn't have to deal with Clinton. He gets to avoid gaffes.
1
I've been waiting for someone to make this point. Its not just Trump who should be condemned, but all the millions of people out there who are pledging their support to him and the vile positions he puts forth. Trump would be nothing without a huge base of followers. Its sad enough that we have Trump, but even sadder that there are so many people who are behind him. And you've got to ask: where did they all come from? They are amongst us, everywhere. And for many, their views have been gradually formed from listening to the far right radio, Fox 'News,' and even many in the Republican leadership (who are now trying to step back from the most extreme views). So Trump is nothing more than the byproduct of a natural evolution of something that has been fomenting in this country for some time. Remember George Wallace, how vile he was? He got almost 14% of the vote nationally in the 1968 Presidential election, and even won 5 states. And he was just a one-issue candidate, and not a great speaker at that. Trump has a much broader base. We just better hope he doesn't get to 50.01%.
6
Grubbs, instead of asking where Trump's supporters came from, why not ask them why they support him? And then (gasp!) actually listen to & contemplate their answers.
Alas, the supposedly intellectual Left seems more interested in labeling Trump's supporters than listening to & trying to understand where they're coming from. A prerequisite, I'd think, to reaching them. Unless, of course, they're just "low information voters" that don't really matter anyway.
Alas, the supposedly intellectual Left seems more interested in labeling Trump's supporters than listening to & trying to understand where they're coming from. A prerequisite, I'd think, to reaching them. Unless, of course, they're just "low information voters" that don't really matter anyway.
1
Spot on, Mr. Blow. Paul Ryan says that the Trump rhetoric is not what the republican party is about, but when asked whether he would support Trump if he is the nominee of the party, Ryan states that he would support who ever is the eventual nominee of the party. It seems that there is very little courage and/or principle in the party of Lincoln.
4
The republican party sat idly by as this man berated and harassed this president. nothing said, turned a blind eye. Members of this party stayed quiet as their members since 2008 became unhinged with the wildest accusations. Again nothing said. They let this monster grown till now they are no longer in control and the "beast" of the lunatic fringe is now in control.
Well, you asked for it and now it is your problem and you are ruining this country or what is left of it. Between you as a party, Fox News and all your media minions, you have like a constant drum beat blamed every group that you possibly could for all the ills of America.
However you never step up with your rhetoric when it does not resemble the narrative you want. Think Charleston, Planned Parenthood, Newton and all the other massacre.
You have bred this and now you are forcing the country to live with it
Well, you asked for it and now it is your problem and you are ruining this country or what is left of it. Between you as a party, Fox News and all your media minions, you have like a constant drum beat blamed every group that you possibly could for all the ills of America.
However you never step up with your rhetoric when it does not resemble the narrative you want. Think Charleston, Planned Parenthood, Newton and all the other massacre.
You have bred this and now you are forcing the country to live with it
3
Even the Republican Party does not want Trump, because they believe he might lose the House and Senate in the general. So why are Democrats publicly dissing Trump? Cruz or Rubio might be trouble but the turnout against Trump would be "huge".
1
Charles, you said a mouthful. The candidate you choose to have remain nameless is a creation of the media. Vanity and profanity trump sanity and humanity. If it bleeds it leads. Blame your own editors and your colleagues at the other papers in town.
I think the best response to this 'front-runner' is supporting policies that improve education in our country. His supporters are created out of ignorance of history, of the ideals of liberty, of the culture and character of the people they hate. We can't keep having Texas textbooks that erase slavery and internment camps from our national history and not expect people to become ignorant and intellectually lazy.
4
This is what comes from the right's mind-numbing allegiance to conservative talk radio, tv and internet. He is exactly the type of candidate they espouse.
3
I believe another source of Trump's popularity is that he represents the last (let's hope) chance of those who long for the continued hegemony of white male culture. He's the real estate mogul Sinatra, a man's man who thumbs this nose at political correctness and still refers to women as broads, who are to be valued based on how good they look in his shadow. It's probably no coincidence that Sinatra, who would turn 100 this year, is enjoying a bit of a comeback. Let's just hope that Ol' Orange Hair is the swan song of the political influence of this aging segment of the population.
Crass" is the perfect word, Charles! Xenophobia is the shield and buckler of "the man who shall be nameless". What started as a silly carny sideshow has morphed into a reach toward fascism by the front-runner. The nameless one has done irreparable damage to the Republican Party, to our allies and enemies, and stands for all that is reprehensible and demented in America's political landscape. A crass man who has risen like yeast in the American cosmos - who leads by 35% according to today's NYT/CBS poll. Polls don't mean diddly eleven months before the Presidential Election takes place in November, 2016. At any time, the front-runner can trip and fall, can fumble the ball, can turn his demagogees against him. He is walking a circus tightrope with no net below and is not all the way across the thin line between fear and dementia The entire Republican/GOP/Tea Party is in durance vile and only a different Deus ex Machina will pull them out of their antidiluvian tar pit.
4
The following opinions of Mr.Blows have fueled the support for Trump
1. seeing racism in nearly all acts of Americans
2. supporting Occupy Wall Street and claiming that Americans lack the opportunity for success
3. attacking the American justice system as unjust
Most Americans reject this nonsense.
These attacks on American values combined with the dishonesty and self -serving behavior of our political leaders, have created near anarchy.
Americans are desperately in search of a leader who can restore order and stability but Trump is not the answer.
1. seeing racism in nearly all acts of Americans
2. supporting Occupy Wall Street and claiming that Americans lack the opportunity for success
3. attacking the American justice system as unjust
Most Americans reject this nonsense.
These attacks on American values combined with the dishonesty and self -serving behavior of our political leaders, have created near anarchy.
Americans are desperately in search of a leader who can restore order and stability but Trump is not the answer.
4
We are not near anarchy--as long as no one in power reduces our tax code to 3 pages or a flat tax. Then our systems and our social contract will get pretty anarchic, just wait and see.
1
Of all the over usage of Nazi Germany terminology and comparisons, in this case the comparison is apt. And I am glad more and more people are speaking up, but I think we are in uncharted waters here in the US with this madman, and I don't think anyone can predict how this will end. Very frightening.
4
The GOP for years were building this house and the media helped hammer in the last nails, but they did not have the foresight to put in doors or windows and now find themselves trapped inside with a potentially deadly virus.
5
Should the name that should not be named become the president of the United States of America, the land of the “free” and the home of the “brave” he will then close the borders to all Moslems. Honestly I can’t tell just by looking at someone if they are Moslem or not, maybe the women because they wear a particular kind of clothing. So he would have to ban all air flights into the USA and now that I think of it all shipping into the USA because some of the crewmen might be those evil Moslems. Then we would have to close our borders with Canada, some of those who want to enter might be Moslems. Since the name that should not be named wants to build the “best and beautiful” wall along the Mexican border and make the Mexicans to pay for it, then he must build the second “best and beautiful” wall along the Canadian border and make the Canadians pay for it.
Mr. Blow I congratulate you. You expressed very nicely the thoughts that have been I have been thinking these past few months. I could not have said or written it better. Thank you.
Mr. Blow I congratulate you. You expressed very nicely the thoughts that have been I have been thinking these past few months. I could not have said or written it better. Thank you.
1
The Republican Party has for years (maybe decades) been using fear to manipulate the stupid to protect the rich, all under the guise of freedom. Trump has only amplified that message such that the GOP is no longer the party of the stupid. It is now the party of the stupid, intolerant, xenophobic, fascist, racist bigots. It always was thus, but now Trump has served to strip all the disguises away from what many Republicans actually stand for. America should thank Mr. Trump for this service.
2
So it seems Blow is advocating media censorship with respect to Trump. That's rather sad. But in the same piece he's discussing Trump as if his oblique but obvious no-name strategy is not actually doing the same thing he's deploring.
2
Let us not be distracted by Trump's "fascism" from the genuine article in Ted Cruz. That is exactly what Cruz is counting on as he slipstreams behind Trump and Carson. He's rising slowly to present himself as the more reasonable conservative alternative with political office experience but still an outsider. Only Rubio blocks him from the nomination, which should make for a good dogfight. And the scary thing is that with her negatives and the built-in latent gender bias it will only take a slip or two by Hillary, or an October surprise, for the gullible electorate to opt for a "protector." Happened in Germany 85 years ago.
1
You really nailed this. Really, the X phenomenon is just an intensification of the phenomenon of the contemporary Republican party and media. Both are addicted to the feedback loop of self-serving propoganda, am radio fascists, fake videos and fake research and public pandering. The leadership doesn't condemn X because he isn't serious. They haven't been serious for decades. They condemn X because he's in it for himself instead of for the politics-media-money nexus that is their bread and butter. Ironically this is the same reason his followers follow him: addicted to Republican & media pandering, they mistake his narcissism for principle. At least they realize on some level that they've been conned. The problem is they've responded by choosing a better con artist.
1
Mr. Trump is "dangerous" because the media have made him dangerous. Trump has apparently spent less than a half million dollars on his presidential campaign, while other candidates have spent millions. So where does Trump's status and influence arise from? The media.
The media no longer act as patrons of what should be the public good, of thoughtful (and appropriate) debate over issues and policy. Instead, they clip a microphone onto any whack job who has an extremist, if not totally loopy, point of view just to incur ratings and (sadly and appropriately described) "trumped up" controversies.
Dear Media: Why do you even bother to interview this man? You can't just use the excuse he's leading in the polls as your justification. I would lead in the polls, too, if you stuck a mic in my face every minute and heard what thoughtless and uninformed things I had to say. Dear Media, where is your stewardship? Do you even know what the word means anymore?
The current election coverage might as well be just more episodes in the "Caught on Camera" television series. Instead of showing us the latest brawls from little league parents (something we used to never see in the media but now is entertainment), we're witnessing the ugly tearing of our national fabric as media sport.
The media no longer act as patrons of what should be the public good, of thoughtful (and appropriate) debate over issues and policy. Instead, they clip a microphone onto any whack job who has an extremist, if not totally loopy, point of view just to incur ratings and (sadly and appropriately described) "trumped up" controversies.
Dear Media: Why do you even bother to interview this man? You can't just use the excuse he's leading in the polls as your justification. I would lead in the polls, too, if you stuck a mic in my face every minute and heard what thoughtless and uninformed things I had to say. Dear Media, where is your stewardship? Do you even know what the word means anymore?
The current election coverage might as well be just more episodes in the "Caught on Camera" television series. Instead of showing us the latest brawls from little league parents (something we used to never see in the media but now is entertainment), we're witnessing the ugly tearing of our national fabric as media sport.
2
One question? If he cares so much about this country why he does not take on Wayne La Pierre? One of this country`s problems are guns, nobody seems to have the power to face up to NRA? He is so excellent to make deals, why he does not try this one? Prisons are overcrowded with a lot of young people, so many children hungry, the homeless!!!
Why he does not put his money where is mouth is?
Why he does not put his money where is mouth is?
3
I'd like to see some backup to the assertion that the media were in Trump's hands at the beginning because they saw him as a "sideshow"-- or, to develop a thought Mr. Blow apparently doesn't consider --because he was one of the country's most well-known reality TV personalities who has carefully cultivated a celebrity "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous" persona.
Because I don't believe it, and I'm getting a little tired of using "the media" as a convenient whipping boy -- even by members of the media (in yet another op-ed about -- what else? Trump. Oh the irony!).
I believe -- with as much justification as Mr. Blow's assertion-- that the media were only following the rank-and-file of the party, which flocked to him after he went way beyond other candidates on the immigrant (Latino, not Muslim) issue.
Because I don't believe it, and I'm getting a little tired of using "the media" as a convenient whipping boy -- even by members of the media (in yet another op-ed about -- what else? Trump. Oh the irony!).
I believe -- with as much justification as Mr. Blow's assertion-- that the media were only following the rank-and-file of the party, which flocked to him after he went way beyond other candidates on the immigrant (Latino, not Muslim) issue.
Why not, to prevent frequent pronoun confusion, simply refer to "him" as The Hair Fuhrer?
3
Some folks think most Americans are stupid but that decidedly is not true. Trump provides entertainment which makes him popular now. When the race gets serious Trump will be dumped in a New York minute.
Everyone should note that even though the republicans in leadership positions (except of course Cruz) have taken to ritualized hand wringing but not a one has said they would not support his nomination. So yes the xenophobic, rascist crazy talk is exactly who the GOPTP is.
2
I know someone who is a Trump supporter. However, this person also recognizes, at least in some respects, that Trump is prone to talking off the cuff and this is not necessarily a quality one would want in a president. In short, I think this person wants someone who voices Trump's ideas but in a more 'presidential' manner. I find this equally frightening.
1
Trump's supporters and his ilk (basically the Republican candidates and their supporters) are, perhaps, unaware of how much ISIS appreciates what Trump is saying. His words are great for recruiting people to their cause. Trump et. al. are putting us in even graver danger.
2
In my state of Massachusetts, most of the democrats are really dinos (democrat in name only) and many of them support Trump. He's not the crazy uncle. He's the father, the brother, the friend and the everyday uncle. Their significant others are only slightly less enamored with him. I don't think the media could have censored him. He was too thrilling and very profitable from the start.
My two grandsons (3 and 7 yrs. old) often start off physical play together in a relatively calm symbiosis but things sometimes threaten to get out of control. This is when I or my wife intervene to settle things down before somebody gets hurt. Today, the Trump show has reached the escalation point where the horse play threatens to become a real “donnybrook” and the adults in the room need to step in before real injury occurs.
My two grandsons (3 and 7 yrs. old) often start off physical play together in a relatively calm symbiosis but things sometimes threaten to get out of control. This is when I or my wife intervene to settle things down before somebody gets hurt. Today, the Trump show has reached the escalation point where the horse play threatens to become a real “donnybrook” and the adults in the room need to step in before real injury occurs.
2
"But something happened, rather quickly: The media realized that it had to keep feeding the beast it had created,"
And you, Mr. Blow, are doing exactly the same thing. You are part of and party to the problem. Stop feeding the beast.
And you, Mr. Blow, are doing exactly the same thing. You are part of and party to the problem. Stop feeding the beast.
1
And so are we for even reading and commenting.
1
Mr. Blow, you are right, but you did not tell the whole story. The media played a much larger role than you think.
You said the media covered Trump to increase their profits. True. But before Trump, they exploited terrorism for money. How else can you explain why we are obsessed with approximately 75 dead Americans at the hands of terrorists since 9/11, while 150,000 Americans died from guns (not counting suicides) in the same time period? Also, the media has been advocating wars since the 1950s, to increase their profits. So, we have spent tens of Trillions of dollars, and sacrificed hundreds of thousands of valiant American troops, from Korea through Iraq, largely because the media wanted to sell newspapers and TV advertising (and also because of lobbying from the military-industrial complex).
As for Trump, the media keeps telling us that Islamic terrorists are killing Americans, and there is nothing we can do about it at home. So Trump comes up with a solution: keep Muslims out of the country. What did you expect? (The reason we have Islamic terrorists killing Americans is that we have been killing Muslims in the Middle East for over two decades. Connect the dots.)
You said the media covered Trump to increase their profits. True. But before Trump, they exploited terrorism for money. How else can you explain why we are obsessed with approximately 75 dead Americans at the hands of terrorists since 9/11, while 150,000 Americans died from guns (not counting suicides) in the same time period? Also, the media has been advocating wars since the 1950s, to increase their profits. So, we have spent tens of Trillions of dollars, and sacrificed hundreds of thousands of valiant American troops, from Korea through Iraq, largely because the media wanted to sell newspapers and TV advertising (and also because of lobbying from the military-industrial complex).
As for Trump, the media keeps telling us that Islamic terrorists are killing Americans, and there is nothing we can do about it at home. So Trump comes up with a solution: keep Muslims out of the country. What did you expect? (The reason we have Islamic terrorists killing Americans is that we have been killing Muslims in the Middle East for over two decades. Connect the dots.)
1
Please keep writing about him and please keep him on the front page. The more the Republican establishment gets uncomfortable with him the more likely he'll bolt and launch and independent run taking the nasty bottom layer of the Republican base with him. Then perhaps the Republican Party can leave its recent past behind and become a serious political institution again.
1
You realize Donald Trump wins the election as a 3rd party candidate, don't you?
I doubt independents, Democrats and Republicans who have even the slightest veneer of human decency would join those who see Trump as their champion.
3
Just got to love the Scots who've told Trump to get lost. One university there withdrew an honorary degree conferred on him in 2010. The First Minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon, canceled Trump's membership of a business group, GlobalScot.
3
At the heart of Trump's psyche is one of his favourite epithets "loser" - try an exercise, Google "trump calls loser" and notice how many people he has used this expression on. While you are at it, Google "Trump cheats at golf" ... and yes, that too you will find. What does this tell you - that Trump is fundamentally unprincipled in competition, and that is what he sees this primary process as. There is no where Trump will not go in order not to be a "loser," race, religion, etc. That is what we are seeing here. The real Donald Trump is a creature of whatever he thinks will advance his current objectives, morality, decency, values has nothing to do with it. He has decided that nasty racists ignoramuses are a useful constituency, so he is making statements that appeal to them. The problem is, if he though it would advance his objectives as President, there is no where he would not go either.
By the way, in a debate, if one of the other candidates wants to make Trump melt-down, finding a way to use the word "loser" on him is probably the a great tactic.
By the way, in a debate, if one of the other candidates wants to make Trump melt-down, finding a way to use the word "loser" on him is probably the a great tactic.
3
The American electorate needs to relax. Trump's appeal is too narrow for him to win a general election. So let him exercise his First Amendment right, spewing bile, hatred and fascism. In the end he's simply hurting himself.
Yesterday on NBC Nighty New they gave "That Man" 8.5 minutes of air time for the lead in story at the top of the show. Then another 3 to 4 minutes at the close. For a national network broadcast that has about 22 minutes of news time, not including the commercials with makes the 30 minutes was appalling to me. The media has fueled this man's entire campaign with free publicity, and he's working the news media like a hooker in a Las Vegas bar. It's beyond my understanding that we want to hear anything this man has to say. Even now, just writing about HIM, makes me a little nausious to think how uncivilized we are allowing this to continue. Pull the plug, stop the presses and he's voice will be silenced.
3
Many months ago, Jeb Bush remarked that he may not win all the primaries but that he would be the nominee. He may be crazy like a fox. Trump is painting the party with wode and posturing in such a manner as to make himself unacceptable as the nominee. Resurrecting himself as a sane and tame generic republican candidate may just pan out for Jeb. Sooner rather than later, the GOP leadership will have to stop the Donald in his tracks. At this point, Hillary Rodham Clinton may be writing her inaugural address. One can only hope.
1
Literature is replete with warnings about this moment. What happens to our grand experiment when "news" outlets are closer to "newspeak" than news? What happens when too many citizens are incapable of detecting a lie spouted by a person with a microphone? How profoundly was our system degraded when "you lie!" was shouted in the halls of Congress and when government was declared to be the "problem?" Why do we aspire to be the most well-armed instead of the most well-educated, accomplished and generous nation on earth?
3
I think you hit on the root of it here: "He has mainstreamed the marginalized and the mocked."
We are going to have to deal with this issue. What is making white men (in particular) fearful and ready to strike out at anyone who is different? This is really the cancer at the core. I don't have an answer. But this issue is not going to go away when Trump does.
We are going to have to deal with this issue. What is making white men (in particular) fearful and ready to strike out at anyone who is different? This is really the cancer at the core. I don't have an answer. But this issue is not going to go away when Trump does.
2
At least some of it is the mocking. The left has its ideologues, as well. And, as you imply, what we really need is understanding.
1
Good & important question, Iainnj.
Take a deep breath, Mr. B, Hillary has more votes than Mr. T. It speaks to the wisdom of our current electorate that either of them has any votes at all.
If you want to know how Republicans feel about Hillary, just put her name if front of your "making me crazy" phrase.
Speaking again to the wisdom of the electorate, they do know which side of their bread gets buttered with free butter, no matter the qualifications of a candidate, or lack of same.
Take a breath, sir. Within a year you will have 8 more years of what you've had. It's that lack of leadership that drives the other side nuts.
If you want to know how Republicans feel about Hillary, just put her name if front of your "making me crazy" phrase.
Speaking again to the wisdom of the electorate, they do know which side of their bread gets buttered with free butter, no matter the qualifications of a candidate, or lack of same.
Take a breath, sir. Within a year you will have 8 more years of what you've had. It's that lack of leadership that drives the other side nuts.
2
Hate to bust your meme, Lake, but this Republican's voting for Hillary if she's matched up against Trump. Sorry..
2
Donald Trump is a blowhard and is all too representative of the GOP's political agenda. That said, he has tapped into the anger felt by much of the American people toward politicians in general and in the case of this opinion piece, the spread of Islamic terrorism into civilized countries.
Mr Blow forgets or doesn't mention that Islamic terrorists and the theocracies that support them have declared war on civilized peoples. They demonstrate their contempt of unbelievers daily in barbaric fashion. Most importantly, the terrorists are mainstream Muslims of Wahhabist doctrine, the very same doctrine propagated by Saudi Arabia and its smaller Arab theocracies. Theirs is the vision of ethnic cleansing that the terrorists call for and theirs is the vision of Islam that Trump has conflated with all Muslims.
Trump is wrong in his call to ban all Muslims from entering the US. The issue is not all Islam but Wahhabist Islam.
Some political leader would be right to call for a quarantine of all Arab dejure and defacto theocracies so long as their official political, theocratic, and defacto foreign policies reflect, nurture and spread the values of ISIS around the globe. Because that is what is happening.
Simply calling Trump names, as both Mr Blow and I have done, is not sufficient to address the real issue of Islamic terrorism and its barbarity. The expectation of leadership is to do something decisive to eradicate Islamic terrorism. Now.
Mr Blow forgets or doesn't mention that Islamic terrorists and the theocracies that support them have declared war on civilized peoples. They demonstrate their contempt of unbelievers daily in barbaric fashion. Most importantly, the terrorists are mainstream Muslims of Wahhabist doctrine, the very same doctrine propagated by Saudi Arabia and its smaller Arab theocracies. Theirs is the vision of ethnic cleansing that the terrorists call for and theirs is the vision of Islam that Trump has conflated with all Muslims.
Trump is wrong in his call to ban all Muslims from entering the US. The issue is not all Islam but Wahhabist Islam.
Some political leader would be right to call for a quarantine of all Arab dejure and defacto theocracies so long as their official political, theocratic, and defacto foreign policies reflect, nurture and spread the values of ISIS around the globe. Because that is what is happening.
Simply calling Trump names, as both Mr Blow and I have done, is not sufficient to address the real issue of Islamic terrorism and its barbarity. The expectation of leadership is to do something decisive to eradicate Islamic terrorism. Now.
3
Demagogue. Racist. Fascism. Tongue dripping with poison. You haven't left much out here Mr. Blow, except maybe pedophile. You don't have to be a fan of Mr. Trump to understand that these kind of accusations are absurd and that the people like yourself who are making them are
simply President Obama enthusiasts not wishing to look into the mirror and account for the current lamentable state of our country.
simply President Obama enthusiasts not wishing to look into the mirror and account for the current lamentable state of our country.
3
The Republican Party has been courting racists since Nixon's "Southern Strategy" in 1968. Ronald Reagan kicked off his presidential campaign in 1980 in Philadelphia, Mississippi, where just 16 years before 3 civil rights workers (Schwerner, Chaney and Goodman) had been brutally murdered by the KKK. 20 years later, in 2000, after losing in New Hampshire to John McCain, George W. Bush's campaign conducted a phony "push poll" in South Carolina, calling potential voters and asking "Would you vote for John McCain knowing he has an illegitimate Black daughter?" It worked. Of course they were referring to the McCains' adopted daughter, Bridgette, born out of wedlock in Bangladesh.
So what "he who shall not be named" (Trump--oops!) and Scalia are doing is turning over the rock so we can see what's really crawling out, what really is the filthy underbelly of the Republican Party, no longer the party of Eisenhower, Rockefeller, Goldwater or even John McCain.
By attacking Hispanics, Blacks and now Muslims, and the weak response by fellow Republicans (Speaker Ryan's limp statement being the strongest), they will motivate so many to get out and vote to ensure these bigots don't get in and don't get to extend their control of the Supreme Court.
There are currently about 125 million Americans (39%) who Trump and Scalia and the GOP have alienated because they are not White/non-Hispanics like that overwhelming majority of Trump supporters. All they have to do is vote.
So what "he who shall not be named" (Trump--oops!) and Scalia are doing is turning over the rock so we can see what's really crawling out, what really is the filthy underbelly of the Republican Party, no longer the party of Eisenhower, Rockefeller, Goldwater or even John McCain.
By attacking Hispanics, Blacks and now Muslims, and the weak response by fellow Republicans (Speaker Ryan's limp statement being the strongest), they will motivate so many to get out and vote to ensure these bigots don't get in and don't get to extend their control of the Supreme Court.
There are currently about 125 million Americans (39%) who Trump and Scalia and the GOP have alienated because they are not White/non-Hispanics like that overwhelming majority of Trump supporters. All they have to do is vote.
4
Actually, Trump has made one good argument. By his very nature, he makes a fine argument for a stronger, more just inheritance tax.
Fascist loons should not be empowered by money. And if it is money that has made them tyrannical and kept them ignorant, this is just another argument for taking it out of their hands.
You know who really needs it? The people who are falling for Trump's boorish lies.
Fascist loons should not be empowered by money. And if it is money that has made them tyrannical and kept them ignorant, this is just another argument for taking it out of their hands.
You know who really needs it? The people who are falling for Trump's boorish lies.
My point in my earlier comment is that I am tired of hearing about Trump because most of the columns are rehashes of earlier and other op-ed columns. And practically everything that Trump says is red meat for this audience.
If you are going to complain about how much money the media is making from Trump, go the distance, beyond not naming him, and cut off the money being made off the column by not running the ads and the eyeball metric scripts on the page.
Be true to your complaint.
If you are going to complain about how much money the media is making from Trump, go the distance, beyond not naming him, and cut off the money being made off the column by not running the ads and the eyeball metric scripts on the page.
Be true to your complaint.
1
Trump is the culmination of Richard Nixon's "southern strategy." Harvest the hate.
Anyone surprised by GOP crassness hasn't been paying attention for almost 50 years.
Anyone surprised by GOP crassness hasn't been paying attention for almost 50 years.
2
Thank you for this great article. Trump seemed funny in an awful way at first. That people are taking him seriously is frightening. The press has to take responsibility for promoting this, but an ugly side of America is now seen, for which we all must take responsibility. It is not Trump, but a national sickness, as Blow points out. The world has become so small - it's time for us to become human again, and show love and give hope to refugees and others in trouble and pain, give up our fear of "the other". We need to realize we can't control events, only show our humanity to our fellow man.
1
Charles - you don't want to write his name, but the Editorial Page devotes hundreds of column inches every day to Trump.
It is not unfair to compare Trump to a professional "wrestler," who would not merit mention in the Sports section. (Old timers might note that he does indeed resemble Gorgeous George.) Yes, Trump is some kind of phenomenon, but covering him in the news and editorial pages lends credibility he doesn't merit. I know the distinguished NYT doesn't emulate anyone, but take a page from Huffington Post, where Trump is relegated to the entertainment section.
It is not unfair to compare Trump to a professional "wrestler," who would not merit mention in the Sports section. (Old timers might note that he does indeed resemble Gorgeous George.) Yes, Trump is some kind of phenomenon, but covering him in the news and editorial pages lends credibility he doesn't merit. I know the distinguished NYT doesn't emulate anyone, but take a page from Huffington Post, where Trump is relegated to the entertainment section.
2
It's becoming painfully clear that there are few serious people left in the United States.
"until our country's representatives can figure out what is going on".
Well, Mr. Trump, unfortunately, has one thing correct. It is not clear that the Obama administration fully understands the threat of ISIS and it is certainly clear that they do not know how to defeat it. At best there are ideas regarding containment and attrition.
Perhaps if there was a clearer plan re ISIS, then there would be less hysteria and less of a willingness to even contemplate Mr. Trump's ideas on (Muslim) immigration or anything else.
As for racism, that is too deeply embedded in American society to be ameliorated with the departure of Mr. Trump from the political field.
Well, Mr. Trump, unfortunately, has one thing correct. It is not clear that the Obama administration fully understands the threat of ISIS and it is certainly clear that they do not know how to defeat it. At best there are ideas regarding containment and attrition.
Perhaps if there was a clearer plan re ISIS, then there would be less hysteria and less of a willingness to even contemplate Mr. Trump's ideas on (Muslim) immigration or anything else.
As for racism, that is too deeply embedded in American society to be ameliorated with the departure of Mr. Trump from the political field.
3
Trump doesn't scare me - his supporters do. This time around they are being led by a clown. Next time ...who knows?
4
For a big man cat, you sure scare easily.
Yes the media has been way too complicit in indulging this narcissistic megalomaniac who is feeding into xenophobic slime that was always just under the surface. It came spewing out with the election of Barack Obama and the oft heard phrase of "take our country back" was the forerunner of everything we hear today. Those four words were always ominous to me and it is reaching its height under a master manipulator.
Oh and by the way the President of Liberty University exhorted his students to go and get gun permits and the university is holding workshops to help them navigate the gun permit application. He told them that they will be ready to shoot those Muslims - oh yes he did. Wonderful example of being a Christian don't you think? No reporting on that much!
Guess what? The Rethug candidates will continue to visit that university. Lie down with fleas and all that.
Oh and by the way the President of Liberty University exhorted his students to go and get gun permits and the university is holding workshops to help them navigate the gun permit application. He told them that they will be ready to shoot those Muslims - oh yes he did. Wonderful example of being a Christian don't you think? No reporting on that much!
Guess what? The Rethug candidates will continue to visit that university. Lie down with fleas and all that.
Trump is well aware that the office of the President has no powers to ban Muslims from traveling to the U.S. But he sure is using up all the ink in the NYT! And that is the tactic. Make the libel medias' heads explode. Charles and his fans will not vote for him anyway. The media is a left wing superpac. Right now it's a blackout on Hillary and Sanders. What happened to Sanders anyway, is he still running? It's a very clever tactic. And you fools are playing right into his hands. By the way, he's too old. But so is Hillary and Bernie, so you can't write about that!
2
Solutions are at the voting machine and a majority of US citizens in general do not vote, current minorities vote even less and Democrats in particular do not vote (16% in 2012). So he-who-must-not-be-named has a clear path because he can pay people to vote for him if he wants to though he evidently does not need to.
Until the Democrats rediscover their long ago abandoned Ward Healers, they are losers.
Until the Democrats rediscover their long ago abandoned Ward Healers, they are losers.
2
"The media realized that it had to keep feeding the beast it had created..."
So why is Mr. Blow continuing to feed the beast with this article? Stop writing about him. He's playing the press, including the NYT and its writers.
So why is Mr. Blow continuing to feed the beast with this article? Stop writing about him. He's playing the press, including the NYT and its writers.
1
So, we now have the NY Times allowing “a columnist” to opine on the presidential election while not using a leading candidate’s name. Is Blow’s column the “Talk of the Town”? The New Yorker’s conceit has an established élan. But, this has no place on the Opinion Page and it comes across as miss-placed petulance by Blow.
Moving beyond Blow’s resistance to writing the name Trump, his column today continues the long established liberal practice of denigrating conservative Americans who may have emotional reactions to certain heartfelt concerns. However, such emotional reactions are fine as long as it relates to abortion, police racism, gun control or any number of liberal shibboleths.
Trump (a blowhard, narcissist bigot, BTW), as much as we may not like his delivery, is speaking to fears and angers that many Americans have in the face of Islamic fanaticism. Much of this fear and anger is justified. And it is incumbent on our politicians to address how they will deal with an amorphous existential threat that is confronting America and the West in the most deadly way.
So, while candidates and elected officials should temper the impulse to demagoguery (something Trump obviously has trouble with), for Blow to ignore and dismiss Trump is to do the same of those Americans he is speaking to and for. This is a potentially a dangerous course. This is a debate that we must have and Trump’s voice, as odious as at may be, must be heard and, as needed, confronted.
Posted 7am
Moving beyond Blow’s resistance to writing the name Trump, his column today continues the long established liberal practice of denigrating conservative Americans who may have emotional reactions to certain heartfelt concerns. However, such emotional reactions are fine as long as it relates to abortion, police racism, gun control or any number of liberal shibboleths.
Trump (a blowhard, narcissist bigot, BTW), as much as we may not like his delivery, is speaking to fears and angers that many Americans have in the face of Islamic fanaticism. Much of this fear and anger is justified. And it is incumbent on our politicians to address how they will deal with an amorphous existential threat that is confronting America and the West in the most deadly way.
So, while candidates and elected officials should temper the impulse to demagoguery (something Trump obviously has trouble with), for Blow to ignore and dismiss Trump is to do the same of those Americans he is speaking to and for. This is a potentially a dangerous course. This is a debate that we must have and Trump’s voice, as odious as at may be, must be heard and, as needed, confronted.
Posted 7am
2
Trump is just a symptom. The cause is obvious: For eight years, the Republican Party has screeched its racist dog-whistle, encouraged ridiculous, paranoid delusions, encouraged ignorance, all in order to secure the votes of that 10% of America that is always looking for a violent, simple-minded, White Christian fascist solution to their personal obsolescence. They babble about Obama's disastrous Presidency, but when you ask for specifics, they change the subject. It's just a chant they learned on Fox, taught by liars for lucre.
3
What does it matter that you don't use Trump's name in your columns? Yesterday, when looking through the Times online, six of the top eight stories in the "Politics" section had his name in the headlines as did one major column on the Op-ed page.
Ever think, Mr. Blow, that you and your colleagues in news and opinion here and around the country are doing more than you'll admit to help spread his message?
Ever think, Mr. Blow, that you and your colleagues in news and opinion here and around the country are doing more than you'll admit to help spread his message?
2
It occurs with every new electoral cycle. The vitriol, bombast, bigotry and stupidity continually increase, from the Republican party. But this year it is a quantum leap; never before have I seriously feared our country may be headed for fascist rule. It is chilling enough to know that one of these candidates *will* get the Republican nomination; my blood runs cold at the thought that one of them might very well become president.
These are serious candidates. They have solid support among their electorate. They openly advocate Nazi-era tactics. They trivialize the ramifications of nuclear war.
Has Donald Trump or Ted Cruz ever watched Schindler's List? Hotel Rwanda? Do they not know that words matter? Are any of these applicants for the gravest job in the world willing to call out their comrades on their ugly and dangerous grandstanding--as a matter of principle and not just when their handlers tell them their polls suggest that they'd better?
Sadly, it appears not.
At least as sadly, it appears that a good chunk of the populace wants this. And make no mistake: those who would vote for a demagogue are as responsible for the outcome as is that candidate himself. Too often we give a pass to the ignorant, seemingly for the sake of ignorance.
If we do not hold our fellow citizens and ourselves to account, who will?
These are serious candidates. They have solid support among their electorate. They openly advocate Nazi-era tactics. They trivialize the ramifications of nuclear war.
Has Donald Trump or Ted Cruz ever watched Schindler's List? Hotel Rwanda? Do they not know that words matter? Are any of these applicants for the gravest job in the world willing to call out their comrades on their ugly and dangerous grandstanding--as a matter of principle and not just when their handlers tell them their polls suggest that they'd better?
Sadly, it appears not.
At least as sadly, it appears that a good chunk of the populace wants this. And make no mistake: those who would vote for a demagogue are as responsible for the outcome as is that candidate himself. Too often we give a pass to the ignorant, seemingly for the sake of ignorance.
If we do not hold our fellow citizens and ourselves to account, who will?
3
So much drama. And in a single post, no less.
Charles. The big mistake that most people make about him is that he is un-electable and if nominated would "but the best case scenario" for Democrats. This is a dangerous assumption given that we can't predict the future. But a study of the past tells us that Hitler was voted in through and by his manipulation of fear and if we are unfortunate to have more Paris and San Bernadinos take place, the fear factor could result in his election. So, please don't automatically dismiss that possibility.
1
Very well said, CB, Equally well, @Walter Rhett. But let's spare some effort to look at causes and not just symptoms. Monsters like Trump and Scalia exist. Why do they prosper? Because of human nature, I suppose, and that hasn't changed. But have there been changes in the conditions in which it can express itself? Instant communication? Once, the media consisted of the town crier, of the gossip whisperers in the marketplace, and of handbills that spread rank propaganda. Now, thoughts fly close to the speed of light.
This isn't just an American problem. The social glue is melting all across Europe. Neighbor against neighbor. Differences in color. Religion. Gender. Sexual preferences.
Have our nations become too big with the sacrifice of ancient, comforting tribal ties? Has Hobbes's Leviathan grown too large? Hard to indict size when in little Ireland (pop c. 4 million) people have a hard time agreeing on anything. Was the analysis of Jacques Barzun, as applied to the arts, even more widely applicable? Does his From Dawn to Decadence apply also to politics and governance? Has the pursuit of liberty and happiness eroded our sense of community? Duty? Responsibility?
Something is broken. Trump is one symptom of that.
This isn't just an American problem. The social glue is melting all across Europe. Neighbor against neighbor. Differences in color. Religion. Gender. Sexual preferences.
Have our nations become too big with the sacrifice of ancient, comforting tribal ties? Has Hobbes's Leviathan grown too large? Hard to indict size when in little Ireland (pop c. 4 million) people have a hard time agreeing on anything. Was the analysis of Jacques Barzun, as applied to the arts, even more widely applicable? Does his From Dawn to Decadence apply also to politics and governance? Has the pursuit of liberty and happiness eroded our sense of community? Duty? Responsibility?
Something is broken. Trump is one symptom of that.
1
let us hope he is the candidate....not only does this tell how the Republican constituents feel released to say the most racist things, but it also prevents somebody truly dangerous, like Ted Cruz or Marco Rubio, for actually running. In the meantime, the damage begun in the eyes of the world once we elected W only gets worse.
1
Charles, I like the idea of not referring to the GOP front runner by his name. However, I would encourage you and you colleagues to use the term "fascist" whenever referring to him. It is important that Americans understand the danger that this man and his followers are to our Republic.
1
It is important that we stand by our Muslim citizens. It is probably important that we figure out what need Trump addresses that isn't being addressed by others, because he is getting more powerful, as Charles states. Thanks for the column opening the discussion.
2
One of the most disgusting aspects of the most recent episode in this tragedy is the behavior of the other Republicans scrambling to distance themselves from this hatemonger. Have they suddenly discovered their consciences? Are they concerned about the future of the nation, its citizens, the world?
No. They're concerned about possible damage to the electoral chances of the Republican Party. The real damage to anyone outside their bubble is of no consequence to them.
No. They're concerned about possible damage to the electoral chances of the Republican Party. The real damage to anyone outside their bubble is of no consequence to them.
19
With all of the laser-like focus on Trump in recent days, I haven't heard a single pundit reflect on his total manipulation of the media, with the net result that Trump barely spends any money on his campaign, and yet continues to lead all the other candidates in his party, who are spending millions. For all of the media's avowed revulsion of Trump's ideology, its love of the controversy, and the ratings it brings, is even stronger. Perhaps what we need, even more than condemnation, is to kick our own childish addiction to celebrities and celebrity culture.
64
Agreed. The TV media should ignore Trump altogether to experiment to see if his polls drop over 2 weeks or so. They are fueling his rise and while it benefits ratings its hurting other quality candidates while our national image is tarnished. As well the liberal media touted the birther conspiracy as an attack on the GOP and they ran poll after poll which in turn Trump bumble his crass act into the dumbest idea, well now the 2nd dumbest idea ever. Trump running for office is the dumbest idea he's ever had.
2
Great point, Luke. The media is looking for the 30 second soundbite and Trump provides them by the dozen. They don't care what his rhetoric is, but it gives good news and keeps eyes glued to screens.
2
I think this article misses the point. There is a very large group of uneducated, poor, mostly white fellow citizens. They have been left behind in the 21st century economy and feel abandoned by the country and ignored by politicians. The right wing has been fanning the flames of hate ever since Mr. Obama was elected while ignoring the large social problem of these abandoned people. This group of our fellow Americans has listened and bought into that hate speech lock, stock and barrel. Their numbers have grown, some for fear of losing their previously dominant culture, some for fear of being on the outside of society, and some for fear of continued poverty. These people are his followers. But all of this was caused by the right wing, fanning those flames of hatred for Mr. Obama, and ignoring political solutions to their being left behind.
69
Black attorney, Washington DC, degree in American History.
Guest lecturer on law and politics in 3 European countries over the last 7 years.
Registered Republican.
Trump supporter.
So much for your mythical statements Mark.
Guest lecturer on law and politics in 3 European countries over the last 7 years.
Registered Republican.
Trump supporter.
So much for your mythical statements Mark.
1
There are two elements that Mr. Blow chooses to ignore.
1. That our system is one of democracy where people vote for the candidates of their choice. And,
2. The disaffected, "uneducated, poor, mostly white fellow citizens" are far more likely to vote than the uneducated, poor, mostly black fellow citizens for whom Mr. Blow regularly advocates.
Once again, Mr. Blow is complaining about a problem whose solution is far out of his reach.
1. That our system is one of democracy where people vote for the candidates of their choice. And,
2. The disaffected, "uneducated, poor, mostly white fellow citizens" are far more likely to vote than the uneducated, poor, mostly black fellow citizens for whom Mr. Blow regularly advocates.
Once again, Mr. Blow is complaining about a problem whose solution is far out of his reach.
2
One small correction to your post: The Republican Party has been "fanning the flames of hate" ever since Richard Nixon and others in the Republican Party adopted the so-called "Southern strategy" to win over the South.
1
Many readers of this paper cannot fathom that Trump could win the election. I suggest a more careful reading of history in the 1920's. Then there is this, by Lincoln, in 1838:
"Shall we expect some transatlantic military giant to step the ocean and crush us at a blow? Never! All the armies of Europe, Asia, and Africa combined, with all the treasure of the earth (our own excepted) in their military chest, with a Bonaparte for a commander, could not by force take a drink from the Ohio or make a track on the Blue Ridge in a trial of a thousand years. At what point then is the approach of danger to be expected? I answer. If it ever reach us it must spring up amongst us; it cannot come from abroad. If destruction be our lot we must ourselves be its author and finisher. As a nation of freemen we must live through all time or die by suicide".
"Shall we expect some transatlantic military giant to step the ocean and crush us at a blow? Never! All the armies of Europe, Asia, and Africa combined, with all the treasure of the earth (our own excepted) in their military chest, with a Bonaparte for a commander, could not by force take a drink from the Ohio or make a track on the Blue Ridge in a trial of a thousand years. At what point then is the approach of danger to be expected? I answer. If it ever reach us it must spring up amongst us; it cannot come from abroad. If destruction be our lot we must ourselves be its author and finisher. As a nation of freemen we must live through all time or die by suicide".
32
Read history? What a quaint idea.
If one does the will find that we are fighting the same demons over and over. Lincoln had it right. Only we can destroy us.
What is truly frightening about today's political climate is the similarity of the right's rhetoric to that of Hitler, Mussolini and Tojo. "They" are the enemy,out to destroy our great country and must be destroyed first. As for "They", Hitler had, for starters, the Jews. Military force was the one true option. As I recall,it didn't end well for them.
This isn't the 20's and 30's. Did we learn nothing?
The Muslim Radicals are out to destroy us and we must destroy them first, but military force alone won't do it. Notwithstanding the bravery and sacrifice of our troops, it ain't gonna happen. We should be, and perhaps already are waging an all out eeconomic war on them. If their wealth is based on oil, disrupt and destroy production and distribution. We won't of course because the Saudis are our friends.
We should be concentrating on drying up their money supply. All they chest thumping by politicians will do nothing except to highten their appeal. Discriminating against all Muslims does the same.
Perhaps we should grow up, shut up, get smart, and wage a 21st century war against a very real, if not existential threat.
I also like to note that the during the flu epidemic in the early 1900 hundreds , thousands died, not of the flu, but of the over reaction of the victims immune systemto the threat. They self destructed.
If one does the will find that we are fighting the same demons over and over. Lincoln had it right. Only we can destroy us.
What is truly frightening about today's political climate is the similarity of the right's rhetoric to that of Hitler, Mussolini and Tojo. "They" are the enemy,out to destroy our great country and must be destroyed first. As for "They", Hitler had, for starters, the Jews. Military force was the one true option. As I recall,it didn't end well for them.
This isn't the 20's and 30's. Did we learn nothing?
The Muslim Radicals are out to destroy us and we must destroy them first, but military force alone won't do it. Notwithstanding the bravery and sacrifice of our troops, it ain't gonna happen. We should be, and perhaps already are waging an all out eeconomic war on them. If their wealth is based on oil, disrupt and destroy production and distribution. We won't of course because the Saudis are our friends.
We should be concentrating on drying up their money supply. All they chest thumping by politicians will do nothing except to highten their appeal. Discriminating against all Muslims does the same.
Perhaps we should grow up, shut up, get smart, and wage a 21st century war against a very real, if not existential threat.
I also like to note that the during the flu epidemic in the early 1900 hundreds , thousands died, not of the flu, but of the over reaction of the victims immune systemto the threat. They self destructed.
1
Trump approaches his followers as he did creditors in a corporate bankruptcy. He knowingly adopts postures that are beyond logic or sense, wraps them in bluster and a crescendo of atonal noise; he then waits to be pushed back. If no serious push, then he advances further into absurdity as he tests the parameters of what others will allow.
However, whilst Tump is corralling fear with demagoguery, Justice Scalia wields effective power today. Power that is a clear and present danger to the stressed legislative and judicial structures that have, however slowly and often inadequately, allowed the racial, ethnic and sexual mores of the country to develop in a manner consistent with the tenets necessary for a pluralistic society to thrive.
Yesterday Justice Scalia was able to posit, from the bench, that black people do better in in "lesser schools" such as the University of Texas, where the pace of academic life is "too fast for them".
Justice Scalia wraps Trumps "things base and vile" in the sheath of legal legitimacy. Yet he needs no followers to make him dangerous; he states crass things, and need not have any concern as to whose eyes are looking at him. Only Ginsberg, Sotomayor and on occasion, Kennedy, are the bulwark which contains his constitutional immunity to bespoke Trump's "exit America from bankruptcy" in a suit constituted from Scalia's legal asthetic of the Founders true intent. The next Supreme Court Justice may be more perilous for America than Trump.
However, whilst Tump is corralling fear with demagoguery, Justice Scalia wields effective power today. Power that is a clear and present danger to the stressed legislative and judicial structures that have, however slowly and often inadequately, allowed the racial, ethnic and sexual mores of the country to develop in a manner consistent with the tenets necessary for a pluralistic society to thrive.
Yesterday Justice Scalia was able to posit, from the bench, that black people do better in in "lesser schools" such as the University of Texas, where the pace of academic life is "too fast for them".
Justice Scalia wraps Trumps "things base and vile" in the sheath of legal legitimacy. Yet he needs no followers to make him dangerous; he states crass things, and need not have any concern as to whose eyes are looking at him. Only Ginsberg, Sotomayor and on occasion, Kennedy, are the bulwark which contains his constitutional immunity to bespoke Trump's "exit America from bankruptcy" in a suit constituted from Scalia's legal asthetic of the Founders true intent. The next Supreme Court Justice may be more perilous for America than Trump.
52
Glad you mentioned the Scalia comments, James. I'm surprised that the media isn't all over this one. Justice Scalia is reputedly a brilliant legal mind and thinker. Yet, this kind of thinking is unintelligent and illogical. People learn best when their minds are challenged and encouraged to stretch. By Scalia's reasoning, many (most?) minority students would do better in some kind of remedial college. Doesn't that condemn them to some kind of remedial career and life?
One thing that Scalia's comment has done is expose him as a racist. That word is used all too often these days, but, I now believe that this Justice, is a racist.
One thing that Scalia's comment has done is expose him as a racist. That word is used all too often these days, but, I now believe that this Justice, is a racist.
3
Oh, so right you are James. While the Blowhard (I won't mention his name either, out of respect for the writer) Blather's -other forces are at work (as you say). It is very Perilous times indeed.
And yet, in these very "pages", (& other venues where so-called progressive thought is put forth) you can hear the whisperings of a new scapegoat being born - the White Middle class Male. It is everywhere and totally out in the open as to How vile and terrible this creature is. Right up there with Terrorists and the Phone company.
If anything has (to use a way over worked phrase) "Jumped the Shark" - it is America as a whole lately.
And yet, in these very "pages", (& other venues where so-called progressive thought is put forth) you can hear the whisperings of a new scapegoat being born - the White Middle class Male. It is everywhere and totally out in the open as to How vile and terrible this creature is. Right up there with Terrorists and the Phone company.
If anything has (to use a way over worked phrase) "Jumped the Shark" - it is America as a whole lately.
scalia, thomas, roberts and alito are four very strong arguments why we must elect a democrat to the presidency next year.
3
It is not all Donald Trump's doing.
The Republican party, which is being operated from the sidelines by Fox Faked News (FFN), Rush Limbaugh, websites and thousands of radio stations spewing right wing rumors and propaganda, has stirred large numbers to anger, resentment and absolute, complete assurance that the whole world is messed up and only the hard right can fix it. The Republican party asked for this disaster. Under this critique, it is not merely a president or an opposing political party that is seen as wrong and destructive, it is the attitudes and actions of the whole left wing tribe.
Remember, too, that the Republicans slyly welcomed the tea party. Indeed, they helped give it birth with money (lots of it), political expertise and political operatives. They insisted, too, that it was a new, legitimate political movement, not just a collection of random, modest size groups scattered in living rooms and church basements across the land. These groups never had anything like a coherent program (Cut spending! Protect my Medicare! Cut spending! Protect my Social Security!), but they were treated as valid, grassroots organizations. The radicalism they inspired is now deeply ingrained.
This, too, is what happens when you live in a right wing media fishbowl, never coming up for air. If all events are carefully filtered to offer comfort to the right, then larger truths don't matter, are never considered.
The right gave birth to Trump, now they are stuck with him.
The Republican party, which is being operated from the sidelines by Fox Faked News (FFN), Rush Limbaugh, websites and thousands of radio stations spewing right wing rumors and propaganda, has stirred large numbers to anger, resentment and absolute, complete assurance that the whole world is messed up and only the hard right can fix it. The Republican party asked for this disaster. Under this critique, it is not merely a president or an opposing political party that is seen as wrong and destructive, it is the attitudes and actions of the whole left wing tribe.
Remember, too, that the Republicans slyly welcomed the tea party. Indeed, they helped give it birth with money (lots of it), political expertise and political operatives. They insisted, too, that it was a new, legitimate political movement, not just a collection of random, modest size groups scattered in living rooms and church basements across the land. These groups never had anything like a coherent program (Cut spending! Protect my Medicare! Cut spending! Protect my Social Security!), but they were treated as valid, grassroots organizations. The radicalism they inspired is now deeply ingrained.
This, too, is what happens when you live in a right wing media fishbowl, never coming up for air. If all events are carefully filtered to offer comfort to the right, then larger truths don't matter, are never considered.
The right gave birth to Trump, now they are stuck with him.
30
Better that than the than the Democratic party which is being run by Clinton, Inc. through their self-serving Clinton Foundation which picks up much of the tab for the luxury to which the Clintons believe they are entitled.
At least the Republican sponsors believe in the benefit of more than just Hillary, Bill and Chelsea.
At least the Republican sponsors believe in the benefit of more than just Hillary, Bill and Chelsea.
3
I never thought I'd live in an America in the throes of passion for Fascism. Yet today from the mall sized mansions of corporatists and hedge fund moguls to the single wides of mentally disturbed right to life assassins they have a home and voice in the Republican Party.
Mr. Blow is right in that the man (whose name we shall not speak) gives voice and substance to those who share his racist ideology, xenophobia and a host of other paranoid based ideas. Perhaps "The Leader" has not called explicitly for an end to women's reproductive rights. This is not a problem as the rest for the field of would be contenders that is the American 2.0 fascist movement simply fills the void to provide the party platform. Military conquest as foreign policy, a gun in every citizens shoulder holster, misogyny and a host of other paranoid based policies that bond to end any societal egalitarian practice for the world of self responsibility. A world where any misfortune is simply your problem pal. A nation that is all for the 1% and none for all.
The saddest part is simply that we were too busy looking at the components with total disregard to their potential for evil synergy.
Steve Martin
954-422-3815
Mr. Blow is right in that the man (whose name we shall not speak) gives voice and substance to those who share his racist ideology, xenophobia and a host of other paranoid based ideas. Perhaps "The Leader" has not called explicitly for an end to women's reproductive rights. This is not a problem as the rest for the field of would be contenders that is the American 2.0 fascist movement simply fills the void to provide the party platform. Military conquest as foreign policy, a gun in every citizens shoulder holster, misogyny and a host of other paranoid based policies that bond to end any societal egalitarian practice for the world of self responsibility. A world where any misfortune is simply your problem pal. A nation that is all for the 1% and none for all.
The saddest part is simply that we were too busy looking at the components with total disregard to their potential for evil synergy.
Steve Martin
954-422-3815
20
We live in a society that demands specialization. Many people are trained or educated in specific disciplines without detailed exposure to social, economic, and historical teaching. Without broad cultural experience, people can develop if not in fact inherit prejudice against people who are "different." Once that becomes ingrained, it evolves into hatred and fear. That's where we are as a nation, today. Rather than becoming a country of a wide variety of people from different backgrounds coming together, we are, in terms of a significant percentage (25%?) becoming more separated, defining ourselves by our races, religions, genders, and political inclinations. Is this a sad end of the American Experiment? No, I don't think so, but it is a significant setback. While I'm somewhat confident that the majority of this country will reject the neo-fascist candidates of the Right Wing, it will be more difficult to reincorporate them into society after the next election. Ultimately, we may come to fear many other murderous groups beyond the so called, Radical Islamist Terrorists.
11
Ignoring Donald Trump or not using his name? Pointless and petty. He's out there and he's real. Deal with it and have the guts to use the man's name. Would you not have used the names of Slobodan Milošević or Pol Pot?
24
At least you've got him in the right company.
2
With all due respect to you Sir, since I have read many of your comments over the years: please exercise caution when comparing Trump to two genocidal maniacs. Yes, Trump's rhetoric is dangerous and has already begun to damage our standing in the world. But at the end of the day Trump is more like a Berlusconi than he is the other two.
1
Apparently, the #1 victim across the board seems to be the loss of our sense of Humor
And, by the way - let's not forget. The unnamed one is a Product of America. Born & bred. Part of that famous "Exceptionalism". Wasn't he supposed to be admired and revered ? He's rich. Well, not really. His wealth is mostly fake. Exactly what we admire isn't it ? He made it at all costs. Never met a face he didn't stomp into the concrete in pursuit of success. Didn't he even have a Reality Series? A TV Star ? The Pinnacle
And, by the way - let's not forget. The unnamed one is a Product of America. Born & bred. Part of that famous "Exceptionalism". Wasn't he supposed to be admired and revered ? He's rich. Well, not really. His wealth is mostly fake. Exactly what we admire isn't it ? He made it at all costs. Never met a face he didn't stomp into the concrete in pursuit of success. Didn't he even have a Reality Series? A TV Star ? The Pinnacle
When the GOP front runner passes from the scene, political and otherwise, how do we, especially in New York City, get his revulsive name off the myriad of buildings, golf courses, and other structures?
I despise even seeing his name.
I despise even seeing his name.
40
How? Well, buy him out, of course
If you don't have the financial wherewithal to accomplish that, then you'll just have to wallow in your hatred and revulsion.
If you don't have the financial wherewithal to accomplish that, then you'll just have to wallow in your hatred and revulsion.
2
Hey, oxfdblue: I am so sorry that you are subjected to seeing Trumpets name as you go through the course of your life. I believe I would not deal well with that reality at all. Good luck. And I mean that sincerely. You have my sympathy.
1
Lets get real it wasn't the media that created Trump. Trump was nurtured by the right when he was demanding Obama prove he was a real American. When Trump lead the charge to prove Obama was some kind of Manchurian Candidate the right sat on their hands. When Trump talked of deporting 12 million immigrants the right sat on their hands. Now the right is raising their hands in fake outrage about Trumps comments about banning Muslims. Forgetting just weeks ago Cruz and Bush said only Christian Refugees should be allowed in. Now the right wants us to believe Trump has finally planted the final straw that broke the horses back. The final straw is that Trump is going against American values when he wants to bar people from entering our country based on religion. What a croc! So it wasn't going against American values when Trump was spewing his racism against our president and nonwhite immigrants. The feigned outrage is because the climate change denying right has realized if they don't do something soon the 2016 ticket will be Clinton v Trump. Even the group who can't admit Global Warming knows a Trump led ticket is destined to cook their goose and cook it well done. The same people who want to bomb the sand until it glows want us to believe they are defenders of the rights of Muslims. What a Croc. Blow is right about lack of backbone by the newsreaders who called themselves reporters. Trump gets to call in his interviews. Maybe they should wash his car and walk his dogs too.
114
You need to write about him because he has too much of a following to ignore and the harm he's doing to the country's image abroad is newsworthy. Harry Potter diminished Voldy by naming him rather than refusing to raise him to the status of a god who's name is too powerful to speak.
Let's rebrand him. Let's refer to him as D. Tremens aka "The Loser."
Let's rebrand him. Let's refer to him as D. Tremens aka "The Loser."
13
Call him names...
What a brilliant solutions. Absolutely brilliant.
How about coming up reasonable and constructive arguments to solve the problems that he appears to be tapping into in order to get support?
Can't do that?
Well, don't destroy the democracy for others because of your inability to come up with a winning solution.
What a brilliant solutions. Absolutely brilliant.
How about coming up reasonable and constructive arguments to solve the problems that he appears to be tapping into in order to get support?
Can't do that?
Well, don't destroy the democracy for others because of your inability to come up with a winning solution.
1
"He" has not been taken seriously in NYC for over twenty years. I truly think this run of his has a lot to do with the way PBO gracefully ridiculed him at the White House Correspondent's Dinner in 2011. There he was in the audience looking like he was going to self-immolate. He decided to show this. dare I say it, "uppity" President who was boss, and he found a perfect fan base in the modern-day Republican primary voter, the voters that the GOP have courted and cosseted for over 30 years. It doesn't matter to him that his horrendous statements are now damaging our image all over the world doesn't matter to him at all: his feelings were hurt and here comes the revenge. It would by funny if it wasn't so frightening.
332
I think you nailed it Beth. That was the night before the raid to get Bin Laden (although we did not know that , obviously, at the time) and I remember President Obama saying that Trump had to make difficult decisions like firing Gary Busey, which would keep him up at night! Trump was furious, you could see the steam coming out of his ears. This is his revenge and it is scary to watch.
4
Trump deserved every word of scorn that Obama dished out.
3
You guys are fun. In just a couple of weeks, we've had Muslim jihadis murder scores of innocent people in Paris and California and we've our President push to rush in tens of thousands of untraceable Syrian young men to come live here.
Then your least-favorite candidate suggests stopping the inflow to get a hold of the situation and the shrill shrieking from all of you is unceasing.
Trump is right: we have a war on our hands and we have to face reality and at least try to do something about it before it's too late. Islam isn't just a religion: it's a political system, it's a cultural force, and it allows no others to exist around it.
Then your least-favorite candidate suggests stopping the inflow to get a hold of the situation and the shrill shrieking from all of you is unceasing.
Trump is right: we have a war on our hands and we have to face reality and at least try to do something about it before it's too late. Islam isn't just a religion: it's a political system, it's a cultural force, and it allows no others to exist around it.
17
Reality is finding and deporting 12,000,000 people? Reality is getting Mexico to pay for a giant wall across its northern border? Reality is expunging a religion with a billion adherents? Reality is reversing the promise on the Statue of Liberty?
34
Should I mention the famous Benjamin Franklin quote and drop the mike, or would it make a difference? I seriously doubt anyone taking Trump seriously is interested in other opinions, even of the founding fathers.
Ah, what the heck. Worth a try:
"Those who would give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety."
*drops mike*
Ah, what the heck. Worth a try:
"Those who would give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety."
*drops mike*
3
Yes, those Muslims are going to take our precious bodily fluids and destroy our purity of essence. Trump is Jack D Ripper writ large, except we could laugh at General Ripper.
1
Fascism is not a word to be bandied about If you call populism fascism, you may well run into the real thing.
6
Unfortunately, we seem to have already run into the real thing.
2
We might have the real thing here. Link is to Eco's features of Ur-Fascism
http://interglacial.com/pub/text/Umberto_Eco_-_Eternal_Fascism.html
The man ticks a lot of those boxes
http://interglacial.com/pub/text/Umberto_Eco_-_Eternal_Fascism.html
The man ticks a lot of those boxes
2
There is a fine line between populism and fascism, and Trump too often crosses that line.
2
It is time to stop venting over the offspring of an orangutan who is running as a fascist for the White House. The answer is not to attack him or his radicalized base; the answer is to shine a bright light on the orangutan-child's business associates, his social group, family and anyone who calls him friend. The media need to conduct background investigations and present exposes on everyone who works with or for the orangutan's child. These people's lives should not be insulated from public scorn and derision for providing comfort to "he who should not be named".
37
Typical politics - discredit the messenger. Shouldn't we all be tired of that by now? It is what is ruining this country.
Instead how about an honest wrestling with the facts, the proposals, and the consequences of the various proposals?
Instead how about an honest wrestling with the facts, the proposals, and the consequences of the various proposals?
1
The Daily Show had a great piece about the myriad times Rump has publicly proclaimed the hotness of his daughter and how he'd be dating her if not for the fact that he's married... Oh and that she's his daughter.
One of those instances, I think it was an appearance on The View, was truly gross. It needs to go viral.
One of those instances, I think it was an appearance on The View, was truly gross. It needs to go viral.
3
Alas, a comparison of this evil creature with orangutans is inappropriate. They are gentle, intelligent creatures.
1
The inability of the GOP to see The D as epitomizing what they stand for parallels their inability to see that trickle down never worked and won't; their inability to see that ObamaCare is RomneyCare and does work; their inability to see that additional tax cuts to the rich will bring the country down not up; the list goes on.
It amazes me what blindness can accomplish when the people being aided by the blind are rich and stand to increase the power of their riches. To listen to Ted Cruz poetically use the rhetoric of the masses to justify enriching the wealthy in the name of freedom and to empower the ignorant in the name of healthy skepticism is breathtaking.
It amazes me what blindness can accomplish when the people being aided by the blind are rich and stand to increase the power of their riches. To listen to Ted Cruz poetically use the rhetoric of the masses to justify enriching the wealthy in the name of freedom and to empower the ignorant in the name of healthy skepticism is breathtaking.
44
Romneycare NEVER worked -- it sent health costs in Massachusetts (which never had a serious uninsured problem; it is a very small wealthy state) spiraling to become the highest by far in the nation.
Obamacare is failing also -- exchanges are collapsing -- prices going up 30% a year -- people dropping out because they have such high deductibles. Even the NYT has covered these failings.
Obamacare is failing also -- exchanges are collapsing -- prices going up 30% a year -- people dropping out because they have such high deductibles. Even the NYT has covered these failings.
I agree that the media have completely screwed up on their reporting on Trump, but calling him a fascist is over-the-top ignorance. What journalists are terrified to address is that Trump is clearly hitting a nerve and is appealing to a lot of Americans. And no, it is not because of demagoguery or fear-mongering.
Rather, Trump is a product of the failure of today's leaders to honestly address the real problems of this country and the world. Voters find his tell-it-like-it-is approach refreshing, and in any case more effective than the others. Islam--and not just "radical Islam"--is going through a profound crisis that is destabilizing the world, and the best our leaders can do is carpet-bomb northern Syria. That is decidedly not the solution, and as many point out is probably making things worse.
I am not a supporter of Trump, but extreme reactions of calling him and his supporters fascist is not going help matters, it is just as ignorant as the phenomenon itself.
Rather, Trump is a product of the failure of today's leaders to honestly address the real problems of this country and the world. Voters find his tell-it-like-it-is approach refreshing, and in any case more effective than the others. Islam--and not just "radical Islam"--is going through a profound crisis that is destabilizing the world, and the best our leaders can do is carpet-bomb northern Syria. That is decidedly not the solution, and as many point out is probably making things worse.
I am not a supporter of Trump, but extreme reactions of calling him and his supporters fascist is not going help matters, it is just as ignorant as the phenomenon itself.
18
Can we call him a "proto fascist". His statements and proposals are clearly
inviting comparisons to fascism, especially the attempt to scapegoat Muslims, a tactic intrinsic to authoritarianism. The rantings about fixing things, building walls, deporting millions, making America great again are all hollow blusters, the kind anyone familiar with 20th century history has heard before. And the movement that infected a nation back then started with a very small but very vocal core group of fanatics.
inviting comparisons to fascism, especially the attempt to scapegoat Muslims, a tactic intrinsic to authoritarianism. The rantings about fixing things, building walls, deporting millions, making America great again are all hollow blusters, the kind anyone familiar with 20th century history has heard before. And the movement that infected a nation back then started with a very small but very vocal core group of fanatics.
1
Is it religion or "Games of Thrones" middle east version.
Frank look at the trouble spots like Afghanistan I (Soviet vs Western Bloc) and II (9/11), Iraq( WMD /Democracy) Tunisia, Egypt, Syria, Yemen,Burma,Chechnya, Kashmir, Palestine, Somalia, Ughars, (type of political rule and or territory) reveal these conflicts to be related to either political, territorial etcetera.
The litmus test is as follows:-
If the purpose or the reason behind any of these conflict was to "spread a religion" or spread a particular "ism" then that religion or "ism" should be invoked, attributed to, discussed or blamed as the casus belli.
Nothing is going on in Islam but Muslims in certain countries are in Politico-Territorial conflicts.
Please do not loco regional with the religion.
Frank look at the trouble spots like Afghanistan I (Soviet vs Western Bloc) and II (9/11), Iraq( WMD /Democracy) Tunisia, Egypt, Syria, Yemen,Burma,Chechnya, Kashmir, Palestine, Somalia, Ughars, (type of political rule and or territory) reveal these conflicts to be related to either political, territorial etcetera.
The litmus test is as follows:-
If the purpose or the reason behind any of these conflict was to "spread a religion" or spread a particular "ism" then that religion or "ism" should be invoked, attributed to, discussed or blamed as the casus belli.
Nothing is going on in Islam but Muslims in certain countries are in Politico-Territorial conflicts.
Please do not loco regional with the religion.
1
How can anyone think that an egomaniac given to self-serving ignorant & incendiary ranting is possibly telling it "like it is"?
2
Donald Trump is tapping into that jugular vein of nativist racism endemic to the extreme Right of the Republican Party. The ensuing political hemorrhage will indelibly stain the Republican candidate in 2016. Millions of minority voters will take out their anger and frustration by voting against any candidate who is tainted with the same party label as Mr.Trump.
16
Is it possible that he fears the day when possibly "millions of minority voters" want to establish a completely different culture within the United States, and a substantial minority of those are willing to use violence to get it?
Sad and scary that so many will not even consider that possibility even with world events staring us in the face. PC blindness can lead to self-destruction.
Sad and scary that so many will not even consider that possibility even with world events staring us in the face. PC blindness can lead to self-destruction.
2
People didn't come here to establish their own culture.They came for freedom and opportunity, while retaining their cultural touchstones. I think that enriches America. What they didn't come here for is intolerance from bigots who by their ignorance and xenophobia disgrace themselves and all who support them.
1
As you astutely point out nothing Trump is saying is new or ground breaking. All of it has been spewed for a decade of more on Faux News, by Glenn Beck and Rush Limbaugh just absent Trump's pomposity and bluntness. This has fed and unfortunately misled a significant segment of America into believing the hate filled prejudicial, racist and ignorant information being broadcast. Our image abroad has already been tarnished by the repeated failure of our Congress to act, repeated threats to shut down the Government , default on out loans , disgusting and xenophobic anti immigration policies and of course a complete denial of climate change and science. This hate and pattern of misinformation fueled the hatred which inspired the slaughter of the people at Planned Parenthood who yesterday in court essentially parroted what we heard Ted Cruz and Carly Fiorina spew for weeks. With Trump's position atop the polls our nations faces a test which will ultimately determine whether there has ever been any truth to America being a nation that stood for freedom. ( including religious freedom ) , a bastion of democracy and a place where people could live and prosper and with hard work, determination realize their dreams.
194
In It's a Wonderful Life when George Bailey finds himself in Potterville?
To mix up quotes, I don't think we're in Kansas and this ain't Oz. I think we've landed in Pottersville.
To mix up quotes, I don't think we're in Kansas and this ain't Oz. I think we've landed in Pottersville.
3
This is a start. The entire media, in conjunction with their sponsors need to do a lot of self examination, and figure out how to balance responsible and reasonable reporting and how that is impacted by ratings. Consumers have a part to play too.
11
I fully endorse your expansion of Goodwin's Law to include "he-who-shall-not-be-named" of America with the German original.
But, contrary to some of the comments, I do believe that our version is every bit as dangerous to the world, and will do immense damage even if not elected.
But, contrary to some of the comments, I do believe that our version is every bit as dangerous to the world, and will do immense damage even if not elected.
9
Looking at our country today, I agree with Mr. Blow's analysis that "His winning the Republican nomination would be the best-case scenario, not only for the presidential race but also for down-ballot Democrats."... but... it is not hard to envision a scenario where a mid-October terrorism incident somewhere in our nation or in the Western world could drive voters into the arms of a tough talking demagogue over a policy wonk or democratic socialist.
I also wholeheartedly agree with Mr. Blow's conclusion that the Republican party is responsible for the rise of this demagogue and, as such, needs to reinforce Ryan's assertions by actively shunning not only the front-runner's invective but the hate-mongering of his opponents in the primary.
I also wholeheartedly agree with Mr. Blow's conclusion that the Republican party is responsible for the rise of this demagogue and, as such, needs to reinforce Ryan's assertions by actively shunning not only the front-runner's invective but the hate-mongering of his opponents in the primary.
105
Worse yet, an orchestrated scenario where a mid-October terrorism incident somewhere in our nation or in the Western world could drive voters into the arms of a tough talking demagogue over a policy wonk or democratic socialist. I do not put that beyond his capabilities.
Well the remarkably timed financial crash occurred in September/October 2008 -- and catapulted Barack Obama into the White House.
So it can happen. That's why it's a "horse race". You can try to account for who is up and who is down, who is popular or not -- but outside events in the nation and the world have impacts on elections.
So it can happen. That's why it's a "horse race". You can try to account for who is up and who is down, who is popular or not -- but outside events in the nation and the world have impacts on elections.
Mike, I don't know which is more disgusting: Trump's rhetoric or your insinuation that he'd orchestrate the death of innocent people to get elected.
Off the rails there, buddy. Way off.
Off the rails there, buddy. Way off.
Charles-
President Jimmy Carter banned Iranians from the U.S. in 1979. So, are you going to stop using his name in your columns as well?
President Jimmy Carter banned Iranians from the U.S. in 1979. So, are you going to stop using his name in your columns as well?
11
In its revolution, Iran basically declared war on the US, insofar as there are actual declarations these days. When countries are at war, obviously normal traffic ceases. The US could declare war on ISIS if it recognized that it is a nation, but anyway it certainly makes sense to ban anyone who is recognizably an adherent of ISIS. Trump and other Republicans call for banning all Muslims, of which there are more than a billion and a half in the world. Only a tiny fraction of these are adherents of ISIS and/or advocate terrorism against the US.
20
Iranian is a nationality, a classification that is clearly stated on a passport. But Muslim denotes religion and is not mentioned on a passport. Or a birth certificate. Or a college application. Or a driver's license. We hold French or US or Iraqi or Belgian or Nigerian passports, not Muslim passports. Even on a practical, possible front, the proposal is steeped in shockingly deep ignorance.
Trump made fun of Carson's Seventh Day Adventist religion so maybe he'll add that to the list too. If we have to add our religion to official papers, I think I'll opt for Rastafarian.
Trump made fun of Carson's Seventh Day Adventist religion so maybe he'll add that to the list too. If we have to add our religion to official papers, I think I'll opt for Rastafarian.
1
Banning a nation is not the same as banning a religion.
1
I agree. But the man whose name shall not be uttered is only one in a field of abject xenophobes. And the "base" is just as bad - and the other GOP candidates know it. So we have Ted Cruz postulating publicly as to whether or not sand will glow. Cruz and Bush are advocating letting only Christian refugees in (how they plan on doing that effectively is just as much a mystery as the statement itself). I could go on and on, ad nauseum.
Our adversaries are also watching, most likely with amusement and glee. Just yesterday, Vladimir Putin stated that he hoped it wouldn't be necessary to use nuclear weapons in the region. Now, we know a thing or two about Vlad. One thing is that he does not like to be upstaged when it comes to inflammatory rhetoric. How many out there want to bet that Putin uttered his concern only after he had perceived himself to be "one-upped" by Cruz? My money is on that. Putin was probably thinking about Cruz's statement: "Dude, you stole my line".
So it's not only the man whose name shall not be uttered. It's most of them on that side trying to appease an exceptionally xenophobic base.
Our adversaries are also watching, most likely with amusement and glee. Just yesterday, Vladimir Putin stated that he hoped it wouldn't be necessary to use nuclear weapons in the region. Now, we know a thing or two about Vlad. One thing is that he does not like to be upstaged when it comes to inflammatory rhetoric. How many out there want to bet that Putin uttered his concern only after he had perceived himself to be "one-upped" by Cruz? My money is on that. Putin was probably thinking about Cruz's statement: "Dude, you stole my line".
So it's not only the man whose name shall not be uttered. It's most of them on that side trying to appease an exceptionally xenophobic base.
119
The truth of the matter is the fact that most people distrust the liberal media, including Charles Blow. Obama, Blow and the liberal media time again fail to take Muslim terrorists to task by white washing their religion and making terrorists into the victims!
Trump is calling it the way it is for better or worse. Innocent non Muslims including are sick and tired of being blamed for Islamic terrorism. And you know what, these people are waking up. Blame yourself Charles for not dealing with terrorism and Trump.
Trump is calling it the way it is for better or worse. Innocent non Muslims including are sick and tired of being blamed for Islamic terrorism. And you know what, these people are waking up. Blame yourself Charles for not dealing with terrorism and Trump.
5
So are you saying that there is not sufficient outrage in the media for your taste??
Funny how people in Vt. and NH get inordinately bent out of shape about the evils of terrorism when they have virtually zero chance of being victims. The world can be a dangerous place. I accept that as a New Yorker every day and have never had it infringe upon my liberty for one second.
Funny how people in Vt. and NH get inordinately bent out of shape about the evils of terrorism when they have virtually zero chance of being victims. The world can be a dangerous place. I accept that as a New Yorker every day and have never had it infringe upon my liberty for one second.
1
Proud of being a bigot, Walter?
3
Guess what, terrorism doesn't infringe on my liberty either. But keep believing that selective outrage is located in a finite area and is in decline.
I am sorry Mr. Blow. But the only Crass Act I see is the "Fascist" campaign invented from thin air to destroy Trump by his political enemies.
6
Trump has caught the fancy of the conservative right who feel disfranchised by today's so called politicians. He is the voice of the "folk", of the GOP masses, who are the cannon-fodder, the cattle outside the slaughterhouse, serenely chewing the cud ... those to whom things are done, in contrast to those who have executive will and intelligence. His rhetoric is seemingly innocent of politics to which there is a collective responsive sigh of ‘alas’! But where and when the politics inevitably crops up is when we take this eventually to be the typical sentiment of american society at large and there is no more serious voice that stands higher than Trump's, then we are by the same token saying something very definite about that society
3
He is the definition of White Trash.
13
Best comment so far!
1
In dealing with the unnamed wannabe candidate, what we are really seeing is the result of hours of mindless couch potato 'entertainment' morphing into a reality show that goes on and on.
Trumpty Dumpty is top of the polls
Trumpty’s big ego savoring roles,
Pres and commander,
The boss of them all:
Isn’t it time for ol’ Trumpty to fall.
Enough is enough.
Trumpty Dumpty is top of the polls
Trumpty’s big ego savoring roles,
Pres and commander,
The boss of them all:
Isn’t it time for ol’ Trumpty to fall.
Enough is enough.
9
There's a simple answer for the media: Do NOT cover his speeches. You want to note he spoke at an event? Okay...but why give him free air time to bolster his bigoted standing with his (largely) uneducated base?
8
That's pretty much the tack they've taken with Sanders.
Cognitive dissonance in the media... On one hand, he's vile, on the other hand, ratings....
Cognitive dissonance in the media... On one hand, he's vile, on the other hand, ratings....
1
Under the guise of some sort of reasonable discussion the GOP has revealed itself to be the party of greed, racism, and xenophobia.
32
If Trump has made more obvious an infection among Republican voters, I think that infection was fostered by what came before, including all that "dog whistling" and our mainstream society's elevation of saying one thing but meaning another to a level characterized as sophistication, cleverness, savviness. This is where the manipulation has led. It probably didn't have to, but here we are. What do we do next? Other Republicans have so little leverage to make the case that Trump's ideas are wrong because to do so requires drawing lines most of the electorate won't see. Of course, this crisis may not mean that Republicans take the lesson that their strategy of saying one thing and doing another should be scrapped, but I am nevertheless hoping that Trump has busted the strategy by revealing its Achilles heel of a politician willing to takes the wraps off.
16
Obama said on thing and did another on immigration, Obama Care (you can keep your plan and doctors). calling Mubarak a stalwart ally and deposing him a year lster. Iran nuclear deal 2012. "Iran must never become a nuclear Iran". What about his flip flop on gay marriage? Leaving troops in Afghanistan beyond 2016? Saying Assad must go several times beginning in 2011? What about bombing Syria's chemical weapons facilities? Saying he would not raise taxes on the middle class before the election and the letting the Payroll tax defuction after?He said he lacked the authority to issue the immigration order he did.
You are so quick to denounce Republicans without specificity I. Your post. Feel fee to refute my facts
You are so quick to denounce Republicans without specificity I. Your post. Feel fee to refute my facts
Healed,
I would put the kind of discrepancies you have listed in a different category (not better, just different) from the category of the kind of manipulation I was trying to get at -- for example, I think it was only Paul Ryan's critics who pointed out his reform of Medicare would be to reduce payments to limited vouchers.
I would put the kind of discrepancies you have listed in a different category (not better, just different) from the category of the kind of manipulation I was trying to get at -- for example, I think it was only Paul Ryan's critics who pointed out his reform of Medicare would be to reduce payments to limited vouchers.
Many thanks for no longer printing the name of ' the front-runner ' !
63
"I’m not sure which party Ryan has been paying attention to for the last decade, but to my eye and ear, extreme rhetoric is increasingly becoming intrinsic to the Republican Party. The front-runner is simply saying out loud what many conservatives are feeling — he’s not Svengali; he’s a crowd reader."
And this is the crux of the issue. What appalls liberals delights the Trump crowd. The divide on values in our country has never been greater. And how I see Trump is this: as a translator to the common man of the positions so carefully couched in more arcane language spoken by some in the GOP and many in the halls of power where they are crafting legislation.
Take every single Trump position--on immigration, on terrorists, on the economy (although he rarely speaks of that these days--and you'll find the seeds of positions taken by a party driven so far to the right since 2000 that it's falling off a cliff. And leading the crowd right over is the Pied Piper of anarchy.
Charles you are correct to fault the media, who like the GOP as a whole have made a pact with the devil: you speak crazy and we'll cover it because the Democrats are boring and the bull fights in the GOP are entertaining. I think they're beginning to realize they've spawned a monster--and it's too late to put the genie back in the bottle.
And this is the crux of the issue. What appalls liberals delights the Trump crowd. The divide on values in our country has never been greater. And how I see Trump is this: as a translator to the common man of the positions so carefully couched in more arcane language spoken by some in the GOP and many in the halls of power where they are crafting legislation.
Take every single Trump position--on immigration, on terrorists, on the economy (although he rarely speaks of that these days--and you'll find the seeds of positions taken by a party driven so far to the right since 2000 that it's falling off a cliff. And leading the crowd right over is the Pied Piper of anarchy.
Charles you are correct to fault the media, who like the GOP as a whole have made a pact with the devil: you speak crazy and we'll cover it because the Democrats are boring and the bull fights in the GOP are entertaining. I think they're beginning to realize they've spawned a monster--and it's too late to put the genie back in the bottle.
165
Except I would add a yuuuuge part of the media to blame is FOX Propaganda channel. They have apologized and promoted the racist, exclusionary attitudes and forced* the rest to come along.
*Apologies, but the media are in a numbers game and always chasing an audience. If one crops up, they try chasing and coverage alters accordingly.
*Apologies, but the media are in a numbers game and always chasing an audience. If one crops up, they try chasing and coverage alters accordingly.
1
The media may have spawned a monster in Trump even as the Republican party may have spawned a monster in the form of the potential Trump voters.
God, guns, gays, and fetuses. Moral Majority, Southern Strategy, NRA, Right to Life, etc. The Republican Party courted these so called "values voters" but never delivered the goods they were after. The Party really only cared about low taxes, low levels of regulations, low levels of financial transparency, and cheap compliant labor. Now the monster had escaped the lab and wants blood.
God, guns, gays, and fetuses. Moral Majority, Southern Strategy, NRA, Right to Life, etc. The Republican Party courted these so called "values voters" but never delivered the goods they were after. The Party really only cared about low taxes, low levels of regulations, low levels of financial transparency, and cheap compliant labor. Now the monster had escaped the lab and wants blood.
3
Setting aside his xenophobic rants, he has plans to spend money we don't have and lower taxes to the point that we won't be able to even pay back Social Security recipients. His economic plans are beyond foolhardy Vote for Trump at your peril. He will make Bush 2 look like an economic wizard. An independent idiot is still an idiot.
93
The media, the journalists, columnists, haven't voiced the current trend of shock and outrage that has been voiced by private citizens from day one of 'that man's' climb to Republican front-runner. It's sad, and funny, that people who are professional writers, reporters, do not, or can not, express the reality of the mad man at the front. He is not unlike the guy in a crowd who first yells, "Let's string him up!" Soon, quickly, all the lickspittles in the angry crowd begin to voice the same violent speech. Those of us old enough, and curious enough to view a different kind of movie from 1957 (the movie wasn't a western), remember 'A Face in the Crowd,' starring Andy Griffith. Plot summary: An Arkansas hobo becomes an overnight media sensation. But as he becomes drunk with fame and power, will he ever be exposed as the fraud he has become? Indeed, he was, as is 'that man' whose name we are sick of repeating and hearing.
42
I've been calling 'that man' Lonesome Rhodes ( and PT Barnam) since he first started. Helps me keep perspective.
1
First, the US and the world would be a better place if "That Man" got no face time or air time. I have read a position on him every day on this page!!!
Second, he is saying what the GOP really thinks unfilited,
Third, as strong as the rest of the GOP came out against him this week they all said they would support the GOP candidate in the end with no exception. What if it is "That Man" ??
I watched a show on the History Channel last night about Germany in the 30's. As I sat there all I could think about was the GOP 2016 presidential race. Watch out America!!
Second, he is saying what the GOP really thinks unfilited,
Third, as strong as the rest of the GOP came out against him this week they all said they would support the GOP candidate in the end with no exception. What if it is "That Man" ??
I watched a show on the History Channel last night about Germany in the 30's. As I sat there all I could think about was the GOP 2016 presidential race. Watch out America!!
162
You and me both. My German husband, who grew up during WWII, thinks the same way as you re: the man who shall not be named. People think it can't happen here. Our job is to make sure it doesn't.
3
As a historical note, there were many in the 30's who would refer to FDR only as 'That Man'. Those would have been the Republicans of that era.
2
Re “What was proposed yesterday is not what this party stands for and, more importantly, it’s not what this country stands for.”
Trotting out trite truisms like this is part of our new house leader Paul Ryan's stock-in-trade banter who has himself been frustratingly vague about what his party stands for. Recall this is a man with an abiding high school senior´s naive fascination with Ayn Rand who imagines he is leading a charge to get the nation´s fiscal house in order. No reporting on this latest Republican dysfunction is complete without mention of the irony that this "reasonable" lawmaker who was touted as the best option for speaker participated in the notorious GOP meeting on inauguration day in 2009 where those attending agreed to block any and all legislation advanced by President Obama in order to make him a one-term president. In doing so, he helped legitimize a refusal to govern and the nihilism that now runs rampant among GOPers in the House. This chaos is not an overnight phenomenon. It's the product of several years of being a party that early on chose to "just say no."
Trotting out trite truisms like this is part of our new house leader Paul Ryan's stock-in-trade banter who has himself been frustratingly vague about what his party stands for. Recall this is a man with an abiding high school senior´s naive fascination with Ayn Rand who imagines he is leading a charge to get the nation´s fiscal house in order. No reporting on this latest Republican dysfunction is complete without mention of the irony that this "reasonable" lawmaker who was touted as the best option for speaker participated in the notorious GOP meeting on inauguration day in 2009 where those attending agreed to block any and all legislation advanced by President Obama in order to make him a one-term president. In doing so, he helped legitimize a refusal to govern and the nihilism that now runs rampant among GOPers in the House. This chaos is not an overnight phenomenon. It's the product of several years of being a party that early on chose to "just say no."
138
The only thing I'd add to your assessment of Ryan is that he is the one who submitted a budget proposal considered unscorable by the accounting folks. The reason? It "lacked numbers". Even when the CBO plugged in wildly optimistic numbers, the Ryan "budget" still increased the deficit. Competence at getting votes yes, at running the country no.
2
In other words, the RepubliCAN Party became the RepubliCAN'T Party.
3
Or, Jim, the elected Republican representatives were merely representing the people that elected them. That's their job, remember?
Trump is thriving because the GOP establishment ignored the GOP base too long. I guess the elite liked the good life, DC style. Trump is a potential Andrew Jackson, a man of the people, who ran against ferocious establishment opposition. They called Jackson a lot of names too, ending with "President".
7
Of all the myriad things that Donald Trump is, "a man of the people" is not among them. That's just the snake oil you're looking through.
Are you serious? I find it hard to believe that any sane person would give "that man" any credibility. Are his stated views those of the "GOP base?" If so, I have much fear for this country.
1
For Native Americans Andrew Jackson was a disaster, allowing the theft of millions of acres from peaceful agrarian tribes in the South East and forcefully relocating them to Oklahoma killing thousands in the Trail of Tears. Do we want something like this again?
2
I love idiots who call banning Muslims "racists". Since when is a religion a race?
14
Since 'Muslim' is identified with a certain hue of the skin.
Beyond that, Americans are rather lacking in discernment with regard to who is a Muslim. Case in point: the idea that Obama is a 'secret Muslim,' an idea that persists against all evidence to the contrary due to the color of his skin.
Beyond that, Americans are rather lacking in discernment with regard to who is a Muslim. Case in point: the idea that Obama is a 'secret Muslim,' an idea that persists against all evidence to the contrary due to the color of his skin.
2
And what can we say of people who insult others in order to make their point? Is there no way to have a conversation without name-calling? I wonder if that is descriptive of their vocabulary.
1
Because it's the primary religion of Middle Eastern countries and places like Indonesia and much of Northern Africa, primarily the religion of the darker-skinned people who have historically been exploited and colonized, not the lighter-skinned people who colonized them? Could that be what he means?
Trump said out loud what the GOPers have been intimating and the followers loved it for its bald clarity, finally stated. Trump is GOP crowd hate personified. Trump does not realize he has been overtaken. He is a puppet of the crowd's malice, ego puffed, out of control mouth and ego merged.
Many otherwise sane people will fall for this. I see it around me. Educated, worthy and attracted to this sick flame. They may vote against their interests and all they actually believe in. Yes, Germany does come to mind.
Many otherwise sane people will fall for this. I see it around me. Educated, worthy and attracted to this sick flame. They may vote against their interests and all they actually believe in. Yes, Germany does come to mind.
44
Trump doesn't realize he's been overtaken? Gosh, I wish that would be true, that inside all the evil swagger was a decent man. But really, I think he's relishing all of it.
2
Those who support this megalomaniac's bigoted, racist, xenophobic diatribes finally have a representative that expresses their views. There is no giving them a pass. They are who they are.
4
" Everyone was fully aware of the incestuous relationship. It was all about money, money from ratings and name recognition".
The statement begs the question; "What's new"? Every hour or each day- another slice of Donald Trump. Radio, Television, Online and Print. The media is addicted and often needs extra minutes- column inches to fill space; the go-to is Donald Trump and we indulge like an addict on crack waiting for the next "get high". The ultimate symbiotic relationship:
" Parasites, for example, have a symbiotic relationship with their hosts, but only the parasite benefits. (courtesy of vocabulary.com)". Guess who? There is a way to fix this. A Donald Trump free zone. One complete day without any mention of Donald Trump from any media source- but can the addicts handle going cold-turkey?
The statement begs the question; "What's new"? Every hour or each day- another slice of Donald Trump. Radio, Television, Online and Print. The media is addicted and often needs extra minutes- column inches to fill space; the go-to is Donald Trump and we indulge like an addict on crack waiting for the next "get high". The ultimate symbiotic relationship:
" Parasites, for example, have a symbiotic relationship with their hosts, but only the parasite benefits. (courtesy of vocabulary.com)". Guess who? There is a way to fix this. A Donald Trump free zone. One complete day without any mention of Donald Trump from any media source- but can the addicts handle going cold-turkey?
19
I am never prouder of our nation, Charles, than when I see individuals speak without being carted away to protect precious ears.
In time, America will see Donald Trump for who he is. It does not bother me that his words appeal to some Americans any more than it offends me that fellow citizens are attracted to your columns.
That is what we protect in America. The right to disagree.
In time, America will see Donald Trump for who he is. It does not bother me that his words appeal to some Americans any more than it offends me that fellow citizens are attracted to your columns.
That is what we protect in America. The right to disagree.
11
Right Stuart, but it took WWII before the Germans were able to see Hitler for who he was. Let's hope Americans aren't trumped, er tricked, that long.
3
You like our freedom of speech. Wonderful! What is your point? While Trump is allowed to say most anything he wants his fear mongering is coming dangerously close to yelling "fire" in a crowded theater. Sooner or later this irrational hate that he is stirring up will lead to genuine, physical harm for some people. Of course, there was that Black Lives Matter demonstrator who was beat up at one of his speeches. What about that guys freedom of speech?
4
Yes, and I disagree with the likes of Trump and his gullible army of followers. While I believe in everything that has made this country a beacon, I've always held the notion that at every point we could lose it all. In my 69 years, I've never felt closer to that result. This guy has unleashed something into the public discourse that brings out the worst in us, and it doesn't show any indication of going away.
2
"Attacking the front-runner for what he says is like attacking his supporters themselves, because he is voicing their deeply held views."
This is interesting to contemplate. Of those expressing support for Trump's more controversial positions, how much of that is tied to deeply held views versus knee-jerk reactionary responses? "Block all the Muslims" appeals to the dualistic black and white world that many Republicans seems to desire, but it immediately falls apart when given any practical policy and implementation consideration.
Can Trump's supporters understand nuance or implementation even if their candidate cannot? Is Trump truly appealing to deeply held views or merely amplifying outrage and narrow-mindedness at the surface level? Trump seems to be winning the realty political TV show I'm calling Extreme Reactionary Positions. It's great for short-term ratings, but does it truly have a lasting and loyal audience?
This is interesting to contemplate. Of those expressing support for Trump's more controversial positions, how much of that is tied to deeply held views versus knee-jerk reactionary responses? "Block all the Muslims" appeals to the dualistic black and white world that many Republicans seems to desire, but it immediately falls apart when given any practical policy and implementation consideration.
Can Trump's supporters understand nuance or implementation even if their candidate cannot? Is Trump truly appealing to deeply held views or merely amplifying outrage and narrow-mindedness at the surface level? Trump seems to be winning the realty political TV show I'm calling Extreme Reactionary Positions. It's great for short-term ratings, but does it truly have a lasting and loyal audience?
47
Maybe on the part of some it's knee-jerk reaction, but given the bigotry that I've seen bubble way over the surface and explode since President Obama was elected, as well as the bigots Orwellian assertion that HE is the one who has divided this country, one can't discount that much of it is not only indeed deeply held, but very long held.
Those extremists who have invaded the "leadership" on the right, of which Trump is only the loudest, have given those views wings and the sense of security that they can now be freely aired once again. His vast extremity has given the others cover to spread their invective without sounding quite as insane to the tin ear. both in the race for president and in the halls of Congress.
Those extremists who have invaded the "leadership" on the right, of which Trump is only the loudest, have given those views wings and the sense of security that they can now be freely aired once again. His vast extremity has given the others cover to spread their invective without sounding quite as insane to the tin ear. both in the race for president and in the halls of Congress.
4
If it does have a lasting audience, we're all in really deep trouble.
2
Finally, someone said it. Ever since news became entertainment and a huge money maker, it has been creeping toward this moment when the (unmentionable name) would appear and media's thirst for ratings would help launch a very dangerous character into a very powerful position. We call this character the G.O.P.'s Frankenstein, but the media has provided the alchemy to bring him alive.
524
Wow! Debra, great comment and analogy.
1
Couldn't agree more! Sensationalism sells newspapers and draws an audience in the media. Just shut him out--he's not credible, to say the least!
1
A perfect example was the recent "exclusive" promoted over and over on ABC and then replayed over and over of the vacuous "interview" Barbara Walters had with the guy shortly after his insane and dangerous ban all Muslims announcement. Her most incisive question was:"are you a bigot?" She then sat back and allowed him a platform to justify himself as a good guy with common sense. The other GOP candidates can't pay for that kind of constant, media exposure.
4
His followers would do whatever he told them to do which is a danger in itself. Those folks watch FOX the propaganda network almost 24/7 and believe every word from that network. These folks helped Republcians roll back most of the gins made under FDR and enabled the 1% to take over the country. The sad part of that they are totally responsible for their own suffering now.
23
Interestingly Trump actually helps the Republican party in 2 ways.
1. It creates huge buzz for conservative issues and stirs up the blood in the base of the party. Not so much at the presidential level but where the GOP has been winning most elections for governor, state houses, as well as House and Senate races (note the GOP now controls many more of all of these than the Democrats)
2. It makes Ted Cruz, Christie, and Rubio look like moderates. That could help pump their numbers and make them more competitive in caucuses and primaries. That will help the GOP get independents.
1. It creates huge buzz for conservative issues and stirs up the blood in the base of the party. Not so much at the presidential level but where the GOP has been winning most elections for governor, state houses, as well as House and Senate races (note the GOP now controls many more of all of these than the Democrats)
2. It makes Ted Cruz, Christie, and Rubio look like moderates. That could help pump their numbers and make them more competitive in caucuses and primaries. That will help the GOP get independents.
7
Interesting how democrats and socialists are howling in anguish over the words Trump, yes I said it Mr.Blow, Donald Trump is causing such an uproar for standing up for the security of America and it's people. I find it puzzling how a temporary suspension of allowing Muslims into the US until we can actually fix our immigration system and secure our borders is such anathema to people like yourself.
Have you Mr. Blow, or any democrats ever howled in anguish over the utter destruction of the rights of the Japanese, Germans or Italians by FDR during WWII ? Yes, these were American citizens, not illegal aliens or terrorists trying to enter into the US for nefarious purposes. Their constitutional rights were trampled on with the blessings of a culpable democrat controlled congress under the guise of national security. They were stripped of their rights, imprisoned, their property and businesses confiscated simply because of their nationality by the beloved socialist FDR.
So Mr. Blow, the next time you want to rail about what a racist Trump is and how much damage internationally his plan would create, you better look in the not so distant past of your own party and it's demagogue.
Have you Mr. Blow, or any democrats ever howled in anguish over the utter destruction of the rights of the Japanese, Germans or Italians by FDR during WWII ? Yes, these were American citizens, not illegal aliens or terrorists trying to enter into the US for nefarious purposes. Their constitutional rights were trampled on with the blessings of a culpable democrat controlled congress under the guise of national security. They were stripped of their rights, imprisoned, their property and businesses confiscated simply because of their nationality by the beloved socialist FDR.
So Mr. Blow, the next time you want to rail about what a racist Trump is and how much damage internationally his plan would create, you better look in the not so distant past of your own party and it's demagogue.
10
As much as he is admired for the strength needed to lead this nation during his tumultuous time, and the many positives FDR accomplished, we are not blind nor afraid to face and condemn without excuse the suffering he also inflicted, rightly identifying those actions as our national disgrace. However, we cannot undo that which is has been done, we can only prevent it occurring again.
We are at a similar crossroads, deciding the needs of people who are suffering TODAY, caught in the triangulation of their dictatorial government, those seeking to overthrow that government, and Daesh. We are also facing once again the struggle to retain and exercise our own humanity in the face of adversity.
As has been mentioned many times, even before last week, Daesh needn't plant themselves among the millions of refugees, living for years under the same degraded conditions in the irrational hope of being among the very meager 1% who will gain asylum.
From a even a strictly pragmatic perspective, leaving the refugees to suffer those camps makes us less secure by clearly illustrating the message of all terrorists: that the West cares about them not at all. There are those among our Congress and citizens who fail to realize this truth, choosing to remain deaf to the calls for both humanity and pragmatism. The longer this continues, the more disaffection created through their words and deeds, the less effort Daesh need expend in overt recruitment, as they do it quite efficiently for them.
We are at a similar crossroads, deciding the needs of people who are suffering TODAY, caught in the triangulation of their dictatorial government, those seeking to overthrow that government, and Daesh. We are also facing once again the struggle to retain and exercise our own humanity in the face of adversity.
As has been mentioned many times, even before last week, Daesh needn't plant themselves among the millions of refugees, living for years under the same degraded conditions in the irrational hope of being among the very meager 1% who will gain asylum.
From a even a strictly pragmatic perspective, leaving the refugees to suffer those camps makes us less secure by clearly illustrating the message of all terrorists: that the West cares about them not at all. There are those among our Congress and citizens who fail to realize this truth, choosing to remain deaf to the calls for both humanity and pragmatism. The longer this continues, the more disaffection created through their words and deeds, the less effort Daesh need expend in overt recruitment, as they do it quite efficiently for them.
3
Thanks for proving Blow's point about the "body of the snake."
FDR was not a socialist. He did not seize the means of production and give them over to the state. He literally saved capitalism from itself by drumming up demand through massive government spending. He also implemented these programs because he was worried about the spread of communist sentiment amongst a large segment of the population.
And FDR's internment of the Japanese has long been condemned as one of the most shameful episodes in American history--by people on both the left on the right. In fact, the Civil Liberties Act of 1988 was authored by members of both parties, and it provided internment survivors with actual reparations. It was signed by--wait for it--Ronald Reagan.
FDR was not a socialist. He did not seize the means of production and give them over to the state. He literally saved capitalism from itself by drumming up demand through massive government spending. He also implemented these programs because he was worried about the spread of communist sentiment amongst a large segment of the population.
And FDR's internment of the Japanese has long been condemned as one of the most shameful episodes in American history--by people on both the left on the right. In fact, the Civil Liberties Act of 1988 was authored by members of both parties, and it provided internment survivors with actual reparations. It was signed by--wait for it--Ronald Reagan.
6
Thankfully, Democrats have learned from that terrible mistake. T & fellow travelers not so much.
3
"He" is not the problem, nor is the rest of the field. He's nothing but a truth-telling mirror who reveals the barely-concealed awfulness that lurks just beneath the surface of our society.
In some ways, this spectacle of a race has been a good thing for what it has shown us about our nation and for letting us know how far we have to go before we can claim to be the fair, equitable, and rational society we profess to be.
In some ways, this spectacle of a race has been a good thing for what it has shown us about our nation and for letting us know how far we have to go before we can claim to be the fair, equitable, and rational society we profess to be.
25
"He who must not be named" - hmmm.
Maybe we should start calling him Voldemort. It seems fitting considering all the damage he is doing to the reputation of the US.
Maybe we should start calling him Voldemort. It seems fitting considering all the damage he is doing to the reputation of the US.
16
Charles Blow has defined the Trump phenomena so well, there is little left to say. I said on the day that Trump announced his candidacy that he represented the heart and soul of the Republican Party. Five months later, his persistent front-runner status proves conclusively that he gives voice to the deepest spiritual values and political beliefs of Republicans, however twisted and distorted they may be. The only difference between Trump and other GOP leaders is that they temporize, knowing that those beliefs put the party on the wrong side of history. The only way they can distance themselves from Trump is to declare unequivocally that they will not vote for him for president, even if he wins the GOP nomination. Otherwise, they stand revealed as a bunch of hypocritical cynics, willing to put a xenophobic, Islamaphobic, racist demagogue in the White House, while rapping his knuckles when his bombast goes too far. What a pathetic, morally and intellectually bankrupt party.
50
Trump drives you crazy, so in response you drive the readers crazy and call it "we’re even"?
5
In Trump's business, crass = class. Check out any of his buildings, solid proof of utter tastelessness. Transporting this crudeness to presidential politics merely exposes the GOP & its owners to long-term defeat – fine & dandy, keep it up, Trump, your thuggery will deservedly hang the GOP that fails to condemn you, that has no choice but to follow the raucous rabble it has assiduously cultivated for decades.
The Dems are far more fortunate in their candidate, Sen. Bernie Sanders – no farce, no fraud, all integrity, all honesty, all tolerance his entire life.
Support Bernie & you support the vast good majority of Americans.
The Dems are far more fortunate in their candidate, Sen. Bernie Sanders – no farce, no fraud, all integrity, all honesty, all tolerance his entire life.
Support Bernie & you support the vast good majority of Americans.
39
sooo much of the establishment in this country from politicians to the media fail to understand the kind of anger that trump is tapping into in the populace at large. for decades now people have know from their experience in the world that things are a certain way, but when those same things are articulated by the media or presidential candidates they get twisted into a form barely recognisable to the population at large. examples: this free trade agreement with low wage nations where the people live in tents and make 1 dollar a day in wages is going to mean "jobs, jobs jobs" for americans, the suspect in this crime of violence is a young african american male., Wow who could have predicted that african american communities have a problem with crime, violence and poor personal decision making?. The latest machine gunning down of innocent bystanders at a shopping mall was committed by someone of Muslim background with a name like "Farrok" and wearing garb from the middle east... Wow how unusual all of these situations are..??? He is stating what people see in their lives as honest problems that are not being acknowledged or dealt with in an honest way by the media or politicians because they don't want to "offend" anyone. People are tired of that, and they want someone to take this stuff head on and they don't care if people are offended.
6
If the sector of the population for whom you seem to speak have the same inability to differentiate the individual and the group, the few and the masses, I more clearly understand your and their attraction to the man whom we will not name. "'They' are murderers, 'they' are rapists ... ". Isn't that the way the "thinking" goes?
2
Or if they get their facts straight. I imagine it must be very hard to hear accurately in an echo chamber of loudly bellowed xenophobia.
2
Mr. B. should realize that omitting Mr. T's name from the column simply draws more attention to the candidate. Inadvertently, like others in the media biz, Mr. B. is abetting M. T in his lust for the spotlight.
That said, Mr. B. hits the bullseye on the would-be electorate. Mr. T's vast and apparently steadfast popularity is only a crasser version of that enjoyed by Ross Perot (Mr. P.) in 1992. The latter enabled the election of Mr. C. And were Mr. T. to gain the nomination, he would ensure election of Ms.C.
That said, Mr. B. hits the bullseye on the would-be electorate. Mr. T's vast and apparently steadfast popularity is only a crasser version of that enjoyed by Ross Perot (Mr. P.) in 1992. The latter enabled the election of Mr. C. And were Mr. T. to gain the nomination, he would ensure election of Ms.C.
4
Fascism is complex, multi-dimensional and comes in various shades and degrees. We cannot know what someone like Trump would actually do were he to be elected President of the United States. Speculation about the institutional dimension of fascism as perhaps embodied by any candidate is moot. That means, it is quite unlikely that a real dictatorship and the accompanying "Gleichschaltung" (expulsion of differing views and their proponents from media and institions) could happen in the U.S. even in a "light" version, in the way they are happening elsewhere, most recently e.g. in Hungary and, now starting, in Poland.
However, certain very controversial ideas voiced by Trump and used by him are in fact right out of the fascist playbook, like the demonization of minorities and foreigners, the exploitation of fear and the suggestion of outlandish measures without regard for lawfulness and constitutionality (the constitution seems to be a commodity to be abandonded at the first of hint of its inconvenience).
And, here Charles Blow has it exactly right, it is to be observed that there is an audience in the U.S. for this kind of talk, otherwise the front runner would not be the front runner. Let us hope that maturity will prevail.
However, certain very controversial ideas voiced by Trump and used by him are in fact right out of the fascist playbook, like the demonization of minorities and foreigners, the exploitation of fear and the suggestion of outlandish measures without regard for lawfulness and constitutionality (the constitution seems to be a commodity to be abandonded at the first of hint of its inconvenience).
And, here Charles Blow has it exactly right, it is to be observed that there is an audience in the U.S. for this kind of talk, otherwise the front runner would not be the front runner. Let us hope that maturity will prevail.
24
I'm a ardent supporter of free speech but what nameless is doing borders on a hate crime in my opinion. There should be something we can do within the legal system to shut this idiot up.
10
Apparently under German law he could be tried for incitement.
Understandably, Germany is quite conscious of where this path ends.
Understandably, Germany is quite conscious of where this path ends.
2
What happened in San Bernardino was a hate crime - where's your outrage about that?
4
What happened to "I disagree with what you say but I will defend to the death your right to say it"? If "offensive" speech is banned then Free Speech in America is dead. We are becoming a nation that is afraid to hear any idea or thought with which we disagree. Are our minds and morals so weak and puny that simply hearing repulsive speech will corrupt and convert us? The answer to offensive speech is rebuttal not repression. But that takes intelligence and effort. Much easier to just say "Ban it" so we don't even have to make the effort of turning away.
6
The hatred has been out there, Trump merely brought it into the open. I'm ashamed for our country. And ashamed of our "so-called" journalists who have given this man a voice.
54
Trump's crassness is no act; he is merely mirroring our collective, diseased psyches. Have we not collectively colluded to produce a reality when this American Augustus gets to point a finger at a minority and say: let's get them?
It wasn't Trump who organized the gun toting yahoos outside a mosque in Irving. He did not cause the muting of all republicans as soon as we learned that Oklahoma was the doing of radical Christians. Trump has not created this party of good Christian patriots who encourage armed militias, anti-government activists addicted to meth (and Fox). What were we expecting from people who institutionalized lynching and arson in America, defend the Dixie flag and slavery, openly advocate for preventing women from getting vaccinated or managing their choices, and say that math and science education is corrupting the young?
We are a tinderbox of socioeconomic inequality and a kaleidoscopic mix of psychopathology in search of scapegoats. The republicans have seeded, wired, powdered and carefully planted fuses in this volatile kindling. They want all non-white Christians gone from America; poof! About half of all Americans silently agree with them. By not standing up, linking up, showing up, and voting - we have fueled their rise. Trump is just the flint; his sparks wouldn't catch unless fear, loathing, anxiety, and our desire to rid ourselves of our own darkness and frustrations were not nascent.
Crass? Heck, we are pathetic Chuck!
Kalidan
It wasn't Trump who organized the gun toting yahoos outside a mosque in Irving. He did not cause the muting of all republicans as soon as we learned that Oklahoma was the doing of radical Christians. Trump has not created this party of good Christian patriots who encourage armed militias, anti-government activists addicted to meth (and Fox). What were we expecting from people who institutionalized lynching and arson in America, defend the Dixie flag and slavery, openly advocate for preventing women from getting vaccinated or managing their choices, and say that math and science education is corrupting the young?
We are a tinderbox of socioeconomic inequality and a kaleidoscopic mix of psychopathology in search of scapegoats. The republicans have seeded, wired, powdered and carefully planted fuses in this volatile kindling. They want all non-white Christians gone from America; poof! About half of all Americans silently agree with them. By not standing up, linking up, showing up, and voting - we have fueled their rise. Trump is just the flint; his sparks wouldn't catch unless fear, loathing, anxiety, and our desire to rid ourselves of our own darkness and frustrations were not nascent.
Crass? Heck, we are pathetic Chuck!
Kalidan
35
Stop with your drama. This is about national security, not discrimination. The good people of San Bernardino will not forget.
5
Kalidan, our kids, you know the ones in college, are hypersensitive to political correctiveness. They are shocked, shocked that by their parents and grandparents simply putting up with racism, xenophobia, homophobia, genderphobia and what not, "By not standing up, linking up, showing up, and voting - we have fueled their rise.". They are so sick and tired of inaction that they are actually speaking out. They might sound shrill, and they are specially dismissed by the GOP as "PC" kids, but their fight has just begun. May they lead us into the light, that's our hope for future generations.
3
I hoped you would write about Justice Scalia today, who bespoke his own form of racial razzle-dazzle.
I have been thinking of Scalia and the work of Stepin Fetchit as a revolutionary cautionary tale. Deliberately calculated, it made fun of the fears of lynching and brutality and mocked the physical forces that regulated black life, for a privileged citizenry.
His exaggeration of lazy (he was known as the laziest man in the world!) merged with the persona of the gentlemen of ease, those with great wealth--and with the resistance of those exploited and robbed of their labor’s value, those who faced a world of harsh, brutal, incidental hostility.
His comedic rendering gave a new, unspoken meaning to these dangers.
He was laughed at, and put down. But he never sold out. His speech and gait pointed to the price of his hurt. His agony was visible behind every laugh.
He made the mask transparent to those who knew its code. Some of us see America with his eyes. Judge Scalia, we are looking at you.
I have been thinking of Scalia and the work of Stepin Fetchit as a revolutionary cautionary tale. Deliberately calculated, it made fun of the fears of lynching and brutality and mocked the physical forces that regulated black life, for a privileged citizenry.
His exaggeration of lazy (he was known as the laziest man in the world!) merged with the persona of the gentlemen of ease, those with great wealth--and with the resistance of those exploited and robbed of their labor’s value, those who faced a world of harsh, brutal, incidental hostility.
His comedic rendering gave a new, unspoken meaning to these dangers.
He was laughed at, and put down. But he never sold out. His speech and gait pointed to the price of his hurt. His agony was visible behind every laugh.
He made the mask transparent to those who knew its code. Some of us see America with his eyes. Judge Scalia, we are looking at you.
174
Do Republican candidates want to win the election or serve justice? Outspoken on Trump, so far silent on Scalia. They are a better fit for the dangers and stereotypes they seek to assign to others at home and abroad.
5
re:Walter Rhett: Poignant and Profound- and on-point [as always].
5
Please write a column/extended letter regarding Scalia's comments during the hearing, Walter Rhett. In the age of Donald, Scalia's and Robert's lines of questioning spout additional blood to draw the snarling thirsty beast.
Your last sentence evoked so many emotions and memories leaving me short of breath and anxious: you speak the truth always with great eloquence and a certain, necessary sting. I only wish you had mentioned the actor Stepin Fetchit's birth name, Lincoln Perry; another wish is that you write a biography based on your brilliant analysis of his work.
Your last sentence evoked so many emotions and memories leaving me short of breath and anxious: you speak the truth always with great eloquence and a certain, necessary sting. I only wish you had mentioned the actor Stepin Fetchit's birth name, Lincoln Perry; another wish is that you write a biography based on your brilliant analysis of his work.
4
Cruz wins in Iowa and South Carolina, Trump steps down and we have a Republican nominee actually worse than Trump.
367
How come Trump is not shouting "birther" at Cruz? He is Latino, no? Canadian born?
3
That could happen, too. It's still really early. This time in 2007, nobody knew who "Barack Obama" was.
However, I ask again: if the GOP candidates are so awful, and cannot possibly win, and ensure a giant Hillary landslide -- why aren't the Dems and liberals happier?
However, I ask again: if the GOP candidates are so awful, and cannot possibly win, and ensure a giant Hillary landslide -- why aren't the Dems and liberals happier?
That is scary.
1
Thank you Charles, Now if you would discuss the news media's role in electoral politics. I for one will be gratified. Have you ever thought the news media makes more news than it reports?
You see, this is what happens when the media plays footsie with a demagogue. This all started, I believe, as a sideshow. The media exploited the man for ratings — they saw an entertaining jester prone to outlandishness who supplied airtime and column inches, and he exploited the media to fill his bottomless pit of emotional need and to stroke his immense ego. For him, it was a branding exercise, something interesting to do that might help sell a few more shiny ties or increase his leverage for licensing his name to more real estate." Charles Blow
The media sizes on the distractions offered up by disturbed personalities. It is so much easier than actually going out to report on the real world. Ever wonder what happens to the real news while the news media clowns around with the cult of personality? it goes down the toilet. Several big events besides shootings have occurred in the last few weeks but loading up the front page with the antics of a man so full of himself he can't see took the lead.
You see, this is what happens when the media plays footsie with a demagogue. This all started, I believe, as a sideshow. The media exploited the man for ratings — they saw an entertaining jester prone to outlandishness who supplied airtime and column inches, and he exploited the media to fill his bottomless pit of emotional need and to stroke his immense ego. For him, it was a branding exercise, something interesting to do that might help sell a few more shiny ties or increase his leverage for licensing his name to more real estate." Charles Blow
The media sizes on the distractions offered up by disturbed personalities. It is so much easier than actually going out to report on the real world. Ever wonder what happens to the real news while the news media clowns around with the cult of personality? it goes down the toilet. Several big events besides shootings have occurred in the last few weeks but loading up the front page with the antics of a man so full of himself he can't see took the lead.
148
We might ask how much damage are all the Republican candidates and their supporters doing to the national dialogue--and legislation and court rulings. Recently, for example, one Senator argued, after yet another gun massacre, that people need to be able to buy assault weapons so they are prepared for when law and order breaks down.
72
That "one Senator" fear-monger is Linsey Graham of South Carolina. Name him.
2
This was an excellent article about how the media created a monster. The fact that Blow doesn't mention his name makes it sound like a cautionary fable. Yet will the country understand the moral of the story or will this demagogue be elected?
How I wish this were just a fable... It was entertaining at first but it's downright scary right now.
How I wish this were just a fable... It was entertaining at first but it's downright scary right now.
35
I agree with Charles. Let's call he that will not be named: 'The Leader'.
The Leader is 20 points ahead in South Carolina.
The Leader is not going away.
The Leader has indeed captured the pulse of a certain part of America.
The Leader is very much representative of conservatism today.
The Leader is like the character "Bill the Butcher" from the film "Gangs of New York".
The Leader will capture the Republican nomination for the presidency.
The Leader will not become President.
The Leader is 20 points ahead in South Carolina.
The Leader is not going away.
The Leader has indeed captured the pulse of a certain part of America.
The Leader is very much representative of conservatism today.
The Leader is like the character "Bill the Butcher" from the film "Gangs of New York".
The Leader will capture the Republican nomination for the presidency.
The Leader will not become President.
220
I agree with Kevin, but rather than calling him "The Leader", I propose we call him "Il Duce" And perhaps we should take that book jacket photo of his pouty, puffed up, lower lip smirk and make a poster of Il Duce and plaster it up on walls through the land, and go to rallies, and chant in unison about making the empire great again, and invade Ethiopia! ...wait...what???
6
From your mouth to God's ears. But if he's the nominee and there's another terrorist incident right before the election? The possible result is too awful to contemplate.
1
Funny, in Germany some years ago, they used the same basic term.
In English, it's The Leader; in German ... it's Der Fuhrer.
Also funny: translate Hitler's speeches into English and you'll see major similarities in what Donald is saying ... with the same fear-mongering justifications, the same "I'll make this country great again", the same "I'm the one who can save you and give you what you want and keep you safe" and on and on.
Maybe "funny" isn't the right word to use here.
PS - I vote for calling him The Donald rather than The Leader.
In English, it's The Leader; in German ... it's Der Fuhrer.
Also funny: translate Hitler's speeches into English and you'll see major similarities in what Donald is saying ... with the same fear-mongering justifications, the same "I'll make this country great again", the same "I'm the one who can save you and give you what you want and keep you safe" and on and on.
Maybe "funny" isn't the right word to use here.
PS - I vote for calling him The Donald rather than The Leader.
2
The current Republican front-runner is what happens when the liberal media plays footsie with liberal policies too soft on terrorists and criminals.
8
Eduardo,
For you to attempt to foist off 'the leader's' comments as a fault of anyone but HIM shows how utterly inept your argument is.
For you to attempt to foist off 'the leader's' comments as a fault of anyone but HIM shows how utterly inept your argument is.
9
Show me liberal media in America and I'll offer you a bridge in fine condition... at a great price.
2
dEs, do u have any in Texas? Want my shiny new bridge within easy driving distance, you know.
The art of populism consists of taking an issue that the other politicians do not really address and providing a solution for it. Even if that solution is unfeasible, they are still the only one addressing the problem.
Trump has done that very cleverly with Muslim extremism. We know that Saudi Arabia and the Gulf States are financing terrorism and Muslim extremism to such an extent that they can be considered the motors behind them. And yet our leaders do nothing to address those issues, both because they value the trade ties and because they find Muslim extremism and ISIS useful tools to achieve their own "regime change" and other foreign policy goals.
Trump has done that very cleverly with Muslim extremism. We know that Saudi Arabia and the Gulf States are financing terrorism and Muslim extremism to such an extent that they can be considered the motors behind them. And yet our leaders do nothing to address those issues, both because they value the trade ties and because they find Muslim extremism and ISIS useful tools to achieve their own "regime change" and other foreign policy goals.
18
"Maybe it’s not traditional conservatism, but it is modern Republicanism, or at least a large enough portion of it to make the most inflammatory Republican candidate the most liked Republican candidate."
They want to keep the substance, just replace the front man. Most of them want to be that replacement.
Has a single one of them defended anyone Trump attacked? No. They've only said he should be more subtle about it.
I think Trump was surprised this worked. He did it for attention. When it took off, he went with it, to see where it might go. Opportunism is his whole personal history.
The only thing serious about his thoughts is the standard real estate developer thinking. The Republican Party is a distressed property. After Bush and the defeats, look at that Clown Bus. That is distressed. If he could freshen it up he could turn it over for a profit. In the process, he'd boost himself just like putting his name on towers he does not actually own. He'd gain prestige that he can turn into more money.
Then surprise, it worked beyond his wildest fantasy. Well, go for it.
Besides understanding Trump, this is a critical understanding of Republicans. He is what they are. He is not changing it. He's only freshening it up. He's adding some marble and neon and his version of "class" to what they already were.
Republicans protest because he makes it too obvious what they really are. They use code words outside closed doors. See Romney caught when he thought the doors were closed.
They want to keep the substance, just replace the front man. Most of them want to be that replacement.
Has a single one of them defended anyone Trump attacked? No. They've only said he should be more subtle about it.
I think Trump was surprised this worked. He did it for attention. When it took off, he went with it, to see where it might go. Opportunism is his whole personal history.
The only thing serious about his thoughts is the standard real estate developer thinking. The Republican Party is a distressed property. After Bush and the defeats, look at that Clown Bus. That is distressed. If he could freshen it up he could turn it over for a profit. In the process, he'd boost himself just like putting his name on towers he does not actually own. He'd gain prestige that he can turn into more money.
Then surprise, it worked beyond his wildest fantasy. Well, go for it.
Besides understanding Trump, this is a critical understanding of Republicans. He is what they are. He is not changing it. He's only freshening it up. He's adding some marble and neon and his version of "class" to what they already were.
Republicans protest because he makes it too obvious what they really are. They use code words outside closed doors. See Romney caught when he thought the doors were closed.
692
Excellent comment.
2
"He is what they [Republicans] are."
Hogwash. We may be a dying breed, but we moderate Republicans are HARDLY this.
Hogwash. We may be a dying breed, but we moderate Republicans are HARDLY this.
Good point, freshening up distressed property, and turned over for a political profit--exploiting every opportunity. It exposes the Gop for their true selves, no matter how they protest.
And Trump’s name is on several high rises along the Hudson River. Think of coming home every day year after year, to be greeted by the words “Trump Place” in big letters. And paying plenty for it. After this campaign, I'd be apt hunting.
And Trump’s name is on several high rises along the Hudson River. Think of coming home every day year after year, to be greeted by the words “Trump Place” in big letters. And paying plenty for it. After this campaign, I'd be apt hunting.
4
The Triumph of Trump. He’s got world leaders from London to Israel speaking and tweeting their condemnation of his religious xenophobia.
Boris Johnson, New York born mayor of London, said the reason he’s not visiting NYC now is that he might run into DT!
Another year of this. Now the world, not just US media, hangs on Trump’s offensive utterances.
I wonder if at NYT editors’ meetings they ever discuss cutting down a bit on their DT coverage ?
We've gotten little coverage of Sanders' proposals, and 24/7 coverage of every DT idea or statement.
Too bad the neighborhood near my home is full of high rise towers named Trump Place. Constant reminders just on my way to grocery shop.
Boris Johnson, New York born mayor of London, said the reason he’s not visiting NYC now is that he might run into DT!
Another year of this. Now the world, not just US media, hangs on Trump’s offensive utterances.
I wonder if at NYT editors’ meetings they ever discuss cutting down a bit on their DT coverage ?
We've gotten little coverage of Sanders' proposals, and 24/7 coverage of every DT idea or statement.
Too bad the neighborhood near my home is full of high rise towers named Trump Place. Constant reminders just on my way to grocery shop.
210
Has any Republican said he would not support Trump if nominated?
Don't be fooled by any word games from the GOP.
Don't be fooled by any word games from the GOP.
272
@David Henry
Who in the Republican Party is "supporting" Trump now? Name a single person.
Unleashing him as a candidate on an independent run is sure suicide. They were hoping for a miracle. A miracle that still might arrive.
What else would you counsel that they do? Ensure that he is on the ticket? And throw the election to Clinton?
That's interesting logic.
Who in the Republican Party is "supporting" Trump now? Name a single person.
Unleashing him as a candidate on an independent run is sure suicide. They were hoping for a miracle. A miracle that still might arrive.
What else would you counsel that they do? Ensure that he is on the ticket? And throw the election to Clinton?
That's interesting logic.
1
Hasn't he threatened to go Independent if the GOP party rejects him? He is his own master when it comes to financing his campaign, so Trump does not owe anyone (meaning masters of GOP) anything.
2
I think you're talking about candidates, but this Republican voter will be choking down the bile & pulling the lever for Hillary if Trump's the nominee.
If it's Sanders/Trump, then I'll not not vote in a presidential election for the first time in my voting life. Neither is remotely qualified.
If it's Sanders/Trump, then I'll not not vote in a presidential election for the first time in my voting life. Neither is remotely qualified.
2
Mr. Blow, Donald Trump didn't just happen. He's been a half century in the making. He is the walking ghost of Jefferson Davis, Woodrow Wilson W.H. Taft, Strom Thurmond, Barry Goldwater, George Wallace, Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, Bush I and II, Lee Atwater, Karl Rove, Newt Gingrich, Dick Armey, Grover Norquist, ALEC, and...well this very short list might suffice. The entire racist movement in America is grounded upon white privilege. He-whom-you-refuse-to-name has called his followers together for a "tent meeting,"much like a Sunday preacher. The media is like a dog, by turns fawning and snapping. Columnists and editorial writers justify their column inches and air time with the tired "in the public interest." The media is like a street procurer; it's aware of the unsavory, unhealthy product but they sell it because they don't want to miss out on the next cheap thrill. A thriving democracy needs an informed and thorough press, a watchdog, not a lapdog. Add to the roster above these media culprits in whom "he-who, etc." may be linked: Fox News (I'm looking at you, Sean Hannity, Bill O'Reilly and your bosses Roger Ailes and Rupert Murdoch), Glenn Beck, Rush Limbaugh, Laura Ingraham, William Kristol, Alex Castellanos, and the WSJ editorial page writers. They all love the GOP front-runner and lead his cheers. What could possibly account for his popularity and lead in the polls?
499
you left out Msnbc with it's Morning Joe program featuring Joe the jerk and a slew
of yes men. (and women).
of yes men. (and women).
8
reply to soxared: Excellent excoriating assessment.
5
@soxarered040713
It is a minor inconvenience to you that Trump has voted Democrat for most of his life, and his support reflects less about White privilege and more about fear. Reliable studies on his support show that many of his rally attendees are working class voters once reliably Democrat.
Stop the navel-gazing on this, please.
Trump appeals to people out of their fear, fear for the directionless leadership of the country to the eyes of many Americans. It is all well and good for those of us secure economically to put down others for not following the President, but we would be wise to notice that there is a wide swath of Americans who are either willing to shoot up a holiday party for jihad or turn to alcohol to numb the pain of a country that offers them a darker future.
If you call a Trump support racist and a Ferguson protester justified, you are laughably tone deaf to your own irony.
It is a minor inconvenience to you that Trump has voted Democrat for most of his life, and his support reflects less about White privilege and more about fear. Reliable studies on his support show that many of his rally attendees are working class voters once reliably Democrat.
Stop the navel-gazing on this, please.
Trump appeals to people out of their fear, fear for the directionless leadership of the country to the eyes of many Americans. It is all well and good for those of us secure economically to put down others for not following the President, but we would be wise to notice that there is a wide swath of Americans who are either willing to shoot up a holiday party for jihad or turn to alcohol to numb the pain of a country that offers them a darker future.
If you call a Trump support racist and a Ferguson protester justified, you are laughably tone deaf to your own irony.
6
Thanks for avoiding the proper noun for he-who-shall-not-be-named. Because part of finally getting rid of him is not to give him publicity, I appreciate this strategy.
24
Mr. Blow,
You are correct, he is a crass act. However, his message seems to resonate with a sizable portion of the population. Perhaps Americans recognize a kernal of truth within the rhetoric despite the way it is delivered.
You are correct, he is a crass act. However, his message seems to resonate with a sizable portion of the population. Perhaps Americans recognize a kernal of truth within the rhetoric despite the way it is delivered.
20
Demagogues transform a "kernel of truth" into their own agenda, which is not supported by whatever 'truth' is claimed. Were the Jews responsible for everything that was wrong with the German society and economy post-WW1, Dr. Rosenblum? What 'kernel of truth' was in that assertion that justified the "solution?"
9
It's more than a kernel. It's a bushel.
2
@Dr. Sam
Exactly so. And Democrats squirm to think that people even "think" these things, let alone be seen in public supporting them.
Everyone wants to make Trump a "racist". His crowds are large because many Americans are fearful and angry. The racist component (what makes a wall on the Mexican border "racist"?) is a minor part of what animates people. They see 7 years of bitter feuding in Washington and incompetence in our leadership.
Exactly so. And Democrats squirm to think that people even "think" these things, let alone be seen in public supporting them.
Everyone wants to make Trump a "racist". His crowds are large because many Americans are fearful and angry. The racist component (what makes a wall on the Mexican border "racist"?) is a minor part of what animates people. They see 7 years of bitter feuding in Washington and incompetence in our leadership.
3
Our media is set up to play footsie with demogogues. They must report during an almost 2 year campaign, every twitch and noise. Issues are sidelined. They earn huge profits from campaign commercials financed by the rich. They thrive on every negative aspect of US politics--- 24/7 cable magnifies the fund raising contest, then polling, then punditry, then more polling.
I wonder, if 1 big media outlet refrained from jumping up at Trump’s every sentence, instead citing a few short select statements now and then, and turned their attention to issues—what would happen? Would the public stay away or tune in, to hear how their lives would be affected if each candidate won? Now the whole world including Israel and London must Respond to The Trump!
We need a running table of issues compared for each candidate with their implications for the mass of Americans. Else why vote? The big money picks our nominees, and party platforms, dictating what’s off the table for debate, or permissible.
So if critics don’t attack Trump’s ideas, he wins? And if they do, it solidifies his appeal, so he also wins? But I’m stuffed to the gills with polls. The Gop base is a minority of voters—the extremists. They are driving the whole media now. Charles, suppose you avoided polls and Trump for a while?
I wonder, if 1 big media outlet refrained from jumping up at Trump’s every sentence, instead citing a few short select statements now and then, and turned their attention to issues—what would happen? Would the public stay away or tune in, to hear how their lives would be affected if each candidate won? Now the whole world including Israel and London must Respond to The Trump!
We need a running table of issues compared for each candidate with their implications for the mass of Americans. Else why vote? The big money picks our nominees, and party platforms, dictating what’s off the table for debate, or permissible.
So if critics don’t attack Trump’s ideas, he wins? And if they do, it solidifies his appeal, so he also wins? But I’m stuffed to the gills with polls. The Gop base is a minority of voters—the extremists. They are driving the whole media now. Charles, suppose you avoided polls and Trump for a while?
178
Charles has conscientiously avoided the mogul and focused on issues. To answer your question as to what would happen if everyone followed a version of that policy, well, numbers would flock to Fox -- a network which would refuse to play by those rules. And the me-too networks would follow suit.
Because in the end, who determines ratings? The ones doing the watching.
Because in the end, who determines ratings? The ones doing the watching.
4
Meredith,
I think we should outlaw political advertising altogether. I actually think this is something that could get bipartisan support, because both Democrats and Republicans are tired of political attack ads. But this would require a constitutional amendment. Does anyone seriously believe political ads contribute to our democracy, are an important piece of free speech?
It should be possible for the two parties to cooperate to set up a web site where candidates could post their statements, for free. As with Amazon.com or Google, particular statements would rise in prominence because people were interested in them.
I'll admit there is a serious problem with my proposal. As a person who posts to forums like this one, I tend to assume that written statements are the best way of presenting ideas. In reality, voters want to be able to see their candidates, see their expressions and hear their voices. But I still think the system could be set up so that when someone had progressed a certain way through the internet vetting process (we have to limit the field somehow--we can't vote for thousands of people), they would appear in televised debates. This would put the priority on issues, not image.
I think we should outlaw political advertising altogether. I actually think this is something that could get bipartisan support, because both Democrats and Republicans are tired of political attack ads. But this would require a constitutional amendment. Does anyone seriously believe political ads contribute to our democracy, are an important piece of free speech?
It should be possible for the two parties to cooperate to set up a web site where candidates could post their statements, for free. As with Amazon.com or Google, particular statements would rise in prominence because people were interested in them.
I'll admit there is a serious problem with my proposal. As a person who posts to forums like this one, I tend to assume that written statements are the best way of presenting ideas. In reality, voters want to be able to see their candidates, see their expressions and hear their voices. But I still think the system could be set up so that when someone had progressed a certain way through the internet vetting process (we have to limit the field somehow--we can't vote for thousands of people), they would appear in televised debates. This would put the priority on issues, not image.
1
I have a theory. It's only a theory, a daydream.
The New York Loudmouth (NYLM) jumped in the presidential race as a PR play, to boost his stock, expand his audience, a chance to stand on the biggest soapbox. He never expected to lead in the polls. The last thing he wanted was to end up sitting behind the desk in the oval office. The plan isn't working out. NYLM says outrageous thing hoping to to finally get bounced out but it's doing the opposite. So now he's caught up in his own whirlwind, and the only way he can live with it is to become a believer himself of his own outrageous self. NYLM's psyche, big ego hiding fear of being weak, will not allow him to think, "This is insane! I quit." He would be "a loser". Result; a modern Frankenstein monster is loose in the world.
Just a theory.
The New York Loudmouth (NYLM) jumped in the presidential race as a PR play, to boost his stock, expand his audience, a chance to stand on the biggest soapbox. He never expected to lead in the polls. The last thing he wanted was to end up sitting behind the desk in the oval office. The plan isn't working out. NYLM says outrageous thing hoping to to finally get bounced out but it's doing the opposite. So now he's caught up in his own whirlwind, and the only way he can live with it is to become a believer himself of his own outrageous self. NYLM's psyche, big ego hiding fear of being weak, will not allow him to think, "This is insane! I quit." He would be "a loser". Result; a modern Frankenstein monster is loose in the world.
Just a theory.
234
Springtime For Hitler.
90
@Ralph Averill
I will take the theory one further. He knows that he either wins the White House or he is forever a friend of the family that does. He cannot lose. And he knows it.
Finally, Hillary may have found a way to drag her discredited resume to the top.
I will take the theory one further. He knows that he either wins the White House or he is forever a friend of the family that does. He cannot lose. And he knows it.
Finally, Hillary may have found a way to drag her discredited resume to the top.
2
I have wondered if he escalates his rhetoric to get bumped out of the race. It reinforces his "reject me and I reject you" much repeated life approach.
He would hate being President. You cannot quit. The money is not yours. You would have to deal with real problems that cannot be sold to get rid of them. Federal bankruptcy would damage his own monetary worth. Words would lead to actions by people with real power.
He would hate being President. You cannot quit. The money is not yours. You would have to deal with real problems that cannot be sold to get rid of them. Federal bankruptcy would damage his own monetary worth. Words would lead to actions by people with real power.
15
Please continue to remain silent on his name. All NYTs contributors should be encouraged to do the same.
He is a product of the media who created and nurtures him. Deny him that, please.
He is a product of the media who created and nurtures him. Deny him that, please.
89
I agree. And while we are at, please keep all the Neanderthal photos of him out of the press too.
11
Yes, the media has poorly chosen to amplify that megalomaniacal monster in the room, but the Republican party well deserves everything bad that is happening to them. I only hope it leads to a total implosion. Toxic Republicanism has for too long been a blight on the US.
265
You can't bear to say his name but you can't resist writing about him. How do you justify it?
27
Because now his statements -- and the support he is receiving for them -- have become the issue, particularly with regard to support among our allies for dealing with terrorism.
Charles vowed to steer clear of him until he finally said something of note or merit. The mogul's current puffer fish imitation has no merit, but it is of unavoidable note, given the circumstances.
Charles vowed to steer clear of him until he finally said something of note or merit. The mogul's current puffer fish imitation has no merit, but it is of unavoidable note, given the circumstances.
12
Stuart: you can't google a non-name.
2
The word appears to have gone out that the left now must castigate the right for “fascism”. It doesn’t even require that a substantial number of Americans knows what that means – it just sounds icky. But a fascism is a dictatorship, a despotism, an autocracy. Trump, for all his over-the-top bombasts, he doesn’t suggest dictated solutions, as some we all know do, but that they be adopted by Congress. Indeed, if you bother to go to his website, you can see the positions he formally embraces, and they’re pretty moderate – it’s been suggested that on some issues he’s to the left of Hillary.
Francisco Franco of Spain was a fascist – a benevolent one but still a fascist when I lived in the Spain he ran, from 1969-1971; a decidedly UN-benevolent one in the 1930s and 1940s, when he had gypsies machine-gunned in open fields. Hitler was a fascist, Mussolini was a fascist, the principal of my first elementary school was a fascist. The Donald is an entertainer and a demagogue.
I note wryly that Charles doesn’t use Trump’s name anymore in his columns, but isn’t beneath exploiting his inkability when a column is due. Such are the little self-betrayals we all indulge.
With all Charles’s concern that The Donald is dangerous because he has many followers, his popularity in fact is waning, with Cruz (another winner) and even Christie benefiting. I’m just wondering whether enough words will have been written about Trump before the first primary than existed in print before 1900.
Francisco Franco of Spain was a fascist – a benevolent one but still a fascist when I lived in the Spain he ran, from 1969-1971; a decidedly UN-benevolent one in the 1930s and 1940s, when he had gypsies machine-gunned in open fields. Hitler was a fascist, Mussolini was a fascist, the principal of my first elementary school was a fascist. The Donald is an entertainer and a demagogue.
I note wryly that Charles doesn’t use Trump’s name anymore in his columns, but isn’t beneath exploiting his inkability when a column is due. Such are the little self-betrayals we all indulge.
With all Charles’s concern that The Donald is dangerous because he has many followers, his popularity in fact is waning, with Cruz (another winner) and even Christie benefiting. I’m just wondering whether enough words will have been written about Trump before the first primary than existed in print before 1900.
63
Just as the left throws out "fascism" without knowing its meaning, it seems that not only the left but its favored candidate doesn't know what "socialsm" is. Socialism is government ownership of the means of production. It is not despite Sanders' claims social programs such as healthcare, family oriented programs or childhood support. These may all be laudable goals, but they are not socialism. Oldest trick in the world: use words to cloud reallity. Left leaning Americans confuse Social Democrats with socialism and go into a swoon.
6
Cruz, who in many ways would be even worse than Trump, doesn't stand a chance to become president. He may galvanize enough support to win a significant number of GOP primaries, but even if he were to somehow emerge as the nominee, he'd NEVER win the general. With the exception of a loyal contingent of right wing religious extremists, EVERYONE hates him--even in Texas.
46
I hope you are not still clinging to the idea that jeb? will win?
Trump is not a fascist.
He is, however, a populist demagogue, and he represents a sizable percentage of the Republican and Independent population.
I don't care about his position papers on his website.
If we are to go the socialist way, I prefer the democratic kind, and not the national version.
Trump is not a fascist.
He is, however, a populist demagogue, and he represents a sizable percentage of the Republican and Independent population.
I don't care about his position papers on his website.
If we are to go the socialist way, I prefer the democratic kind, and not the national version.
53
The mouth of the jack booted horde
Never finds the media bored,
An audience for rants
With fire in his pants,
And Oligarch oxen ne'er gored!
Never finds the media bored,
An audience for rants
With fire in his pants,
And Oligarch oxen ne'er gored!
98
Larry, just curious--do you only communicate via limerick?
2
@skigurl: apparently yes. But he's 90 years old, and a veteran, so I am willing to give him a pass.
3