The current election is supposed to be part of a great historical continuum that starts at the birth of the republic. But I couldn't help wondering whether, in the election of 1800, John Adams had asked Thomas Jefferson to defend the size of his penis. Somehow I doubt it.
1
This debate has left me even more confounded. If I listen to the Left, Donald Trump is Adolph Hitler reincarnated. If I listen to the Right, Trump is really a progressive Democrat in disguise pulling one over Republican voters. Go figure.
The truth is that Neo-Con Rubio bought and paid for by Sheldon Adelson, Paul Singer, and Norman Braman is as dangerous as Trump in the White House. The same holds true for the Evangelical/Dominionist Ted Cruz who is also likely to initiate Armageddon and theocracy. The GOP establishment run by Neo-Con Likudniks and Southern Evangelical militants is know better than The Donald.
9
If you're fond of conspiracy conjuring, one can't stop but thinking me sees the Clinton's hand behind this Republicans meltdown. Especially when ole' Bubba Slick Willy is lurking behind the scenes.
It doesn't take much imagination to see Bill plant this thought bubble in his friend Donald's cavernous, ego-driven mind to pull off this charade. It's Bill's payback to Hill for his past indiscretions, a buffer against the incessant reminders from Republicans which most assuredly will be piled high upon Hillary in the General.
Too preposterous to be true? Too implausible, beyond even the most bizarre plot device one could conjure up? Maybe. But boy, with incestuous goings-on about this borough of ours on a daily basis, I wouldn't put it past anyone from calling this scenario being complete fantasy, and maybe it is. Or maybe it's just wishful thinking from a avid reader of such novels. We may never know.
DD
Manhattan
It doesn't take much imagination to see Bill plant this thought bubble in his friend Donald's cavernous, ego-driven mind to pull off this charade. It's Bill's payback to Hill for his past indiscretions, a buffer against the incessant reminders from Republicans which most assuredly will be piled high upon Hillary in the General.
Too preposterous to be true? Too implausible, beyond even the most bizarre plot device one could conjure up? Maybe. But boy, with incestuous goings-on about this borough of ours on a daily basis, I wouldn't put it past anyone from calling this scenario being complete fantasy, and maybe it is. Or maybe it's just wishful thinking from a avid reader of such novels. We may never know.
DD
Manhattan
4
An alternative to the debacle...of The Republican Debates...is
a Q & A Oxford Debate Forum...with those who are advocates for each
candidate...
There have been NO coherent Oxford Debate Forums..and no one has a clue
what each of these 4 candidates stand for.
And this travesty...of skewing these debates is the fault of PBS as well
as Commercial TV...and ...the pundits who also are clueless.
a Q & A Oxford Debate Forum...with those who are advocates for each
candidate...
There have been NO coherent Oxford Debate Forums..and no one has a clue
what each of these 4 candidates stand for.
And this travesty...of skewing these debates is the fault of PBS as well
as Commercial TV...and ...the pundits who also are clueless.
1
Donald J. Trump...is simply ....disgusting..
Marco Rubio has no credentials to be President
Ted Cruz also has no credentials to be President
John Kasich does have the necessary credentials to be President
This is what the Republican Party has to come to terms with:
and they are very lucky to have John Kasich to support for President.
Marco Rubio has no credentials to be President
Ted Cruz also has no credentials to be President
John Kasich does have the necessary credentials to be President
This is what the Republican Party has to come to terms with:
and they are very lucky to have John Kasich to support for President.
4
Trump is a threat to the USA and all it holds dear, whether it can be seen from the inside or not. And he is immensely flawed as a human being. He offers nothing but lies, lies to cover up lies, and personal attacks.
Although portrayed as powerful and wealthy he is hiding an array of weaknesses that will have already caused much pain to many people he has previously dealt with. This is why he focuses on being a manipulator of those people who want to believe in him (and maybe are somewhat vulnerable) and so wanting a 'change.'
I have no preference for left or right (or centre) in the USA - but I know that Donald Trump will only ultimately provide some form of destruction of your Great country in one form or another. Keep being strong and wise America and take this guy down, because this is now officially Good against Evil - just like the movies (whether you can admit it or not).
Although portrayed as powerful and wealthy he is hiding an array of weaknesses that will have already caused much pain to many people he has previously dealt with. This is why he focuses on being a manipulator of those people who want to believe in him (and maybe are somewhat vulnerable) and so wanting a 'change.'
I have no preference for left or right (or centre) in the USA - but I know that Donald Trump will only ultimately provide some form of destruction of your Great country in one form or another. Keep being strong and wise America and take this guy down, because this is now officially Good against Evil - just like the movies (whether you can admit it or not).
All the news ft to print...oh yes the Times continues to shill for the Trump campaign.
Let us not forget that from day one that the corporate media -- TV, Cable and print -- has been as the organizer and promoter of the Trump campaign. You saw 30 minute Trump rallies every nite on the tube.
But last night, in Detroit more than 800 people braved icy cold temps and swirling snow to demonstrate Against the politics of Trump and his clones. The demonstrators came from the working and middle classes. They called for a $15 minimum wage. Many traveled from Flint, to protest the lead water crisis. Many signs called for the arrest of Republican Gov. Snyder. But for the Times this wasnt fit to report on.
Earlier in the week, a large number of Black Lives Matter activists marched thru a Trump rally. Again not a word of reporting, but when Trump called his supporters to " punch a protester in the face" this neo- fascist taunt was big news across the media scape.
So who are the real organizers of Trumpism.
Let us not forget that from day one that the corporate media -- TV, Cable and print -- has been as the organizer and promoter of the Trump campaign. You saw 30 minute Trump rallies every nite on the tube.
But last night, in Detroit more than 800 people braved icy cold temps and swirling snow to demonstrate Against the politics of Trump and his clones. The demonstrators came from the working and middle classes. They called for a $15 minimum wage. Many traveled from Flint, to protest the lead water crisis. Many signs called for the arrest of Republican Gov. Snyder. But for the Times this wasnt fit to report on.
Earlier in the week, a large number of Black Lives Matter activists marched thru a Trump rally. Again not a word of reporting, but when Trump called his supporters to " punch a protester in the face" this neo- fascist taunt was big news across the media scape.
So who are the real organizers of Trumpism.
1
The more I hear about this so called "debate" the more I remember how badly I wanted to smack them those three on the head! I feel for Kasich. Fox didn't give him the time he deserved it. Instead they perpetuated the stupid drama among the other kids...
Childish, so childish!
Childish, so childish!
4
One watches in horror and these ludicrous characters strut and fret and signify nothing. America has a population of several hundred of millions and if this is the best they can produce in the way of potential leader the god help us all.
To choose between Trump and Hillary is like choosing to die by finish squad or electric chair.
To choose between Trump and Hillary is like choosing to die by finish squad or electric chair.
2
Since Trump was bragging about his company, Trump Water, and how successful it is, why didn't he load up his gigantic plane with a few thousand cases of water for Flint residents? Did he even visit Flint?
2
Trump is a brilliant performance artist. He is mocking us all! We are all part of his incredible work of art. This bizarre run for president is a mockumentary on our entire political process and our so-called "democracy"! It proves how unbelievably full of ourselves we are!
This is Mr. Trump's "Exit Through the Gift Shop"!!!!!!
Bravo Donald Bravo! I awake each day anticipating what the next act will bring.
He is an artist. He is brilliant. And he will be YOUR next President! Hail to the Chief!
This is Mr. Trump's "Exit Through the Gift Shop"!!!!!!
Bravo Donald Bravo! I awake each day anticipating what the next act will bring.
He is an artist. He is brilliant. And he will be YOUR next President! Hail to the Chief!
5
I tend to agree with Juan in Buenos Aires. It is too little too late. Romney, Mc Cain, Mc Connell, Hatch....where have you guys been the last six months? I agree with JA Barry about the "gotcha questions". Somewhere along the line these so called reporters gravitated from simply reporting the facts and the news to trying to create it and become the center of gravity.
Walter Cronkite and Edward Murrow must be rolling over in their graves. I don't blame the candidates as much I blame the media for descending into the trenches.
Walter Cronkite and Edward Murrow must be rolling over in their graves. I don't blame the candidates as much I blame the media for descending into the trenches.
2
Read two pieces of advice today. Thought I'd pass them along.
1. “When you wrestle with a pig in the mud, all you do is get muddy and the pig loves it.”
2. "That’s the problem when arguing with stupid people. They drag you down to their level, then beat you with experience."
1. “When you wrestle with a pig in the mud, all you do is get muddy and the pig loves it.”
2. "That’s the problem when arguing with stupid people. They drag you down to their level, then beat you with experience."
6
"Little Marco" and "Lying Ted" engaged in a tag-team match against "Big Donald" last night, with Kasich practically comatose.
Fox News, Rubio and Cruz got the best of Trump last night. They gave him plenty of rope, and he hanged himself with it.
But it was not just Trump who was damaged last night. That a debate of a major political party not only did damage to the Republican/Tea/Obstructionist Party - perhaps for good - , but the mudslinging and getting into the gutter character and tone of the candidates (with the exception of Kasich) damaged our democracy and nation. These clowns are making us the laughingstock of the world.
And it's not a pretty sight.
Fox News, Rubio and Cruz got the best of Trump last night. They gave him plenty of rope, and he hanged himself with it.
But it was not just Trump who was damaged last night. That a debate of a major political party not only did damage to the Republican/Tea/Obstructionist Party - perhaps for good - , but the mudslinging and getting into the gutter character and tone of the candidates (with the exception of Kasich) damaged our democracy and nation. These clowns are making us the laughingstock of the world.
And it's not a pretty sight.
4
I watched John Kasich.....who I hoped would receive more air time...
However...John Kasich is the ONLY candidate who is mature enough and
experienced enough in government to be on last night's debate stage.
It is a travesty that John Kasich is not followed by the media...it just isn't fair
to the electorate...that tabloid antics takes precedent when we need to hear
from qualified candidates.
However...John Kasich is the ONLY candidate who is mature enough and
experienced enough in government to be on last night's debate stage.
It is a travesty that John Kasich is not followed by the media...it just isn't fair
to the electorate...that tabloid antics takes precedent when we need to hear
from qualified candidates.
4
They now think they can smear Trump to frustrate his candidacy but it's too late. The fact that the only sensible candidate is on the margins (both on stage and in the polls) clearly shows that Trump or Cruz or Rubio will be easily defeated by Hillary Clinton.
5
Not ....too late....
John Kasich could win.
Bernie Sanders could win
A Third Party candidate ...could win.
John Kasich could win.
Bernie Sanders could win
A Third Party candidate ...could win.
3
I hate to tell you this but in the national polls that are being read on the air daily on Fox News, ect., Rubio and Cruz both beat Hilliary. Trump loses to her. i t
I have no sympathy or respect for Trump, but did anyone else get the impression that the FOX panel of questioners engaged in debating Trump...instead of simply asking him questions? Followups are nice, but they did seem to have some gotcha questions, some prepared retorts and some video to trap him. I thought the questions were supposed to elicit positions, policies, and explanations/clarifications of conflicting or uncertain past statements/behavior; I thought the actual debate was supposed to be between the candidates?
7
Dear JABarry:
When you live by the sword you die by the sword. And so it is with the FOX.
They're a news organization in name only. To be sure, not much better can be said of the other cable channels. Even the broadcast networks leave much to be desired. If they couldn't fill up their news programs with an endless series of drug advertisements for us old folks, they'd close up their news departments in the blink of the eye.
Those good old days of Murrow's Boys and gavel to gavel coverage of conventions, however boring they were, were one of the last vestiges of our democracy in action, snail-like though it is.
It's also a commentary on our microwave, instantaneous gratification society. When meals can be cooked up in minutes people are not willing to wait in line to vote. It's too cumbersome to participate in an activity just once in four years for many. For the World Cup however they'll make the time, and then some.
It's all show biz now, baby. Bing, bang, boom. And it's our loss.
DD
Manhattan
When you live by the sword you die by the sword. And so it is with the FOX.
They're a news organization in name only. To be sure, not much better can be said of the other cable channels. Even the broadcast networks leave much to be desired. If they couldn't fill up their news programs with an endless series of drug advertisements for us old folks, they'd close up their news departments in the blink of the eye.
Those good old days of Murrow's Boys and gavel to gavel coverage of conventions, however boring they were, were one of the last vestiges of our democracy in action, snail-like though it is.
It's also a commentary on our microwave, instantaneous gratification society. When meals can be cooked up in minutes people are not willing to wait in line to vote. It's too cumbersome to participate in an activity just once in four years for many. For the World Cup however they'll make the time, and then some.
It's all show biz now, baby. Bing, bang, boom. And it's our loss.
DD
Manhattan
1
What I find baffling is that, after relentlessly attacking Trump (with charges of fraud, conning people, unfit for office, etc.), both Rubio and Cruz said that they would support him if he is nominated....are they kidding??? Either they are hypocrites or spineless - either one is a bad position to be in. And this is the best that the Republican party can do? They are in a worse position than I had previously thought.
8
Last night's debate was an all out assault on Trump, prompted by the GOP establishment and the phony Fox moderators. Did you see how Chris and Megyn had especially prepared video clips and slide shows solely aimed at Trump? When is Rubio going to answer the question on how many jobs he has created? Time and time again, he reverts to attacking Trump instead of answering this question. And Mitt Romney...you had your chance and blew it. I naively voted for you, because I believed that you would bring about much needed change with your business savvy, but now I see you for what you really are, which is nothing more than an establishment puppet, put in place to do its bidding. Your failure cost Americans another four years of Obama ramming his radical policies and horrible decisions down our throats. Now, the establishment is banking on brokered convention, regardless if Trump collects the majority of delegates. If you are fed up with Government and support Trump, get out and vote! We need to show up in numbers at the primaries and let's not let the Government dictate our next President.
2
Name one Obama policy that can be called "radical" with a straight face. Just one - one lousy policy.
11
1. Obamacare - paid for by taxing me more!
2. Immigration Reform - criminals should be deported!
3. Ignoring Domestic Islamic Terrorism - "work place violence"
2. Immigration Reform - criminals should be deported!
3. Ignoring Domestic Islamic Terrorism - "work place violence"
2
Donald Drumpf (his real family name) will begin to remind the millions of general election moderate GOP women of their first husband.
Watch how he talks to HRC.
It will instill visceral memories of that boorish, misogynistic man who belittled them and whom they finally had the guts to ran away from. Game over.
Watch how he talks to HRC.
It will instill visceral memories of that boorish, misogynistic man who belittled them and whom they finally had the guts to ran away from. Game over.
7
That wasn't a debate last night, it was a Trump trial with five prosecutors and no defense attorney.
The Establishment is intent on "Cruzifying" Trump. Good luck with that.
The Establishment is intent on "Cruzifying" Trump. Good luck with that.
6
Flip back and forth between a GOP debate and any episode of Real [scary] Housewives and it is difficult to determine which is more damaging to one's brain cells. One is about people that are self-centered to the exclusion of all rational thought and so is the other.
5
Best show of the season! Very entertaining. The script ran from drama to tragedy and comedy. The players were all very motivated and animated. Definitely "R" rated--not for children or Christians. My only regret is I ran out of beer and popcorn before the curtain came down!!
5
These debates have the feel of a WrestleMania event. A well deserved, fitting end to the Republican establishment.
6
FXQ - "A well deserved, fitting end to the Republican establishment."
Because everyone knows that America only needs one party for one nation under one leader, right!
Because everyone knows that America only needs one party for one nation under one leader, right!
Anyone still advocating the end of the Electoral College?
6
While any of these four would be a much better President than Failed Obama, Trump will be the least predictable going in. However, we all know much more about him already than we knew about the blank slate we got stuck with last time.
All four of these men will have millions more men and women earning their way in the world because they actually want people to have more money in their pockets, which is a huge change from right now.
Kasich has actually done it, adding hundreds of thousands of jobs in Ohio, and the others know the way there. The costs of government will be pared back and that will be a good thing.
All four of these men will have millions more men and women earning their way in the world because they actually want people to have more money in their pockets, which is a huge change from right now.
Kasich has actually done it, adding hundreds of thousands of jobs in Ohio, and the others know the way there. The costs of government will be pared back and that will be a good thing.
2
One might press you as to be specific on the Obama failures, and perhaps more problematic, specifics on how any one of the three might accomplish the version of prosperity you envision. There is nothing in Mr. Rubio's professional life to suggest he could, and Mr. Cruz's past points to cozy pro-corporate business relationships which have proven to hurt the average worker. Mr. Kasich's Ohio also benefits big corporate interests over the average taxpayer. In fact, once the added costs of health care, higher state taxes to off-set the reduced federal role in human services, higher education costs and what now seems inevitable, the cost of clean water, millions of men and women will be pushed to financial thresholds without any hope at all. As for Mr. Trump, unless one exists in a cave, his history of financial dealings should have even the most rabid, frothing-at-the-mouth conservative cowering in fear, and god forbid if you're not one of the 1%.
14
"All four of these men will have millions more men and women earning their way in the world because they actually want people to have more money in their pockets, which is a huge change from right now."
Perhaps you missed the news? The real news.
The February jobs report shows the U.S. economy added 242,000 jobs last month, and the unemployment rate remained below 5% for the second consecutive month, the first time it's stayed that low since 2007.
In case you weren't paying attention (and anybody you makes the above statement clearly hasn't been), that's 72 straight months of positive jobs growth. Remember how many hundreds of thousands of jobs the U.S. economy was *losing* the last time a Republican was in the White House? Shall we remind you?
That's more than 14 million net positive private sector jobs in the last six years. Unemployment is down at 4.9% from a high of over 10%. That's 14 million people with "more money in their pockets".
The intellectual dishonesty of you Obama-haters is truly breath-taking.
Perhaps you missed the news? The real news.
The February jobs report shows the U.S. economy added 242,000 jobs last month, and the unemployment rate remained below 5% for the second consecutive month, the first time it's stayed that low since 2007.
In case you weren't paying attention (and anybody you makes the above statement clearly hasn't been), that's 72 straight months of positive jobs growth. Remember how many hundreds of thousands of jobs the U.S. economy was *losing* the last time a Republican was in the White House? Shall we remind you?
That's more than 14 million net positive private sector jobs in the last six years. Unemployment is down at 4.9% from a high of over 10%. That's 14 million people with "more money in their pockets".
The intellectual dishonesty of you Obama-haters is truly breath-taking.
12
Jobs were saved in Ohio after President Obama bailed out the auto industry and by extension its suppliers in Ohio.
8
For sheer entertainment value nothing to beat the GOP debate. Worth watching , beats hands down RAW wrestling matches. And to top it , it is free too.
just that kasich "knew" and "worked" with ronnie raygun disqualifies him, along with his obscene policies in OH and his defunding of Planned Parenthood just last week. Tea partier through and through, just softer and with lipstick to hide it.
5
Trump is emotionally unstable. The debate last night revealed this.
During the questioning about Trump university he was red in the face - the part where he shouts at Cruz “It’s a minor civil case”. He was seriously unnerved.
Afterwards, during the interview with O’Reilly he looked exhausted, even slightly depressed, and got upset with O’Reilly during some pointed, but relatively innocuous questions:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p2R-DHZ-ROM
I am not a psychologist, far from it, but to me it seems like Trump has arrested emotional development, like emotionally he is still 15 years old.
Maybe this has something to do with his upbringing, being the rich kid, good looking, intelligent, having everything he wanted and never feeling inferior to other people in any way. So emotionally perhaps he was never challenged as a child. Now when he loses an argument, or is otherwise made to look bad, he can’t handle it, he doesn’t know how.
During the questioning about Trump university he was red in the face - the part where he shouts at Cruz “It’s a minor civil case”. He was seriously unnerved.
Afterwards, during the interview with O’Reilly he looked exhausted, even slightly depressed, and got upset with O’Reilly during some pointed, but relatively innocuous questions:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p2R-DHZ-ROM
I am not a psychologist, far from it, but to me it seems like Trump has arrested emotional development, like emotionally he is still 15 years old.
Maybe this has something to do with his upbringing, being the rich kid, good looking, intelligent, having everything he wanted and never feeling inferior to other people in any way. So emotionally perhaps he was never challenged as a child. Now when he loses an argument, or is otherwise made to look bad, he can’t handle it, he doesn’t know how.
5
I think suggesting he is 15 years old emotionally is generous. He's a giant infant. All Gimme, Mine, Me, Look at Me, See How Big I Am, Look at Me Some More! Waaaaaaah.
1
He has a cluster B personality disorder, specifically Narcissistic personality disorder. I read about it a long time ago. I'm not a psychologist either, but I believe it does have something to do with him being emotionally arrested at the level of a toddler or maybe even infant to be honest...
Being an independent I have no idea which way I will vote based on what I have seen from all but two (2) candidates. If your a Republican rally behind John Kasich the only decent Republican who conducts himself as we would expect a presidential candidate should. If you are a Democrat rally behind Bernie Sanders. If these two (2) men would become the candidates for their respective parties we can expect decent and factual debates leading up to the November elections instead of the mud slinging which would result if Trump (100% guaranteed) and Clinton (probably not as bad) are the candidates.
2
It's just not funny anymore. I'm a registered Independent. I voted for Bob Dole in 96; W in 2000 (Compassionate Conservatism!?); no one in 2004; Obama in 2008 and 2012. I'll be voting for Hillary in 2016. I'm motivated by pragmatism. This republican race to the bottom is not funny anymore. It never was funny to someone like me who wants my presidential nominee to be, well, Presidential. That standard applies to the VP picks, too, and is one reason I eliminated McCain/Palin as a choice in 2008. I don't think Trump would pass any credible candidate's vetting process to be chosen as a VP pick but apparently anyone can run for president. And, yes, I know Kasich is the adult in the room, but delegate math is not on his side. As an independent, I cannot vote in KY's party primaries. If Kasich will be the nominee in November, I'll consider him, but 8 years of McConnell-led obstructionism has created this debased electorate rooting for Trump, Cruz and Rubio-all extremists in one way or another, and so, for now, as the mother of daughters coming of age in the next 8 years, I'm going with Hillary.
14
I just visited an uncle who is lying very close to death. During WWII he worked in the magazine of a battleship. He saw lots of action in the South Pacific: Tinian, Saipan, Guam, and Okinawa. His ship was hit in a kamikaze attack that killed 54 of the crew. His ship was anchored in Tokyo Bay when the surrender was signed. I tell this story because he and a million more like him set the stage for the best years this country saw. It is both sad and horrifying that our political discourse has come to this in both parties. For the first time in my rather long life I fear that our country's accelerating decline is irreversible.
5
Three trainwrecks colliding....
2
It was a clear take down of Trump right from the start. Rubio, Cruz and FoxNews went after Trump like a pack of hyenas, like they are on a conservative crusade against the infidel.
Trump clarified his position on H1b visa on his website today. I'm surprise WSJ is the only one who picked it up and called him out as a flip flop. I don't think it was a flip flop so much as a clarification of his position. He stated that he is against the abuse of H1b being used to bring in cheap foreign workers to replace US workers. It is important for him to emphasize this before the next voting. He could lose a lot of votes to Cruz over this.
Trump clarified his position on H1b visa on his website today. I'm surprise WSJ is the only one who picked it up and called him out as a flip flop. I don't think it was a flip flop so much as a clarification of his position. He stated that he is against the abuse of H1b being used to bring in cheap foreign workers to replace US workers. It is important for him to emphasize this before the next voting. He could lose a lot of votes to Cruz over this.
3
Mitt Romney's speech, which was spot on in its characterization of the repulsive and dishonest Trump, was certainly not intended to sway Trump supporters. They are largely beyond help and have become creations of the kind of hateful alternate universe spouted by right-wing talk radio.
Trump can be trusted no farther than one could throw a grand piano and some of his supporters are disturbingly reminiscent of the Brown Shirts of eight decades ago. It is the supporters of a rational Republican who need to be swayed and energized. And it looks like John Kasich is the only remaining GOP candidate in that mold.
Trump can be trusted no farther than one could throw a grand piano and some of his supporters are disturbingly reminiscent of the Brown Shirts of eight decades ago. It is the supporters of a rational Republican who need to be swayed and energized. And it looks like John Kasich is the only remaining GOP candidate in that mold.
3
This is the kind of grandstanding the Republicans have been doing for ages. Faced with a country that is not as conservative as they want us to be, they insist on a far-right agenda anyway and try to force their will, insisting they will "beat" the White House rather than "negotiate" a consensus for the majority. And now they are doing it to their own party: faced with a Republican candidate who isn't as conservative as the party wants him to be, they are determined to ram their preferred candidates down everyone's throat rather than recognize that their own constituents like Trump's agenda better. They don't really care how voters think, they want what they want.
For a while they tried to make this about Trump's view of immigration and David Duke, but no one really bought that; they may not be as crass in how they say it, but they are basically in agreement with him and we all know it. Now they are swinging at him more honestly, for having "ties" to the Democratic party and some ideas that are more centrist. Good for him! Someone willing to recognize a good idea from the opposing side is a better leader than someone who can't. Someone who can be more centrist about healthcare and tax breaks for hedge fund managers will be a better leader than someone who hasn't figured out that many Americans care more about economics than gay marriage. The more they circle their wagons and try to shove far-right darling Ted Cruz down our throats, the more I like Trump.
For a while they tried to make this about Trump's view of immigration and David Duke, but no one really bought that; they may not be as crass in how they say it, but they are basically in agreement with him and we all know it. Now they are swinging at him more honestly, for having "ties" to the Democratic party and some ideas that are more centrist. Good for him! Someone willing to recognize a good idea from the opposing side is a better leader than someone who can't. Someone who can be more centrist about healthcare and tax breaks for hedge fund managers will be a better leader than someone who hasn't figured out that many Americans care more about economics than gay marriage. The more they circle their wagons and try to shove far-right darling Ted Cruz down our throats, the more I like Trump.
2
One watches in horror and these ludicrous characters strut and fret and signify nothing. America has a population of several hundred of millions and if this is the best they can produce in the way of potential leader the god help us all.
To choose between Trump and Hillary is like choosing to die by
To choose between Trump and Hillary is like choosing to die by
3
I think Clinton is a good option, as well as the best one of all the candidates to serve as president, personally.
1
All of this, like Romney's speech and McCain's, may be too little too late. They laughed at Hitler and called him names, believing the control him and he would not succeed anyway. I don't expect to have jack boots on the pavement but too many of Trump's characteristics are too close to Hitler's. He is a demagogue willing to say whatever his audience wants to hear. He lies and insults anyone who disagrees with him. Perhaps the best thing for the Republican party would be for it to implode so it can reformulate itself as the party it used to be -- the party of Lincoln, the party of Eisenhower ( and yes, even the party of Reagan).
4
What a contrast between our grown-up commander-in-chief and this merry band of thieves!
3
What a travesty. This is how we teach civility to our next generation? Kids cannot safely watch TV shows, advertisements, the news. How do we explain this world to them?
3
With the GOP, the trash (silly sex talk) is verbal. With the Dems, the trash (pay-for-play graft, abandonment of men in battle, outright payoffs to let rich financiers flee the country, VIPs having sex with interns or employees, the House Bank scandal) is lived out in the leaders' lives. I think the former is probably less damaging.
1
I'm afraid all the reporting is about Trump which covers up the ridiculous ideas of Cruz and Rubio. They are ALL a danger to the country.
8
March 4, 2016
The entire body politics is much about sizing up the domestic / foreign agenda and not micro managing the RNC mechanics - best the adults work out their operational strategy behind closed doors for the best interest in demonstrating their mature character and honor ability....
jja
The entire body politics is much about sizing up the domestic / foreign agenda and not micro managing the RNC mechanics - best the adults work out their operational strategy behind closed doors for the best interest in demonstrating their mature character and honor ability....
jja
1
After calling Trump a con man and unfit to be president, Rubio & Cruz & Kasich will support Trump if and when he is the nominee. Essentially, they are saying that they will support a con man to be the president of the United States as long as he is a Republican.
9
Lord, Netflix, why couldn't you have release the fourth season of "House of Cards" *ONE DAY* earlier? You would've saved me from having to witness this embarrassment of a debate.
7
Let me see… $Trump, he took a few million and turned it into $1.6 billion at the time of his father's passing, inherited 1/4 of $200 million and now worth between 4 and 10 billion.
That's failure?
The partnership's he bankrupted were subject to market forces in which Trump used the Bankruptcy Laws and made money and stuck it to the banks.
That's failure?
The failure is the establishment's Wall Street speculator class with their TPP global agenda which does not benefit the US, it's workers, infrastructure, "our revenue model" or sovereign existence…
And so?
Want a revolution? Just try a brokered convention Mitt, sacred cows on the hill and Reince's Republican in Name Only Party, you have seen nothing yet, as far as a revolt!
That's failure?
The partnership's he bankrupted were subject to market forces in which Trump used the Bankruptcy Laws and made money and stuck it to the banks.
That's failure?
The failure is the establishment's Wall Street speculator class with their TPP global agenda which does not benefit the US, it's workers, infrastructure, "our revenue model" or sovereign existence…
And so?
Want a revolution? Just try a brokered convention Mitt, sacred cows on the hill and Reince's Republican in Name Only Party, you have seen nothing yet, as far as a revolt!
5
Whatever. He's still a crass, vulgar, bigot. If that's your brand for President have at it. I think we deserve better.
7
Let Jerry Springer or Howard Stern moderate the next GOP debate.
12
At this rate, they could just as well run for President.
Kasich was not the only adult on the stage once he agreed to support Trump if he was nominated. Not one of them has a shred of conscience. To support a man who has never learned a bit of our history, who thinks like an adolescent boy, who struts and brags like a tyrant, just to win an election disqualifies the lot of them.
5
Had enough of big gov, big banks, big bus?
Had enough of the standard of living descending since 1974?
Had enough of PROFESSIONAL pols and who are attached by salaries to them?
Had enough of the country crumbling?
Had enough of innovation centered too much in personal tech development--much of it far from the usefulness of bridge building/repair and basic research?
Had enough of the increasingly powerful plutocracy?
WHAT TO DO?
Had enough of the standard of living descending since 1974?
Had enough of PROFESSIONAL pols and who are attached by salaries to them?
Had enough of the country crumbling?
Had enough of innovation centered too much in personal tech development--much of it far from the usefulness of bridge building/repair and basic research?
Had enough of the increasingly powerful plutocracy?
WHAT TO DO?
2
The country is not crumbling. Big business is not the enemy; it's the best our country has to offer and what keeps us separate from third world countries.
Chicken little.... The sky is not talking.
Chicken little.... The sky is not talking.
3
For two hours, the City of Detroit was a far more toxic environment than Flint, MI. Sadly, this is poisoning the entire country
4
The GOP has a waged a 40 year war on education, immigrants. minorities, and women as cover for their war against the working classes. So now they have an ignorant, racist, xenophobe, misogynist and don't understand how that happened. They should really try a mirror.
Ultimately, it's not going to matter which backpfeifengesicht the GOP nominates because they're done as party on the national level. They'll hang on the southern states like blood stain on line, but they won't be living in the White House again.
Ultimately, it's not going to matter which backpfeifengesicht the GOP nominates because they're done as party on the national level. They'll hang on the southern states like blood stain on line, but they won't be living in the White House again.
9
I'm constantly aghast that these repub "candidates" keep talking about how they will strengthen the military. What nitwits would think we have a weak military? We outspend the next nine countries in the world COMBINED on "defense". That's the shame of our spending: our infrastructure, educational system and basic needs are being financially drained to fuel the gigantic war machine that seems invisible to these charlatans.
Wake up! We need the money spent on the "general welfare", NOT on empire-level military expansion.
Wake up! We need the money spent on the "general welfare", NOT on empire-level military expansion.
11
The evangelicals have pretty much decimated the Republican party of its brainpower. Perhaps the secularist Trump (ignore his mother's bible) will let the RNC know that it has to separate church from state if it has a hope of survival. Maybe a lot of people are tired of someone's concept of a god in their politics? Dare we hope?
6
None of these men have a clue as to what makes a successful leader. All they want to do is say whatever their base, who are about as crazy as they are, wants to hear. They have insulted the intelligence of the American people and have made a laughing stock out of our political system. Dump them all and move on.
6
The GOP leadership will need to take a big step every day at this point to successfully throw Turmp under the bus. Doing so without alienating the his vast, unwashed, (Republican) constituency will require loud and careful public communication beginning, as Rubio and Romney have, with his utter lack of qualification and possible mental instability. Anything that can be uncovered about Turmp should be used. Either they do this, or the GOP risks losing all of their reasonably educated voters, to become nothing more than a party of populist nationalism.
2
If Trump's "vulgar" language offends your delicate senses, I can only imagine how disgusted you must feel by the thought of a habitual adulterer resuming his residence in the White House. Indeed, how could anyone possibly vote for a womanizing skirt chaser like Trump? Oh wait, you already did--twice. If Trump's hawkish warmongering talk frightens you, Hillary's unending lust for war must utterly terrify you. And if Trump's lack of experience in foreign affairs worries you, then the former Secretary of State's costly blunders in Libya and Syria must give you a conniption. Before you bash Trump again, take a good look in the mirror. Hypocrisy might be staring you back in the face.
6
Hyperbole much?
3
Amazingly, Mr. Romney came as close a he could and still be able to utter the words in comparing Trump with Hitler. Remarkably, there was no attempt on the part of the press to listen and interpret what Romney said. This country, and the world, could very well be on the edge of an abyss.
2
NOBODY with an ounce of intelligence can interpret what Mitt Romney says.
1
Monk, the only way government can grow enough to become the juggernaut that Hitler operated is by growing it like the Democrats want.
The GOP wants a federal government like what the founders set up for us early on. THAT kind of government's scandals would always be small because it would be responsible for only a handful of things.
The GOP wants a federal government like what the founders set up for us early on. THAT kind of government's scandals would always be small because it would be responsible for only a handful of things.
Dear Americans,
I do not live in your country, but what ever happens in your country affects everyone abroad.
I live in a country were our politics are a joke, but watching this debate takes the cake. Neve in my entire life I've seen presidential candidates (of any country) act so childish, never i have seen them talking about who is more endowed.
What i see is a once great nation as US crumbling.
As a citizen in of this world i implore you…choose wisely.
I fear the US which once was a beacon of hope will be the one who takes the world into oblivion. Don't put this megalomaniacs on control of a nuclear arsenal.
I do not live in your country, but what ever happens in your country affects everyone abroad.
I live in a country were our politics are a joke, but watching this debate takes the cake. Neve in my entire life I've seen presidential candidates (of any country) act so childish, never i have seen them talking about who is more endowed.
What i see is a once great nation as US crumbling.
As a citizen in of this world i implore you…choose wisely.
I fear the US which once was a beacon of hope will be the one who takes the world into oblivion. Don't put this megalomaniacs on control of a nuclear arsenal.
9
The U.S isn't crumbling....the Republican Party is.
2
Don't confuse the Republican Party with the U.S. as a whole or Americans as a whole. Our politics are very divided. A great number of us are as aghast as you.
1
All I can say is thank goodness they weren't armed or the GOP would have had to drag in more candidates.
5
Today's GOP has only itself to blame for the Trump phenomenon--and the low grade of its other candidates. They make unrealistic promises to people who suffer because of GOP policies since 1980. They then demonize Hillary and President Obama in sneering terms unseen since Nazi times.
If they implode, they deserve it.
If they implode, they deserve it.
6
Why don't Republicans dump Trump and nominate Howard Stern? At least Howard Stern can sometimes be funny.
1
That of course, depends on if you find Howard Stern funny to begin with...which I don't.
2
Many are comparing the current Republican presidential race to the movie "Idiocracy," and rightly so. But I would suggest a more apt comparison would be to the movie "Source Code," in which soldier Jake Gyllenaal is transported back in time, over and over, to stop a terrorist attack on a train that will blow up in 8 minutes. Jake can gather only so much information in 8 minutes, of course, so the train keeps blowing up, as does he, only for him to get transported back from the future to get another crack at solving the crime, armed with the accumulated information from each effort. It's a combination of "Groundhog Day," "50 First Dates," and "Terminator," and it is a long and continuous train wreck. Ladies and Gentlemen, your 2016 Republican presidential race! I feel badly for Kasich.
Since cable TV became the norm, nothing I hear said on it shocks me anymore. It's all vulgar, so how anyone can say this debate was any more so is completely hypocritical. The innuendo to Trump's anatomy same tame in comparison to all the similar references I hear when I watch Nickelodeon, among others, with my grandson. These references are everywhere. What gives with the piousness ans sanctimoniousness of presidential debates? Our mystique of our president is just as pretentious and artificial as Britain's s is of their kings and queens. So much for any disconnect we think we made years ago. Call Trump phony all you want, but he's hardly the only one.
3
Sorry, but the debates for the leader of this nation ought to on a caliber WAY above the trash TV.
Cue the conspiracy theorists. The GOP meltdown last night proves that Trump is Hillary's plant. (No, I don't believe that for a second.)
3
I did not see this debate, but it sounds pretty much like more of the same.
I find Trump repulsive, but can understand his appeal to his followers. Also, despite all the carrying on and wringing of hands over the vulgarity of this campaign, I have to say what I hear, from Trump and others, is not a lot different from what I hear a lot of other people say in private. Yes, I know, what "well bred" people say in private is different from what these jerks say in public. However, when the alternative to them carrying on like this in public is nonsense like Mitt Romney and his wife effusively thanking Donald Trump for his support in 2012 and the thousands of other phoneyisms we hear from "well-bred" candidates, I think I prefer this, even though I wouldn't give serious thought to voting for any of these people.
Personally, I suggest everyone take a closer look at Bernie Sanders. Like Trump, he's a guy who speaks his mind, but in a far more "well-bred" way that doesn't, as least as far as I've seen, result to phoneyisms.
I find Trump repulsive, but can understand his appeal to his followers. Also, despite all the carrying on and wringing of hands over the vulgarity of this campaign, I have to say what I hear, from Trump and others, is not a lot different from what I hear a lot of other people say in private. Yes, I know, what "well bred" people say in private is different from what these jerks say in public. However, when the alternative to them carrying on like this in public is nonsense like Mitt Romney and his wife effusively thanking Donald Trump for his support in 2012 and the thousands of other phoneyisms we hear from "well-bred" candidates, I think I prefer this, even though I wouldn't give serious thought to voting for any of these people.
Personally, I suggest everyone take a closer look at Bernie Sanders. Like Trump, he's a guy who speaks his mind, but in a far more "well-bred" way that doesn't, as least as far as I've seen, result to phoneyisms.
13
Why wasn't Rubio's behavior as college student questioned as it sheds light on his morals?
6
I keep seeing allusions to this but no one will come out and say what it was. Only then can we judge whether it's worth a look.
Many define Trump as just a rich blustering egomaniac. Last July, Nate Cohen in his NYTimes column declared his campaign had hit its “turning point”, that support for Trump would subside. Yet, spending far less on his campaign than Clinton, Sanders, or his rivals – he's winning. Trump campaign ads have just started. He didn’t need any so far; the media, loving controversy, have been his unwitting unpaid pitchmen. You’ve been had.
He’s still getting media coverage, now of the Republican leadership’s reactions to the prospects of his leading the ticket. That is in fact strengthening the commitment of his followers. They want someone different from what’s been offered for so long a time and the Republican leadership’s dismay is confirming that rationale.
People are furious at Government For The Rich, at jail sentences handed out by the hundreds of thousands to young poor offenders for minor transgressions while those who rob the public of uncounted billions go unpunished and are even praised by the leading Democratic (the irony!) candidate. They bought her favor, and her praise -- which I'm sure was sincere – and she will stay bought.
This may be the first president elected not because of love for his positions but revulsion at his opponent. This older, PhD holding, high tech, well read, left raised, 60’s civil rights participating, arts loving, white male would vote for a pine tree rather than HRC.
If you don’t want President Trump: Start promoting Bernie.
He’s still getting media coverage, now of the Republican leadership’s reactions to the prospects of his leading the ticket. That is in fact strengthening the commitment of his followers. They want someone different from what’s been offered for so long a time and the Republican leadership’s dismay is confirming that rationale.
People are furious at Government For The Rich, at jail sentences handed out by the hundreds of thousands to young poor offenders for minor transgressions while those who rob the public of uncounted billions go unpunished and are even praised by the leading Democratic (the irony!) candidate. They bought her favor, and her praise -- which I'm sure was sincere – and she will stay bought.
This may be the first president elected not because of love for his positions but revulsion at his opponent. This older, PhD holding, high tech, well read, left raised, 60’s civil rights participating, arts loving, white male would vote for a pine tree rather than HRC.
If you don’t want President Trump: Start promoting Bernie.
14
@Texan from Canada
"...those who rob the public of uncounted billions go unpunished..." You're referring to your fellow Texan Dubya? Total is 2 trillion or north of that. Also Tarp, the first bailout was Dubya. The rest of the bailout has been repaid, with interest. A lot of folks got wiped out by the market crash in 2008, even a lot of really rich folks.
Politicians accept contributions from a broad base of donors, particularly folks with a lot of money who can afford to make big donations. They have to be recorded and reported. Wall Street is fairly promiscuous about supporting politicians but they really like to back potential winners. Did they actually buy her favor? Her praise, even?
Any notion how commerce functions in America? Any idea how quickly the bottom would drop if there wasn't a banking system that directs private capital for investment in communities, and also buys public debt and finances the bonds used to build schools, hospitals, local roads and streets? Or did you want government to assume all these functions? Bernie has a tax plan for you but most Texans would be reaching for their glocks and reliving the Alamo if that happened. I think it's a good idea if the president is on good terms with Wall Street.
Of course, if you have special knowledge of illegalities by Hillary, not just cribbed GOP talking points, you can call the crime hotline and get your reward. Didn't think so.
Left Canada for Texas? Must be why you're confused.
"...those who rob the public of uncounted billions go unpunished..." You're referring to your fellow Texan Dubya? Total is 2 trillion or north of that. Also Tarp, the first bailout was Dubya. The rest of the bailout has been repaid, with interest. A lot of folks got wiped out by the market crash in 2008, even a lot of really rich folks.
Politicians accept contributions from a broad base of donors, particularly folks with a lot of money who can afford to make big donations. They have to be recorded and reported. Wall Street is fairly promiscuous about supporting politicians but they really like to back potential winners. Did they actually buy her favor? Her praise, even?
Any notion how commerce functions in America? Any idea how quickly the bottom would drop if there wasn't a banking system that directs private capital for investment in communities, and also buys public debt and finances the bonds used to build schools, hospitals, local roads and streets? Or did you want government to assume all these functions? Bernie has a tax plan for you but most Texans would be reaching for their glocks and reliving the Alamo if that happened. I think it's a good idea if the president is on good terms with Wall Street.
Of course, if you have special knowledge of illegalities by Hillary, not just cribbed GOP talking points, you can call the crime hotline and get your reward. Didn't think so.
Left Canada for Texas? Must be why you're confused.
Sorry. That "60's civil rights participating" part is a joke. Why? Because the fight for Civil Rights didn't END in the 60's....At least for African-Americans, it didn't.
1
Smith: I was in it at the start, before it became so PC. Where were you? No, I wasn't on the front lines, being arrested or even in danger, although I'm grateful the Maryland National Guard stationed on the BW Parkway at its entrance to Baltimore the night Washington burned did not have itchy trigger fingers. Particularly as they noticed the car a quarter mile behind me making a fast u-turn and speeding away south.
Bernie was on the front lines, beaten, arrested, convicted. HRC? She was campaigning for Goldwater! And continued as a proud right wing Republican into adulthood. What's changed since? Her label, but not her allegiance. That she now has the support of the African-Americans rather than their true champion, Sanders, is almost beyond comprehension.
Bernie was on the front lines, beaten, arrested, convicted. HRC? She was campaigning for Goldwater! And continued as a proud right wing Republican into adulthood. What's changed since? Her label, but not her allegiance. That she now has the support of the African-Americans rather than their true champion, Sanders, is almost beyond comprehension.
2
The Republican Party has demonstrated itself to be incompetent to govern anything, let alone the United States of America. Two of the most notorious Republican "business men" in the country today are Donald Trump and the current Governor of Michigan. There appears to be no limit on the amount of damage such Republican "business men" can do to the people of the United States. Those folks should resign any all connections with the government of the United States.
11
The Republican Party itself is responsible for the lying, bullying and blustering buffoon named Donald Trump. When Trump began his breathtakingly lunatic and utterly false "birther" campaign against Obama in 2008, there was silence from the GOP. Not one of them challenged him or called him out or confronted him on his blatant, racist lies. With a snigger and a wink they looked the other way and let him do their dirty work. "Go get 'em! Donald" was the order of the day.
Now that the frothing mad dog they helped create has turned and bitten his master, they are all shocked, I tell you, shocked! "Trump is insane! He's a liar! He'll destroy the country! We have to stop him!"
The GOP has long since stopped being a legitimate political party and has become a cancer on the nation. The cancer is spreading, but the patient has no one to blame but himself.
Now that the frothing mad dog they helped create has turned and bitten his master, they are all shocked, I tell you, shocked! "Trump is insane! He's a liar! He'll destroy the country! We have to stop him!"
The GOP has long since stopped being a legitimate political party and has become a cancer on the nation. The cancer is spreading, but the patient has no one to blame but himself.
24
The Republican Party and the major media has only themselves to blame for this...People don't care about the truth of things, just look at how dishonest the last 20 years has been with regards to the truth of things..so trying to tell it now, forget it, the people love the Donald because he is who he is, no matter...This is a culmination of the lies...sad
5
This is your party, Republicans.
13
In view of Romney's somewhat disingenuous diatribe against Trump and the debate last night, a sense of disquiet must surround the GOP at present and immediate future. If the GOP establishment cannot halt Trump's momentum after condemnation of his candidacy, character, etc, what will it do next in an envenomed environment which has so far characterized the GOP nomination? As disturbing as the prospect of a Trump presidency is for America and the World, is the dearth of introspection and reflection within the GOP establishment over how it created and enabled Trump himself troubling as well? What's worst for everyone concerned is that the current climate of disenchantment and malaise will likely continue on unabated following November.
1
The Debate ( or claws bared snarls ) was great dramatic nasty, meanspirited farce. The pots were calling the kettle black or vice versa, I forget. The winner was the blackest and therefore we had three winners.
3
Trump is doing to his party what Bush did to the country. One is doing a great service. We still haven't recovered from the other
14
Despite the media's emphasis on Trump's behavior, it was Rubio that started and made the "size" comment. Trump simply hit back, as a only a mud wrestler should do.
10
How do parents talk to their children about this election? I expect more of the children I know than I do of these vulgar, bullying candidates. What on earth is next, a food fight in the cafeteria?
7
Tell them this is what happens when the big head of state lets the little head of state do all the thinking.
Calling all oligarchs and criminal hedge fund managers! Calling all oligarchs and hedge fund managers!
Your hundreds of millions of dollars of stolen money are needed immediately. Destroy Trump on sight before he destroys you! I repeat: destroy Trump on sight before he destroys you!
Your hundreds of millions of dollars of stolen money are needed immediately. Destroy Trump on sight before he destroys you! I repeat: destroy Trump on sight before he destroys you!
4
So if the final outcome is close, will the pundits duly note that so-and-so won by "inches"?
3
The audience mugging for the camera throughout the debate was indicative of the republican "informed" voters.
8
All Rubio and Cruz have done is attack Trump and yet he remains streets ahead. I know nothing about either of them except Cruz says he'll abolish the IRS (real original there mate!) and they seem scared to death of Hillary. Little boy blue Rubio needs to take his horn home and Cruz needs less time in front of the mirror practicing how to look smug with no substance.
5
Yes, by all means lets ask the very people who have enabled an uncertain personality, like Trump's, to emerge out of the political swamp to now walk away from what they've managed to create. My guess is that like Shelly's Victor Frankenstein, the GOP leadership thinks that they will be able to manage the creature they've given rise to. I suspect Trump however, like Shelly's creation, seems to think that all he needs is a mate to complete his transformation from servant to Master- And truly from all indications from the political polls, in Trump's case, Trump may be right!
3
You think his perfect 'mate' would be Sara Palin?
I think if she was on the ticket as VP, it could be the scariest combination possible for the GOP. Know Nothing candidates for sure.
I think if she was on the ticket as VP, it could be the scariest combination possible for the GOP. Know Nothing candidates for sure.
1
I'm surprised more attention is not being given to Trump's definition of leadership: "If I say do it, they're going to do it" and "they won't refuse ME" when he is talking openly about forcing military personnel to carry out war crimes. This is fascism, folks. Why is there less attention to that than to the dirty jokes or insults?
20
And that's not to mention that he never answered Kelly's direct question about whether he would go after (i.e., kill) the families of terrorists.
Why has this become an issue now and not when he insulted women, Muslims and minorities during the first debate?
Did you think it was entertaining or that he would not be a viable candidate?
He was a candidate then and it was still a Presidential debate.
The media is as complicit as the GOP is underestimating how trivial the vetting process for the most powerful job in the world has become.
Did you think it was entertaining or that he would not be a viable candidate?
He was a candidate then and it was still a Presidential debate.
The media is as complicit as the GOP is underestimating how trivial the vetting process for the most powerful job in the world has become.
12
Why, on Earth, does the NY Times go along with these Republican sleaze-balls and conclude that proven war-monger, Hillary Clinton, IS the nominee?! She is nothing of the kind!
Yesterday, Greta Cecares, this year's winner for the top environmentalist prize, was murdered in Honduras, a country whose democratically-elected president, Zelaya, was ousted in the coup which Clinton was, as Secretary of State, complicit in enabling, along with her and Bill's friend, Lannie Davis, who was high-priced consultant to the military coup. Honduras is now 'the murder capital of the world'. Along with Libya and her vote for the ongoing Iraq war, Hillary has left much death and destruction in her wake.
Yesterday, Greta Cecares, this year's winner for the top environmentalist prize, was murdered in Honduras, a country whose democratically-elected president, Zelaya, was ousted in the coup which Clinton was, as Secretary of State, complicit in enabling, along with her and Bill's friend, Lannie Davis, who was high-priced consultant to the military coup. Honduras is now 'the murder capital of the world'. Along with Libya and her vote for the ongoing Iraq war, Hillary has left much death and destruction in her wake.
6
When it comes to hands, it is not about size, it's about what they represent and like he said, Trump is the biggest.
1
It would be refreshing if the media stopped referring to these GOP events as debates. I have witnessed more mature and productive discussions in a kindergarten sandpit.
18
I managed to watch the entire debate. Cruz was the best debater. Rubio looked dyed, pasty and sweaty, as usual. Donald was Donald, and I have to hand it to him, he looked completely unfazed by the unprecedented establishment attacks. I would have cried and called in sick. Kasich was the adult, who, sadly, no one votes for. It was an embarrassment for the party and country. Don't they realize those nasty soundbites will live forever on tape?
9
They just found out they are vulgar. i should had told you that two years ago.
3
Were you waiting for Mitt Romney??
When I look at Trump, all I see is a crook. He'll say whatever it is he thinks you want to hear, and then in private he'll do what he does best, turning anything he can into a business opportunity for his own selfish gain. I do believe he cares about this country, but not to the extent of caring about the people in it. I have a feeling he wants to be President to make America better for himself, not for others. I can see it now, "President Trump" smacked on every hotel, restaurant, taxi cab. He'll turn the White House into a Trump Tower. He'll find ways to make millions off of being President. But what about the kind of temperament you need in order to handle the everyday tough decisions a President must make? First off, the guy doesn't see reason, he has no use for it. He has a dictator's mentality and he'll act like one. Second, he can't handle criticism. That comes with the territory. I can image he'll spend most of his days defending himself on Twitter, insulting international world leaders, and making a laughing stock out of America. I just don't get it. If foreigners thought Americans were rude, arrogant bullies before, they certainly will now.
7
I am glad I am a Democrat.
15
HILLARY 2016
Corrupt, But
Not Trump!!
Corrupt, But
Not Trump!!
2
The Republican establishment, including now Cruz, Rubio, and Kasich -- though previously they have tried to distance themselves from failed and obstructionist Repervetism -- is clearly clueless.
Handing over to the enemy the weapon of "They're now ganging up on me!"?
And serving it up on a silver platter to The Donald?
Whoa! Gives new meaning to: "Drinking their own Kool-Aid!"
Handing over to the enemy the weapon of "They're now ganging up on me!"?
And serving it up on a silver platter to The Donald?
Whoa! Gives new meaning to: "Drinking their own Kool-Aid!"
3
My husband, who was out of town, asked me last night if I was going to watch the debate. No, I said, I can't watch these grown men, our supposed 'leaders' take the stage and publicly eviscerate and hurl infantile insults and taunts at each other and gang up on who they perceive to be the schoolyard bully. From comments here, it seems this spectacle was not a debate, and honestly, if I had just landed on this planet, I'd swear these were reviews of a poorly directed reality TV show (or a really good one, actually). No, I told my husband, I'd rather wait for him to come home so together we can watch some political drama really worth watching--House of Cards.
16
I appreciate the Times' style choice "Mr." in all references to all adult men. In the context of what we all viewed last night, the honorific comes off very funny.
7
Fox news trapped Trump into promising that he ( trump ) will support any candidate that the GOP nominates as presidential nominee. It was a clever move and the way in which it was achieved was brilliant. First the promise of support was taken from the other candidates if Trump was chosen as the nominee, and then the question was fielded to Mr Trump. Mr Trump was compelled - otherwise he would have cut a sorry figure - to pledge his support to the GOP nominee even if it was not him.
How about if he wins the primary election but the party refuses to nominate him at the convention even if it means re-writing the rules on the spot?
1
Actually, they would not have to re-write any rules.
The rules only stipulate that they have to have a roll call and have a round of delegate counts. If nobody gets a majority (1237), then all bets are off and the deal-making, back-stabbing, smoke-filled-backrooming, Romney-revivifying begins.
Of course, all of the campaigns will do their utmost to have things lined up in case of this outcome, but I seriously doubt that a majority of the delegates will be any mood to be bound by any agreements prior to the convention. This is what PalinPAC has been waiting for all along.
The rules only stipulate that they have to have a roll call and have a round of delegate counts. If nobody gets a majority (1237), then all bets are off and the deal-making, back-stabbing, smoke-filled-backrooming, Romney-revivifying begins.
Of course, all of the campaigns will do their utmost to have things lined up in case of this outcome, but I seriously doubt that a majority of the delegates will be any mood to be bound by any agreements prior to the convention. This is what PalinPAC has been waiting for all along.
DT and his backers hate the press but they really shouldn't because it was the press that gave him all of this free exposure at the expnse of other candidates and made his campaign what it is today. We re all part of the problem called Trump because we are the public who reads, writes and talks Trump every day. .
1
Going back to history for a meaningful set of debates:
http://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/how-lincoln-bested-douglas-in-thei...
What a contrast!
http://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/how-lincoln-bested-douglas-in-thei...
What a contrast!
This is the stuff of America. We are getting back to our foundations, before the regiment of Industrialization. Enjoy it, America. Enjoy Democracy.
2
Aside from insincerity & childlike behavior on part of "Then There Were Four Little Indians", what ever happened to impartial hosts (formerly fair McNeil-Leherer" of PBS past? Found annoying the debating of hosts with loaded questions. Off the Record, There should be a petition or write-in for Leonardo
DiCaprio (wanted to Tweet) but didn't. Mr. D's speech in Davos in January
calls all Americans to attention. I like him really and checked his Foundation, and he's right on. (Much better an actor than Reagan and
we need actors to deliver USA to the outside world in a complicated world!)
DiCaprio (wanted to Tweet) but didn't. Mr. D's speech in Davos in January
calls all Americans to attention. I like him really and checked his Foundation, and he's right on. (Much better an actor than Reagan and
we need actors to deliver USA to the outside world in a complicated world!)
. . . and end by claiming their unending support if he becomes the nominee. Illustrative of the utter hypocrisy of the party.
4
I was baffled by the end of the debate. If Cruz and Rubio really believe Trump is a risk to our democracy then how can they say they will support him as niminee. Are they lying or traitors to their country? Party over country...and they want our vote?
6
As Rubio said: "This will be the end of the modern conservative movement".
Let's hope so...The best part is the GOP are doing it to themselves.
Let's hope so...The best part is the GOP are doing it to themselves.
9
Trump is not my first choice but I must admit I would LOVE to see him debate Hillary, (or Bernie for that matter). Hillary (or Bernie) would probably collapse from the stress.
2
Hillary would beat Trump. Hands down. No contest.
8
If Hillary hasn't collapsed under the barrage of Republicans, Conservatives, and all the other haters after all these years, I doubt any "stress" from 'the Donald' will do her in.
4
I hear Trump's daily routine now includes staring into a mirror every morning and saying, "Benghazi" 50 times.
All of this was entertaining in the very early days of the debates but now I think - and I'm sure millions do - hey, this is my country you guys are dragging through the gutter! How do we get rid of you????
Trump's a bigoted jerk but he has a genius for pulling everyone around him down, forcing them to play at his level.
2
"Descended into the vulgar"?
This would require an earlier, higher point. I must have missed that.
This would require an earlier, higher point. I must have missed that.
17
See what happens when you leave out Ben Carson?
Americans don't seem to understand that they're about to surrender the most terrifying military machine on the planet to a sociopath. If Trump would run for president for a country like say Italy, I wouldn't be concerned. It would be sad for Italy but it wouldn't affect the entire world. It would be an unfortunate misstep in Italy. However, that's not the case with the US. Trump will have the power to initiate terrifying wars. We will give him the ability to make use of nuclear weapons and based on what I hear he might be willing to bomb whatever gets in his way. This election could lead to WW3. The United States' military is a way more dangerous power than Germany was at the beginning of WW2. When we built the most powerful military in the world we never thought that it might fall into the wrong hands. Now this terrifying prospect might actually come true. Yes of course, with Trump America will greatly suffer - but along with America the whole world could go down. This might sound drastic, but it ain't. Trump is a highly unstable dangerous demagogue. It might turn out that he is nothing more than a lame duck, a fluke, a joke, not able or willing to follow through with what he threatens to do. But we absolutely can't be sure about that. And we can't under no circumstances take that chance. Because again, the US is no regular country, it is the potentially most dangerous country in the world, if it falls into the wrong hands.
10
Ben Carson had the right idea in skipping last night's debate. Too bad the other candidates didn't skip it as well.
14
Oh! Ben Carson was not there? I did'nt notice!
1
If two thirds of the GOP primary voters are not voting for Trump, doesn't that mean that 80+% are not voting for Mr. Rubio/Cruz?
7
I like Trump or Drumpf more and more as I see who his enemies are. Let's start by noticing that he might even stand up to the neocons. Might he dare to tell the Israelis to fund their own wars? Already he reminds us that Bush and Chaney lied about WMDs in Iraq in order to talk us into starting that disastrous war. This guy is not all bad.
13
I once read about maggots being used to treat gangrene. Trump is very like a maggot eating away at the gangrene that has infected the Republican party, disgusting and otherwise useless but effective at this one task.
11
You're absolutely right. And the best thing about him is he cannot beat Bernie Sanders!
2
You might want to wait and see if Sanders even gets the nomination.
Wishing doesn't make it so.
Wishing doesn't make it so.
This article dismisses Kasich's substantive useful comments throughout the debate with a throwaway line at the end, saying he "struggled to leave a mark in the debate." That coverage exemplifies the problem with media coverage throughout this campaign. If you covered what Kasich said, he would "leave a mark." Kasich indeed did not leave a mark on the name-calling, insult-throwing, adrenaline-increasing locker room, which seems to be primarily what the media think is important. Kasich instead pointed out his experience and his views and indeed contrasted those with Trump, but that does not "leave a mark."
14
I'm not a fan of Donald Trump, but I don't think these other candidates or party loyalists can make a case against him and seem legitimate. To wit: even Romney seems to have forgotten that he used coded language to denounce President Obama, saying to Britain that he would be better than Obama since he was "Anglo Saxon"; used the 47% to do race baiting and even talked about his"binders full of women" (who can forget that meme!) to highlight how little he knew about qualified women and women's issues.
16
The only thing missing was the " boys" comparing their "manliness" right on stage in front of everyone. The words disgusting, reprehensible etc., aren't appropriate enough.
12
What I found most appalling is, not the tasteless behavior of the candidates, but the foaming-at-the-mouth tribal bloodlust coming from the AUDIENCE. Applauding for water-boarding and torture? Do any of them spend any time at all reading investigative news or science (especially neuroscience), anything that's NOT tawdry political gossip? Torture can result in erroneous information and unreliable intelligence, because the prisoner is just telling their interrogators what they WANT to hear, rather than actual truth. Coerced false confessions are a real thing. Bad intelligence gets us into endless unnecessary wars, like the current Iraqi war. The stupidity and ignorance of the audience, and the public in general who think real life is like '24' or some Hollywood production, never ceases to amaze me.
38
You are so right. I don't care if torture works or does not. It's immoral, especially for the country that lectures other countries on human rights and rule of law and insists it's exceptional.
2
It happened in Germany in th 1930's, only in a more civilized manner.
2
Sorry. There was nothing "civilized" about the way it happened in the 1930's, or afterward.
I am certain that all of the Republican candidates have "experts" advising them as to how to present their messages. Yet what we continue to see in the debates are childish, immature and petty comments and insults hurled back and forth. At times it is some of the funniest things I have ever seen and that is sad to say, given that one of these individuals may be our next President. If someone is going to challenge Mr. Trump, or whoever the leader may be, I would think you would want to hammer home specific points and policies and not let yourself be distracted by the sideshow of nonsense. I have heard Mr. Rubio say he wants to focus on the issues but he still goes right back to the petty comments and insults. America has many, many serious problems right now and it is eminently clear that many of the American people are showing, by supporting Mr. Trump, that they are beyond disgusted as to how our politicians in Washington, D.C. are not doing their jobs and that they believe Mr. Trump can do a better job. This may happen. But whether Mr. Trump or someone else wins the Republican nomination, and the carnival sideshow finally comes to an end, the many, many serious issues affecting America will still remain. Perhaps the "expert" advisers can actually steer their clients back to this point and have them remember what it is they are running for.
3
My hunch is that Cruz and Rubio will end up on a single ticket. Cruz has a stronger personality and Marco will be happy to be anyone's VP.
1
Let's hope it's a ticket OUT of the country.
4
There's no point in fretting about "bringing down" Donald Trump when his Republican alternatives are no better. Kasich is extremist policy with a smile. Rubio is Dubya even-liter-weight. Cruz means what he says and is mean enough to actually do it.
Save our attacks on the Donald for the general, when he's either the nominee with no friends on his podium or the vengeful leader of the Trump Anti-Republican Party.
Save our attacks on the Donald for the general, when he's either the nominee with no friends on his podium or the vengeful leader of the Trump Anti-Republican Party.
16
Trump being elected president is not the worst thing that could happen.
The worst case scenario is that he is elected and he is successful.
Then his legions would grow and follow him blindly into oblivion.
Just like the Germans and Hitler.
The worst case scenario is that he is elected and he is successful.
Then his legions would grow and follow him blindly into oblivion.
Just like the Germans and Hitler.
12
Except that the Germans weren't successful under Hitler, and he murdered the legions that didn't follow him blindly...
1
Trump has the faithful among the tea party.
These lovely Walmart folks will not stop with a civil war in the Republican Party.
They want America to go down in the flames of a civil war.
These lovely Walmart folks will not stop with a civil war in the Republican Party.
They want America to go down in the flames of a civil war.
7
You have no idea how right you are.
1
let us not forget, however misguided, the fears Trump supporters feel are indeed 'real' TO THEM. They are 'real' because the figurative sources they rely on to guide them have lead them astray. These sources are the leaders who deny the legitimacy of a two term president, deny the votes of all of us who voted for him, and who have lead them to believe that government can't function for the people. In order to address this behavior, their experience of fear needs to be validated and then redirected to its actual source, they have been swindled by the people they have trusted to lead them.
Every day that Rubio, Cruz, McConnell and his fellow ilk refuse to do their constitutional and moral duty, deny the legitimacy of our president and then sheepishly balk at Trump is another day they endorse his vitriol and hate. What a sad state of affairs these elected leaders have brought upon our country.
Every day that Rubio, Cruz, McConnell and his fellow ilk refuse to do their constitutional and moral duty, deny the legitimacy of our president and then sheepishly balk at Trump is another day they endorse his vitriol and hate. What a sad state of affairs these elected leaders have brought upon our country.
13
Paul Ryan and the Republican candidates, along with other Republicans, declare Trump (as well as others among them) are unfit for the presidency of the US. Yet, each pledges to support the Republican candidate, whoever he may be. A remarkable and indelible declaration of Party over alleged principle (e.g. Christie the Flip-flopper). Evidently, an "R" after one's name transforms the unacceptable to supportable.
Well, sorry, but in the 60's I wouldn't have supported (and didn't) George Wallace no matter what label he ran under -- period. Nowadays, apparently some take party label as a demand of utter obedience or, for that matter, as a definition of what is right?
Well, sorry, but in the 60's I wouldn't have supported (and didn't) George Wallace no matter what label he ran under -- period. Nowadays, apparently some take party label as a demand of utter obedience or, for that matter, as a definition of what is right?
17
If one of those guys said, if it's the Donald who is our nominee, I would not support him, he would have my vote. The fact they would all support one another makes the Republican Party a clown show hoping that their act is the most popular.
10
You Americans should realise that you have been lucky to have had Obama and have Sanders. Honourable men with intellect and good manners. The Republicans, coarse, uncouth and infantile will have to destroy themselves as they are, perhaps recrudesce with a new Lincoln or Eisenhower
Shame on your politics
Shame on your politics
24
May I suggest you Google the difference between Democracy and Monarchy.
The 35% of the GOP that is supporting Trump seem to be very angry already and will likely be doubly so in the event Trump loses, or even worse, has it appear that his nomination was ripped away from him. I am very concerned about this.
8
The Republicans should have chosen John Kasich only candidate fit to be the Presidential nominee but hey I am a Democrat so let then fight it out.
6
Civility and mature behavior in politics has existed in the past.
When Carter and Ford were both running, they referred to each other as "my esteemed opponent."
How far we have fallen since then!
When Carter and Ford were both running, they referred to each other as "my esteemed opponent."
How far we have fallen since then!
18
Trump or Cruz has appeal grab Sanders voters. Sanders's real voters are 50% of Dems. He intentionally fail for Hillary. Rubio or Kasich's policy prevents this capability. Kasich or Rubio policy is same Hillary. Their appeal is less far way from Hillary. They can not attract Sanders's voters. They can not win.
"Sanders' real voters are 50% of Dems". OH REALLY???? How did you come up with that?
2
You Americans should realise that you are lucky to have had Obama and have Sanders. The Republicans will have to destroy themselves as they are, perhaps recrudesce with a new Lincoln or Eisenhower
Shame on your politics
Shame on your politics
8
The picture tells it all. Trump is the only one walking away from the Republican Party, or he is so confused he doesn't know his place.
2
His place appears to be in front, as the others retreat.
Life imitating art.
Life imitating art.
1
This is what you get when you don't have REAL leaders to choose from, and allow "others" (successfully) attempt to control WHO you have to choose from for you, the public, to vote for, for the HIGHEST position of leadership in this country, who CLEARLY are NOT leaders. The people you have to choose from now have done nothing serious for the people of this country who are the most in need, to prove they are leaders, so they attack each other while they raise money to pay people to convince YOU they ARE leaders (and distract you so as not to give you time to wonder who put them in position to even BE considered a candidate in the first place). Get started doing what has to be done to find REAL leaders to choose from (REAL leaders will be obvious), and then vote for the leader YOU prefer from THAT group - don't let manipulated PR "decide" for you. You, the people, have the power to change this country for the better, but you have to get actively and seriously involved in the governance of the country, and USE that power, or our country will continue to get far worse than it is now.
3
You probably had a point but because I was distracted by your RANDOM use of caps, I'm not sure what it was....
2
The caps were used to emphasize the point that was being made....
Maybe try again???
Maybe try again???
I have chaperoned middle school field trips where the kids behaved better. Incredible!
11
It's like I watched a different debate. The very sad thing is - this article as almost no mention of Kasich, the winner of this debate.
Trump lost this one badly. He said nothing of substance. Fox News was prepared to take him down - they did their homework and didn't pull any punches - and they did. T
Trump lost this one badly. He said nothing of substance. Fox News was prepared to take him down - they did their homework and didn't pull any punches - and they did. T
1
The tone of the Republican nomination race has unfortunately become a sad affair, thanks to Donald Trump who seems to bring out the worst in people. The realization that Trump is bad for this country has led the candidates to ,out of character, come down to the level of "the Donald," using his own words and practices in attacks to try to stop his momentum. Regrettably, none of this seems to be working as voters seem to be oblivious to the facts. This would not be necessary if not for the fact that both parties cater to idiots and the victims are reason, integrity and honesty. Special interests on both sides are to blame along with an irresponsible media that no longer reports the news but endeavors to be king makers by influencing public opinion. Candidates like Trump and Hillary can only emerge because the best minds and qualified people refuse to participate in a political system that is rotten to the core. Why would an honest, ethical person subject themselves to a brutal system that will savage them and their families with innuendos, lies and a media that focuses on any misstep, no matter how innocuous? Even if you are a person with no real negatives your opponents will create one from any innocent remark. There can be no long term positives for the country when integrity and honesty become expendable. The erosion of our country is almost complete.
2
How does Marco Rubio explain his comment about Trump's hands size to his children?
8
The same way he explains his credit card debacle, his overspending, his inability to show up for work etc. "When Daddy does it, it's OK."
4
Haha!
Good one!
Good one!
I've been reading many comments suggesting Cruz's resemblance to old Tail Gunner Joe McCarthy, he of the "Commie around every corner", red baiting, black listing, demagogue from the Fifties. I concur.
I too am old enough to remember him, and the comparison in looks alone to the oleaginous Cruz is striking. But when combined with Cruz's sanctimonious Elmer Gantry-like preaching, bold pronouncements from his bully pulpit, delivered with fire and brimstone fury, filled with apocalyptic visions of what besets this nation should it forsake his warnings of doom, by not voting for him but instead that Democratic Devil Incarnate Hillary.
One can only imagine the paranoid delusions encased in the brain pans of his disciples who buy his nonsense. Sweet Jesus, let us pray their their Almighty God save them from themselves.
DD
Manhattan
I too am old enough to remember him, and the comparison in looks alone to the oleaginous Cruz is striking. But when combined with Cruz's sanctimonious Elmer Gantry-like preaching, bold pronouncements from his bully pulpit, delivered with fire and brimstone fury, filled with apocalyptic visions of what besets this nation should it forsake his warnings of doom, by not voting for him but instead that Democratic Devil Incarnate Hillary.
One can only imagine the paranoid delusions encased in the brain pans of his disciples who buy his nonsense. Sweet Jesus, let us pray their their Almighty God save them from themselves.
DD
Manhattan
12
And from the rest of us....Amen.
4
I am known for having the mouth of a sailor. However, I do know my audience and am well aware of what language is appropriate in what setting. I also know I have a good sense of humor, but I'm not laughing now. I am appalled by the boorish behavior, and embarrassed to be an American. The rest of the world must be shaking their heads in disbelief at the sideshow these supposed debates have become.
12
If Republican voters are so angry with the party as to choose Trump, who party leaders denounced as being a liberal in disguise, then why don't these voters simply change allegiance to the Democratic Party? The party leaders are also saying the Republican Party is not racist, sexist, exclusive. Then why don't they also leave to the Democratic Party? It seems that the Democratic Party is what most Republicans want.
2
I'm not sure what makes you think this is a real possibility, unless you just tuned in to American politics yesterday. The Democratic Party is too liberal for most Republicans. Most Republican stances are too conservative for them to ever even consider changing affiliation to Democrat. And many in the Republican Party are racist, sexist, and exclusive. You may have also noticed there is immense vitriol and hatred between the two parties.
1
It's not working. The other candidates clearly don't understand what they're up against. I don't think they can defeat Trump. They're insiders and insiders don't play well with this audience. All they can achieve is to make Trump's constituency feel more put-upon and more entrenched.
8
Thing is... nothing much will change for Trump's constituency if he is elected. There will be some entertaining impetuous outbursts and many pretty rude moments, and random moments of brilliance as well as dumbfounding misses - a very expensive form of entertainment when one considers the possible consequences of four years of POTUS one-sided "I changed my mind", "let's make a deal" and "it's all about ME" and "it's OK to hate THEM".
My wife and I finally turned off the debate at one point, feeling it was toxic to listen to. Who in their right mind wants to listen to 4 years of Trump's mouth plus the hostility he provokes in everyone? The Dems better turn out in droves and put an end to this nightmare. It's our only hope.
8
Perhaps what scares me most is the bullying tactics the Republicans are using to try to get their way with a disregard for any of the processes in place. The Republican candidates and friends ( Romney, McCain) are outraged by the success of Donald Trump: they won't accept it. They want to use outrage to divert the political system to which they all signed on for. McCain, Romney and the current trailing presidential hopefuls never exhibited outrage by which its party chooses its nominee, as long as the outcome favored one of the usual players. But the rules should be broken and thrown out of the window when the Republican establishment doesn't like the way things are going. McCain calling a Trump ill-equipped? Rich, coming from the same person who chose Palin as his running mate when he was the poster-boy Republican candidate for President. I guess these Republican bullies can try to twist the system on behalf of their moral indignation. After all, they've vowed to cover their ears, stamp their feet and display an unvarnished contempt for the system by which Supreme Court justices are appointed. Where is their moral indignation when they themselves behave disrespectfully and despicably? Rules, respect for long-standing precedents and "the system" don't apply to these angry men. They simply cannot stand to be unsuccessful bullies. They are a collective "Dorian Grey" who are they afraid Trump, the portrait in the closet, is now exposed.
4
Comedian John Oliver was just proven correct about "thin skinned" Drumpf.
For nearly 30 years, Trump has been sending the current editor of Vanity Fair pictures of himself with his hands circled with a "gold sharpie" with a comment…"See not so small"…
Why?
Because the now Vanity Fair editor wrote and article for Spy Magazine and called Trump…"A Short Fingered Vulgarinan"….and Trump is still, still….upset about it.
What an ego…what a narcissist…what an incredible unfit character for POTUS…Trump.
Save America…Dump Trump..
For nearly 30 years, Trump has been sending the current editor of Vanity Fair pictures of himself with his hands circled with a "gold sharpie" with a comment…"See not so small"…
Why?
Because the now Vanity Fair editor wrote and article for Spy Magazine and called Trump…"A Short Fingered Vulgarinan"….and Trump is still, still….upset about it.
What an ego…what a narcissist…what an incredible unfit character for POTUS…Trump.
Save America…Dump Trump..
5
Quite Freudian - then we are trapped ! Next we will be using missiles to execute prisoners !
I wish when Trump descended into his appalling vulgarity the other three candidates had walked off the stage. To remain was to participate. And that should not be happening.
5
Are you kidding? Rubio's filthy mouth started the "hands joke" and the "wetting of pants" - and you blame Trump. Unbelieveable.
3
I've lost track of the wasted hours I've spent listening to these candidates.
I have learned that in their future I will doing my taxes on a postcard, and women in this country will not be allowed important medical services. We may be building a giant wall on our southern border, and we will no longer be monitoring our environment for health hazards.
Have I missed something?
I have learned that in their future I will doing my taxes on a postcard, and women in this country will not be allowed important medical services. We may be building a giant wall on our southern border, and we will no longer be monitoring our environment for health hazards.
Have I missed something?
9
Yes, you missed the part where the 99% will be surviving on subsistence agriculture and on top of their student loan debts paying for the infrastructure and services enjoyed by the 1% - and breed to provide gun meat for the inevitable wars.
3
Trump is not the phony. The entire GOP is. The curtain has been pulled back to reveal the sick, nasty, cynical, emetic machine that the Republican party has become. Trump is simply the apotheosis of everything Fox et al. have brewed over the past 25 years. It makes me feel like the Native American in the old anti-pollution commercial, who looks at what has become of the land he loved and sheds a single, slow tear. I weep for what we have become.
14
With years and years of vitriol from the likes of Beck, Limbaugh and others, what did the "establishment" Republican party think was going to happen? These people rarely spoke of the issues in a balanced constructive way but instead appealed to the far right lowest common denominator with the same hyperbole we now hear from Trump.
19
I can't wait to watch the GOP establishment choose between Trump and Cruz, after "small hands" Rubio sinks to the bottom of the sea.
Trump or Cruz. Cruz or Trump. Toss and turn all night!
Trump or Cruz. Cruz or Trump. Toss and turn all night!
2
Was there a single mention of any of the issues facing this country and the people in it in the debate or in the article? What are the candidates positions on education for example?
8
And where is the press holding them to the issues?
6
Education was mentioned during the debate as well as pollution, taxes, immigration, war, crumbling infrastructure and medical care.
At first he caught my attention when he entered the race for the Republican nomination.
Now, it is exhausting to even listen to him.
I am now *Trumpfounded* and *Trumptigued*
Now, it is exhausting to even listen to him.
I am now *Trumpfounded* and *Trumptigued*
2
The whole thing was disgusting. "Little Marco", the "can't be elected dogcatcher" line, the "take a deep breath and count to 10" and not-so-witty references to yoga and flexibility, and that WHITE THING (what the heck was it) on Cruz's lip that he ate. This is what the phrase "I can't even" was invented for.
8
Two whole lines at the end of the article to discuss a great man, Kasich, who has good ideas, a depth of experience, and would make a fine President. The rest of the article was spent discussing one clown and his right-wing attackers. This is not reporting. As long as this circus continues, strong candidates will never be noticed.
2
You need to research more about what kasich has done in Ohio, like his recent defunding of planned parenthood. I do not want him as president. He acts like just a folksy guy but he isn't.
7
Good ideas like getting rid of teacher's lounges?
4
I looked at the fact checker and it seems the only true statement was that Rubio rarely shows up for work. When it comes to absenteeism, Marco's #1. And which candidate dared to say something that was actually true? You'll never guess.
7
Frightening that the only "moderate" in the room gets the least attention and has the least appeal from the Republican base. I think that many people can find solace from this debate in the fact that Marco Rubio will soon be made irrelevant, as he is trailing to Trump in his home state, and will be finished off (hopefully) before midnight on March 15th.
But Cruz supporters should not puff out their chests and gin smugly like their candidate either, as at this point he is only buoyed by his own luck, the luck of being a Senator from Texas and not a state like Oklahoma with a third of the number of delegates. Without a win in Texas, Cruz, too, would be irrelevant, and had Trump won, the conversation would be all but done.
Trump is on the march to the nomination, no matter how many past influential Republicans the GOP digs up to speak out against him. The damage is done, and they let the sickness spread unattended for too long. Republicans were all too happy to embrace the foul and corrosive aspects of their voter base, and use them to their advantage, but once the party began cannibalizing itself, and there was nowhere left to turn, maybe now they might realize that being a post-policy party that governs based on racism, cronyism, sexism, and fear, is not effective and cannot sustain itself forever.
I hope that any time Republicans hear that pandering "We Built it" song now, they look upon their works - Donald Trump and the crumbling of the party - and despair.
But Cruz supporters should not puff out their chests and gin smugly like their candidate either, as at this point he is only buoyed by his own luck, the luck of being a Senator from Texas and not a state like Oklahoma with a third of the number of delegates. Without a win in Texas, Cruz, too, would be irrelevant, and had Trump won, the conversation would be all but done.
Trump is on the march to the nomination, no matter how many past influential Republicans the GOP digs up to speak out against him. The damage is done, and they let the sickness spread unattended for too long. Republicans were all too happy to embrace the foul and corrosive aspects of their voter base, and use them to their advantage, but once the party began cannibalizing itself, and there was nowhere left to turn, maybe now they might realize that being a post-policy party that governs based on racism, cronyism, sexism, and fear, is not effective and cannot sustain itself forever.
I hope that any time Republicans hear that pandering "We Built it" song now, they look upon their works - Donald Trump and the crumbling of the party - and despair.
7
The moderators slowed no sense of urgency concerning the poisoning of Flint's water,even though Flint was 70 miles away. Clinton and Sanders actually went to Flint;nobody asked the candidates if they would go. Rubio said it shouldn't be politicized (applause);he seemed to be trying to let Gov.Snyder off the hook.He didn't have any proposals to fix it or avoid similar situations in the future,and was not asked.He did not mention the broader issue of infrastructure funding, and again, was not asked. Other candidates,zilch.
9
Maybe, Cruz and Rubio are expecting a Divine Intervention, devout, good Christians they are. Then, Donald Trump has a big problem. But what are the odds for that?
2
There may be another reason for the circus act that the Republicans are conducting: it's taking precious air time and column space away from the Democrats, specifically Hillary Clinton. With all the attention paid to Trump, you have to imagine that there are voters out there who have completely forgotten about the Democratic front-runner.
6
And a very good thing it is, too. Pretty thin pickings on the democratic side.
Still better than what was on stage last night.
2
Irony, wit, sarcasm and sophisticated put down seems to have escaped this debate and reflects having the ability to think on your feet. If you cannot deliver any of the above at a moments notice how much time will it take to Respond to global leaders who have "thinking" on their side.
1
"Irony, wit, sarcasm and sophisticated put down" ALL require INTELLIGENCE.
So. Guess which ingredient is missing???
So. Guess which ingredient is missing???
Whether or not you want to believe it Republicans have legitimately claimed the voice of intimidation. Not since a half century has such a zero level of politics figured so prominent in American life. But back then we had an enemy. Today we're fighting over who has the right to intimidate whom and if any of these clowns find their way to their White House you'll be sure their violence will be spectacular.
6
If Trump were to be elected, he wouldn't have a notion of how to run the US government, let alone respond to events across the world. He would rely on advisers, and, given his temperament, he would employ sycophants who would try to turn Trump's fantasies into reality. It would be a disaster. It would probably top the second Bush's follies. Can the Nation survive it? (It used to be that the electorate would be aghast at spending thousands of lives and a trillion dollars to prop up a sectarian pseudo-democracy. Now hundreds of thousands of voters are willing to gamble that Trump won't do worse.)
5
Here's what concerns me. Right now the GOP infighting is dragging their candidates and their elites into internicene warfare - which may, down the road, appear to be nothing but previews of worse to come. I mean the GOP convention in Cleveland.
I hope Gov Kasich is prepared to keep the Ohio National Guard in readiness - for the hoards of protesters, from Black Lives Matter to White Supremicists to Donald Trump acolytes, ready to take on the GOP itself or each other or to riot in the streets, demanding the "heads" (metaphorically) of whatever factions are cannablizing each other within the Convention Hall.
If the current heat within the GOP really ignites, if Trump is edged out via "rules" or maneuvering on the floor, I can only imagine the mayhem that could occur within the city of Cleveland. It could make 1968 in Chicago look like a picnic. With riots and destruction of property.
I'm not predicting this will happen. But tempers are getting so out of control. The vitriol on the GOP side is so lacking in adult self-restraint, that the "rabble" in the GOP electorate, if they feel their voice is either not being heard or is being contravened, could ignite in ways that we do not want happening in the streets of Cleveland or anywhere else.
Right now it's a cannibal feast among the candidates and elite factions. That's bad enough. But let it get out of hand... And then what?
The GOP is skating on very thin ice!
I hope Gov Kasich is prepared to keep the Ohio National Guard in readiness - for the hoards of protesters, from Black Lives Matter to White Supremicists to Donald Trump acolytes, ready to take on the GOP itself or each other or to riot in the streets, demanding the "heads" (metaphorically) of whatever factions are cannablizing each other within the Convention Hall.
If the current heat within the GOP really ignites, if Trump is edged out via "rules" or maneuvering on the floor, I can only imagine the mayhem that could occur within the city of Cleveland. It could make 1968 in Chicago look like a picnic. With riots and destruction of property.
I'm not predicting this will happen. But tempers are getting so out of control. The vitriol on the GOP side is so lacking in adult self-restraint, that the "rabble" in the GOP electorate, if they feel their voice is either not being heard or is being contravened, could ignite in ways that we do not want happening in the streets of Cleveland or anywhere else.
Right now it's a cannibal feast among the candidates and elite factions. That's bad enough. But let it get out of hand... And then what?
The GOP is skating on very thin ice!
8
The poor people of Cleveland are not going to feel outraged if Donald Trump is cheated of the Republican nomination -- not one in a hundred is so registered. Trump will be outraged, and if it takes his anger out on the Republican Party in November, good for him.
2
Dave, when these conventions come to town, thousands of others also come to town. And if you recall Chicago in 1968, you recall the riots outside the convention hall.
If Trump is aggrieved, believe me, that will be nothing compared to frustrated, resentful followers, if the GOP elite appears to be stealing the nomination, thereby disqualifying their votes and their anger.
In no way was I referring to Ohioans, of which my late father was one, doing the rioting or engaging in Mayhem.
But when "leaders" incite vitriol, violence may be just one step away. And I'd hate to see the GOP leadership-demolition-derby become a license for civil unrest.
If Trump is aggrieved, believe me, that will be nothing compared to frustrated, resentful followers, if the GOP elite appears to be stealing the nomination, thereby disqualifying their votes and their anger.
In no way was I referring to Ohioans, of which my late father was one, doing the rioting or engaging in Mayhem.
But when "leaders" incite vitriol, violence may be just one step away. And I'd hate to see the GOP leadership-demolition-derby become a license for civil unrest.
4
I didn't know "All My Children" aired on Fox.
4
It couldn't happen here - by Sinclair Lewis
And oh yeah, it is happening here.
And oh yeah, it is happening here.
4
This is all a distraction from the fact that Cruz and Rubio are in many ways worse than Trump. At least with Trump, the flaws are all there for everyone to see. At the level of this so-called debate, we might as well have the four drop their drawers and let the voters decide on what they see there.
17
As a Trump supporter (I am a Black attorney with a degree in American History, who loves my race and racial heritage which means I could never support Barack Obama) I was disappointed in Trump's performance.
Kindness is a cardinal sin in presidential politics, and Trump's attempts to "play nice" with the hyenas on either side of him and the bottle blonde jackal in front of him (Megyn Kelly) backfired. This was an ambush, complete with heavily edited video, misleading slides and false facts.
Trump should stand his ground, and move to the political center after he secures the nomination.
Kindness is a cardinal sin in presidential politics, and Trump's attempts to "play nice" with the hyenas on either side of him and the bottle blonde jackal in front of him (Megyn Kelly) backfired. This was an ambush, complete with heavily edited video, misleading slides and false facts.
Trump should stand his ground, and move to the political center after he secures the nomination.
8
I am a Black attorney with a degree in American History,
what is th point of your endlessly advertising this
is this suppose to lend more credence to your posts ?
it doesnt
it just makes you annoying
what is th point of your endlessly advertising this
is this suppose to lend more credence to your posts ?
it doesnt
it just makes you annoying
14
Must be confusing juggling history and law degrees with being Black and in love with your race (human?) and racial heritage and never being able to support Barack Obama but able to support Trump, and your disappointment with Trump's performance last night. But I see you fit right in with your candidate, noting how you believe kindness is a cardinal sin in presidential campaigns and that there were "hyenas" on either side of Trump and that "bottle blonde jackal" was full frontal of Mr. Guaranteed. Someone might be equally confused about your sequence of non sequiters but you're a Trump guy so likely no one will hold that against you seeing as how his entire campaign consists of either insults or non sequiters. Isn't confusion a wonderful thing though? Fun to watch. At a safe distance.
6
Right, a black person who loves a friend of the KKK and an attorney who loves the guy being sued for blatant fraud. You forgot to mention that you're also a hair stylist who loves Donald's hair.
6
As a World War 2 buff, I've wondered how Germans could have been so seduced by Hitler. I knew the answer, but not really. Until Trump.
7
The Republican Party has had 35 years to educate its "less educated" voters -- always with the risk, of course, that if the base learned actual facts, it would go AWOL. The Republican Party failed this responsibility of adult education. Thus cometh the Trumpseduction.
7
Oh how I love Republican dysfunction. What a bunch of maroons. Trump is "immoral"? a "FRAUD". OMG someone who hasn't been paying attention might think the GOP is actually taking a stand against such behavior.
The truth is Trump is no more immoral or fraudulent than the rest of the Republicans. In some ways he is less so.
The truth is Trump is no more immoral or fraudulent than the rest of the Republicans. In some ways he is less so.
15
Bottom line?
The political ambush from the 2016 Axis of Evil (FOX News, RNC, Liberal media) didn't work. Trump is still in the driver's seat, and Hillary could be getting fitted for leg irons.
The political ambush from the 2016 Axis of Evil (FOX News, RNC, Liberal media) didn't work. Trump is still in the driver's seat, and Hillary could be getting fitted for leg irons.
7
If that's true, I would say the driver is heading full-speed toward the cliff and the only one that can stop him is being detained by accusations that amount to bringing your homework home instead of doing it in a classroom of confusion.
3
A lawyer? Really? Trump's in the driver seat? Leg irons for Hillary? Is this the Napoleonic Code you're citing? Miss the class on due process? More importantly, under President Trump's new Libel Laws you're about to be served by Hillary Clinton's attorney. Slow day at the law office? Great for posting your confusion in The Times and showcasing your impressive legal mind. How lucky for you.
6
Somehow the FBI disagrees with your assessment of federal crime. And unfortunately, as a Washington lawyer, I'm going to have to go with their assessment as well.
Last night was a clear display of what's wrong in the Republican party, and perhaps in our politics today. After two hours of calling Trump every name in the book, all of the three other candidates said they would support him if he were to be nominated. Don't Rubio, Cruz and Kasich realize that we can hear what they're saying? They would support a man who they think would lead us to the brink and beyond if he were elected. Shame on all of you, shame on the Republican cabal, shame on the politics of hate, division, then unison behind a man totally unfit to lead the most powerful country in the world.
13
I can see why Hillary is so afraid of Fox News and refuses to consider them monitoring a debate or even. Her inconsistencies and lies would be clearly revealed.
6
I can't stand Hillary but I don't think she fears anything. She's been through it all and has faced things tougher than anything the Barbie and Ken dolls at Fox can dish out.
5
Wake up Jacobi. Hillary is considered a criminal cause she ordered anchovies on her pizza and changed her mind after telling everybody she thought they were sweet.
3
Really DR? Then explain why she refuses to even participate in the town hall debate they are sponsoring? Bernie will be there but not Hillary, she is a coward.
Everyone must keep in mind that Donald Trump is in every way the exact opposite of President Obama. Look at all his mannerisms, type of speech, body language, etc. President Obama speaks thoughtfully and slowly. Trump just blares. President Obama shares considered words. Trump just bleats it out.
The republicans have been teaching hatred of Obama for eight years and it seems the masses have learned and are supporting the exact opposite.
So whose fault is that?
The republicans have been teaching hatred of Obama for eight years and it seems the masses have learned and are supporting the exact opposite.
So whose fault is that?
11
Theirs and ours. Republicans have been wrong to pander for 37 years rather than speak truth to the American people. The American people have been wrong to accept "entertainment" rather than to demand actual political thought.
4
Last night an economist from the Brookings Institute was questioned on the Nightly Business Report and asked to compare the tax plans of Trump and Clinton.
In short, he noted Clinton’s tax plan would reduce the deficit by about $1 trillion over 10 years, principally by raising taxes on the top 1% by an average of $78K.
Meanwhile, Trump’s plan would increase the deficit by over $10 trillion. That's not a typo: Increase by $10 trillion. In Trump’s plan, everyone gets a tax cut, but it amounts a couple of hundred dollars in tax cuts for the middle class, whereas the top 1% get over $1 million apiece in tax cuts.
That would, of course include Trump himself.
The video is found at the following link, the interview starts at about 11:50 into it:
http://nbr.com/2016/03/03/nightly-business-report-march-3-2016/
In short, he noted Clinton’s tax plan would reduce the deficit by about $1 trillion over 10 years, principally by raising taxes on the top 1% by an average of $78K.
Meanwhile, Trump’s plan would increase the deficit by over $10 trillion. That's not a typo: Increase by $10 trillion. In Trump’s plan, everyone gets a tax cut, but it amounts a couple of hundred dollars in tax cuts for the middle class, whereas the top 1% get over $1 million apiece in tax cuts.
That would, of course include Trump himself.
The video is found at the following link, the interview starts at about 11:50 into it:
http://nbr.com/2016/03/03/nightly-business-report-march-3-2016/
12
The Republican nomination has truly descended into a contest between the worst of the worst.
9
How revealing that an off-the-record meeting between Donald Trump and the NY Times where the candidate may have expressed more thoughtful or nuanced opinions about immigration policy (the wall? Muslims?) is something Mr. Trump wants to keep secret and his opponents want to expose!
Any display of common sense or grasp of political reality would be a liability in this GOP primary. On that, at least, Trump, Rubio & Cruz agree.
Any display of common sense or grasp of political reality would be a liability in this GOP primary. On that, at least, Trump, Rubio & Cruz agree.
7
The Boomer generation continues to exhibit its failures, morally, socially, and politically. it will culminate with Donald Trump becoming President.
2
Blaming a whole generation is a bit broad, at least considering this subject. I know too many 'boomers', including myself, who are not, and never were, supportive of this tasteless mess. or an ongoing lack of civility or decorum in absolutely any setting, no less that of leadership. For the Greatest Generation, they are undoubtedly rolling in their graves. For the Republican Party, this ongoing spectacle is more like their 'frankensteinian chickens coming home to roost'.
8
Ageist remarks only reveal your limitation of thought.
5
None of those three particularly Ted Cruz who is way more dangerous than Donald Trump.
8
Let's hope the RNC has a self destruct button.
3
i hate trump
he is loathsomeness, vile, disgusting, crude and swinish
but i will support him if nominated
with men of principle like that, how can america go wrong
he is loathsomeness, vile, disgusting, crude and swinish
but i will support him if nominated
with men of principle like that, how can america go wrong
12
America an go wrong if the Mitt takes the ball and runs with it.
No problem there. Mitt can't catch.
2
For over a hundred years my family has supported the Republican party, my Great Grandfather even holding a state senate seat as a Republican. But no more. Five years ago I became a registered independent. GOP obstructionism and unwillingness to compromise on critical issues facing the U.S. has effectively ground our government to a halt; damaging the American economy, our democracy and our standing in the world. They have not only lost me as a supporter, but they have lost my parents and my children as well (and my grandchildren I hope). I can't imagine ever again voting for a Republican presidential candidate. What an embarrassment America has become thanks to these buffoons. We should all be ashamed.
21
Excerpt from last night's debate:
RUBIO: When they’re done with the yoga, can I answer a question?
CRUZ: You cannot.
RUBIO: Unbelievable.
CRUZ: "I really hope that we don’t — we don’t see yoga on this stage."
Well, men, we're guessing the 21 million Americans who practice yoga would rather see the Republican hopefuls do a few sun salutations up there on stage than muck around measuring their manhood. And try being undismissive of yoga which is, ahem, a 27 billion dollar industry in the US. Might actually earn you a few enlightened votes...!
RUBIO: When they’re done with the yoga, can I answer a question?
CRUZ: You cannot.
RUBIO: Unbelievable.
CRUZ: "I really hope that we don’t — we don’t see yoga on this stage."
Well, men, we're guessing the 21 million Americans who practice yoga would rather see the Republican hopefuls do a few sun salutations up there on stage than muck around measuring their manhood. And try being undismissive of yoga which is, ahem, a 27 billion dollar industry in the US. Might actually earn you a few enlightened votes...!
11
I wonder why it is assumed that the people who vote for other candidates are voting "against Trump". At long last we have in Donald Trump's current incarnation, the true face of the Republican party. They are all the same in regards to; racism, misogyny, militarism, and xenophobia. They all cling to the ludicrous and discredited philosophy of Trickle Down Economics. The only difference is that The Donald does not speak in code. It all goes back to Ronald Reagan and his "welfare queens" remark. If Cruz or Rubio or Kasich drop out I would expect that the votes would go proportionally, more or less to the remaining candidates. That would only make Trump stronger at the convention. Good luck GOP. Can't say I will miss you.
9
Thank God there's "no problem" with Trump's manhood. I was getting worried...
3
He may have big hands, but will he continue to stand tall when it matters? Watch the women in this race, they know.
1
People,
This was not a debate!
This was not a debate!
5
When third graders argue over who has the biggest (?), is that a debate?
2
It is a debate. But it has nothing to do with running a country.
2
Hollywood should create a new gala awards the club of diehard Republicans ignore all signs for a better America the candidates need education
1
I haven't read too many of the comments, so it's more than probable that I'm about to echo what others have already said. In any event I think it's something that is worth underlining.
After all of the grenades and bombs thrown at Trump, not only last night but especially since the last “debate” (using that word very loosely), calling and accusing him of everything under the sun, the other three geniuses were asked; "Would you support Trump if he became the nominee?" All answered "yes." Spoken like true politicians - in the worst sense of that word. Wouldn't it have been a wonderful surprise - or shock, or revelation - if one of them had the chutzpah to refuse to toe the party line and say something like: "No I will not support him. Maybe I'll end my political career right here and now, but I refuse to be a party to the damage that this man will inflict on our country." The lame qualifiers they offered were not very convincing. Perhaps they all were being "flexible?" I'd lay odds that the offending heretic would have seen a precipitous bounce in the next group of polls if he had shown a little courage.
And whom do we have to thank for that final set up? Fox News! Maybe the Gods ARE watching over us!
After all of the grenades and bombs thrown at Trump, not only last night but especially since the last “debate” (using that word very loosely), calling and accusing him of everything under the sun, the other three geniuses were asked; "Would you support Trump if he became the nominee?" All answered "yes." Spoken like true politicians - in the worst sense of that word. Wouldn't it have been a wonderful surprise - or shock, or revelation - if one of them had the chutzpah to refuse to toe the party line and say something like: "No I will not support him. Maybe I'll end my political career right here and now, but I refuse to be a party to the damage that this man will inflict on our country." The lame qualifiers they offered were not very convincing. Perhaps they all were being "flexible?" I'd lay odds that the offending heretic would have seen a precipitous bounce in the next group of polls if he had shown a little courage.
And whom do we have to thank for that final set up? Fox News! Maybe the Gods ARE watching over us!
12
Kasich is the only candidate left with any real substance. He has a proven track record at both Federal and State levels, he's not "full of himself" like Trump and Cruz and if elected he'd be a far superior Leader than Obama.
2
Yep, Kasich has a proven track record when it comes to education, labor and voter suppression. No thank you.
5
Oh, but he is full of himself. Seems a governor he has done everything that needs to be done and has been successful at everything he has tried.
Maybe Kasich looks good from Manhattan, but those of us who have lived with him in Ohio know John Kasich as a down-the-line extremist in his policies, lacking the thoughtful temperament of Barack Obama.
3
And so the party crumbles. It was bound to happen. Euphemisms become transparent in time. The party of "everyone can be rich if they just try" we all know really means "and so there's no need for social safety nets." And the party of "'we're for small government" means "we're for no regulations so that cronyism and corporate predation can thrive." The party of "we're for personal accountability and shame on the 47%" really means "we're for an 'every man for himself let your neighbor die in the gutter' kind of country. The party of "citizens united" ... which violated and abused the absolute primary intent of the constitution and the checks and balances system - by empowering big business to disabuse the average American of his right to the due fruits of his labor. Amazing that it's taken this long for the party to fall apart.
13
Democrats need to take the proverbial stick out of their own party's eye and remember that Al Gore Sr. and the longest Dem senate member ever (Robert Byrd, W. Va.) were Grand Kleagles in the KKK. If you think I'm kidding look it up...
1
Yes, for men of a certain age, from certain regions of the country being in the Klan was like having union membership. It was very common. I think the numbers were like 33 to 40 percent of white households in some states of the Mid-West. What's your point? Those two men you mention came around to supporting civil rights and were deeply ashamed of their Klan past.
9
As an independent who is looking for a principled Republican to vote for in November, I am very much anti-Trump. I don't like Cruz. I liked Rubio until the his pledge to support Trump in November should Trump win nomination. If Trump is as bad as Rubio says (and I believe Trump is or worse), then why pledge your support for him in November? This smacks of a lack of principle on Rubio's part.
For my part, If Trump is the nominee,I either will not vote or write in Mickey Mouse or other.
For my part, If Trump is the nominee,I either will not vote or write in Mickey Mouse or other.
4
Trump is creating so much chaos inside his party and out; he's been called a fake, a phony, a misogynist; he was ambiguous on his relationship to David Duke (until that started to get play). Is it time to start thinking about using words like "evil" in relationship to the Trump/Drumpf? Will this just vulgarize the conversation even more. I feel like everyone has been tiptoeing around this kind of assertion, but it's a topic at least worth discussing. There isn't room here, but for those interested:
http://thefourteenthfloor.com/2016/03/03/is-donald-trump-evil-a-14th-flo...
http://thefourteenthfloor.com/2016/03/03/is-donald-trump-evil-a-14th-flo...
1
Cruz is eviler than Trump.
4
The whole sorry lot of GOP contenders area bunch of sorry losers. I wouldn't give any of them air if I had them in a jug, let alone a vote.
Pitiful!
How can anyone with a thinking mind even consider voting for one of these buffoons?
Pitiful!
How can anyone with a thinking mind even consider voting for one of these buffoons?
8
Here is the incredible lie. John Kasich tried to take us on a 60 second round the world trip. The truth is, on that trip you would find a world in remarkable distress, economically, environmentally, politically, and socially. By comparison the U.S. is shining.
In truth, it is not the U.S. in decline, but much of the rest of the world, and the Republican candidates are each delusional in their belief that the President has done a poor job during his tenure.
The truth is just the opposite.
In truth, it is not the U.S. in decline, but much of the rest of the world, and the Republican candidates are each delusional in their belief that the President has done a poor job during his tenure.
The truth is just the opposite.
6
This disastrous campaign, appears as a Keystone Cop chase, with no issues being addressed. Criticism, finger pointing, becomes the only true issues this country faces. Where’s foreign polices, economy, immigration standards , terrorism….that’s what we’re facing.
1
Kasich is the nicer, more intelligent, saner and more mature among the lot, except when he starts talking about women, kitchen and Republican right to control their bodies. He is also stuck in a time warp. He reminds me a faculty in a Midwest university who dressed, talked and thought like it was 1950s. He treated African American students very courteously because he always assumed they were International students. Ha, ha, ha. "Welcome to America! Hope our accent does not bother you.", he'd say. Kasich reminds me of that guy.
He is also annoying when he keeps saying, "I know Reagan, I worked for him. I know Reagan. I worked for him...". He sounds like a proud Reagan chauffeur. He even looks the part.
Kasich: I used to feel sorry for him. Then I felt impressed with him. Then I ignored him. Then I got irritated with him. Then I rolled my eyes at him. Then I started laughing at him. Then...I started feeling sorry for him all over again. Ha, ha, ha.
I know Reagan, I worked for him I know Reagan (pling...bell going off). I worked for him. I know Reagan. I cleaned his bathroom. I cleaned his car. I carried his briefcase. I know Reagan. I worked for him...
And Ohio will vote for this guy. After all it was in one of the Presidential debates that the word Buckeye State came into use.
He is also annoying when he keeps saying, "I know Reagan, I worked for him. I know Reagan. I worked for him...". He sounds like a proud Reagan chauffeur. He even looks the part.
Kasich: I used to feel sorry for him. Then I felt impressed with him. Then I ignored him. Then I got irritated with him. Then I rolled my eyes at him. Then I started laughing at him. Then...I started feeling sorry for him all over again. Ha, ha, ha.
I know Reagan, I worked for him I know Reagan (pling...bell going off). I worked for him. I know Reagan. I cleaned his bathroom. I cleaned his car. I carried his briefcase. I know Reagan. I worked for him...
And Ohio will vote for this guy. After all it was in one of the Presidential debates that the word Buckeye State came into use.
2
The only thing more laughable than the GOP debate antics is Mittens Romney calling Trump a phony. Romney and his type are the reasons someone like Trump has become so popular. Maybe Trump isn't so bad after all.
7
the main takeaway is that cruz, rubio and even kasich--even after all the inane bashing of trump-- pledged to support trump for president if he was the repub nominee.
in obviously placing their party over our country, in the view of many people they have disqualified themselves from consideration.
in obviously placing their party over our country, in the view of many people they have disqualified themselves from consideration.
9
Immaturity dominates. The GOP's lack to nominate mature candidates indicates that the GOP is not mature enough to lead the country the next four years.
7
Trump will win the candidacy, and if he wins in November, America gets what it deserves.
4
I still hope you're wrong on all counts.
1
It's true that the only way to keep Trump from winning enough delegates to win the nomination outright is for Cruz, Rubio, and Kasich to stay in the race until the convention. But the big question is how does the GOP think that is going to play out?
Already there is talk of Kasich winning Ohio's winner-take-all delegates and then promptly turning around and telling his Florida supporters to vote for Rubio. Let's say that Hail Mary strategy works and Kasich wins Ohio and Rubio wins Florida. Now what? No candidate will have won the 1237 delegates needed and thus the party will have to chose one at the convention.
Who among those four men are going to fall on their swords?
Already there is talk of Kasich winning Ohio's winner-take-all delegates and then promptly turning around and telling his Florida supporters to vote for Rubio. Let's say that Hail Mary strategy works and Kasich wins Ohio and Rubio wins Florida. Now what? No candidate will have won the 1237 delegates needed and thus the party will have to chose one at the convention.
Who among those four men are going to fall on their swords?
1
The fact that this article waits to the very last paragraph to mention Kasich not only reflect on how pathetic "mainstream" Republicans have become, but on the fact NY Times itself has lost its focus by obsessing over Trump at the expense of everything else. I thought Kasich was strong throughout, focusing on what he's done and what he'll do. I'm no Republican, but I'd love to see him up against Hillary. He sounds like a good man, and contrary to the last sentence, he left a very positive mark in the debate.
3
Kasich is just as bad as the rest of the right-wingers, but without the overt insanity.
7
Yes, he sounds like a good man until you look at his policies. He's not.
6
At the beginning of the campaigning season we were told by the G.O.P. this was the Republican's "A" team. I am not hearing that phrase batted about anymore. Gee, I wonder why?
This country is being humiliated by the flagrant vulgarity and crudeness of the three top contenders of the G.O.P. The only antidote to all this display of who can be the meanest, the vilest, the most fascist is to elect a Democrat in the fall backed up by Democratic legislators in Congress (at least in the Senate). We need to let the sunshine in of progress offered by the Democrats to dispel the threat of rot the Republicans will inflict upon us should they win the White House in the fall.
This country is being humiliated by the flagrant vulgarity and crudeness of the three top contenders of the G.O.P. The only antidote to all this display of who can be the meanest, the vilest, the most fascist is to elect a Democrat in the fall backed up by Democratic legislators in Congress (at least in the Senate). We need to let the sunshine in of progress offered by the Democrats to dispel the threat of rot the Republicans will inflict upon us should they win the White House in the fall.
4
It was interesting that Marco Rubio wanted the GOP establishment to line up against Trump last night. This morning he said he would support this con artist fraud over Hillary Clinton. This isn't about making America great again it is just dirty rotten politics. What is frightening about Trump's supporters is they want to make America White again, which is not going to happen.
9
The GOP is like one of those giant plants everyone lines up to see because it blooms once every 50 years and then they find out that the blossom smells like rotting meat and attracts bats.
They desperately need to start over. They exiled their best.
They desperately need to start over. They exiled their best.
14
So you're saying they're just like the Democrats.
3
That doesn't make them any better.
DC: Nope. Maybe you don't read the paper anymore but the Failure Du Jour is the GOP. They threw away their thinkers. Not Smart.
Big Time.
Big Time.
1
Why does any reputable news outlet continue to call this farce a debate? Lincoln-Douglas- that was a debate. Kennedy-Nixon- that was a debate. You know, a real debate. A question, a substantive answer, a considered rebuttal. And so on.
A group of children hurling prepared one-liners about how unprofessional their fellow travelers are is not a debate. It's a fist-fight among cowards, none of whom actually has the nerve to land a real blow.
Now imagine that you are serving in our military forces. Trump, Cruz or Rubio as Commander-in-Chief? Bullies and cowards typically aren't shy about sending OTHER people into harm's way, to show how "tough" they are. Feeling good about your future CIC? Character aside, none of these amateurs has an ounce of relevant experience to use our considerable power wisely on the international stage.
A group of children hurling prepared one-liners about how unprofessional their fellow travelers are is not a debate. It's a fist-fight among cowards, none of whom actually has the nerve to land a real blow.
Now imagine that you are serving in our military forces. Trump, Cruz or Rubio as Commander-in-Chief? Bullies and cowards typically aren't shy about sending OTHER people into harm's way, to show how "tough" they are. Feeling good about your future CIC? Character aside, none of these amateurs has an ounce of relevant experience to use our considerable power wisely on the international stage.
27
Cruz the Cowardly Lion and Rubio the Tin Man desperately tried to pull the curtain back on Trump the Wizard of the Republican Party last night. Kasich the Scarecrow demonstrated that he had a brain and abstained. Unfortunately Romney, our metaphorical Dorothy, has no magic in his red Ferragamo loafers since he strapped Toto to the top of his car all those years ago.
12
Brilliant.
2
The debate just proves once again Trump is a crude, obnoxious, loudmouthed schoolyard bully with no clue and no plan---just plenty of talk and bluster. A female RN at my doctor's office who is a registered Republican told me she was embarrassed by Trump's candidacy and was ashamed to be a Republican. Imagining Trump as the Republican candidate made her feel like she was walking around in public dressed only in her underwear. I would imagine Trump makes many women in America feel that way. Think about that. His puerile behavior and negative rants about women plus his four trophy wives tells me he's still mad at his mother, doesn't know how to deal with women and would not make a good President if he's angry at more than half the voters. Trump's not running for President---he's running for Junior High class president in his home town. Trump as President would be a complete disaster for America.
8
Murderous, hateful, life negative. No wonder they can't get on. From the outside they seem almost identical. Though each at some point in their life may had said something or done something that was remotely decent. If so they have to do everything in their power to make sure that it never surfaces. And if it does surface lie like crazy that it never happened.
3
Cruz and Rubio, and the Republican Party elitists, for that matter, have become hysterical, and I don't mean funny. I have never seen a political campaign in these United States sink to this low of a level. Throughout history there here have been many dirty tricks and ugly moments, but this is an entire episode of sheer venom and vindictiveness. If it doesn't strike the American public with the idea that these are the kind of people that you might not want around the little red button, then nothing else will. We can etch a sketch it as much as we like, but the stain will not go away. There are a mountain of news reeels that will form the basis of a Democratic barrage of advertisements that will be the equivilant to a mushroom cloud, which is what conservatism is all about, total paranoia. Trump is actually offering an alternative, as strange as it might seem.
6
Trump is smarter than a fox and he is thinking outside the box. He knows he wouldn't be elected if he pitched the free market principles and small government he believes in, so he plays to the lowest common denominator by basically being open to anything. When he is attacked on his inconsistencies, disgraceful remarks and flip flops, he doesn't respond as someone who actually believes what he says, he doesn't feel attacked because they are things he doesn't actually believe in. He is the ultimate con and in the end he will betray those that support him. He is not worried about that, because he knows that the real principles he supports are good for the "common folks" that are his base, yet his base is too uneducated to ever vote for him were his real beliefs exposed. The question is, is anyone in the Republican establishment in on the con - because it is in their best interest not to stop him and by opposing him, they are playing into the con. He is their only way to get a real, principled Republican in the WH. Christie is in on it - it explains his endorsement - momentary embarrassment at association with "vulgar/racist" trump, but in time real trump will be revealed and Christie will be a hero. It is the perfect plan and the perfect con on everyone, esp Trump haters (who will turn into his biggest cheerleaders) and his supporters (who will never realize they have been conned but will benefit from his small govt policies).
2
Misanthropic, xenophobic, nationalistic and boorish in manner, all these qualities is what Trump exhibits and what his supporters want. Gone are the Kennedy, Nixon; Buckley, Gore and Reagan, Carter debates where substance and decorum reigned! But because of factions and a dysfunctional, gridlock congress, Trump is the anti candidate; he is an economic elitist who speaks the common language ensconced in anger, fear and frustration of the American electorate! He is what ordinary citizens wish they can do; in essence to give the proverbial middle finger the the establishment! The debate was frightening, meaningless and gratuitous; not changing the standings or Trump's support... It is the sign of the times that the electorate is feed up and want a pressure value release; Trump is that decompression valve!
7
The GOP is embarrassing America.
16
The Dems are too. Sanders economic policies are laughable and isn't Hillary being investigated by the FBI? Our country is in this pickle is because the average voter looks more at style versus substance. Bush was a disaster and Obama compounded his shortcomings by 2. This country is in trouble thanks to the Voter choices.
3
That condescending attitude doesn't make you any more superior.
2
At first, I was against Trump. Now after watching all of the self-entitled-establishment come out in almost a firestorm of criticism and the-sky-is-falling predictions, I am for Trump. If he is able to get all of these people who have not listened to us for decades - have used their positions of power to help their powerful donors - and have led us down a path where incumbents are always re-elected due to their donors not wanting to lose their influence - Trump has achieved something that many (if not all) of us have yearned for - and that is "treat us all as equals regardless of our standing in the political establishment or how much money we donated to an office-holder." The most recent example of our elected leaders ignoring both us and the United States Constitution is the Republicans refusing to appoint a new Supreme Court Justice - that is their job but instead they are playing their childish and frightening political games. Trump offers us a path out of this establishment-friendly morass in which we find ourselves mired.
3
By giving Donald Trump a stage to spout his birther nonsense Fox News and the Republican Party set the stage for last night's debate and the possible demise of the Republican Party, regardless of who wins the nomination. Don't you just love Karma?
11
Was there a single mention of any of the issues facing this country and the people in it in the debate or in the article? What are the candidates positions on education for example?
11
What are the candidates positions on education for example?
they obviously are against it
they obviously are against it
6
There were 29, counting student loan debt and moving back in with your parents because over half the college graduates in America who earn degrees during the Obama presidency will leave school without finding their first job.
1
Obviously they want to get rid of it, the less they know, the more nativist and right-wing they lean. In Trump's words, "I love the poorly educated!"
5
Neither Rubio nor Cruz want to miss a beat in the race with Trump to the bottom of the barrel of hatred and indecency. The theme seems to be: what works for Donald should work for them. He has set the tone. we won't waste time pointing out that Republicans have brought this maelstrom of extremism on themselves.
So where to go from here. Rubio seemed like the least objectionable GOP candidate but he has betrayed himself again and again as inexperienced, insincere and unprincipled. Not even particularly skilled in taking out Trump as the GOP appointed hit-man.
Cruz, is fixated by mass destruction. He also stood on stage with Pastor Kevin Swanson who advocates the death penalty for gays and lesbians. He is universally disliked by all except for the Christian fundamentalists.
Then there is Kasich who does not appeal to those on the hard right that call the shots for the GOP these days.
The majority of Americans will not choose Trump a stand-up comic who defines the opposite side of politically correct as obscenity and vulgarity, insulting all voters in the process. Trump, a man who is ignorant of world affairs and a shady con artist to boot. He can’t tell it like it is because he is clueless.
Crash and burn seems to be the only option left for the Republican Party. We can only hope that the GOP Phoenix that rises from the ashes no longer bears the feathers racism and vulgarity.
So where to go from here. Rubio seemed like the least objectionable GOP candidate but he has betrayed himself again and again as inexperienced, insincere and unprincipled. Not even particularly skilled in taking out Trump as the GOP appointed hit-man.
Cruz, is fixated by mass destruction. He also stood on stage with Pastor Kevin Swanson who advocates the death penalty for gays and lesbians. He is universally disliked by all except for the Christian fundamentalists.
Then there is Kasich who does not appeal to those on the hard right that call the shots for the GOP these days.
The majority of Americans will not choose Trump a stand-up comic who defines the opposite side of politically correct as obscenity and vulgarity, insulting all voters in the process. Trump, a man who is ignorant of world affairs and a shady con artist to boot. He can’t tell it like it is because he is clueless.
Crash and burn seems to be the only option left for the Republican Party. We can only hope that the GOP Phoenix that rises from the ashes no longer bears the feathers racism and vulgarity.
8
Yet Barack Obama has appeared on more late night comedy shows in 7 years than all other US presidents combined since the invention of the television set.
Facts are curious things.
Facts are curious things.
1
This is what many would call a red herring. I do believe you are responding to the wrong comment.
6
Especially when viewed through tinted glasses.
Has anyone asked about Mr. Trump´s religious beliefs? Is he a religious person? How about his behaviour as businessman? All this counts.
1
How did you miss the two Corinthians debacle?
1
Charlie Bono - "Has anyone asked about Mr. Trump´s religious beliefs? Is he a religious person?"
Do we remember Reverend Wright? Exactly why would that count now?
Do we remember Reverend Wright? Exactly why would that count now?
1
The former not in the slightest!
The latter possibly.
The latter possibly.
1
The GOP candidates other than Donald Trump have betrayed themselves and the country they so dearly want to be President of. If they admit that Trump is the wrong leader for this country and they are unwilling to say so and vote so then their loyalty to the party trumps their loyalty to the republic.
13
Each one of these candidates is as pure as the water in Flint, Michigan.
And the two problems are not, in the least bit, unrelated.
Third world style corruption leads to third world quality of live.
And the two problems are not, in the least bit, unrelated.
Third world style corruption leads to third world quality of live.
21
Some Democrats are concerned that Progressive Democrats have become annoyed and distrustful of Debbie Wasserman. What is she doing that is not endorsed or supported by DNC? And what is DNC is doing that is worrying some Progressives? Kindly provide specifics without all this innuendos and skepticism. Because transparency is necessary both with RNC and DNC...because one should not become Retarded party (RNC) and the other Devious Party (DNC). So...lets have an open discussion.
2
Few and poorly timed debates, support for HRC instead of allowing and supporting a wider field for voters to choose at the beginning, channeling media time to the anointed candidate, that kind of thing. And you should see the whiny, narcissistic emails I get from DWS/the DNC. Nauseating.
The GOP- anti-social security, tax breaks for irresponsible speculation, and evangelical rules for all, is a party who policies are absurd and destructive. they can't lose dignity in the light of evidence, but they have decided to go down the road of guests on the Jerry Springer show. These guys (and Fiorina was no better on the issues) are clowns.
10
The recent reduction on social security was bipartisan. Most likely, the money was stolen to fund something Obama wanted to do.
"Trump is a charlatan, a cheat, an ignoramus and unfit to be President".
"Will you support him if he is the nominee?"
"Yes".
DUH!?!?
That's all you need to know about the GOP this year.
"Will you support him if he is the nominee?"
"Yes".
DUH!?!?
That's all you need to know about the GOP this year.
47
Hillary is a law breaker and a liar. Are you fine with her?
me46 - Rocks & a glass house, please!
Will Hillary support Bernie if he wins the nomination? Yes, the same way she supported Barack when he won in 2008.
Why would you expect the GOP to be different from the DNC?
Why would you expect the GOP to be different from the DNC?
2
Reading the posts form the vast majority on the Left always fills me with a sense of "I-Just-Don't-Ge-It". How could anyone want to continue with 4 more years of growing a national debt that will never be paid off, a growing government with its resultant regulations which will continue to harm the middle class (you know, those folks you all claim to be so in touch with) and to have an open border, ignoring it as you wish just happens to be against the Law of the Land!
I look forward to November when this anger from Independents and Republicans ends with a resounding defeat for Hillary....just before she goes to jail!
I look forward to November when this anger from Independents and Republicans ends with a resounding defeat for Hillary....just before she goes to jail!
5
You don't get it. How much of that debt is due to the wars G.W. kept off the books?
Which regulations do you want to do away with? Have you seen what a lack of regulation has done to the water and air quality in parts of this country?
Which regulations do you want to do away with? Have you seen what a lack of regulation has done to the water and air quality in parts of this country?
7
Because the national debt is not the only or even the best measure of economic health. Because most of us are middle class and know not to vote against our own interests. And we haven't bought the big lies peddled by talk radio about the Clintons.
And how do you think that debt got so high? Because somebody decided to fight a war on a credit card and the issuing bank was China.
And how do you think that debt got so high? Because somebody decided to fight a war on a credit card and the issuing bank was China.
5
I have an equal sense of "I just don't get it" when I hear how horrific the last 8 years have been for the country. Immigration from Central America is down (more Mexicans now leaving the U.S than coming in), the economy has largely rebounded, 4.9% unemployment (another great jobs report today), and many more people have health insurance. Yes the federal deficit has grown but not disproportionately to GDP which is what economists care about. It's all very impressive considering the economic turmoil in other parts of the world. We've also had action taken on climate change and gay marriage (via the Supreme Court). So we've had a huge improvement from the previous administration. But according to the right, it's been apocalyptic. Someone please explain?
5
What kind of TV host moderation took place in last nights debate? Allowing it to sink to a rivalry of hand sizes? Descriptions of each other as liars when talking about personal issues, not policies. Where has the "Mic off" switch gone. When candidates wander off the question and go over the time limit allowed it would seem reasonable that that switch be used. But then we would have watched an hour of TV on mute.
9
The two party system is dead and so are both parties. The entire Republican Party cannot take down Trump, essentially an independent candidate that appeals more to Republicans than the party and all its power structure. The Democratics cannot find anyone better than a war-hawk, big oil, big banks candidate that's more right-wing than half the Republican candidates. She started the fire in Libya, Syria, Ukraine and I am sure she would like to add Iran to the list.
9
I have a different take on this. The Republican party has been splintered a long time with people like McCain and McConnell who are just the same as Democrats. It is time to separate those people out and have a truly conservative party again. The fight is necessary and will hopefully weed the liars out.
Willie - Where do you get your news from? McCain and McConnell are not Democrats, both men are war mongers who would sell their mothers if big oil told them to.
2
The only problem is that once they "weed the liars out", maybe no one will be left.
The U.S. has always produced top entertainment, but that it now includes election campaigns and debates is new to me.
Btw, well chosen picture; Trump facing the audience, the rest have turned their backs!
Btw, well chosen picture; Trump facing the audience, the rest have turned their backs!
6
I don't know whether to be totally amused, or horrified ..
12
Both
@DSS
Many valid & interesting comments -- But can you even vote in U.S. elections???
Many valid & interesting comments -- But can you even vote in U.S. elections???
Donald Trump is "carnivalesque," which means he turns everything upside down. He lives in a perpetual Mardi Gras where he is King of Carnival. He unleashes by example peoples' urge to throw garbage at authority, act out their sexual fantasies, make preposterous claims and promises, and wear the gaudiest outfits (The Donald's crownlike golden hairdo). The topsy-turvy world of Mardi Gras ends at midnight on a Tuesday, giving way to Ash Wednesday and a period of reflection and repentance. And, often enough, a whopper of a hangover. What will America be feeling on Wednesday November 9?
5
The one really very good thing which is really revolutionary about Donald Trump:
People are FINALLY asking themselves who actually IS the Republican Party? They are absolutely SHOCKED to find that it is NOT THEM. That instead it is a group of very big money financiers and the bigwig powerful Republican Party leaders that they OWN. Donald Trump is the figurehead for taking the power of government back from big money and non responsive leadership - in fact it is the leadership of the Republican party that is now AT WAR with the PEOPLE of the Republican Party. THAT is why his 'followers' are so adamant and that is why all the anti-Trump is read as a big money and insider attempt to derail Trump. Maybe, just maybe, when the dust has settled we can ALL AGREE that Citizens United is a really bad idea with very small hands.
People are FINALLY asking themselves who actually IS the Republican Party? They are absolutely SHOCKED to find that it is NOT THEM. That instead it is a group of very big money financiers and the bigwig powerful Republican Party leaders that they OWN. Donald Trump is the figurehead for taking the power of government back from big money and non responsive leadership - in fact it is the leadership of the Republican party that is now AT WAR with the PEOPLE of the Republican Party. THAT is why his 'followers' are so adamant and that is why all the anti-Trump is read as a big money and insider attempt to derail Trump. Maybe, just maybe, when the dust has settled we can ALL AGREE that Citizens United is a really bad idea with very small hands.
23
The problem with the Republican party is that they use People magazine as an attempt to address issues they think we care about. Let me be crystal clear, I could care less about gay marriage, planned parenthood, Bruce Jenner, Bill Cosby and the Oscars. I care about paying my bills every month, national security and my kids futures. Put the People magazine down and address the rest of us.
9
Perhaps if any of your children are female, or gay (or any other of the groups of people of whom Republicans don't approve), you might be less willing to cast the issues these people faces as "People Magazine" trivia.
3
Yeah, but no. Really. Lefties, of which I am one, should really stop dividing the nation on these fine lines of gay, trans, blah blah blah, and start looking to see if there's a chicken in every pot and a car in every garage. Everyone's got to eat. Everyone. Time was when politicians understood that they had to win the middle class and the middle of the country. They've lost sight of that between donor bling and wedgie issues.
The most telling comment during the Thursday GOP debate may have been made by Ted Cruz in his final summary statement. His last and most emphatic statement was directed towards law enforcement and police officers when he declared that when he is President he would unequivocally support them and that "he would have their backs"!
Read between the lines here.... he is telling blacks and minorities that the crumbs of sympathy their plight has garnered recently would come to a grinding halt. The "Black Lives Matter" movement may as well pack their bags if Cruz becomes President, because the police will be empowered to deploy any tactics they desire against the citizenry, knowing that they will have impunity delivered from the highest office.
Ted Cruz is to be feared much more than the buffoonery of Donald Trump!
Read between the lines here.... he is telling blacks and minorities that the crumbs of sympathy their plight has garnered recently would come to a grinding halt. The "Black Lives Matter" movement may as well pack their bags if Cruz becomes President, because the police will be empowered to deploy any tactics they desire against the citizenry, knowing that they will have impunity delivered from the highest office.
Ted Cruz is to be feared much more than the buffoonery of Donald Trump!
22
The Trumpster is not invincible, his overexposed TV character is wearing thin and he's becoming boring and predictable. His responses to questions and attacks are starting to turn his supporters away. As they turn the channel, they are also turning away from the Republican party, which has been exposed for what it is - a con.
Continuing into the general election the betrayed and manipulated Republican voters will, for the first time, not vote against their self-interest - they will stay home.
Continuing into the general election the betrayed and manipulated Republican voters will, for the first time, not vote against their self-interest - they will stay home.
7
That's what I would have bet a month ago. But Trump voters are turning out in droves. HRC and Sanders' voters, not so much. This thing is yuge.
But after all that noise, please note the bottom line: Cruz, Kasich and Rubio pledged to support Trump if he's nominated.
21
Because any choice is better than Hillary.
So, we'll just have people like YOU to thank if Trump gets into the White House.
And if you're not Mexican, Muslim, or African-American, you'll have NOTHING to worry about.
And if you're not Mexican, Muslim, or African-American, you'll have NOTHING to worry about.
1
The GOP should hand put a gift certificate for a lobotomy with each membership. People, this is not a episode of The Apprentice! This is real life. I know it gets confusing sometimes, but this is actually a nomination process to select a candidate for POTUS. You are not voting for someone to be tossed off a game show.
24
Well the Republican Party has always been saying the government should be run more like a business, looks like their prayers are being answered.
11
Except that this is no way to run a business.
Confusion reigns. The Establishment Republican Party of dysfunction and mean spirited bigotry are trying to be seen as a legitimate political voice against Donald Trump's crazy extremism. Perhaps in the wreckage after this mess the Party will actually reform itself back to merely right wing party.
11
Slice it and dice it anyway you want - neither Trump, nor Rubio, nor Cruz have even the minimal skills needed in a president. For me, Cruz is actually the scariest - maybe it's my age, but he reminds me of Joe McCarthy, and not only in style. He is the one who is truly dangerous.
Romney's and McCain's denunciation of Trump will only help him. They, along with the Bushes and others who can't stomach him, perfectly epitomize what has pushed GOP primary voters into the arms of Trump - stale policies of less taxes, less regulation, smaller government, and a neo-con foreign policy, with nothing to show for it. They are also the captives of the financial and other monied interests whom most voters despise.
They were also incapable of defeating Pres. Obama in 2012, and despite their control of congress and governorships they have not improved the economic lot of their constituents.
Finally, in attacking Trump and raising the specter of a brokered convention or a third party, they are actually telling his supporters their votes don't count, and that they are the same vulgarians he is.
Let's hope the Democrats don't snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.
Romney's and McCain's denunciation of Trump will only help him. They, along with the Bushes and others who can't stomach him, perfectly epitomize what has pushed GOP primary voters into the arms of Trump - stale policies of less taxes, less regulation, smaller government, and a neo-con foreign policy, with nothing to show for it. They are also the captives of the financial and other monied interests whom most voters despise.
They were also incapable of defeating Pres. Obama in 2012, and despite their control of congress and governorships they have not improved the economic lot of their constituents.
Finally, in attacking Trump and raising the specter of a brokered convention or a third party, they are actually telling his supporters their votes don't count, and that they are the same vulgarians he is.
Let's hope the Democrats don't snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.
52
I don't support Cruz, Trump or Rubio, but I believe they do have the same level of skills that President Obama had when he was elected.
Jen - Wrong. President Obama was able to support himself and manage his own finances (unlike Rubio). He managed to fill out his campaign paperwork properly and provide his family with health care (unlike Cruz). He worked his way up the ladder, unlike Trump.
3
WHAAATTTT??? I think you might want to do some more research on that one first.
I resent and take issue with Patrick Healy and Jonathon Martin's victim-blaming and covert sexism in describing Megyn Kelly in a past debate, as having "infuriated" Trump "with her "aggressive questions." It was the only time the word "aggressive" was used in a recap of a debate that played out like a dogfight. If Trump reacted by throwing a tantrum, is that owing to his lack of self-control or is it--as Healey/Martin would have it, because she has "infuriated" him? On WNYC today, the estimable Leonard Lopate credited Kelly with having delivered the high point of the evening with her powerful summary of the ongoing Trump University suit, noting that a judge had compared Trump's victims to those of Madoff. Not a word about that here.
12
Thank you for bringing up the point about Trump University. Unfortunately, a matter as important as that one was doomed to get lost in the fray of people who only want to see the WWF-like debacle.
3
"One of the most anticipated face-offs of the night was between Mr. Trump and the moderator Megyn Kelly, who infuriated the candidate with her aggressive questions at the first Republican debate in August."
From Americans-> The Republican Party: You're Fired.
From the world-> America: You're Fired.
The Cruz, Rubio, and Trump candidates used their time to show the world how to behave badly. Kasich talked some policy and stood out amongst the others for not behaving badly.
From Americans-> The Republican Party: You're Fired.
From the world-> America: You're Fired.
The Cruz, Rubio, and Trump candidates used their time to show the world how to behave badly. Kasich talked some policy and stood out amongst the others for not behaving badly.
6
No love for Trump and the GOP, but if the world has "fired" us, does that mean we can stop (as just 1 out of 193 members, mind you) paying about 22% of the U.N.'s annual budget and funding about 28% of all its peacekeeping expenses? Proportionately speaking, an even split would be around 0.52%. Instead we pay 42 times that amount. Even if we factor in that we're a permanent security council member with veto power, none of the other such members come anywhere near that amount! China (5.1%), France (5.2%), Russia (2.4%) and the United Kingdom (5.2%) make up the remainder. These are not destitute nations and China has been repeatedly billed as the U.S.'s replacement in economic/global affairs. As Russia repeatedly demonstrates, their membership and veto power is just as strong as ours, so again... WHY is their combined contribution as 4 modern nations less than our own? And then of course there's NATO, where the gap is even worse. Same rough 20% in terms of cash contributions to their budget, but that contribution is considered separate from a member's military contributions. At the same time, Europe as repeatedly reduced its own contributions to NATO. The U.S. was never the world's employee, but if we're "fired," why are we paying THEM?
Hi, Matt,
Thanks for reading my comment and replying! My statement was more sarcasm, and more directed at the world's view of the United States as a world leader. Your stats provide the reason why we're a world leader in democracy, from my perspective, because we've shown our sense of national morality by listening and at least attempting to show that we understand that we all (humans) share a commonality, and that is our human experience. From my years of research we share one distinct human emotion in common-> we all smile and the emotion is more often genuine than not. We care about our families and our stability in providing food, clothing, and shelter, and we all seem to cherish the freedom we in the United States associate with individuality.
The, "You're fired" phrase is from the program, "The Apprentice."
Thanks again, Matt.
Thanks for reading my comment and replying! My statement was more sarcasm, and more directed at the world's view of the United States as a world leader. Your stats provide the reason why we're a world leader in democracy, from my perspective, because we've shown our sense of national morality by listening and at least attempting to show that we understand that we all (humans) share a commonality, and that is our human experience. From my years of research we share one distinct human emotion in common-> we all smile and the emotion is more often genuine than not. We care about our families and our stability in providing food, clothing, and shelter, and we all seem to cherish the freedom we in the United States associate with individuality.
The, "You're fired" phrase is from the program, "The Apprentice."
Thanks again, Matt.
apparently forgotten by all in the midst of this riveting fray is that there's already a very clear winner: the American democracy process... to cite just one example out of dozens one could mention: you need only watch today's news out of China (hundreds of cardboard cut-out bureaucrats listening - or pretending to listen - to the annual wooden pronouncements of their leader) to understand how important it is that the electorate endure the often obnoxious but incredibly important messiness of an American presidential election campaign
6
"hundreds of cardboard cut-out bureaucrats listening - or pretending to listen - to the annual wooden pronouncements of their leader"
Indeed, the dream of Hillary Clinton and the Democrat party.
Indeed, the dream of Hillary Clinton and the Democrat party.
Three debates played out on the stage last night. In the first, Marco "I swear I'm a leader" Rubio and The Donald battle to decide who could be the most authentically smarmy and brash. Winner: The Donald. In the second, Ted Cruz and Mr. Trump spar over who is the more radical, unwavering conservative. Winner, according to a small block of far-right value-voters whose support he already had: Ted Cruz. In the third (albeit poorly attended) debate, some guy from Ohio and nobody clash over rational solutions to problems foreign and domestic. Winner: It doesn't matter, no one listened or cared.
Am I the only one having flashbacks to the 2008 and 2012 general elections, and even the rise of the Tea Party? Donald Trump is the bigoted, arrogant, far-right, anti-establishment Hope-and-Change candidate. He has captured the belief of the so-called "silent majority" by promising to disrupt the political process.
The GOP establishment has to come to grips with itself: it is completely lacking in unifying ideals or goals, and it wields power only by sowing dissatisfaction and anger. It is the obligatory, foul-tasting refuge of non-Democrats. Who can blame their voters for flocking to the first viable alternative?
Am I the only one having flashbacks to the 2008 and 2012 general elections, and even the rise of the Tea Party? Donald Trump is the bigoted, arrogant, far-right, anti-establishment Hope-and-Change candidate. He has captured the belief of the so-called "silent majority" by promising to disrupt the political process.
The GOP establishment has to come to grips with itself: it is completely lacking in unifying ideals or goals, and it wields power only by sowing dissatisfaction and anger. It is the obligatory, foul-tasting refuge of non-Democrats. Who can blame their voters for flocking to the first viable alternative?
21
And...that "first viable alternative" is? Hillary, of course. But you already knew that Adam...
2
Trump is just doing his job and I would say successfully. I blame, instead, every single voter who is giving him support and force. These voters are attracted by the simplicity of his message and the false assumption that his bank account reflects the capacity to lead this nation. Unfortunately they don't understand that a great nation need a great statesman, not a businessman specialized in pouring concrete.
26
Why not? Differences in style. Substance hateful and mean all around.
17
It should be clear to the rest of the country that the Republican party has nothing to offer in this election. Democrats - get out and vote!
33
I wonder how the American people perceive these mud slinging debates which are more consisting of personal insults than matter of facts issues.
These debates are only a show and as last debate proves a very bad show not touching issues but a collective attacks on Donald Trump, the present leader in this contest and the only person qualified to get USA out of its economical and political downfall. Donald Trump is a businessman used to make decisions and take responsibilities, all the other candidates are wishy-washy politicians following the orders they get from the big banks and conglomerates and the Washington elite group of the establishment.
Donald Trump is the ONLY candidate who is representing the American people the others -Democratic and Republican candidates alike - only represent BIG MONEY like we have seen with the Bushes and Clinton's
These debates are only a show and as last debate proves a very bad show not touching issues but a collective attacks on Donald Trump, the present leader in this contest and the only person qualified to get USA out of its economical and political downfall. Donald Trump is a businessman used to make decisions and take responsibilities, all the other candidates are wishy-washy politicians following the orders they get from the big banks and conglomerates and the Washington elite group of the establishment.
Donald Trump is the ONLY candidate who is representing the American people the others -Democratic and Republican candidates alike - only represent BIG MONEY like we have seen with the Bushes and Clinton's
Sanders is the only QUALIFIED candidate, NOT Trump and he has proven that his entire career.
5
So, just what frequency are you on over there in the Netherlands????
"Donald Trump is the ONLY candidate representing the American people...".
Right. You probably missed the part about Mexicans, Muslims and African-Americans. And Trump doesn't represent "BIG MONEY" (even if it's his own)???
Good thing you can't vote here.
"Donald Trump is the ONLY candidate representing the American people...".
Right. You probably missed the part about Mexicans, Muslims and African-Americans. And Trump doesn't represent "BIG MONEY" (even if it's his own)???
Good thing you can't vote here.
4
@Onno Frowein--No, Donald Trump is a buisinessman whose actions and bankruptcies have harmed other people. He hires people who are not American citizens. Students who attended his "University" say that he took their money, but didn't provide any knowledge or insights they couldn't have gotten from a brief Internet search. And his bankruptcies have cost many people a lot of their hard earned money. He is a successful buisinessman only in the sense that he has earned a lot of money for himself. But we want a President who will do things that actually help other Americans!
4
wow, mitt romney, proven loser, the ultimate pencey prep phony (etched in prose forever by j.d.
salinger in "the catcher in the rye") fires a desperate barrage of insult at trump and sends messenger-posing-as-moderator chris wallace to aim them point-blank at trump, insisting that trump reply with "substance, not insult"...
even his appearance, to frame it in kind, had the clammy look and thin sound of a prep-school prankster on the carpet in the headmaster's office.
"we republicans," he said, (leaving no doubt about the limited size of his tent, but with room for the likes of also-loser and s&l bag-boy john mccain), cannot let this man favored by actual voters, aka "we" the people, (imagine romney among us in a middle seat in coach!), be "our" nominee.
though not a supporter of trump, the thought of romney's "we republicans," (you know, the one's who trashed the economy, sent our kids to a war that is still tearing at our moral and and material core, and spent the last eight years trying to nullify an elected president), having any more chances to loot and profane "the general Welfare" rankles even more.
salinger in "the catcher in the rye") fires a desperate barrage of insult at trump and sends messenger-posing-as-moderator chris wallace to aim them point-blank at trump, insisting that trump reply with "substance, not insult"...
even his appearance, to frame it in kind, had the clammy look and thin sound of a prep-school prankster on the carpet in the headmaster's office.
"we republicans," he said, (leaving no doubt about the limited size of his tent, but with room for the likes of also-loser and s&l bag-boy john mccain), cannot let this man favored by actual voters, aka "we" the people, (imagine romney among us in a middle seat in coach!), be "our" nominee.
though not a supporter of trump, the thought of romney's "we republicans," (you know, the one's who trashed the economy, sent our kids to a war that is still tearing at our moral and and material core, and spent the last eight years trying to nullify an elected president), having any more chances to loot and profane "the general Welfare" rankles even more.
19
Trump may be a phony, but Romney most certainly is no gentleman.
3
The Cuban lawyers ought to know never to wrestle with a pig. You get dirty, and besides, the pig likes it.
Trump has had this thing sewn up for a couple of months. Talk of a brokered convention is just to prolong website traffic and TV viewers to July. The media conglomerates desperately want Clinton vs. Trump, if only because it'll be worth billions upon billions in ad revenue.
Trump has had this thing sewn up for a couple of months. Talk of a brokered convention is just to prolong website traffic and TV viewers to July. The media conglomerates desperately want Clinton vs. Trump, if only because it'll be worth billions upon billions in ad revenue.
2
Nobody understands. The people are hurting, That is why they cling to Trump. It is our government both Republications and Democrats that .......
Allows shooting down black kids with impudently?
Is filling our jails with millions that have never hurt anyone.
Will not tell us what is in the foods we are eating.
Refuses to address an epidemic of childhood diseases.
Ignores the middle class and the 30 years that have passed with no increase in earnings while millionaires have seen their incomes double and triple?
Sent millions of jobs to China.
Lies us into wars.
Put millions of families on the street while the bankers thrived.
And lots more...... No justice no peace.
Allows shooting down black kids with impudently?
Is filling our jails with millions that have never hurt anyone.
Will not tell us what is in the foods we are eating.
Refuses to address an epidemic of childhood diseases.
Ignores the middle class and the 30 years that have passed with no increase in earnings while millionaires have seen their incomes double and triple?
Sent millions of jobs to China.
Lies us into wars.
Put millions of families on the street while the bankers thrived.
And lots more...... No justice no peace.
10
You make some good points but why do people think a bigoted, arrogant con artist like Trump will do anything to help them?
5
Because they feel helpless.
They are helpless. They are caught up in debt with no way out. So they gather around any candidate that at least tells the truth. This is Trump's one strong point.
Anyone who thinks that right wing cranks Rubio and Cruz are Conservative doesn't remember what Conservatives actually are. A Conservative wants to conserve what is time tested and true, and the ideas about Economics that are professed by Trump's opponents are so far from mainstream economics that they are cracker jack box looney. Had the US embraced the austerity, which they had have agitated for post 2008, we would very likely be in the same dire straights as Europe is today for having abided by a bizarre economics of austerity, which we refused to embrace.
Never in our history have Conservatives signed onto war for Democratic revolution by regime change as the neocon Republicans, and for that matter Democrats have done. The litmus test for a Conservative to take the country to war has always been, is this a matter of national interest, which justifies the costs of war in the name of the defense of the Nation or a vital national interest? However, since the home wrecker revolutionary George W Bush decided to invade Iraq for no particular reason other than that he could, the radical right has embraced perpetual war possibly for profit, but definitely to keep us distracted from the fact that K Street is writing legislation for the Congress to approve.
If Cruz and Rubio want to stand or fall on their Conservative credentials, then they are in trouble because they have none, and currying favor with Bible based magical thinkers will never make one a Conservative in America.
Never in our history have Conservatives signed onto war for Democratic revolution by regime change as the neocon Republicans, and for that matter Democrats have done. The litmus test for a Conservative to take the country to war has always been, is this a matter of national interest, which justifies the costs of war in the name of the defense of the Nation or a vital national interest? However, since the home wrecker revolutionary George W Bush decided to invade Iraq for no particular reason other than that he could, the radical right has embraced perpetual war possibly for profit, but definitely to keep us distracted from the fact that K Street is writing legislation for the Congress to approve.
If Cruz and Rubio want to stand or fall on their Conservative credentials, then they are in trouble because they have none, and currying favor with Bible based magical thinkers will never make one a Conservative in America.
13
I'm no Trump fan, but I would have liked to see him suggest that if Rubio and Cruz were sincere in their depictions of how terrible he'd be as president, they wouldn't have agreed to support him should he be the Republican nominee.
13
Trump: No lobbyist money, no special interest money, no multi-national money, no super PACs.
The field: All of the above.
Brash rich populist vs. puppets for their donors.
The field: All of the above.
Brash rich populist vs. puppets for their donors.
5
Educate yourself on Sanders before declaring that Trump is the only one who's not a puppet of his donors. Seriously.
3
I'm getting a kick out of Trump trouncing established Republican institutions like Fox and the establishment. I think Trump's lead is a pure manifestation of the voters getting what they want. No filters, no backroom alliances, no endorsements from PACs, no Karl Rove strategies.
8
This is the difference between Republicans and Democrats. Republicans, like Trump, are all words - like his anatomical "I guarantee you" pledge. Democrats, on the other hand, like Anthony Weiner, are all action - pictures, tweets, detailed evidence - they don't just expect you to take their word for it.
4
You're an exceptional country for certain. In the history of the world, there has never been a debate like this one. Hang your heads in shame and moritification, the lot of you.
24
Oh, we are. But what many outside the U.S. fail to realize is that there is a huge divide between those supporting Trump/the Republicans and those on the left. The debacle on the right does NOT represent all of us.
3
Oh please. Give that patronizing speech a rest -- Most Americans see through this insanity.
Besides, if Trump does manage to win we'll all be on our way to Canada.
Besides, if Trump does manage to win we'll all be on our way to Canada.
1
Every civilization must decline. Without even a shadow of a doubt, the year 2016 will go down in history as the definitive point in time when the 240-year old American experiment in democracy failed, utterly and completely. And, historians will note in wonder, it is the people who voted (or didn't bother to come out in November) that made that happen.
14
I have more faith in the American people than you do,
3
"whom the gods would destroy they first make mad"........
9
For the GOP to successfully repudiate Trump, it will have to officially condemn and repudiate both George W. Bush and Grover Norquist. That isn't happening anytime soon.
In the meantime, a former reality TV show star and one of the most singularly ridiculous human beings America has produced in the last half-century will continue to be the GOP front-runner. Donald and Melania Trump as potential First Couple is in the same category as Kanye West and Kim Kardashian or Jay Z and Beyonce. I'm sorry, but a one-time sidekick of Newt Gingrich and a pair of right-wing Cuban Americans don't have what it takes to dislodge Trump from his position atop the joke that is now the Republican Party.
In the meantime, a former reality TV show star and one of the most singularly ridiculous human beings America has produced in the last half-century will continue to be the GOP front-runner. Donald and Melania Trump as potential First Couple is in the same category as Kanye West and Kim Kardashian or Jay Z and Beyonce. I'm sorry, but a one-time sidekick of Newt Gingrich and a pair of right-wing Cuban Americans don't have what it takes to dislodge Trump from his position atop the joke that is now the Republican Party.
10
Normally you talk about 'bad, worse, worst', but when it comes to Repugnican candidates a new gradation is needed where the least horrible is 'worst' (none of them), worster (a few of them), or 'worstest' (most of them). It takes a thoroughly sick society to offer the possibility of such a bunch of losers as candidates to highest office in the country!
8
Pot Calls Kettle Black: Romney "shreds" Trump as a phony and a fraud. As candidates, both men have been phonies and frauds, Trump is just louder, ruder, and more of a fascist. In fact, all of the leading Republican candidates are phonies, frauds, and liars.
7
To paraphrase a line from the House Divided speech of the only great Republican President that ever existed (Lincoln of course), "I believe this Republican Party cannot endure, permanently half obstructionist and half Trump."
4
TR comes to mind, DDE, who Bernie called that communist socialist.
that was a very different Republican party.
that was a very different Republican party.
Trump is already courting "potential donors," for the general election; expecting, hoping, that the Republican Party will embrace him. The thing is--will his supporters still stand behind him? Will they still turn a blind eye to all the venom spewing from his mouth? Will they write it off as a necessary evil? His whole campaign theme has been "I'm the only one self funding my campaign." Thus, appealing to those with thoughts of "can't be bought."
I don't think he has any intention to run as an independent, as he even knows how much money that would cost him. Therefore, he's going to have to bulldoze the RNC, or the RNC is going to have to pull a fast n' dirty, and break their own "pledge."
Trump's whole candidacy could very well split the Republican Party, but I can't say it'd be the worst thing. Finally, fiscal conservatives could come out of hiding- ones who aren't opposed to social ideas of the 21st century. Ones who wouldn't mind doing a little bit of governing, aka their jobs.
I don't think he has any intention to run as an independent, as he even knows how much money that would cost him. Therefore, he's going to have to bulldoze the RNC, or the RNC is going to have to pull a fast n' dirty, and break their own "pledge."
Trump's whole candidacy could very well split the Republican Party, but I can't say it'd be the worst thing. Finally, fiscal conservatives could come out of hiding- ones who aren't opposed to social ideas of the 21st century. Ones who wouldn't mind doing a little bit of governing, aka their jobs.
6
I find it almost impossible to envision any of these people replacing President Obama in the white house. As an American I want my president, leader to represent this country in a professional, civil and enlightened way. As the leader of the free world he/she must lead by example. I want to feel proud when I hear this person talking and see them visiting a foreign land. The GOP nominees have shown they can never fit the bill!!
19
Lord, what great entertainment. I know, policy wonks calculating how taxes can be raised are offended. My apologies for enjoying the mess also know as the democratic process.
1
"“Two-thirds of the people who cast a vote in a Republican primary or caucus have voted against you,” Mr. Rubio told Mr. Trump.
He forgets to add that 90 % of the people voting in a republican primary have voted against HIM ..
He forgets to add that 90 % of the people voting in a republican primary have voted against HIM ..
4
Typical Republicans, they aren't for anything, just against. Not sure ganging-up on the most popular candidate helps their cause.
1
I will never vote for somebody as stubby-fingered as Donald Trump.
The exchange between Cruz and Trump remind one of the exchange between Sir Larry Wildman and Gordan Gekko in the movie Wallstreet. Wildman to Gekko "You're a two bit pirate and a greenmailer. Nothing more....Gekko! Not only will you sell your mother to make a deal, you'd send her C.O.D."
2
Watching last night's 11th Republican Presidential debate was like watching Charles Manson/P.T.Barnum/Ringling Bros. Circus and various other political acts combined together .
It was anything but a civil debate .
I wonder what the people in the Middle-East or in Asia or Africa think of the Americans now?
After watching the debate ,they probably've started having very low opinion about the entire White race.
The way Trump replied to Rubio's assertions of his lower libido because of his small hands and Trump boasting his sexual conquests with innuendo like "Nothing was small about him . And there's no problem (in the bedroom)" was nothing but vulgar.
Trump forgot that he was not in a Howard Stern show but in a Presidential Debate in front of maybe 12 million viewers with many children listening to him with their parents in their living rooms.
And what did they learn ?
Total disgust with their parents having to explain to them that what they just heard from Trump after Marco's taunt was not normal.
But I also blame Rubio for bringing the subject up on his campaign trails for which he should be sanctioned and barred from running for the President along with Trump who put the civility out the door as soon as he stepped on to the Presidential Race by calling Mexican rapists and Muslims as terrorists.
Because by saying what he said so far on his campaign trails ,Trump has tarnished the image of not only the Americans but the entire White race and also all the Christians.
It was anything but a civil debate .
I wonder what the people in the Middle-East or in Asia or Africa think of the Americans now?
After watching the debate ,they probably've started having very low opinion about the entire White race.
The way Trump replied to Rubio's assertions of his lower libido because of his small hands and Trump boasting his sexual conquests with innuendo like "Nothing was small about him . And there's no problem (in the bedroom)" was nothing but vulgar.
Trump forgot that he was not in a Howard Stern show but in a Presidential Debate in front of maybe 12 million viewers with many children listening to him with their parents in their living rooms.
And what did they learn ?
Total disgust with their parents having to explain to them that what they just heard from Trump after Marco's taunt was not normal.
But I also blame Rubio for bringing the subject up on his campaign trails for which he should be sanctioned and barred from running for the President along with Trump who put the civility out the door as soon as he stepped on to the Presidential Race by calling Mexican rapists and Muslims as terrorists.
Because by saying what he said so far on his campaign trails ,Trump has tarnished the image of not only the Americans but the entire White race and also all the Christians.
4
In 2008, we got Obama's opaque "hope and change." In 2016, we get Trump's opaquer "I'm changing."
Trump's big, he-man muscle issue is deporting 11 million illegals, building a wall and making Mexico pay for it. It is basically his entire campaign platform. The NY TIMES knows differently. What did Trump tell your editors, NY TIMES? Don't hide the truth from the American people in 2016 the way you did in 2008. I know. It's a hopeless plea. You are smack in the middle of the establishment that seeks to control the American people.
Trump's big, he-man muscle issue is deporting 11 million illegals, building a wall and making Mexico pay for it. It is basically his entire campaign platform. The NY TIMES knows differently. What did Trump tell your editors, NY TIMES? Don't hide the truth from the American people in 2016 the way you did in 2008. I know. It's a hopeless plea. You are smack in the middle of the establishment that seeks to control the American people.
2
Since "establishment" America is so omnipresent -- lucky for you Texas is so close to the Mexican border.
Is this what is meant by "American Exceptionalism"????
8
They played his game. They always have. No president should have that level of low emotional intelligence (all three of these teenagers). The only one that looks like an adult is Kasich.
6
The only thing all four of these lowbrow national embarrassments proved was they all have incredibly small hands... Too bad I can't say the same for their forked tongues...
5
It must have been quite an entertaining session for country leaders globally to tune in to, and no doubt this high point will serve to enhance our country's status and leadership when at the table negotiating at top level globally.
Is it only in my imagination that none of the day's pressing issues appeared to be important enough to these four men to be addressed during their unique opportunity, in prime time, to define their approaches for the entire country to hear:
- Economy: trade policies, and current economic developments in China
- Supreme Court : replacing Justice Scalia
- Huge levels of student loan debt (and rising) : impact on Millenials and the consumer economy
- Foreign policy: tensions in the China Sea, threats of terrorism around the world, population movements including influx of refugees in Europe
- Domestic economic issues: Employment levels, Medicare, Social Security, Defense budget
- Energy policy
- Aging US Infrastructure
This is a session that defies rationality - pointless barbs televised for all to see, and of those present included three candidates who are already part of our government apparatus as elected representatives.
Is it only in my imagination that none of the day's pressing issues appeared to be important enough to these four men to be addressed during their unique opportunity, in prime time, to define their approaches for the entire country to hear:
- Economy: trade policies, and current economic developments in China
- Supreme Court : replacing Justice Scalia
- Huge levels of student loan debt (and rising) : impact on Millenials and the consumer economy
- Foreign policy: tensions in the China Sea, threats of terrorism around the world, population movements including influx of refugees in Europe
- Domestic economic issues: Employment levels, Medicare, Social Security, Defense budget
- Energy policy
- Aging US Infrastructure
This is a session that defies rationality - pointless barbs televised for all to see, and of those present included three candidates who are already part of our government apparatus as elected representatives.
5
I agree with those Americans who fear Donald Trumps candidacy; then in reality, is he anything but a teethless right-wing moron?
I fear the other two Republican candidates much more, one (Cruz) a religious zealot, and the other (Rubio) downright evil.
Of course it is for the Americans to decide who should lead them.
I just hope they (you) have sense enough not to elect any of these horrors.
I fear the other two Republican candidates much more, one (Cruz) a religious zealot, and the other (Rubio) downright evil.
Of course it is for the Americans to decide who should lead them.
I just hope they (you) have sense enough not to elect any of these horrors.
5
Valid assessment of the Republican Debates -- But that is only ONE side.
Stay tuned for the rest, then decide.
Stay tuned for the rest, then decide.
Stop the debates, they have become a side show circus. Truly painful to watch. I'm not a republican, but I think the republican voters deserve more than this. Or, perhaps they should abandon the party and come over to the other side. If you really want to stir up Washington, vote for Bearnie. The only defender of the common man.
7
Judging by the comments here, people want another lying,politically correct, talk only type, Harvard mouthed candidate.
More than likely, the comments here do NOT represent the entirety of the country.
1
So Rubio, Cruz, and Kasich have vowed to support a republican candidate who they state is dangerous to our nations foreign policies, a conman, and an advocate for torture of prisoners and murder of their families. All for the "good" of the American people. Isn't this how reasonable people allow dictators to rise to power. That is the problem with our Two Party system now. Our elected officials have now pledged allegiance to their party as opposed to the United States of America. Shame on all of them..
8
Perhaps the most reasonable man on the stage "struggled to leave a mark" because newspapers focus on the Jerry Springer moments as much as television does.
2
All I could tolerate last night was five minutes of yet another dumb frat boy fest as the party of Lincoln and Teddy Roosevelt continued to self-destruct while yammering on about such vital topics as the size of Trump's you know what. Meanwhile, in the audience, an unruly mob of supporters who apparently were not allowed to bring their pitchforks along with them, screamed and yelled at the candidates from their seats. For a moment, I thought I had inadvertently turned to yet another foolish and trashy reality show, but no, it was the Republican Party's umpteenth "debate", another show about nothing, brought to us by none other than their very own propaganda machine, Fox News. From the Lincoln-Douglas debates to this, I mused. How the mighty have fallen!
7
Yes, how come the camera never sweeps on the attendees to this debates? How come we don't get the usual interviews and demographic reports of the supporters of Trump or other candidates on the Republican ticket? Ge some in depth report on these people, an intensive case study or two. I am not just interested in the candidates, but also on who their voter baseline is.
3
Here is a list of scariest candidates from the GOP in order:
1. Kasich
2. Cruz/Rubio
3. Trump.
Of the four left, Kasich is the only one that would be capable of bringing together a voting block that would defeat any democrat candidate. That is why he is listed as number 1.
Cruz is a televangelist that appears to be after religious purity.
Rubio is a tool, dangerous, and suffers from deer-in-the-headlights syndrome when faced with stress.
Trump is a buffoon.
If republicans take the WH, continue to at least control majorities in Congress, or even expand them, and they already control 3/4's of states, you can kiss progressive ideals away. There will be at least two SCOTUS nominations in the next 4-8 years, with Scalia being one, and the aged Ginsburg most certainly next.
In this outcome, progressives are really going to be limited in politics.
I suppose we can thank Debbie Wasserman Shultz for doing nothing while republicans, in all of their ineptness, slowly stealing away this country.
1. Kasich
2. Cruz/Rubio
3. Trump.
Of the four left, Kasich is the only one that would be capable of bringing together a voting block that would defeat any democrat candidate. That is why he is listed as number 1.
Cruz is a televangelist that appears to be after religious purity.
Rubio is a tool, dangerous, and suffers from deer-in-the-headlights syndrome when faced with stress.
Trump is a buffoon.
If republicans take the WH, continue to at least control majorities in Congress, or even expand them, and they already control 3/4's of states, you can kiss progressive ideals away. There will be at least two SCOTUS nominations in the next 4-8 years, with Scalia being one, and the aged Ginsburg most certainly next.
In this outcome, progressives are really going to be limited in politics.
I suppose we can thank Debbie Wasserman Shultz for doing nothing while republicans, in all of their ineptness, slowly stealing away this country.
6
Enough is enough - silly season has degraded into disgusting season. Gov. Kasich is the only Republican candidate whom I think has the temperament and the experience capable of leading this country. The rest need to return to grade school and spend time learning how to behave.
6
Trump unknowingly gave the most extreme wing of the GOP electorate the best advice given to them in almost a decade....
"...there’s always give and take. There’s always negotiation. And the best negotiator that knows what he’s doing will make a great deal. But we need give and take in government. If you don’t have give and take, you’re never going to agree on anything..."
The recent 100% purity litmus tests demand that politicians over-promise to elected. And without an ability to give an inch without the threat of losing their job, only leads to them inevitably under-delivering on those promises.
There couldn't have been a better message by a better messenger.
"...there’s always give and take. There’s always negotiation. And the best negotiator that knows what he’s doing will make a great deal. But we need give and take in government. If you don’t have give and take, you’re never going to agree on anything..."
The recent 100% purity litmus tests demand that politicians over-promise to elected. And without an ability to give an inch without the threat of losing their job, only leads to them inevitably under-delivering on those promises.
There couldn't have been a better message by a better messenger.
2
Trump's advice was not given "unknowingly". He has learned that from many years of experience.
Agree that the message was good and the messenger is great.
President Trump will make our country great again!
Agree that the message was good and the messenger is great.
President Trump will make our country great again!
The GOP is missing a big opportunity. If they changed the entire Republican campaign to a reality show, it would be a real money-maker (fill their already deep pockets), and being scripted. the GOP could pick the winner, which is the outcome they are desperately seeking. They are so close to a reality show why not take the tiny next step?
4
Two of the political clowns in the debate Cruz and Rubio whose job is to enact the legal rules and tried to blame Trump for playing the game by the stupid down rules they either enacted or failed to correct. The supposed neutral lady on the debate panel well played along with Cruz and Rubio her assigned role of media-political-economic establishment in twisting. In fact she did it so much more in part than either if the lightweights did and would have been better up there than either of them.
The Americans people are fed up with these politicians who pretend to be as important as everyone else is in business to provide for themselves and dependent loved one’s food, clothing, shelter, and enough rest and leisure to keep going and to find it worthwhile. And pompous Robo Boy Rubio has no idea that doing this is job one for everyone whether they are loyally serving in our nation’s military or not---to him the American and what they do just does not count as much as do the insiders to whom he dances his tune.
The Americans people are fed up with these politicians who pretend to be as important as everyone else is in business to provide for themselves and dependent loved one’s food, clothing, shelter, and enough rest and leisure to keep going and to find it worthwhile. And pompous Robo Boy Rubio has no idea that doing this is job one for everyone whether they are loyally serving in our nation’s military or not---to him the American and what they do just does not count as much as do the insiders to whom he dances his tune.
The telling moment came at the end when each of the non-Trump midgets meekly said they would support Trump if he were the nominee. It made every single disparaging comment they made about him moot. Politics as usual in it's most disgusting form.
14
They all pledged tosipport the nominee in the first debate. Trump was the exception and he was severely rebuked from all quarters.
2
Odd that Mr. Rubio and Mr. Cruz are perceptive enough to see the man behind the curtain when it comes to Mr. Trump, and yet are completely oblivious to the fact that most voters find both even more reprehensible. Mr. Cruz's desire to build a Christian caliphate in Washington is a much more disturbing concept than Mr. Trump's wall of folly, while Mr. Rubio pleads his own version of extremism with the desperation of a man with no where else to go when the party ends to smaller and smaller crowds. Sadly, out of the three there is little truth, fact or substance. Two monkeys and a clown.
6
"Mr. Rubio told Mr. Trump. 'The reason why is because we are not going to turn over the conservative movement or the party of Lincoln ...' "
Seriously -- is there anyone outside of the GOP cloister who thinks that the current GOP is the "party of Lincoln" after they've spent the past seven years demeaning, despising, and deriding the first black American president and at the same time hating and belittling black Americans by running to the defense of every cop that shoots an unarmed black man or allows a black woman who endures a traffic stop to die in a jail cell and calls it a "suicide?"
Too bad Lincoln has no direct descendants who could stand up and force the GOP to stop the lie about it being the party of Lincoln.
It's the party of hate, racism, xenophobia, homophobia, and anti-woman and anti-equality - that's the GOP -- the party of divisiveness.
Seriously -- is there anyone outside of the GOP cloister who thinks that the current GOP is the "party of Lincoln" after they've spent the past seven years demeaning, despising, and deriding the first black American president and at the same time hating and belittling black Americans by running to the defense of every cop that shoots an unarmed black man or allows a black woman who endures a traffic stop to die in a jail cell and calls it a "suicide?"
Too bad Lincoln has no direct descendants who could stand up and force the GOP to stop the lie about it being the party of Lincoln.
It's the party of hate, racism, xenophobia, homophobia, and anti-woman and anti-equality - that's the GOP -- the party of divisiveness.
12
Were it only possible to impeach candidates!!
7
For a liberal Democrat, like me, the Republican party's inability to control their voters is both horrifying and delicious. When the Koch brothers financed the Tea Party and the Republican establishment embraced the movement, their fate was sealed. Eventually, the inmates overwhelmed the asylum's guards, and are now running it.
Schadenfreude is delicious sometimes, but the implosion of a national party is a horrifying spectacle. That said, it couldn't happen to a nicer bunch of guys.
Schadenfreude is delicious sometimes, but the implosion of a national party is a horrifying spectacle. That said, it couldn't happen to a nicer bunch of guys.
9
The Republican Debates prove at least a couple of things: (1) In this toxic political environment good guys finish last. (2) A blatant failure to follow their favorite book, the Bible's, admonition "When I was a child I talked like a child. I thought like a child. I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I set aside childish ways."
8
Trump isn't diminished because his opponents aren't credible alternatives. Katich is the only one who even approximately resembles "presidential," and he clearly still believes in the tooth fairy (insisting that lowering taxes, mostly for the rich, will increase prosperity--in spite of repeated evidence to the contrary).
The problem for the country is that Secretary Clinton also isn't trusted by most of the public. It does not look like the Democrats will turn to Senator Sanders, but even if they do, the Congress is so gerrymandered that he'll be ineffective. Besides, although probably everyone would feel safest giving Sanders the nuclear codes, close to half the country doesn't support his policy prescriptions.
Where is a trustworthy pragmatist when we need one?
The problem for the country is that Secretary Clinton also isn't trusted by most of the public. It does not look like the Democrats will turn to Senator Sanders, but even if they do, the Congress is so gerrymandered that he'll be ineffective. Besides, although probably everyone would feel safest giving Sanders the nuclear codes, close to half the country doesn't support his policy prescriptions.
Where is a trustworthy pragmatist when we need one?
3
While the candidate’s confrontational and juvenile behavior continues, a clear loser in the 2016 presidential campaign may have already been declared. It is the American voter - deprived of the opportunity to make well-informed and knowledgeable decisions about the candidates. The end result may be voter apathy and indifference.
4
Meygan Kelly won the debate. Her prepared beauty was striking, purposefully designed to be most noticeable person in the room. FOX deliberately wanted her to compete with the candidates on the stage, not a vehicle to illuminate them. The GOP lost the general election at the point they enabled the debates to become a platform for syndicated networks to showcase their celebrity correspondents. There's not an aura of professionalism or seriousness in any of this.
1
Meygan Kelly isn't running for President!!!
3
If I were a woman, a feminist, I would be be insulted by these remarks.
1
She seem the most presidential and best informed.
1
When Trump says he donated to Clinton for business reasons, does he mean that his donations were a bribe? or quid pro quo?
2
If you start to believe ANYTHING that comes out of Trump's mouth, you're in big trouble.
3
The problem in our current system is that something is not considered a bribe unless you have a quid pro quo situation. So we just have a sophisticated corruption going on here, a gentlemanly one so to speak. I give you money, and we know that you will agree to listen to me without saying so directly.
We need to redefine what is illegally obtained access to out elected officials and or limit that access.
We need to redefine what is illegally obtained access to out elected officials and or limit that access.
It is awesome watching the GOP implode. This has been a long time coming. Just desserts.
5
This whole thing is disgusting. Trump, Cruz and Rubio are acting like nine year olds. Would anyone really want any of these guys as President of the United States. Thanks to these clowns we are the laughing stack of the world stage. God help my country.
4
The fact that they would all vote for Trump if it came down to it makes the GOP unfit to take the Presidency this time.
6
I was very disappointed with Rubio's stupid comment and I am a Republican. It was a school yard taunt that has no place in politics. To me he has forever tarnished his legacy.
But I would like to pivot for a second. When are the authors or anyone else at this paper going to talk about Bryan Pagliano. For someone to be granted immunity means that a grand jury has been seated. And a grant of immunity clearly means that the government feels he has sufficient and incriminating evidence to offer this.to him.
With over 2,000 confidential emails retrieved, 22 of which were so classified top secret that the IG had to get special permission? Is the fact that this paper endorsed Hillary already a clear indication that they won't tell the truth about the scandal?
I hope the authors and everyone else at the Times ignores what is right in front of them. If that had been any Republican candidate this paper would have eviscerated them but because it's Hillary? Suddenly their moral code get's trashed.
I do not care for the childish antics but I despise a group of people who will vote for someone
1) violated her signed agreement that Foundation not take any foreign money while she was at state
2) Whose foundation is being investigated for public corruption
3) Who lied about sending/receveivng confidential emails
4) Had to be sued 20 times by Judicial Watch to release her emails and her server.
And you people mock our candidates? They' re not under investigation by the FBI are they
But I would like to pivot for a second. When are the authors or anyone else at this paper going to talk about Bryan Pagliano. For someone to be granted immunity means that a grand jury has been seated. And a grant of immunity clearly means that the government feels he has sufficient and incriminating evidence to offer this.to him.
With over 2,000 confidential emails retrieved, 22 of which were so classified top secret that the IG had to get special permission? Is the fact that this paper endorsed Hillary already a clear indication that they won't tell the truth about the scandal?
I hope the authors and everyone else at the Times ignores what is right in front of them. If that had been any Republican candidate this paper would have eviscerated them but because it's Hillary? Suddenly their moral code get's trashed.
I do not care for the childish antics but I despise a group of people who will vote for someone
1) violated her signed agreement that Foundation not take any foreign money while she was at state
2) Whose foundation is being investigated for public corruption
3) Who lied about sending/receveivng confidential emails
4) Had to be sued 20 times by Judicial Watch to release her emails and her server.
And you people mock our candidates? They' re not under investigation by the FBI are they
3
I didn't know Rubio had a "legacy." Interesting.
1
Six of one, half dozen of the other. Marco Rubio is a lap dog for the Koch Brothers.
1
This article is about the Republican debate. Why do you have so much trouble comprehending that?
Who are these knuckleheads supporting Donald Trump?
Do they actually think he's going to look out for the little guy or the family struggling to make ends meet? He's not going to look out for them....and it's going to be a total disaster. Being President is different than being a businessman... if you're the President of a company, you can scare people because they owe their jobs to you and don't want to be fired. Quite different, when you're trying to get other political leaders to come to a consensus. That's why great persuaders like Reagan and Bill Clinton were more effective at the job than someone like Jimmy Carter who was so arrogant and dogmatic that no one listened to him.
Do they actually think he's going to look out for the little guy or the family struggling to make ends meet? He's not going to look out for them....and it's going to be a total disaster. Being President is different than being a businessman... if you're the President of a company, you can scare people because they owe their jobs to you and don't want to be fired. Quite different, when you're trying to get other political leaders to come to a consensus. That's why great persuaders like Reagan and Bill Clinton were more effective at the job than someone like Jimmy Carter who was so arrogant and dogmatic that no one listened to him.
I highly recommend the first 1/4 of the book Babbitt (and the other 3/4 are likely good too), I've made it that far since picking it up again last week (my first attempt years ago petered out around this part) and its rather relevant still today, and doubly so in this election cycle.
It's funny when you hear people say that Kasich was unimpressive in the debate last night. Everyone is so hooked on the entertainment factor now that listening to a successful politician's performance record comes across as insipid, unimpressive.
7
I disagree with a lot of what he's done as Governor of Ohio, but Kasich is easily a class above the people he's being forced into sharing a stage with.
5
Another debate victory for Bernie Sanders, (lol)! They only trashed Hillary!
Well, to my ears and eyes, Cruz was too 1980's-Reagan-clone crush-the-world propaganda (which only gets Americans killed).
Also, Cruz and Rubio kept attacking Trump *tactically* (e.g. civil law suits; not being an iron-fisted conserative, etc.) -- but rhetorical consistency is not what Trump supporters care about. Trump seems strongest to his supporters when he seems spontaneous and even contradictory.
Trump's electoral strength is his celebrity-aura. Logic and consistency are ineffectual Washington-phoniness.
On the other side, Hillary once lived at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave, and for good or ill, most people are exhausted with Clinton dramas (likewise with the Bush's).
Win or lose, Bernie rules!
"The ground of liberty is gained by inches."
-- Jefferson
"Mankind born free, yet everywhere in chains."
-- Rousseau
Well, to my ears and eyes, Cruz was too 1980's-Reagan-clone crush-the-world propaganda (which only gets Americans killed).
Also, Cruz and Rubio kept attacking Trump *tactically* (e.g. civil law suits; not being an iron-fisted conserative, etc.) -- but rhetorical consistency is not what Trump supporters care about. Trump seems strongest to his supporters when he seems spontaneous and even contradictory.
Trump's electoral strength is his celebrity-aura. Logic and consistency are ineffectual Washington-phoniness.
On the other side, Hillary once lived at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave, and for good or ill, most people are exhausted with Clinton dramas (likewise with the Bush's).
Win or lose, Bernie rules!
"The ground of liberty is gained by inches."
-- Jefferson
"Mankind born free, yet everywhere in chains."
-- Rousseau
3
OK. The fire is burning and you're fiddling away.
2
"Win or lose, Bernie rules!" Really? If Bernie is by some chance the nominee, you'd better pray he wins... Trump's "celebrity aura" as you call it, disguises a venomous, hateful megalomaniac. But if the American people find that out only after he assumes the office, his antics will no longer seem merely humorous or strange.
I cringe to pull the lever for Hillary and believe the best candidate is Joe Biden, who is just not running. Sadly, some have questioned Biden's age but seem fine with Sanders' number of years. Biden might actually be able to take Trump down because Biden is a decent human being whose decency is obvious. Hillary's decency, rightly or wrongly, is subject to question. So you'll have two tarnished candidates in Trump and Clinton, trying to outdo each other. At least with her, though, there's not an inevitable race to the bottom but there unfortunately is a drip, drip, drip of doubt.
I cringe to pull the lever for Hillary and believe the best candidate is Joe Biden, who is just not running. Sadly, some have questioned Biden's age but seem fine with Sanders' number of years. Biden might actually be able to take Trump down because Biden is a decent human being whose decency is obvious. Hillary's decency, rightly or wrongly, is subject to question. So you'll have two tarnished candidates in Trump and Clinton, trying to outdo each other. At least with her, though, there's not an inevitable race to the bottom but there unfortunately is a drip, drip, drip of doubt.
1
The only thing that continues to surprise me in all this is how frazzled and freaked-out the New York Times continues to be on a daily basis about Trump. You guys are blatantly uptight. You'd better spend your time and readers' attention figuring out what truly real societal neuron(s) Trump has tapped into from Massachusetts southwards. Its The People speaking; why don't you get that?
1
I watched the second hour of the debate. I'm flabbergasted that a major political party has buffoons running for its nomination. This is beyond despicable. OMG!! A snake oil salesman with a horrendous temperament - enough said, a novice - who didn't show up for work but wants to Be C-I-C, an obstinate right-winger who's main target is a provider of women's health services, a twitching uncle who has zero charisma, appears centric but not at all presidential. Where are the centrists or maybe right of center fiscal conservatives? Is this the best we can have from the republican side?
2
There is ONE Repr candidate ... just one .... who has the resume and the experience, the judgment and temperament and sense of decorum, who can actually BE President, who comes from a electoral vote rich purple state which a GOP candidate needs to win back, and who polls the best in nationwide head-to-head match-ups against both H Clinton and B Sanders, -- that's why I'm voting for Gov Kasich twelve days from now in FL (yes I am in FL; not voting in 3-15 FL primary for Rubio). I am not looking for a pretty face for a pageant; not looking for an ideologue to make speeches, not looking for a showman ... I'm looking for a President. Readers : Consider my reasoning, ... be serious and responsible in your reasoning ... and if your state has not voted yet, you also should vote for Gov Kasich
1
Trump is only saying what Republicans actually think, but until now have tried to hide behind a veneer of respectability. This is why he is winning. But are we supposed to believe that Rubio or Cruz (or George W. Bush?) are really any different or somehow "more qualified" to be President? The only difference between Trump and any Republican past or present is... nothing. This is the party of Joe McCarthy; of Barry "Nuke Vietnam!" Goldwater; of Richard "I am not a crook!" Nixon; et al. That roughly half the country would vote for any of these people is frightening, but it is the news media that legitimizes them. This is how we wind up with a senile actor sitting in the Oval Office and how we may very well wind up saying "President Trump".
6
"Questioned by the moderators about his past advocacy for torture and for killing the families of terrorists...Pressed about whether military officers would carry out such orders — killing terrorists’ family members would violate the Geneva Conventions — Mr. Trump offered a boast.
'If I say ‘do it,’ they’re going to do it,' he said."
obviously he knows nothing about the law of war, the american military, or ethics. he also seems to not understand that a soldier's oath is to the constitution and that a soldiers need not and ought not follow illegal orders of their superiors.
'If I say ‘do it,’ they’re going to do it,' he said."
obviously he knows nothing about the law of war, the american military, or ethics. he also seems to not understand that a soldier's oath is to the constitution and that a soldiers need not and ought not follow illegal orders of their superiors.
6
The Republican Party needs a few years in serious, locked-doors political rehab. Hopefully, a few more spectacles last night will be enough to convince most voters to attend the intervention, come November.
6
Whatever Romeny said is partially right. But what he did not say is the fact he generates his income from bringing products from third world countries. So, these import taxes will hurt him the most.
Make no mistake, the US consumer market is huge and as such the real looser will not be the consumer but the foreign exporter. Shutting down a market for consumer products hurts the country, but more so the producer. Hence, the producer has no option but pay!
China is not importing products from North America or Europe. However, it is taking part in decoupling the North American market from the European. Hence, the exports in both regions are down tremendously.
Furthermore, China among other countries is becoming a threat to Europe, North America, and Australia. It is trying to infiltrate countries via military buildup, migration policies, and the type of investment it is making in the corresponding regions.
The migration crisis in Europe is an example of policy failure of the US presiding administration. Further, China is also to be blamed for Assad regime to continue residing in Syrria.
So, Trump may not be the candidate the party wants, but he does have the support of the America people and not the support of foreign agents Mr. Romeny.
The results show that Ted Cruiz and Marco Rubio are the ones on loosing end. So, when they do indeed win this election, they will be an easy target for the undertakers.
Make no mistake, the US consumer market is huge and as such the real looser will not be the consumer but the foreign exporter. Shutting down a market for consumer products hurts the country, but more so the producer. Hence, the producer has no option but pay!
China is not importing products from North America or Europe. However, it is taking part in decoupling the North American market from the European. Hence, the exports in both regions are down tremendously.
Furthermore, China among other countries is becoming a threat to Europe, North America, and Australia. It is trying to infiltrate countries via military buildup, migration policies, and the type of investment it is making in the corresponding regions.
The migration crisis in Europe is an example of policy failure of the US presiding administration. Further, China is also to be blamed for Assad regime to continue residing in Syrria.
So, Trump may not be the candidate the party wants, but he does have the support of the America people and not the support of foreign agents Mr. Romeny.
The results show that Ted Cruiz and Marco Rubio are the ones on loosing end. So, when they do indeed win this election, they will be an easy target for the undertakers.
1
The winner was obviously Hillary Clinton. Either the Republicans will nominate Trump, in which case she will crush him, or they will nominate someone else, in which case I can't imagine Trump joining the party to support this candidate.
The loser was the American people. It's shameful that a party that purports to represent half the American population has sunk to this level of discourse.
IMHO the other candidates should have walked out of the debate when Trump boasted about his penis. How could they continue to share the podium with this cretin?
The loser was the American people. It's shameful that a party that purports to represent half the American population has sunk to this level of discourse.
IMHO the other candidates should have walked out of the debate when Trump boasted about his penis. How could they continue to share the podium with this cretin?
4
So Mitt says Trump is a "phony" and a "fraud." All I can say is, it takes one to know one.
3
One common thread that runs through some "news" articles, opinion pieces, and many comments is this: the people who support Trump are uneducated, losers, not-bright, bigots, etc. For some, that's true. It's also true for supporters of other Republicans and for the Democrat candidates as well.
I wish more of you had respect for those who work with their hands. Do you grow your own cotton, shear your own wool, spin either into fibers, sit at a loom and weave your own fabric then cut and sew your own clothing? Grow your own food, all your own food, and can or dry or freeze enough to last through winter? Build your own car? Cut timber, mill it, construct your own house? Do you get together with family and neighbors to construct your own roads, bridges?
If you don't do all those things, but you go out to eat, do you respect the chefs/cooks/wait staff? Do you know the name of the people who clean your office? How about the USPS or UPS driver who brings your latest toy/book/etc.?
I could go on, but my point is this: Why do you look down on those who make your life easier, better, more enjoyable?
I'll quote (from memory) one of my favorite pieces by the late William Raspberry, WaPo op/ed writer: "Some people work with their brain and mouths. Some people work with their brain and hands. But everyone works with their brain."
I wish more of you had respect for those who work with their hands. Do you grow your own cotton, shear your own wool, spin either into fibers, sit at a loom and weave your own fabric then cut and sew your own clothing? Grow your own food, all your own food, and can or dry or freeze enough to last through winter? Build your own car? Cut timber, mill it, construct your own house? Do you get together with family and neighbors to construct your own roads, bridges?
If you don't do all those things, but you go out to eat, do you respect the chefs/cooks/wait staff? Do you know the name of the people who clean your office? How about the USPS or UPS driver who brings your latest toy/book/etc.?
I could go on, but my point is this: Why do you look down on those who make your life easier, better, more enjoyable?
I'll quote (from memory) one of my favorite pieces by the late William Raspberry, WaPo op/ed writer: "Some people work with their brain and mouths. Some people work with their brain and hands. But everyone works with their brain."
5
I think you're mistaken. People don't look down on the profession of Trump supporters or their lack of education. People are upset that Trump supporters aren't using any kind of reason, logic or common sense in making such an important decision.
Neither of my parents went to college but they were thoughtful, well read and well informed. There's no reason for the kind of willful ignorance we're seeing in this country right now.
Neither of my parents went to college but they were thoughtful, well read and well informed. There's no reason for the kind of willful ignorance we're seeing in this country right now.
2
I'll address Trump's stated plan on illegal immigration, objectionable to many: He stands where Barbara Jordan, Member of Congress (TX - D), liberal on many issues, stood before her death. She was the chair of the U.S. Commission on Immigration. She recognized that unchecked immigration was not good for the country and the people who had to compete in the job market with immigrants.
No way Bill Clinton could ignore the recommendations of the Jordan Commission, but after her death he was able to please two groups: the Democrats who wanted more immigration, both bleeding hearts or wealthy, and the wealthy, whether Democrats or Republicans, who wanted immigration because it would drive down wages.
Jordan said: “Deportation is crucial. Credibility in immigration policy can be summed up in one sentence: Those who should get in, get in; those who should be kept out, are kept out; and those who should not be here will be required to leave. The top priorities for detention and removal, of course, are criminal aliens. But for the system to be credible, people actually have to be deported at the end of the process.”
And this: “The commission finds no national interest in continuing to import lesser-skilled and unskilled workers to compete in the most vulnerable parts of our labor force. Many American workers do not have adequate job prospects. We should make their task easier to find employment, not harder.”
You likely know recent history, and that Barbara Jordan was Black.
No way Bill Clinton could ignore the recommendations of the Jordan Commission, but after her death he was able to please two groups: the Democrats who wanted more immigration, both bleeding hearts or wealthy, and the wealthy, whether Democrats or Republicans, who wanted immigration because it would drive down wages.
Jordan said: “Deportation is crucial. Credibility in immigration policy can be summed up in one sentence: Those who should get in, get in; those who should be kept out, are kept out; and those who should not be here will be required to leave. The top priorities for detention and removal, of course, are criminal aliens. But for the system to be credible, people actually have to be deported at the end of the process.”
And this: “The commission finds no national interest in continuing to import lesser-skilled and unskilled workers to compete in the most vulnerable parts of our labor force. Many American workers do not have adequate job prospects. We should make their task easier to find employment, not harder.”
You likely know recent history, and that Barbara Jordan was Black.
3
Sad... Hardly a comment about the only decent candidate on stage, John Kasich. All the coverage goes to the other three clowns.
In a bit of reflection this morning, I realize if we in America want a circus the media is happy to oblige and ignore that there is actually an important primary race going on for the Presidency.
In a bit of reflection this morning, I realize if we in America want a circus the media is happy to oblige and ignore that there is actually an important primary race going on for the Presidency.
4
Kasich should have walked off the stage during the first shouting match. He would have gotten credit for taking a stand against the nonsense and would have been the lede in today's ink spill.
6
You Americans should realise that you are lucky to have had Obama and have Sanders. The Republicans will have to destroy themselves as they are, perhaps recrudesce with a new Lincoln or Eisenhower
Shame on your politics
Shame on your politics
6
Despite Mr. Trump's various issues I find it shocking that the GOP has discussed putting someone else in the race after the votes Mr. Trump has racked up. Another example of how far out of touch the "insiders" are with the rest of America.
Still far from over yet but if Trump continues to win I think it's a disgrace to discuss intentionally taking him out of contention. The GOP may have the right to do so but what about the votes cast by Americans. Do they have little to no value?
Still far from over yet but if Trump continues to win I think it's a disgrace to discuss intentionally taking him out of contention. The GOP may have the right to do so but what about the votes cast by Americans. Do they have little to no value?
3
Why do you think that the more Rubio, Cruz and the media trounce Trump, the more he gains supporters? Because their desperation in trashing their leading vote getter shows that they have been exposed by him as be holding to the big corps and banks. The more desperate they become in holding onto their corrupt and special interests status, the more convinced the American people become that self-funded Trump can't be bought and is in this race to become President to improve the lives of the American people.
2
I'm without words....I have never seen in my life a job interview as bad as this...
no wonder our country its in deep trouble with this kind of people running it.
This people are put in place by the powers to be so that they can be easily
manage and they can maintain the status quo...
no wonder our country its in deep trouble with this kind of people running it.
This people are put in place by the powers to be so that they can be easily
manage and they can maintain the status quo...
3
THe last paragraph of this article is the important one for me! Kasich is the experienced candidate who has goverened, has negotiated, and has been in politics and knows how to lead repectuflly and in a presidential manner. Obviously, with 30 years of grooming from the Republican elite the republican electorate is ot even interested in that!!!
They made their bed!!!
They made their bed!!!
2
Finally someone who is willing to sit down and negotiate a deal. Compromise is something we have not had in a long time. This radical right and Left mentality is killing our country with gridlock. Bernie is the only other candidate who would govern in this fashion unfortunately the DEMS coronated Hillary 8 years ago. Wake up america.
3
No wars are more bloody and hateful than civil wars -- and there is a full blown civil war going on now in the GOP. The most unbelievable to me -- after the shellacking Trump took and gave back from Cruz and Rubio, all agreed they'd support the nominee even if he were to be Trump! These people truly have no moral grounding or good judgment. The Grand Old Party last night was looking pretty pathetic for the entire world to see.
4
"The Grand Old Party last night was looking pretty pathetic for the entire world to see".
Good. The party had it coming. It is well deserved.
Good. The party had it coming. It is well deserved.
2
After years of seeing the republican leaders or the "old boys" in Washington DC pull another stunt bringing Romney out of the wood work today and now are trying to disregard a voter's vote they made in the primary or caucuses goes beyond any any ethics in our political society.
I don't agree with Trump, Ted, Rubio. The only candidate that even comes close and out of the circus fray is the governor of Ohio.
It is highly unethical on what they propose with the latest stunt because "they don't like him" or "disagree with political views" or '"what he says" from one minute to the next. I would be more determined than ever as a voter to make sure he was our next president regardless of the Republican Party.
Rubio, Ted, Christie (he should resign he is another piece of work), and all the other debater's who have tried to align themselves with this newest stunt by the republican party should lose because they are part of the problem. What a toxic mix for our country now.
Rubio and Ted complain in disgust against the "very establishment" that they themselves are part of what is wrong with Washington today.
I guarantee you the country doesn't need to be more dysfunctional than it already is they will lose this election. To disregard the vote already on the books is dishonest tactics is disgraceful. This is why I am leaving the republican party after another toxic political debate the "circus will go on" that you can count on it.
I don't agree with Trump, Ted, Rubio. The only candidate that even comes close and out of the circus fray is the governor of Ohio.
It is highly unethical on what they propose with the latest stunt because "they don't like him" or "disagree with political views" or '"what he says" from one minute to the next. I would be more determined than ever as a voter to make sure he was our next president regardless of the Republican Party.
Rubio, Ted, Christie (he should resign he is another piece of work), and all the other debater's who have tried to align themselves with this newest stunt by the republican party should lose because they are part of the problem. What a toxic mix for our country now.
Rubio and Ted complain in disgust against the "very establishment" that they themselves are part of what is wrong with Washington today.
I guarantee you the country doesn't need to be more dysfunctional than it already is they will lose this election. To disregard the vote already on the books is dishonest tactics is disgraceful. This is why I am leaving the republican party after another toxic political debate the "circus will go on" that you can count on it.
1
I liked when Cruz told Trump to breathe, trying him like a cantankerous old man. And it worked.
Although her name was mentioned in passing a couple of times, not one GOP candidate seriously attacked Hillary Clinton. Their focus was entirely on crudely attacking each other, making for a jaw-dropping debate that will only add to November's upcoming Democratic landslide.
3
You can't watch people running for the thinnest office in the land behave like those 3 men did last night and seriously believe that America has a future.
When did Americans become obnoxious rude bullies and blatant liars?
Goodnight America.
When did Americans become obnoxious rude bullies and blatant liars?
Goodnight America.
2
Excellent if you aren't a woman needing an abortion.
2
Or a citizen needing clean air and water, a living wage, affordable health care, safe roads and bridges etc.
1
I know middle schoolers who act more maturely than these guys, Kaisich the one exveption
4
Cruz and Rubio can say and so all they want to persuade the GOP and its supporters to rally against Trump. However, by now its no little too late, they should have crushed Trump before now. Trump's support is not going away and he is probably going to gain more as the primary season continues. Personally I like Trump's style campaigning against the established politicians, but I don't know about him as president. Yet I think he can as good as a job as Obama. Unfortunately my choice John Kasich, although still in the race, does not have much popular support. He's the only one who has any real governing experience at all levels of state and federal government besides the presidency. Unfortunately Hillary Clinton, who lacks honesty, integrity, and moral character, will probably be the next the president of the US. What a shame!
2
The same people who lie about everything else have lied about Obama and Clinton, so I would do your own research at this point.
2
Fox moderators should have been more parental in stopping the childish behavior of the one with "small hands", "the little boy" and "the liar by turning off their microphones. Watching those three children, utterly embarrassing, with poor John Kasich wondering "why am I here". Best move of the evening for John would have been to just walk off the stage. He may have gotten more respect doing so.
100
I think Fox gave them enough rope to hang themselves, was part of the plan
2
i agree with your overall summary!!
however:
"moderators"?
sorry to disappoint...
the three of them,
as most before them,
are pure circus barkers...
the louder and crasser the banter,
the better for ratings...
$$$$ win, almost every time...
however:
"moderators"?
sorry to disappoint...
the three of them,
as most before them,
are pure circus barkers...
the louder and crasser the banter,
the better for ratings...
$$$$ win, almost every time...
The moderator are there to make sure there is entertainment. This is like watching TV wrestling and they are the so-called referees. Somewhere there is a producer telling what to allow and not.
1
While hugely embarrassing to us as a country, the prospects of DT becoming president doesn't worry me because I don't believe it's a very likely possibility. What worries me is what do we do with the massive numbers of our fellow Americans who believe he was our last, best hope.
8
Unfortunately, as it stands right now, Trump is the leading contender for the self-destructive Republicans. Given the current state of American politics and many of its voters, the fact that you say it is not a likely possibility he could be elected President is being rather naive. The scary thing is he very well could be elected President.
I will really miss the Republican Primary debates when its all over. What entertainment! much better than any TV program. Its doubly delightful because what we are watching here are the last death throes of the GOP. Maybe the party of Lincoln may re-emerge and the virus that took over the Republican Party would once again be reduced to a fringe political party.
Watching Romney, Meg Whitman and other "establishment" Republican leaders trying to shoot down Trump is astounding. Things that used to happen in locked back rooms are out in the open for the world to watch.
Now if only that would happen to the Democratic Party and the Progressives shake off their torpor and take control of the Party. Maybe that will happen if Hillary wins the Primary and the General election and reverts to being her normal self, a center-right politician.
Watching Romney, Meg Whitman and other "establishment" Republican leaders trying to shoot down Trump is astounding. Things that used to happen in locked back rooms are out in the open for the world to watch.
Now if only that would happen to the Democratic Party and the Progressives shake off their torpor and take control of the Party. Maybe that will happen if Hillary wins the Primary and the General election and reverts to being her normal self, a center-right politician.
4
The problem in this Republican primary is there is no clear alternative to Donald Trump. Senator Ted Cruz has shown a complete inability to work with others and Senator Marco Rubio has never tried to become a capable senator. If Rubio loses Florida he is done. The only good alternative is John Kasich.
2
And sadly, if you look at his record Kasich isn't really a good option, either.
3
What the RNC refuses to admit is that a majority of their supporters are rejecting the agendas of both the tea party and the hard core conservative approach. They want a representative that can work with the other side. By definition, a democracy is a nation which supports differences of opinions. Sure the ACA is a "D' , but with republican support many of the faults added to pass would not have been necessary. Sure this recovery is weak, but had the republican added their support, it would not be a product of the FED. Like Mr. Trump says Congress could stop corporation from leaving America. Congress should be able to make progress on immigration. This all or nothing political approach is not democracy and many republicans are glad that someone they are no longer a hostage to this extremism.
Is my memory beginning to fail me? I seem to remember from my school days decades ago that a debate was a forum where the moderator presented a topic and each participant commented on it in turn, and then there were rebuttals. What I saw last night was a carefully scripted attack on Trump by the mainstream media with no semblance of rules or protocol. In this GOP primary, the media have reached a new low by abandoning the principle of not injecting themselves into the story. Let's be real, this was a debate between Fox News and Trump.
7
Dear JM:
Not sure how far back your memory takes you. Mine goes back over seven decades. You are correct in assessing that these are not debates. They're not designed to be.
Back in my day, at the advent of television, debates were heard not seen. It was the 1960 Kennedy - Nixon debates which were revolutionary in broadcasting debates on television. In fact, a poll taken on "who won" was divided. Those who listened on radio thought Nixon won, those who viewed it on television thought Kennedy the winner. The importance of how one looked took precedent over what was said. Kids today refer to this, if one you can believe, as: the Optics. They now dominate any alleged debate.
In the Seventies on The League of Women Voters conducted presidential debates. They were a far better forum than the three-ring circuses they've become today.
But both political parties wised-up, if you could call it that. They realized control over where, who and what would be discussed could be better managed within the parties infrastructure. Meaning; it was a rigged game.
Content and substance were thrown out and substituted with boffo socko show biz hoohah.
See how debates are conducted in Europe. Tune into the BBC or C-Span. They go on for hours, without an audience for the candidates to play to. They cover in detail the thoughts of the candidate, and they are not concluded by a clock and buzzer. Yes, they're a lot more boring, but substantive. And sorely missed here.
DD
Manhattan
Not sure how far back your memory takes you. Mine goes back over seven decades. You are correct in assessing that these are not debates. They're not designed to be.
Back in my day, at the advent of television, debates were heard not seen. It was the 1960 Kennedy - Nixon debates which were revolutionary in broadcasting debates on television. In fact, a poll taken on "who won" was divided. Those who listened on radio thought Nixon won, those who viewed it on television thought Kennedy the winner. The importance of how one looked took precedent over what was said. Kids today refer to this, if one you can believe, as: the Optics. They now dominate any alleged debate.
In the Seventies on The League of Women Voters conducted presidential debates. They were a far better forum than the three-ring circuses they've become today.
But both political parties wised-up, if you could call it that. They realized control over where, who and what would be discussed could be better managed within the parties infrastructure. Meaning; it was a rigged game.
Content and substance were thrown out and substituted with boffo socko show biz hoohah.
See how debates are conducted in Europe. Tune into the BBC or C-Span. They go on for hours, without an audience for the candidates to play to. They cover in detail the thoughts of the candidate, and they are not concluded by a clock and buzzer. Yes, they're a lot more boring, but substantive. And sorely missed here.
DD
Manhattan
1
There is too much turmoil here. Perhaps we should have a cooling off period so that, if possible, we can come to our senses and find someone who is capable of being president. Give President Obama a short extension so this mess can be sorted out. By the way, why is our president always referred to using his last name?
There is too much at stake here and and brokered conventions might pick the wrong person out of desperation.
Please don't bother me with all those complicated replies.
There is too much at stake here and and brokered conventions might pick the wrong person out of desperation.
Please don't bother me with all those complicated replies.
2
The blame for tone of these debates lies squarely with the media moderators. Their goal is to drive ratings by instigating fights. Questions such as "Trump said this about you" or "you said this about Trump" are meant to draw blood and in no way invoke any substantive debate. Yesterday, Megan Kelley again injexted herself in the debate and started debating Trump. Since when do Moderators join the debate? This lack of journalistic professionalism is equally shared by CNN, Fox, CNBC, and MSNBC. All are garbage news outlets when it comes to political coverage. Each news outlet ... I include the NYT here... visibly injects its political philosophy throughout the entirety of its news coverage. Journalism is dead.
7
I was half-expecting Donald Trump to turn to Marco Rubio and say "Now, go home and get your shine box."
Reference: The movie Goodfellas bar scene.
Reference: The movie Goodfellas bar scene.
3
The Trumpenproletariat are all screaming foul at the prospect that Il Duce might be denied the nomination if he showed up at the convention with a plurality of delegates. Tough break. The rules have always required a majority. In 1860, NY Governor William Seward came to the convention with a strong plurality of delegates but failed to gather a majority. Instead the brokered convention gave the nomination on the third ballot to a long shot candidate named Abraham Lincoln. As a result, the union was saved.
3
The winning ticket against Trump would be Clinton/Kasich 2016.
1
There are about 3,400 reasons why Clinton and Kasich will never be on the same ticket.
I'm not a Hillary fan but I can't imagine her pairing up with someone like Kasich who thinks that women live in kitchens and don't deserve to make their own health care choices.
4
It could be Clinton/Rocket J Squirrel and they should still win.
As if it weren't Badenov.
As if it weren't Badenov.
2
It wasn't a debate, but Donald Trump facing two Republican attack dogs.
If these three are the best the GOP can do, then expect a Democratic landslide in 2016. None are qualified to run a hardware store.
13
"The chickens are coming home to roost and roar." Trump's cult symbolizes the lowest common denominator i.e. a proletariat fearful of change. No higher education, no minorities, no women leaders, no religious freedoms, no civil liberties, no open borders, and no enlightened democracy! This GOP primary season represents a true race to the bottom. They've pilloried our black president for eight years. Unemployment is 4.9%. The stock market is up. The Affordable Care Act is passed. Elena & Sonia joined the Supreme Court. Osama Bin Laden is dead! The car industry is re-engineered and the 2008 recession has ended.Thank God for President Barack Hussein Obama!
4
Paleontologists have discovered a new dinosaur that roamed the North American landscape. Unlike the T-Rex that lived at the top of the food chain as a fierce predator, this new species was a bottom feeder. Scientists have tentatively named their new find the T-Rump.
9
Trump is an interloper to the Republican Party. Despite his primary and caucus wins, two-thirds of voters have rejected him. I'm glad Romney said what he said, which was seconded by McCain. As usual, the dignified Kasich, the "only adult in the room," was the only one with substantive answers.
3
Please God, no more debates.
5
After Trump Tower, Trump Links, Trump Airlines, Trump University and Trump Casinos, what's left? Trump United States.
2
A harvest of horror, they all made me sick, even Kasich, who is a hedge fund wolf in sheep clothing, he fools no one, i really dislike Cruz the most, then Trump and Rubio and Kasich are tied
7
The problem is not Trump, nor Rubio or Cruz. These candidates only represent the lack of integrity, honesty, dignity, and education of the majority of the citizens of this country. Why do these citizens lack strength of character? Because they only engage in how to cheat the system and undermine authority. The citizens of this country worship instead superficial celebrities, junk food, untalented sport heroes, video games, violent Hollywood movies, drugs, and other vulgarities media promotes. These citizens demand benefits they have not worked for. Then why is everyone surprised at the vulgarity politicians display? Our ignorant citizens devalue education in favor of recreation. It is easy to do and requires no strength of character. And the politicians in government exploit this lack of maturity to represent international corporations who reap the benefits of an ignorant society that is the result of the dumbing down of a market-driven educational system where excellence is undermined by lack of discipline. Hillary represents as well this market-driven elite. And Bernie lacks the leadership to combat these forces with only the support of the few enlightened citizens still standing. Moreover, the values of this country are undermined by legal and illegal immigrants that join in to exploit the declining resources this country had to offer in its goal at democracy. The problem is not Trump. The problem is the triumph of evil when very few good citizens remain.
5
Angry children at play and pointlessness. No other words accurately describe last night’s farce. Efforts to discuss concrete plans ended up in shouting matches and no one came across intelligently.
If I lived in Detroit, I'd be tempted to sue FOX for wasting good TV time on trash. I listened as long as I could stand it and turned it off.
Flat taxes, walls and bull. What was the point?
If I lived in Detroit, I'd be tempted to sue FOX for wasting good TV time on trash. I listened as long as I could stand it and turned it off.
Flat taxes, walls and bull. What was the point?
3
FACT CHECK:
Anyone with a modicum of sense claims that "the Republican primary race is a disgrace to the party, an embarrassment to the nation, and a threat to the future of the Republic."
Verdict: Grossly understated. They say much, much worse.
Anyone with a modicum of sense claims that "the Republican primary race is a disgrace to the party, an embarrassment to the nation, and a threat to the future of the Republic."
Verdict: Grossly understated. They say much, much worse.
5
I would expand on that. The Republican Party is a disgrace, and has been since Nixon.
4
The funniest thing is these guys always show up wearing suits, when overalls would be much more appropriate to the barnyard banter that follows.
4
Imagine any one of these men sitting opposite Angela Merkel, Francois Hollande, Sergio Matteralle, XI Jinping, Justin Trudeau for a vital discussion. Now imagine any one of them saying global climate is not real, evolution is not real, immigration is a dirty word. Would that make you proud to be an American? Get real people!
13
Do you seriously said about Angela Merkel who single handedly destroyed Germany and Europe through failed immigration policy!!!.
1
Cruz advocates torture as well and Republicans generally support the practice. I guess they are for it unless their talking about Donald Trump. Then they're against it.
1
Well, At least you are watching Republican debates :)
1
"Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer"
-- Sun-tzu
'The Art of War'
-- Sun-tzu
'The Art of War'
1
Not really. Our time is too valuable. We are watching the News, and reading NYT afterwards.
1
The republicans are an embarrassment. What a revolting display, both from the republican party and from fox news. Not one of these clowns is fit to be president.
8
I prefer F bombs to bombs dropped from drones. The idea that there is any dignity in the White House is absurd. We have been at constant war for 3 generations now lead mostly by a very dignified President who lied to the American public. The emperor has no clothes and its good to see the candidates naked on stage for a change.
We shouldn't respect the Presidency we have been lied to by every President since FDR. It's finally out in the open.
We shouldn't respect the Presidency we have been lied to by every President since FDR. It's finally out in the open.
Yesterday, on CNN's afternoon political commentary show, a reporter declared that Donald Trump, responding to Miit Romney, was, "intelligent, humorous, and articulate." She was virtually giggling like an ecstatic 7th grade school girl.
Donald Trump is a media creation. The media is promoting him every minute in order to give themselves fodder for the next 4 years. The public is buying him for the same reason that they love horror shows, pro wrestling, and boxing matches. Ever since Roman slaves fought lions in the colosseum, man has been mesmerized by savagery. The difference here is that the winner doesn't get his freedom, he gets his finger on a nuclear weapon.
Donald Trump is a media creation. The media is promoting him every minute in order to give themselves fodder for the next 4 years. The public is buying him for the same reason that they love horror shows, pro wrestling, and boxing matches. Ever since Roman slaves fought lions in the colosseum, man has been mesmerized by savagery. The difference here is that the winner doesn't get his freedom, he gets his finger on a nuclear weapon.
101
My 14 year old snarky, arrogant, hormonal/pubescent son, who's mood at times reminds me of Donald Trump, walked out of the room last night; horrified that someone who had so little substance, manners or civility could be on national television winning a major political party's nomination for president of the free world.
Pro-Boxing, horror movies and lion fighting??...seems more like S&M for the viewer and possibly the candidates themselves.
Pro-Boxing, horror movies and lion fighting??...seems more like S&M for the viewer and possibly the candidates themselves.
2
It was definitely the battle of the Barbarian Horde.
Actually, the race for the GOP presidential nomination might be getting to get even more complicated as a bunch of establishment conservatives long ago thought closeted emerge into the daylight again. Mitt Romney has clawed his way to the surface again, and in today's Washington Post Michael Gerson (I know, I know) suggested Condi Rice or Mitch Daniels, both coming off the college honcho circuit of the GOP, and both evidently vacuum-sealed for a long shelf life. Speaking of Hoosier Mitch, something I try not to do, I also saw a brief mention of Hoosier Mikey Pence, who has taken his follow-up governorship of Mitch into a hot mess of discriminatory politics.
I'm just waiting on the "Draft Dick Cheney" movement, and I figure Sarah Palin will be hearing voices herself.
I'm just waiting on the "Draft Dick Cheney" movement, and I figure Sarah Palin will be hearing voices herself.
It would be too little too late. They would never gain enough delegates to make a difference.
Obviously. Evidently my attempt at sarcasm fell upon deaf ears.
Batman (Cruz) and Robin Boy Wonder (Rubio) attacking the Riddler. Stay tuned next week for the conclusion of our exciting story.
2
It was nice that Fox provided powerpoint slides on Trump's claims about eliminating waste and fraud but too bad it didn't do the same on the Rubio's and Cruz's exhortations for lowering taxes and balancing the budget. Further, Cruz was let off the hook with softball questioning about his campaign promise to eliminate the IRS. Clearly, Fox was gunning for Trump while letting the others coast on specious budgetary and policy claims.
2
And that comes as a surprise?
1
The Republican establishment is growing desperate. They are afraid of losing their jobs and money train if Donald Trump wins. Mitt Romney sounds bitter and full of sour grapes.
It would be wonderful if Trump obtained the Republican nomination. He and Kasich speak for the mainstream common American. They are not playing the class war or the race war - just the economic and American perspective. Would be a welcome slap in the face to the establishment if they combined (or perhaps Ben Carson) on the ticket.
It would be wonderful if Trump obtained the Republican nomination. He and Kasich speak for the mainstream common American. They are not playing the class war or the race war - just the economic and American perspective. Would be a welcome slap in the face to the establishment if they combined (or perhaps Ben Carson) on the ticket.
1
Therein lies the problem-if Trump really speaks for large portions of America, we are really screwed.
4
"It would be wonderful if Trump obtained the Republican nomination. He and Kasich speak for the mainstream common American."
Trump and Kasich speak for no one I know. Who is the "mainstream common American" you speak of?
Trump and Kasich speak for no one I know. Who is the "mainstream common American" you speak of?
3
Rubio's activities in Miami as young man need to be raised in these debates as they raise questions about his moral character.
1
Well don't just allude to them. What were these "activities"?
2
Which activities? His abysmal academic record, his financial ineptitude?
Hate him, but he continues to amaze. A remark towards the center and he can be President. The Times publically supported Mrs. Clinton, but what are they really off the record?
1
Sarah Silverman, Howard Stern, and the Greaseman need to be moderators of the next debate.
So that it might have the gravitas it deserves.
So that it might have the gravitas it deserves.
1
Yet another GOP "roast" with little substance, save John Kasich's contributions, but we as voters are supposed to act as if this debacle somehow represents a "debate."
Meanwhile, both parties (except for few overt critics, like Bernie Sanders) continue to support neoliberal, "free market" policies that ship job overseas, import visa workers to depress wages, reward hedge funders and private equity bosses who leverage US businesses into dissolution (cf. Mitt Romney), and shift the tax burden off billionaires and onto middle and working-class people.
Why won't anyone in the MEDIA raise questions about these policies since the candidates, save Sanders, refuse to?
Listening to Ted Cruz recite hardcore orthodox ultraconservative tax-cutting doctrine in his response to the loss of manufacturing jobs made me want to vomit. It was clear that he and everyone else on that stage neither has a plan to build upon the Obama administration's job creation successes nor really cares. They are thinking about their billionaire backers, and Trump is thinking about himself.
If one of these people wins, we'll truly be roasted.
Meanwhile, both parties (except for few overt critics, like Bernie Sanders) continue to support neoliberal, "free market" policies that ship job overseas, import visa workers to depress wages, reward hedge funders and private equity bosses who leverage US businesses into dissolution (cf. Mitt Romney), and shift the tax burden off billionaires and onto middle and working-class people.
Why won't anyone in the MEDIA raise questions about these policies since the candidates, save Sanders, refuse to?
Listening to Ted Cruz recite hardcore orthodox ultraconservative tax-cutting doctrine in his response to the loss of manufacturing jobs made me want to vomit. It was clear that he and everyone else on that stage neither has a plan to build upon the Obama administration's job creation successes nor really cares. They are thinking about their billionaire backers, and Trump is thinking about himself.
If one of these people wins, we'll truly be roasted.
4
Sadly I am afraid there is NO validity to anything these guys (besides Kasich) spout at the GOP Debate. "Build a super military" (including satellite missile defense), "cut taxes" (close the IRS?), claiming we pay by far more in taxes than any other country (not!), plans to "abolish the EPA" even though loads of citizens are becoming increasingly worried about the environment.... the list just goes on - insane fiction - gosh do I hope the electorate comes to their senses to see the lies & inaccuracies offered in these debates - it is such a shame we don't have better choices... like her nor not - I believe Clinton is the only one who understands the realities of how to address some of these issues.
For all his bluster about Megyn Kelley, how bad she is, he is not going to go on FOX if she were a moderator, there he was, Mr. Trump.
If this is how much his 'always right', 'I will it get done', 'trust me' personality can muster, think about the 30' wall -- why the wall? what is the point of it if much traffic between Mexico and US is underground tunnels -- and how he is going to get it done. It already seems to have come down a couple of feet in the debate -- "flexibility".
All boyish bluster and bombast of a dud.
If this is how much his 'always right', 'I will it get done', 'trust me' personality can muster, think about the 30' wall -- why the wall? what is the point of it if much traffic between Mexico and US is underground tunnels -- and how he is going to get it done. It already seems to have come down a couple of feet in the debate -- "flexibility".
All boyish bluster and bombast of a dud.
Yep, flexibility is OK, only, if you have some knowledge of the issues, that leaves the Donald out.
1
Kasich is the only candidate with actual experience and realistic solutions that work and are reasonable. He is the only Republican that can lead our nation and currently has the highest margin to beat Hillary nationally from the recent polls.
Cruz is always looking to shut down the government.
Rubio is just a junior full of rhetoric, with zero experience. Perhaps, that's why funding is flowing his way. He can be bought and will support the plans that benefit his donors and lobbyist and his political career, not the American people. Hence, same old Washington.
Trump - Really? Do I even need to say anything? In order to give the finger to those in Washington, we're really giving it to America and ourselves by voting for Trump.
If I were to hire an employee, I would check their references with their prior employer. If that's the case, Kasich has significant favorable ratings with his employer, the people of Ohio.
Can Kasich get us out of the mounting debt jeopardizing our sovereignty? YES
Can Kasich intelligently defend us from global threats? YES
Can Kasich solve the existing problems at home? YES
Can Kasich end the gridlock in Washington? YES
Can Kasich beat Hillary? Well, he currently has the highest margin against her nationally, so that would be a definitive YES!!
Then Kasich it is!
Cruz is always looking to shut down the government.
Rubio is just a junior full of rhetoric, with zero experience. Perhaps, that's why funding is flowing his way. He can be bought and will support the plans that benefit his donors and lobbyist and his political career, not the American people. Hence, same old Washington.
Trump - Really? Do I even need to say anything? In order to give the finger to those in Washington, we're really giving it to America and ourselves by voting for Trump.
If I were to hire an employee, I would check their references with their prior employer. If that's the case, Kasich has significant favorable ratings with his employer, the people of Ohio.
Can Kasich get us out of the mounting debt jeopardizing our sovereignty? YES
Can Kasich intelligently defend us from global threats? YES
Can Kasich solve the existing problems at home? YES
Can Kasich end the gridlock in Washington? YES
Can Kasich beat Hillary? Well, he currently has the highest margin against her nationally, so that would be a definitive YES!!
Then Kasich it is!
Nope, check a little deeper, on several occasions, with many of his policies in Ohio, Kasich has shown he is just a shill for the Koch Brothers.
5
None of those "front runners" in the Republican party are worthy of being President. They have all shown their stripes. Unable to discuss things of consequence - size of hands, versus climate change, etc. They are not only aiming to govern the USA but also determine the state of our planet: whether it survives or not. This name-calling, and bickering is pathetic in the extreme. Kasich is correct is staying above the fray although what good it will do him, I'm not sure.
1
I find it really rich that the GOP establishment is attacking Trump. The GOP establishment set the stage to give us Trump. John McCain gave us Sarah Palin for god's sake -- and he's calling out Trump? Give me a break.
The GOP is b-r-o-k-e-n. And I hope Trump crams it down their throat.
The GOP is b-r-o-k-e-n. And I hope Trump crams it down their throat.
7
Throughout this campaign, we have heard over and over again from commenters in this and other forums, that Donald Trump is the natural outcome of the GOP's tactics. Over and over again, I have read the same sentences "GOP created Trump", "Trump is their Frankenstein" and so on.
Unfortunately, apparently NO ONE on the GOP side is GETTING IT.
You can use all the big words you want to decry bigotry, but if your positions are still to outlaw gay marriage, take away healthcare from the impoverished, defund Planned Parenthood and take away women's reproductive choices, you bring harm to the very groups you claim to protect. Bigotry is bigotry in words but also actions.
What is sad about all this is that one of the main drivers AGAINST Donald Trump is he is "not conservative enough" meaning he less committed to taking away women's reproductive rights, or less committed to do away with gay marriage. Well, neither choice fills me with a warm fuzzy.
Also, I don't see any less bullying, lying or distortion coming from Trump than Ted Cruz, Palin and Cheney. They are all cut from the same cloth.
The GOP has two agenda that resonates with centrists: no radical socialist taxation policy and being a hawk abroad. That's it.
So wring your hands all you want, GOP elders, but, you too are on the wrong track. YOUR boy Donald Trump may be one lane over, but he is still your runaway creation.
The 20th century called: it wants it's patriarchy back.
Unfortunately, apparently NO ONE on the GOP side is GETTING IT.
You can use all the big words you want to decry bigotry, but if your positions are still to outlaw gay marriage, take away healthcare from the impoverished, defund Planned Parenthood and take away women's reproductive choices, you bring harm to the very groups you claim to protect. Bigotry is bigotry in words but also actions.
What is sad about all this is that one of the main drivers AGAINST Donald Trump is he is "not conservative enough" meaning he less committed to taking away women's reproductive rights, or less committed to do away with gay marriage. Well, neither choice fills me with a warm fuzzy.
Also, I don't see any less bullying, lying or distortion coming from Trump than Ted Cruz, Palin and Cheney. They are all cut from the same cloth.
The GOP has two agenda that resonates with centrists: no radical socialist taxation policy and being a hawk abroad. That's it.
So wring your hands all you want, GOP elders, but, you too are on the wrong track. YOUR boy Donald Trump may be one lane over, but he is still your runaway creation.
The 20th century called: it wants it's patriarchy back.
5
What American voters have to ask themselves, is when you have such a vulgar and vile candidate as Donald Trump, who knows no bounds in personal or inaccurate attacks to the point where you have his competitors being ashamed of his vulgarity, his 3rd grade antics talking about the proclivity of his own sexual attributes, bullying, and calling him out as being a conman and an outright liar....destroying the Republican Party, but in the end they will still support him if he wins the nomination.
What does that say about the integrity and morality of each one of this candidates that were on the stage last night?
Last nights spectacle was a sophomoric grammar school shouting match that was in no way Presidential or even exhibited any leadership qualities anyone with any ounce of decency should be proud of as an American.
I can't think of a lower point in current American Politics in the last 50 years, Donald Trump the moral leader of the GOP who can shamelessly make fun of a disabled person or talk about Mitt Romney dropping to his knees if Trump told him to, the most repulsive innuendo I can ever remember hearing on a public stage......people should be embarrassed and feel like they need a shower after hearing piece of garbage in the name of Donald Trump, a total disgrace to the Republican political primary process and a blight on the American political process....a bigot and race baiter probably being the GOP candidate.....a total disgrace.
What does that say about the integrity and morality of each one of this candidates that were on the stage last night?
Last nights spectacle was a sophomoric grammar school shouting match that was in no way Presidential or even exhibited any leadership qualities anyone with any ounce of decency should be proud of as an American.
I can't think of a lower point in current American Politics in the last 50 years, Donald Trump the moral leader of the GOP who can shamelessly make fun of a disabled person or talk about Mitt Romney dropping to his knees if Trump told him to, the most repulsive innuendo I can ever remember hearing on a public stage......people should be embarrassed and feel like they need a shower after hearing piece of garbage in the name of Donald Trump, a total disgrace to the Republican political primary process and a blight on the American political process....a bigot and race baiter probably being the GOP candidate.....a total disgrace.
7
Well said! Sadly we seem to be lowering our own standards to where Trump & his opponents get cheers for dehumanizing others - anyone who has studied the slightest history sees that his hateful rhetoric (& Cruz & Rubio) is reminiscent of terrifying times. Blaming others for our unhappiness & making others "different" or less than us is where the ugliness grows. Have you no decency Mr Trump... or Cruz?
The frightening takeaway that i got from last debates is that the ideology of the majority of Trump's supporters is nothing more than racism. The scary cheers when he talked about torture, foreigners and walls was chilling. For the first time I realized, the rise of Trump is not driven by anything the pundits keep suggesting (outsider, take charge personality, tell it like it is guy) - it's purely about having a racist bigot of a candidate who says and promotes all the things these members of the base privately think. Now that this issue is truly out in the open - what are the rest of us (Republicans and Democrats) going to do about it?
8
I am laughing at people that don't think Hillary will sink down to Cruz and Rubio's level. The three of them, Hillary, Cruz and Rubio, are the same. They are all selected by the power establishment for their eloquent speech and pleasant appearance that will placate the American people while the 1%er continues their plunder. (Think how many times Obama have said banking reform and how many bakers are actually in prison)
Cruz and Rubio have to break their facade because Trump is winning while Hillary don't because she is "winning" and Sanders isn't the type to fight dirty like the rest of them. The choice for the American people is easy: do you vote for big bank, big pharma, big agri, military-industrial's candidate or do you vote for an independent candidate that too-big-to-fail are all against?
Cruz and Rubio have to break their facade because Trump is winning while Hillary don't because she is "winning" and Sanders isn't the type to fight dirty like the rest of them. The choice for the American people is easy: do you vote for big bank, big pharma, big agri, military-industrial's candidate or do you vote for an independent candidate that too-big-to-fail are all against?
5
The question was "Will you support the Republican nominee, even if it is Mr. Trump."
The answer was "I will support the Republican nominee."
This could easily be a rehearsed line. I think they are hoping to race to a brokered convention and to break Trump there.
Trump is so blatantly anti-political that democrats could not have installed a better self-destruct machine inside the opposing party. I feel like he is going rogue on stage with a lesson to teach the whole country: "I'm really a democrat. How did none of you notice it?" or "I just wanted to show how empty of any policies this party really is." The word "Trump" means "to deceive." He can't be serious, and we can't be that dumb.
The answer was "I will support the Republican nominee."
This could easily be a rehearsed line. I think they are hoping to race to a brokered convention and to break Trump there.
Trump is so blatantly anti-political that democrats could not have installed a better self-destruct machine inside the opposing party. I feel like he is going rogue on stage with a lesson to teach the whole country: "I'm really a democrat. How did none of you notice it?" or "I just wanted to show how empty of any policies this party really is." The word "Trump" means "to deceive." He can't be serious, and we can't be that dumb.
2
Until last night, I took an unhealthy amount of glee in watching the Republican party disintegrate before my very eyes. I had always dreamed that it would happen during my lifetime, but couldn't believe it was happening right now.
Then I watched the first hour of the debate (before turning it off). I've changed my mind.
I'm done with the schadenfreude. This has become so embarrassing that, even as a popcorn munching socialist, the death of the Republican party as it is will clearly be an embarrassment to all of us.
Then I watched the first hour of the debate (before turning it off). I've changed my mind.
I'm done with the schadenfreude. This has become so embarrassing that, even as a popcorn munching socialist, the death of the Republican party as it is will clearly be an embarrassment to all of us.
8
Hillary made enough mistakes to be shamefully kicked out.
The problem is that people still remember all wrong doings of GOP as well.
GOP got a chance to make a face-lift hiding behind Trump. But it looks like GOP is rather loose elections, but not make any concessions to Trump.
The problem is that people still remember all wrong doings of GOP as well.
GOP got a chance to make a face-lift hiding behind Trump. But it looks like GOP is rather loose elections, but not make any concessions to Trump.
In the midst of this 'debate' I was cruising on the internet, fearful perhaps that one or all of the participants might actually drop their trousers, and I came upon the article about the Obamas staying in DC after his term is over. An accompanying photo showed the four of them walking across the White House lawn and I wondered how we can go from this intelligent, humane, well-educated, hopeful man to any of those so-called 'men' spouting off last night?
These are the best the Republican party can put forth? Are you embarrassed, Republicans? Have you no shame?
These are the best the Republican party can put forth? Are you embarrassed, Republicans? Have you no shame?
5
Trump is the candidate of those who believe tearing down the corrupt mess we have for a government is more important - at least going in - than what may come after. When you convince a voter he has nothing to lose, he becomes a revolutionary.
1
For all the mocha drinking, bewildered, NY Times readers, here is Trump's appeal in a nutshell: He is a flawed, billionaire, "guy's guy" who will defend his manhood when attacked, he's honest (in a relative way), will not pander to the masses if it means changing his convictions, has maintained he is flexible on issues, relates unbelievably well to us commoners, shows street smarts and has a smoking hot wife who speaks four languages and does spreads for Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue. I see nothing here I do not like. If you can't at least appreciate a guy like Trump, then you have possibly been hanging out in your pilates classes too long.
3
All very well perhaps for a beer and snooker club .......but IS he really Presidential material?
6
He's running for *president of the country*, but you want a guy who could just as well sell you protein supplements.
6
Honest in a relative way? What does that mean?
1
Welcome to politics Silicon Valley style - move fast, break stuff, get likes, win at all costs!
2
All of you who think this is some kind of a joke or who are gloating at the misfortunes of the Republican Party, let me tell you, Trump can win this election. Things can go wrong. Hillary can stumble, or suffer illness or injury such that she loses the general election. Donald Trump. Racist, mysogynist, fascist, aspiring war criminal, who wants the military to kill innocent women and children simply because some member of their families becomes terrorists. Trump, with the nuclear launch codes. We all created this mess, not just Republicans. Both sides have engaged in slash and burn politics. (How many times have I heard East coast elites refer to rural folks as gun-totin' bible-thumping rednecks.) I would think for sure that Trump's war crimes threats alone would turn his supporters against him, but if it doesn't, then we are all going to have to come together to stop this psycho from becoming president.
6
Very well said. What a mess.
3
In the mythological quest for the American presidency Bernie Sanders represents heaven and good while Donald Trump represents Hell and Evil. Naturally Hell and Evil are far more interesting, exciting, credible goals. Just look at the voter turn out in the respective primaries.
2
They're all in the minor leagues. Once Hillary gets a hold of these folks, the race will dramatically change. The only somewhat decent guy is Kasich and the GOP will make sure he has no chance of winning.
2
So Cruz and Rubio think the Republicans will lose by a landslide if Trump is the candidate. That makes no sense. Cruz and Rubion can't even win amongst Republicans,
2
All things said about the GOP imploding are true! But all we are left with is Hillary! The old babbling Socialist is in there because without a second candidate the DNC would not have a Primary platform!!!
Couldn't have played out better for Hillary! All the GOP candidates, and the old Socialist have guaranteed the Presidency to Hillary!!
BRILLIANT!
Couldn't have played out better for Hillary! All the GOP candidates, and the old Socialist have guaranteed the Presidency to Hillary!!
BRILLIANT!
"Every nation gets the government it deserves." If this is the best Americas has to offer, then we deserve to be in decline.
1
The debate was nothing new and to tell you the truth my mind wandered. I couldn't help wondering how long it took for Megyn Kelly to fix her hair and make up her face, whether it hurt to pull all your hair back like that, whether she could see through all that eye makeup, and what made her think that such an overdone look was a good idea. Maybe she was going for Amazon woman engaging in battle.
1
You should send your feedback on Megyn Kelly to Trump. He can use it next time he goes on the offensive against her.
Hillary must be watching this lot and rubbing her hands together like a used car salesman eyeing easy customers.
2
The neo-cons have allowed the Republican party to fall to the level that a couple of candidates, both callow, inexperienced, partisan adolescents who stand for nothing but themselves and their corporate backers, to savage the reputation of everyone around them. There's no point in giving them more ad space by using their names here.
Anyone can see that Kasich is the most qualified Republican candidate and that his patience with the continuing debate idiocy is incredible. If the Republicans cannot see their way to nominating the most qualified candidate, then do us all a favor and cast the two adolescents aside and let Trump rightly challenge Hillary for the fraud and liar that she is.
Anyone can see that Kasich is the most qualified Republican candidate and that his patience with the continuing debate idiocy is incredible. If the Republicans cannot see their way to nominating the most qualified candidate, then do us all a favor and cast the two adolescents aside and let Trump rightly challenge Hillary for the fraud and liar that she is.
2 little 2 late. If you are interested in saving the country then do what the french did when Le Pen was acting like Trump: get a clothespin and hold your nose and vote democratic. Save America from war and hate and poverty.
3
Yes, they jumped al over Trump, but on what grounds? Their positions are within spitting (literally) distance of each other! I noted that Fox displayed a table to Trump showing the lack of money that would be made available by closing the EPA, etc. But no other candidate, all of whose economic plans live in the same sphere of impossibility, was shown the same table. (No IRS, Ted? No taxes on investment income and no inheritance tax, Little Marco?)
Making the other candidates seem "reasonable" is a dangerous fallacy.
Making the other candidates seem "reasonable" is a dangerous fallacy.
2
These weren't "urgent" attacks; they were desperate, poorly advised attacks.
All along, the oligarchic forces behind the election have shown a starting lack of insight in their own electorate & the issues they care about. I think these Oligarchs have been so long used to their own private echo-chambers, to crony advancement, to eating at the trough of public monies, that they are become torpid & stupid. They *still* can't see it.
First we had otherwise intelligent investors pouring millions into Bush's campaign. One look at Bush & you can see there is no way he can win. He is too soft, timid. This is beside his policies & abilities. Yet they are so used to their puppets, they forget that we vote. They are so used to manipulating media, they forget that we have social media.
They kept hoping for their puppet Bush; when he had to drop, hysteria began to set in. They clung to puppet Rubio, but whoever is advising him is very stupid--they told him to act like Trump. So Rubio acts like a pathetic 6th grader. He loses big in Super Tues. Now they are hysterical. Romney,their big puppet. comes out to attack full force.
What they still don't get is that Trump has a handle on social media & what the voters want - alpha male; they are desperate for jobs & safety. So now they'd rather cross party lines & usher in Clinton, who is friends with the Oligarch.
If they break with their own constituents, they will break the oligarchic-Republican party. Which maybe isn't a bad thing.
All along, the oligarchic forces behind the election have shown a starting lack of insight in their own electorate & the issues they care about. I think these Oligarchs have been so long used to their own private echo-chambers, to crony advancement, to eating at the trough of public monies, that they are become torpid & stupid. They *still* can't see it.
First we had otherwise intelligent investors pouring millions into Bush's campaign. One look at Bush & you can see there is no way he can win. He is too soft, timid. This is beside his policies & abilities. Yet they are so used to their puppets, they forget that we vote. They are so used to manipulating media, they forget that we have social media.
They kept hoping for their puppet Bush; when he had to drop, hysteria began to set in. They clung to puppet Rubio, but whoever is advising him is very stupid--they told him to act like Trump. So Rubio acts like a pathetic 6th grader. He loses big in Super Tues. Now they are hysterical. Romney,their big puppet. comes out to attack full force.
What they still don't get is that Trump has a handle on social media & what the voters want - alpha male; they are desperate for jobs & safety. So now they'd rather cross party lines & usher in Clinton, who is friends with the Oligarch.
If they break with their own constituents, they will break the oligarchic-Republican party. Which maybe isn't a bad thing.
1
The more mud you throw at Trump the more folks will come with water and towels to clean him up and make their shiny icon glorious again (at least, in their eyes).
1
The GOP is clueless. It does not matter that Trump is a liar, a con artist, and a show man. They don't care. Their anger has mostly been aimed at Mr. Obama because that is what Fox News and all the GOP pundits tell them. They want an anti candidate. Anti immigrant, anti GOP, anti Obama care, anti Muslim and the list goes on and on. They are like a grizzly bear with a thorn on their foot. If the Senate and the House don't watch it, they will be next. In fact, I think the fall out from Trump and the GOP wis starting now.
One priceless moment.
Mr. Cruz has said repeatedly that he will abolish the IRS. A flat tax will be instituted and the tax return will be reduced to the size of a postcard. But who will process these cards, no matter how small?
`There'll be a little office in the Treasury.'
Let's hope there's room in the budget for a chair and a desk.
Mr. Cruz has said repeatedly that he will abolish the IRS. A flat tax will be instituted and the tax return will be reduced to the size of a postcard. But who will process these cards, no matter how small?
`There'll be a little office in the Treasury.'
Let's hope there's room in the budget for a chair and a desk.
2
It is difficult to find a bigger idiot than Ted Cruz, but if need be, I'm sure the Republicans will come up with someone.
1
How in the world will a debate be held between the nominees of the 2 parties? Not sure that Fox, CNN, MSNBC or any other entity can pull off having one person on a stage and Hillary in a jail cell.
1
Were Trump elected president (and I don't think that's likely, but strange things are happening), he will through his ignorant bullying do something illegal, like ordering the military to engage in war crimes. At which point, Congress will, in one giant bipartisan effort, successfully impeach and convict the idiot, thereby forcing him from office. At which point, the Repuglican cry about the will of the voters being so paramount will be eviscerated.
I mean, if Bill Clinton could get impeached over trying to cover up a tawdry office affair, surely Congress will impeach a man for war crimes.
Anyway, everyone opposed to Trump needs to be more focused on who Trump's running mate will be. You know, like ... Christie?
Just sayin'.
I mean, if Bill Clinton could get impeached over trying to cover up a tawdry office affair, surely Congress will impeach a man for war crimes.
Anyway, everyone opposed to Trump needs to be more focused on who Trump's running mate will be. You know, like ... Christie?
Just sayin'.
3
W wasn't impeached for war crimes.
Bernie and Donald support is a vote for none-of-the-above; tired of the ineffective arrogant bipartisan leadership currently in place the average voter is lashing out, no matter how misguided their support might be. With luck the message will continue to resonate until effective responsible government takes hold. However we could destroy our country in the meantime. As a fiscally responsible libertarian I am not thrilled at the prospect of another 4 years of irresponsible spending on a massive growing government, and unaffordable entitlement programs. But it seems a vote for Hillary is the only way out of the current embarrassment and potential catastrophe of a Donald Trump presidency.
5
I always watch the original video, and they wonder if the NYT (and other so-called experts) I were watching the same thing.
There is no discussion of the massive wins by Trump on Super Tuesday - instead, the NYT and others are dismissive of the voters.
Consider this - in Massachusetts - (which has 'unenrolled' status - in which a voter can then vote in either primary) in this recent primary 20,000 voters left the Democrat party, and 3,500 joined the Republican party. Of course, the NYT doesn't mention that. Remember, that's blue-state Kennedy country.
The contrast between Trump's delivery and the others is painfully obvious - they are the robotic politicians with the same rehearsed slogans - Trump (like it or not) is Trump. Kasich was particularity unimpressive.
Many of the comments by the other candidates had the air of desperation - the last grasp to preserve their viability. Same goes for Romney's remarks - he now whines from the sidelines.
If Trump continues to sweep the primaries - look for the establishment Republicans to begrudgingly accept it - and desperately try to figure out how to keep their jobs.
As far as the NYT and others weighing in on Trump's qualifications - remember their opinion of Dr. C. Everett Koop? (Surgeon General nominee) The New York Times castigated him as “Dr. Unqualified.” The NYT, which initially opposed Dr. Koop’s confirmation in 1981, admitted its errors in judging the doctor too quickly and too harshly in a 1989 editorial opinion.
There is no discussion of the massive wins by Trump on Super Tuesday - instead, the NYT and others are dismissive of the voters.
Consider this - in Massachusetts - (which has 'unenrolled' status - in which a voter can then vote in either primary) in this recent primary 20,000 voters left the Democrat party, and 3,500 joined the Republican party. Of course, the NYT doesn't mention that. Remember, that's blue-state Kennedy country.
The contrast between Trump's delivery and the others is painfully obvious - they are the robotic politicians with the same rehearsed slogans - Trump (like it or not) is Trump. Kasich was particularity unimpressive.
Many of the comments by the other candidates had the air of desperation - the last grasp to preserve their viability. Same goes for Romney's remarks - he now whines from the sidelines.
If Trump continues to sweep the primaries - look for the establishment Republicans to begrudgingly accept it - and desperately try to figure out how to keep their jobs.
As far as the NYT and others weighing in on Trump's qualifications - remember their opinion of Dr. C. Everett Koop? (Surgeon General nominee) The New York Times castigated him as “Dr. Unqualified.” The NYT, which initially opposed Dr. Koop’s confirmation in 1981, admitted its errors in judging the doctor too quickly and too harshly in a 1989 editorial opinion.
How do you know $20K Democrats voters voted for Trump in the MA primary? My understanding is an unenrolled voter is a MA resident who is registered to vote but not a member of a party.
If these boys don't start acting like men, Mom's just going to have to take over. (May not be a bad thing).
3
One of the things I note is that these debates seem aesthetically identical to reality tv: you know, where contestants battle each other and are slowly eliminated in a metaphorical musical chairs.
The American public has gotten used to this type of competition (note the relative ratings) and television loves the return on investment.
And of course, of the entire republican field, who is most experienced with this type of conflict?
The other candidates, by resorting to schoolyard-level taunts, have, unwittingly or not, bought into this perception. And then this links into the perception of success. Mr. Trump has already become an iconic figure in n the cultural pantheon of American tropes ("You're fired!"). And not as a contestant, but as judge, jury, and executioner.
So in this trope, the other candidates are the contestants, vying for approval from the holder of the goods (which is Dt's iconic position in the unconscious minds of many).
As long as the campaign is modeled in this way, Mr. Trump is psychologically positioned to have a great advantage. The other contestants need to change the game if they want to succeed: they will not be able to beat him at something he has already mastered.
The American public has gotten used to this type of competition (note the relative ratings) and television loves the return on investment.
And of course, of the entire republican field, who is most experienced with this type of conflict?
The other candidates, by resorting to schoolyard-level taunts, have, unwittingly or not, bought into this perception. And then this links into the perception of success. Mr. Trump has already become an iconic figure in n the cultural pantheon of American tropes ("You're fired!"). And not as a contestant, but as judge, jury, and executioner.
So in this trope, the other candidates are the contestants, vying for approval from the holder of the goods (which is Dt's iconic position in the unconscious minds of many).
As long as the campaign is modeled in this way, Mr. Trump is psychologically positioned to have a great advantage. The other contestants need to change the game if they want to succeed: they will not be able to beat him at something he has already mastered.
2
If Cruz and Rubio really want to stop Trump then they both should get out of the race and back Kasich. Mr. Kasich was the only one in the group that acted presidential. He's the only one with realistic political and administrative experience. Cruz is scary and Rubio is truly a light weight. The GOP is making a very foolish choice in backing him. Governor Kasich is the only candidate left that truly has a chance of beating Secretary Clinton and if elected President appears to have the intelligence and ability to lead this country effectively.
6
I had to send my teenager upstairs after a little while, I did not want her to see any more of that vulgar display of what passed for a debate. I jest somewhat because she did have to get to bed but I was embarrassed for both of us.
2
March 15th is looming. The Florida primary is the day of reckoning for Rubio. If he does not finish first in his home state not only is his presidential bid over, but his political career is most likely over as well. Should Rubio lose Florida, Trump's assertion might be correct. "He would not get elected dog catcher."
If his intention is to perpetuate a long term career in politics, including a shot at the presidency, Rubio's best option may be to drop out prior to March 15th, and live to fight another day, perhaps in four years.
If his intention is to perpetuate a long term career in politics, including a shot at the presidency, Rubio's best option may be to drop out prior to March 15th, and live to fight another day, perhaps in four years.
1
It's gotten to the point where I can't watch - not the Republican debates themselves, which I stopped watching after the first debacle with Megyn Kelly on Fox, but not even the news about the debates or the Republican candidates themselves. I feel like I need to take an antiemetic every time they mention Trump's name. It's disgraceful. Literally, folks, "What will we tell the children?" I voted for Kasich in early Republican primary voting yesterday, even though I'm an unaffiliated voter, just to vote against Trump (and the other two, but they weren't the reason why I voted in the primary). I don't see how any sensible, patriotic American could vote for the Republican presidential candidate in November based on their conduct so far. Embarrassing for America around the world, humiliating, vulgar, etc.... Can't say enough bad things. Romney did a great job skewering Trump yesterday; I hope it helps.
1
"Mr. Trump looked on with disgust, but as in their 10 previous debates, he seemed impervious and perhaps unstoppable."
Mr. Trump didn't "look on" with disgust he himself was disgusting - as usual. What astonishes me still is that people can't see through his schtick. He boasts that he is not a politician but he is a rascal and a dissembler through and through nonetheless. Americans! Wake up! You're being duped! The media is complicit in every way as they too climbed on his nightmare train of false promise that is roaring across the country picking up sonambulists at every stop. The media however, are very much awake to the oncoming disaster but are too busy feasting on the profits of this circus of the grotesque to do their real job. As the poet says - not with a bang but a whimper.
Mr. Trump didn't "look on" with disgust he himself was disgusting - as usual. What astonishes me still is that people can't see through his schtick. He boasts that he is not a politician but he is a rascal and a dissembler through and through nonetheless. Americans! Wake up! You're being duped! The media is complicit in every way as they too climbed on his nightmare train of false promise that is roaring across the country picking up sonambulists at every stop. The media however, are very much awake to the oncoming disaster but are too busy feasting on the profits of this circus of the grotesque to do their real job. As the poet says - not with a bang but a whimper.
3
Trump (or Drumpf, if you prefer) is disgusting on several levels, but many Republican voters don't care. They're probably not watching these debates and are drawn to Trump because of his celebrity and his "anti-Washington" image.
Mitt Romney was correct, Trump is a phony and a liar, but Trump's supporters don't care. Decades if ineffective leadership by the GOP has left much to their core as an alienated underclass that is venting its displeasure by supporting Trump. His appeal only increases the more he bullies and misbehaves.
The GOP has some real work to do, Trump is only a symptom. It needs to accept climate change as real, develop a alternative regarding health care, deal with the outrageous cost of college, truly address immigration reform, help for veterans, the Middle East, the nation's infrastructure, jobs for Americans ..... the list goes on. It has to broaden its view of key issues beyond Planned Parenthood and gun control.
If Trump is the nominee, he and the GOP will lose to Hillary. (Sorry, Bernie)
If there is a brokered convention, the Trump supporters will rebel and the GOP will lose. This election year has become a forest fire for the Republicans.
At least Mitt Romney and the Republican Party have put some distance between themselves and Trump, but the real task is ahead. The GOP needs a major overhaul.
Mitt Romney was correct, Trump is a phony and a liar, but Trump's supporters don't care. Decades if ineffective leadership by the GOP has left much to their core as an alienated underclass that is venting its displeasure by supporting Trump. His appeal only increases the more he bullies and misbehaves.
The GOP has some real work to do, Trump is only a symptom. It needs to accept climate change as real, develop a alternative regarding health care, deal with the outrageous cost of college, truly address immigration reform, help for veterans, the Middle East, the nation's infrastructure, jobs for Americans ..... the list goes on. It has to broaden its view of key issues beyond Planned Parenthood and gun control.
If Trump is the nominee, he and the GOP will lose to Hillary. (Sorry, Bernie)
If there is a brokered convention, the Trump supporters will rebel and the GOP will lose. This election year has become a forest fire for the Republicans.
At least Mitt Romney and the Republican Party have put some distance between themselves and Trump, but the real task is ahead. The GOP needs a major overhaul.
1
The tidal wave is on the horizon. I would not have believed it. Thought Mr. Trump was going into a tailspin after the 11th debate. Checked the polls this morning and everyone has him winning that debate. Unbelievable. What I believe is happening is that voting America is fed up with Career politicians that have made voting a money making business. Much like an old building that has no more value or use they want it torn down and a new, better, more productive building built in its place. Guess who can do that better than anyone. Trump.
1
RCS,
Newer, better, more productive? By that I take it you mean lost jobs and the failure to turn a profit.
Newer, better, more productive? By that I take it you mean lost jobs and the failure to turn a profit.
2
A big problem for the Republican Party is that they have NO RIGHT to be upset that Trump has Shanghai'd them. They already let the Tea Party Shanghai the Republican led Congress 4 years ago.
You can't have it both ways.
It's not a case of others running it by proxy, everyone smells blood, and there is a free-for-all happening. It's largely a movement of anarchy.
You can't have it both ways.
It's not a case of others running it by proxy, everyone smells blood, and there is a free-for-all happening. It's largely a movement of anarchy.
3
If these boys don't start acting like men, There's going to be a woman in the white house.
1
The last paragraph of this article mentions John Kaisch. All the rest is about the ridiculous back-and-forth of the other three. During these months of the primary season, the media's coverage has seemed more focused on reporting the outlandish and nonsensical and not substantive issues. So, the puerile insults have escalated, and, sadly, the loudest purveyor of nonsense and distorted facts appears to be the most influential. Candidates run negative ads for the same reason. Insults and name-calling and "gotchas" work no matter their truth.
1
Remember how the rest of America laughed at California for electing Ronald Reagan ("B-list actor") and Arnold ("Terminator") as governors? Or Minnesota for electing Jesse "The Body" Ventura?
Look at the farce that the rest of America is putting on now. Isn't it funny (or sad) that these progressive states (by that I don't mean just Dems, as Republicans in these states are forward-looking) are potentially getting their funny credentials beaten by all the crazies who are voting in the South, the Midwest, the Northeast, etc.?
Reagan became the spiritual leader of GOP even from the grave, and Arnold turned out to be a rather effective centrist (esp. compared to his Democratic predecessor).
Look at the farce that the rest of America is putting on now. Isn't it funny (or sad) that these progressive states (by that I don't mean just Dems, as Republicans in these states are forward-looking) are potentially getting their funny credentials beaten by all the crazies who are voting in the South, the Midwest, the Northeast, etc.?
Reagan became the spiritual leader of GOP even from the grave, and Arnold turned out to be a rather effective centrist (esp. compared to his Democratic predecessor).
Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz said that they will support whoever wins the Nomination. That means Trump and only Trump, right? They seemed to have conceded already!
"Senators Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz, fighting for their political lives, relentlessly demeaned and baited Donald J. Trump at Thursday’s debate"?
This seems like a very, very strange way to begin this article and a strange characterization of this so-called debate. Why is the Times (and the media) so enamored of Trump?
Face the obvious fact that glares at us more clearly each and every time these clowns engage in mutual insults: NONE of them is even remotely fit to be president!
This seems like a very, very strange way to begin this article and a strange characterization of this so-called debate. Why is the Times (and the media) so enamored of Trump?
Face the obvious fact that glares at us more clearly each and every time these clowns engage in mutual insults: NONE of them is even remotely fit to be president!
3
"Questioned by the moderators about his past advocacy for torture and for killing the families of terrorists, Mr. Trump stood firm and argued that “we should go tougher than waterboarding.” Pressed about whether military officers would carry out such orders — killing terrorists’ family members would violate the Geneva Conventions — Mr. Trump offered a boast."
“If I say ‘do it,’ they’re going to do it,” he said.
That is not the mentality of a President, that is the mentality of a dictator.
“If I say ‘do it,’ they’re going to do it,” he said.
That is not the mentality of a President, that is the mentality of a dictator.
8
I for one, like millions of my fellow Americans, am simply overjoyed at the long overdue public unmasking of the Republican Party for what it really is: a bigoted, racist, xenophobic, mysogynst, traitorous criminal organization that belongs more in a lunatic asylum than anywhere near the halls of a government they profess so vehemently to hate, much less the White House. Here's hoping for a massive repudiation of this collection of crypto fascist sociopaths at the polls in November, and hopefully the consignment at last of Republican criminals to where they rightfully belong: the ash heap of history and/or a prison cell for their many Cred against the Amerivsn people.
6
I guess Grover Norquist's little friends at the GOP never thought to imagine the new babysitter was going to drown THEM in the bathtub.
12
This presidential election is historic for two reasons:
1) We will elect a women to be President of the United States for the first time and
2) The first recorded penis joke ever made during a presidential debate.
One is brought to you by Democrats, the other by Republicans. Please remember this when you vote for your Congresspersons and Senators in November.
1) We will elect a women to be President of the United States for the first time and
2) The first recorded penis joke ever made during a presidential debate.
One is brought to you by Democrats, the other by Republicans. Please remember this when you vote for your Congresspersons and Senators in November.
13
Doesn't matter. Hillary will be the elected President. The G.O.P has been an embarrassment to America.
8
If Donald Trump is prevented from getting the Republican nomination, wait for him to announce as an independent. After all, his pledge to run as a Republican had an escape clause: he needed to be treated "fairly." His chances of winning as an independent would be diminished, but staying in the race, and the news, could have its attractions.
He could easily say that the opposition of the Republican "establishment" (for example the Romney speech) constitutes unfair treatment, so there is nothing stopping him from running as an independent.
He could easily say that the opposition of the Republican "establishment" (for example the Romney speech) constitutes unfair treatment, so there is nothing stopping him from running as an independent.
4
It was the standard 'character assassination'. Saying " Breathe breathe" tells all viewers that he is angry and passionate when actually all he wants to do is upset the gravy train where both parties, media on both sides and political experts line their own pockets while the country goes deeper and deeper to debt.
Trump is supported by about 50% of the people, while he is opposed by every political entity in the USA. We will see who wins in our democracy!
Trump is supported by about 50% of the people, while he is opposed by every political entity in the USA. We will see who wins in our democracy!
1
The language of civil society and normal journalism are not able to capture the depraved depths to which these candidates have dived. The story here is not what they said, specifically, but the shame they are visiting upon themselves, their families, their philosophical neighbors and, indeed, our country and its democratic processes.
"... Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio Wage Urgent Attacks on Donald Trump ..."
In a drunken barroom melee, are the 'attacks' 'urgent?' No, they are truly dishonorable, indecent and vile. NYT, your reporters are inadvertently dignifying them by using the language of objectivity to try to describe events that do not deserve such kid glove treatment.
I do not intend to become accustomed to this idiocy -- resolve now to VOTE THEM OUT.
"... Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio Wage Urgent Attacks on Donald Trump ..."
In a drunken barroom melee, are the 'attacks' 'urgent?' No, they are truly dishonorable, indecent and vile. NYT, your reporters are inadvertently dignifying them by using the language of objectivity to try to describe events that do not deserve such kid glove treatment.
I do not intend to become accustomed to this idiocy -- resolve now to VOTE THEM OUT.
7
I am giddy over all this republican infighting, I have waited a long time for "the hateful eight" to implode.
2
The Republican Party is making Donald Trump look like the underdog, like a man wrongly besieged, a man you must support if you're a Republican because the party is sadistic to the man. What a turn of events! I for one think that Donald is far better for the Republican Party than Rubio or Cruz. But then, thank my lucky stars, I am not a Republican. I watched these debates, I cringed, I removed myself from the TV to get water and to get my bearings, I returned, I saw it was even worse that when I went to drink the water I didn't need, I exercised, returned, nothing had improved, not the Fox News moderators, not Cruz, who acted as though he is the savior of the Republican Party, not Rubio, who jabbed Trump mercilessly, not Trump who stood like a pillar with an angry face, humiliated and returning insult for insult, not the applauding crowd--it was surreal. But America has always been strident and raucous, its politics has always been nasty and seedy, its cartoons savagely funny, almost since the American experiment started. Trump doesn't need the Republican Party to win its nomination. Now that is sweet in a democracy. Trump threatens the entrenched party system. An upstart, a fiery demagogue and a breezy lightweight about policy says he can be president too. And why not? If George W Bush who took us to Iraq, Reagan who took us to trickle down and Clinton with his shameless womanizing could do it, why not Trump?
1
I've never seen such a sorry spectacle as I did last night from these clowns. Rubio talks about Trump being a scam artist. They're all scam artists appealing to the lowest common denominator in this country - the uneducated, misogynistic, bigoted and racist. Pathetic.
8
It will be interesting - and maybe a little frightening - to see what happens when Trump is made the Republican nominee. Will traditional Republicans break away and form a third party to run their own choice? Who would it be, and how will Republican voters react to what amounts to their own party taking away from them the same voting rights they've been trying to take away from blacks and other minorities all these years? Will they revolt and vote for Trump? Or really revolt and vote for Clinton? Or not vote at all?
American democracy is one ugly creation.
American democracy is one ugly creation.
2
It looks like the Republican party is truly disintegrating.
3
The entire lot is just one big embarrasment.
7
If this election cycle hasn't opened your eyes to the fact the the US is no longer in any way "the leader of the free world," nothing will.
5
Thank you GOP and FOX TV. After a long and busy week I really needed the laughs and the "debate" certainly did the trick. I'm not a fan of so called "reality TV" but last night's show, with it's WWF type back drop and cartoonish characters, certainly provided the perfect tonic for me.
3
A "debate"? Seriously???
2
After attending (watching and listening to) eleven debates on the Republican side of the aisle, it appears, after last night's bullfight, no torero was gored and all the bulls - aka "toast" - lived to engage each other again on the riotous debate stage of American political combat - laughingstock of the world. No question that Rubio and Cruz will soon be also-rans, forever blowing bubbles, pretty bubbles. That Kasich, a nice guy who KNEW and worked with Ronald Reagan, is out of the running even though he is sitting Governor of Ohio; knowing and working with the Teflon Ronnie doesn't cut the mustard today. Who cares? And it looks, alas, like Donald Trump has a lock on the RNC nomination, unless strange and unforeseen events occur within the coming five months before the nominee is crowned by the Reince Priebus and money-bags to run against Hillary Clinton (or whomever the Democratic candidate may be). Mitt Romney put in his two cents against Trump yesterday. Do you remember Trump's $1,000 a plate birthday bash, 17 April 2012 for Mitt and Ann Romney, with the strangest cake ever seen? Ann Romney astride her dressage horse, Rafalca, (in frosting) on top of the cake? The frosting on the "turf" of the cake was bright easter bunny grass green and the lady and her horse Rafalca, were , one would guess, edible., and perhaps confected of chocolate.
2
Let's face it, the government drank too much Tea, and now it's constipated. Nothing passes. We have a bunch of children who refuse to do their homework, despite being paid six figure salaries to do it.
President Drumpf will learn civics while we watch. See what happens when he tries to fire the Speaker of the House or calls Angela Merkel some degrading name. Se what happens when the clueless businessman - entertainer finds out the House and Senate have to approve his "great legislation."
President Drumpf will learn civics while we watch. See what happens when he tries to fire the Speaker of the House or calls Angela Merkel some degrading name. Se what happens when the clueless businessman - entertainer finds out the House and Senate have to approve his "great legislation."
3
Jim Webb just said on Morning Joe that he would never vote for Hillary Clinton (though he declined to say why), and that he "wasn't sure" if he'd support Donald Trump, and that Trump supporters weren't motivated by racism and xenophobia. Really, Jimmy, how bitter can you be?
He needs to see a neuropsychologist; I suspect early-onset dementia. When Scarborough said there were "a lot of people" online hoping he'd run as a third-party candidate, the smile on his face was priceless. "Oh, hush, Joey! You're such a tease! … Really? Lemme see."
Politicians are amazing.
As for the debate, what's the point of having one if 1) no one watches and 2) the people who do watch aren't persuaded to change their minds even after it's revealed to them that their preferred candidate is a mindless blowhard? If you can't get people to change their minds about a policy-less charlatan, it's time to get a new people.
Half the nation's gone off the deep end.
He needs to see a neuropsychologist; I suspect early-onset dementia. When Scarborough said there were "a lot of people" online hoping he'd run as a third-party candidate, the smile on his face was priceless. "Oh, hush, Joey! You're such a tease! … Really? Lemme see."
Politicians are amazing.
As for the debate, what's the point of having one if 1) no one watches and 2) the people who do watch aren't persuaded to change their minds even after it's revealed to them that their preferred candidate is a mindless blowhard? If you can't get people to change their minds about a policy-less charlatan, it's time to get a new people.
Half the nation's gone off the deep end.
4
The GOP elites (leaders and funders) just don't get it. The Republican mainstream is not so much behind Trump as they are against the direction the party has taken as represented by Cruz (consistently extreme right) and Rubio (unknown but seems to just follow the leaders). The mainstream continues to have fundamentally fiscally conservative views, but a broader view on social issues. The party is not representing them as it was hijacked by the extremists: wealthy funders, Tea Party, and the Religious Right.
The rejection of the party's candidates in favor of Trump is about that disconnect. The issue is less pronounced on the Democratic side, but Sanders is probably doing the same thing. The electorate would really like a fresh face that represents their views and inspires them. Since both parties did not come up with any inspiring alternatives, what we see is what we get.
The rejection of the party's candidates in favor of Trump is about that disconnect. The issue is less pronounced on the Democratic side, but Sanders is probably doing the same thing. The electorate would really like a fresh face that represents their views and inspires them. Since both parties did not come up with any inspiring alternatives, what we see is what we get.
1
Why is there no interview series of the people Trump has ruined through his multiple bankruptcies, and from the people of the city he helped ruin, Atlantic City?
2
It was a coordinated attack between the Fox Chanel, and Marco Rubio, something that was in evidence in relation to the infamous Trump University.
I am not a defender of Donald Trump, but if he is unfit to be President of the US because of Trump University , so are Rubio and Cruz as both of them approved Federal funds for private universities of similar standards.
And then you have this flexibility business. Do we want to have some one like Cruz who has made a vow of inflexibility to have his hands on the nuclear button? Or someone like Rubio who calls foreign leader gangsters in order to make his patrons happy?
I am not a defender of Donald Trump, but if he is unfit to be President of the US because of Trump University , so are Rubio and Cruz as both of them approved Federal funds for private universities of similar standards.
And then you have this flexibility business. Do we want to have some one like Cruz who has made a vow of inflexibility to have his hands on the nuclear button? Or someone like Rubio who calls foreign leader gangsters in order to make his patrons happy?
65
I get a kick out of Rubio and Cruz calling the GOP the party of Reagan and/or Lincoln . Compared to these two " dismantle the government " tea party fanatics, Reagan would have been a socialist liberal commie. Lord knows what they would have said about President Lincoln.
3
Meanwhile, the Democrats are leaning toward the candidate that nobody trusts (with good reason), over the one whose pie-in-the-sky promises will never get done.
So. Do you have any other suggestions?--Besides, the Democrat candidates look NOTHING like this fiasco!!!
5
Other countries have single payer health care, affordable education, a living wage etc. Why can't the U.S. implement these things?
4
No I don't have a suggestion, at least nothing realistic. Which is why this race depresses me. And you're right, the Democratic race is much different, but to me the prospects are equally bleak. If any good comes out of this, it will be to demonstrate that the current system is broken and in dire need of reform. There must be a better way.
Last night's CNN post debate coverage featured a straw poll of Michigan GOP rank and file. When asked who they were likely to vote for the entire room raised their hands for Kasich. Not one of the pundits and experts made any further mention of it. I guess that's because watching children bully and taunt each other is a better driver of the news cycle than the public's tiring of it all and looking for a serious alternative to the madness.
The Times coverage gave Kasich one paragraph at the end of its article, choosing instead to focus on penis size and yoga jokes. The New York Times? Shame on you all.
The Times coverage gave Kasich one paragraph at the end of its article, choosing instead to focus on penis size and yoga jokes. The New York Times? Shame on you all.
5
The American media has just become an appendage run at the whim of their corporate masters. MSNBC and their recent purges of anyone that questions those connections is a perfect case in point. Journalism is a four letter word where the anchors naively think they have control of their stories. All of them are controlled by those in the ivory tower.
It is all about money, ratings and now primarily entertainment. NEWS? Are you kidding me?
It is all about money, ratings and now primarily entertainment. NEWS? Are you kidding me?
2
The governor doesn't belong in this campaign. His time has passed. He goes
all the way back to Reagan, an elder statesman who might be someone to call not and then as a sounding board. But as president? He would have to stay awake all day. Note that only one remark was tossed over to him last night. It was by Trump who said something about taking money and mentioned Rubio and Cruz "but not the Governor." Otherwise, the three main candidates completely ignored Kasich.
all the way back to Reagan, an elder statesman who might be someone to call not and then as a sounding board. But as president? He would have to stay awake all day. Note that only one remark was tossed over to him last night. It was by Trump who said something about taking money and mentioned Rubio and Cruz "but not the Governor." Otherwise, the three main candidates completely ignored Kasich.
John, I respected your opinion until you mentioned Kasich having to stay awake all day. That was just Trumpish. It's not about the other three candidates ignoring Kasich, its about who can be a competent president. After everything we have witnessed from the GOP these past months, can any of the other three realistically assume that mantle?
Since I mentioned Trump, it might be a good time to mention that the Republican party comprises twenty-five percent of the voting populace. That means his support is roughly one in ten and I would speculate that a number of Democrats voted for him purposely in those states where crossover voting is possible. Ted Cruz' support on a national scale is even weaker and he isn't getting the crossover vote.
As for Rubio, he lost his respectability with the middle when he decided to get into the mud with Trump. The straw pole last night even had people saying as much. The GOP has to have the center to win.
I'm originally from the Midwest and Kasich can gain strength there and in the Eastern States as well. That trend is borne out by his showings in Vermont, Massachusetts and Virginia. Those weren't mentioned much in the media either.
If the Republican party wants to survive and be relevant after November, it had better pray that John Kasich pulls it out of the slop.
Thanks for the comment.
Since I mentioned Trump, it might be a good time to mention that the Republican party comprises twenty-five percent of the voting populace. That means his support is roughly one in ten and I would speculate that a number of Democrats voted for him purposely in those states where crossover voting is possible. Ted Cruz' support on a national scale is even weaker and he isn't getting the crossover vote.
As for Rubio, he lost his respectability with the middle when he decided to get into the mud with Trump. The straw pole last night even had people saying as much. The GOP has to have the center to win.
I'm originally from the Midwest and Kasich can gain strength there and in the Eastern States as well. That trend is borne out by his showings in Vermont, Massachusetts and Virginia. Those weren't mentioned much in the media either.
If the Republican party wants to survive and be relevant after November, it had better pray that John Kasich pulls it out of the slop.
Thanks for the comment.
The 3 stooges were on display again for the whole world to see. Rubio, Trump, Cruz: all busy calling each other names. Kasich has his shortcomings but at least he seemed like he was staying above the juvenile antics of these 3 idiots.
5
The candidates were bad enough but the audience was worse. Cheering, jeering and catcalling after almost every remark. These are contestants for the Presidency not for the title of Trivia Champion at the local bar. Maybe these bozos were paid supporters and they were doing what they were paid to do. They served only to underscore the low degree to which the debates have sunk.
Don't the tv people have the ability to delay the feed so they can bleep out the vulgarities?
Mr. Kasich seemed like the only rational one. But he can't be that rational. Because the only option for a rational candidate with any dignity would have been to walk off the stage in disgust.
Don't the tv people have the ability to delay the feed so they can bleep out the vulgarities?
Mr. Kasich seemed like the only rational one. But he can't be that rational. Because the only option for a rational candidate with any dignity would have been to walk off the stage in disgust.
7
Never seen that behavior at pub trivia. No, I think if that happened, we would call it disgraceful.
Kasich is super conservative. That no one knows anything about him is the only reason he's still in it. With his abortion stance based on what he's done in Ohio, the liberals will eat him alive should he become the nominee.
Kasich is super conservative. That no one knows anything about him is the only reason he's still in it. With his abortion stance based on what he's done in Ohio, the liberals will eat him alive should he become the nominee.
2
Cruz and Rubio are nothing more than empty suit politicians; this country has been sliding down hill for years because of politicians -- who care only about getting votes and who will lie through the skin of their teeth to get that vote.
Trump - he tells it like it is; he is the only person strong enough to bring American back on the right path.
Trump - he tells it like it is; he is the only person strong enough to bring American back on the right path.
3
Words and actions are two different things. When he is telling things like it is, the next day the things could be the exact opposite. He has no coherency to his thoughts or ideas whatsoever. To say the least, the ultimate in an unpredictable loose cannon.
3
You have me until the second paragraph. You are scary.
2
That path being torture; interning 11 million men, women and children; liking Putin; building a trillion dollar wall; religious discrimination against all Muslims; and other bigoted, racist, and misogynistic policies? That is only "telling it like it is" if you are a member of KKK or a fascist dictatorship.
4
For all the people out there confused on the matter let me try to clear some things up. Donald Trump is not a true conservative. He has given thousands of dollars to liberal democrats who have made our country the way it is today. Mr Trump has voted democrat most of his life and now all of a sudden he is acting like a conservative when in fact he is a leftist. If Mr Trump somehow manages to win the nomination he will make a 180 and change his views to a more moderate stance to broaden his foundation. To his credit he does know how to play the game, but this game might cost us our country's future
Don't you realize that is why more voters are supporting him?They are ignoring his antics, because they are not taking his outrageous comments seriously, and they hear the parts about preventing corporations from going overseas, health care for all, improving trade, etc. They believe that he will do these things, which of course he won't, even if elected. But he is actually more reasonable than Cruzio. Not that I would vote for him, but actually would prefer him to Cruzio.
1
Trump's bragging about his endowment was surely one of the lowest moments in modern presidential campaign history.
I know a candidate's background is vetted invasively. But that was T.M.I.
I know a candidate's background is vetted invasively. But that was T.M.I.
2
Want a counterpoint? Here's one.
As a liberal Democrat myself, I was THRILLED to see the insanity that went on last night in the Republican debate. It was a delight in a morbid sort-of way.
Why?
Because this planet, our species, and the dozen-or-so major global issues we face are so pressing that any president whom we elect will need every possible advantage that she or he can have to cope with the problems at hand.
And, who has that "hit the decks running" expertise?
Hillary Clinton, of course! She is the consummate candidate for the crises we face, and there is no doubt she will do a great job. And, as a silver lining, we won't have to listen to any juvenile mudslinging about the size of her hands!!
I am still in disbelief that that type of rhetoric really just happened. For president? Really??
Mrs. Clinton is mature, experienced, sincere and perfectly capable. She will make a terrific president!
God help those four gentlemen as they reflect on themselves, their behavior, and their party. It was like watching four diseased hominids fighting for table scraps at the Central Park city zoo!
You go, Hillary!!!
As a liberal Democrat myself, I was THRILLED to see the insanity that went on last night in the Republican debate. It was a delight in a morbid sort-of way.
Why?
Because this planet, our species, and the dozen-or-so major global issues we face are so pressing that any president whom we elect will need every possible advantage that she or he can have to cope with the problems at hand.
And, who has that "hit the decks running" expertise?
Hillary Clinton, of course! She is the consummate candidate for the crises we face, and there is no doubt she will do a great job. And, as a silver lining, we won't have to listen to any juvenile mudslinging about the size of her hands!!
I am still in disbelief that that type of rhetoric really just happened. For president? Really??
Mrs. Clinton is mature, experienced, sincere and perfectly capable. She will make a terrific president!
God help those four gentlemen as they reflect on themselves, their behavior, and their party. It was like watching four diseased hominids fighting for table scraps at the Central Park city zoo!
You go, Hillary!!!
14
Yep, and as Bernie has stated several times, the backroom boys at Citibank, Goldman Sachs and others of their ilk, will do their best to make sure she is the choice.
5
Trump thrives on personsl attacks whether he is delivering them, or on the receiving end. Anyone else would feel shamed or shocked by these attacks. However, Trump Is a psychopath and therefore impervious to pain. Psychopaths have only one MO and that is power over others. It especially gives them pleasure to cause pain. Since they lack empathy, they do not experience the pain that others feel at their hands. This is why some states do not allow psychopaths to get parole. Psychopaths know that lying works. The average person allows the lies to contInue, especially the more outrageous lies because the psychopath seems so convincing in spite of the facts. This is the reason the Republican leaders failed to stop Trump when they could. His lies were so outrageous they ignored him. All psychopaths need to be stopped immediately or they will continue their devastating tactics destroying everyone in their path.
2
It appears that the two candidates with the highest negatives will get the nominations and be running for office.
Between those two there is little to inspire voters.
This has not been a banner year for getting out the vote and that means a Republican win.
If you thought the Patriot act was something get ready for ''Donald Decrees''.
Between those two there is little to inspire voters.
This has not been a banner year for getting out the vote and that means a Republican win.
If you thought the Patriot act was something get ready for ''Donald Decrees''.
2
What I find interesting about the party that professes belief in freedom above all and the voice of the people, and the network that claims to be 'fair and balanced' promoting a we report 'you decide' tag line is that they have conspired against just those attributes. The Republican leadership and Fox News clearly conspired to attack Mr. Trump. They have achieved the nearly impossible task of making Mr Trump sympathetic (a man clearly unfit to hold political office at any level in a fair and just society).
They had a joint objective in the debate. They obviously did much more research going back much further to try to find inaccuracies, inconsistencies and embarrassing quotes and videos presenting them in slide show format for emphasis. They attempted to bully Mr trump into answering questions how they wanted them. Why not ask Mr Rubio and Mr Cruz to release off-the-record comments they have made to 'news' agencies like Fox news themselves? Why not press the other candidates to release their speeches to wealthy donors and Wall Street institutions?
I suppose we have gone over the edge in political 'news' and 'reporting' and there may sadly be no return, but it would be nice to hear more from the Ted Koppels of the world (while not perfect) standing up to those who have done no less than destroy a key component to democracy and our government.
In a year of the Oscar being awarded to a movie about excellent reporting, can we not have a come back? We need one.
They had a joint objective in the debate. They obviously did much more research going back much further to try to find inaccuracies, inconsistencies and embarrassing quotes and videos presenting them in slide show format for emphasis. They attempted to bully Mr trump into answering questions how they wanted them. Why not ask Mr Rubio and Mr Cruz to release off-the-record comments they have made to 'news' agencies like Fox news themselves? Why not press the other candidates to release their speeches to wealthy donors and Wall Street institutions?
I suppose we have gone over the edge in political 'news' and 'reporting' and there may sadly be no return, but it would be nice to hear more from the Ted Koppels of the world (while not perfect) standing up to those who have done no less than destroy a key component to democracy and our government.
In a year of the Oscar being awarded to a movie about excellent reporting, can we not have a come back? We need one.
You Americans should realise that you are lucky to have had Obama and have Sanders. The Republicans will have to destroy themselves as they are, perhaps recrudesce with a new Lincoln or Eisenhower
Shame on your politics
Shame on your politics
11
Many of us are deeply ashamed of what is happening here.
4
And yet they all say that they will vote for him if he's the nominee? This should remove any remaining doubt in anyone's mind about republican allegiance: It is CLEARLY party over nation.
13
My god, has the Republican party come to this? I will vote for any Democrat any day over these 6th grade jokesters.
8
Sadly even this Republican has to agree with you.
3
The Republican Party is getting exactly what they deserve after 7 years of obstruction.
4
It's more than only 7 years of obstruction...
2
The proverbial parent to the proverbial child: "You too can be president!" After a President Trump, the smart child's response is likely to be, "Aaaaaaargh!"
[This just in "Trump gives new meaning to the phrase: ANYBODY can be president."]
[This just in "Trump gives new meaning to the phrase: ANYBODY can be president."]
2
The GOP has brought this upon themselves, but unfortunately, on the nation as well. Their complete obstructionism over seven years of Obama's presidency, now being capped off with an eighth year of brazen anti-Constitutional refusal to consider any Supreme Court nomination that he will make, has made it clear that they are unfit to govern. It's hard to imagine, but Donald Trump is not even close to being the most dangerous of their remaining aspirants to the highest office in the country and, arguably, the most important elected official in the world.
It is disgusting to hear Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz claim their lineage to Abraham Lincoln, who stood for everything that they and their party are not. As has been often observed, the racism that was once embraced by Southern Democrats in response to Lincoln's legacy has long since migrated to the GOP. Anybody who doubts that racism is at the core of the hatred of Obama by many of the GOP's base has not been watching.
The next few weeks of the GOP primaries will be probably be compelling watching, assuming that you like blood and gore in horror movies. But the real horror will occur if the nation elects any one of the GOP presidential candidates. Our presidents have lately gotten into the habit asking God to bless America to close their their speeches. It would take more than God's blessing to save us from a Republican president.
It is disgusting to hear Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz claim their lineage to Abraham Lincoln, who stood for everything that they and their party are not. As has been often observed, the racism that was once embraced by Southern Democrats in response to Lincoln's legacy has long since migrated to the GOP. Anybody who doubts that racism is at the core of the hatred of Obama by many of the GOP's base has not been watching.
The next few weeks of the GOP primaries will be probably be compelling watching, assuming that you like blood and gore in horror movies. But the real horror will occur if the nation elects any one of the GOP presidential candidates. Our presidents have lately gotten into the habit asking God to bless America to close their their speeches. It would take more than God's blessing to save us from a Republican president.
5
Republicans often refer to themselves as "the party of Lincoln and Reagan". It's doubtful that an Abraham Lincoln would be a Republican today, and even Ronald Reagan would not be a successful Republican candidate by 2016 standards.
2
Strangely, I am starting to feel like myself and others like me will soon be classed as Edelweiss Pirates, and treated accordingly ...........
I wish I had thought of this remark about Trump: Donald Trump is every student who has not read the book he was assigned and then gets called upon by the teacher to explain the assignment.
3
Unimpressed with the GOP candidates? Trump Cruz and Rubio are all running about even or slightly ahead of Hillary in national polls.
1
"Every nation gets the government it deserves."
If these candidates are the best that America has to offer, then we deserve to be in decline.
If these candidates are the best that America has to offer, then we deserve to be in decline.
4
You have been that way since the Reagan years. The trouble is while it has been happening right in front of you you have not bothered taking any notice.
1
It's gratifying to see this most Unchristian of political parties implode as a result of its own cultivation of intolerance and contempt for much of the country, for if ever a political party needed an overhaul, a new rebirth this is it. But the frightening thought remains that one of these candidates could still be our next president. As upset as I am with the people who vote for this party, I am equally upset with indifferent Democrats who stay home on election day.
7
Go Trump!. I am looking forward to Trump becoming president and Repubicans controlling congress.
2
Trump certainly needs more training with his forensics skills among other things, to say the least.
Kasich has perhaps the best policy foundations, but is unfortunately tainted by his party dogma, and has a low energy threshold.
Cruz quips and has good debate skills, but an abominable personality and general untrustworthiness.
Rubio still has maturity issues, loses his cool and seems weak and petty.
Unfortunately, with the possible exception of Trump, all are stuck in the mold of their party ideology and none in the group including Trump are ready to lead the country.
Americans have run out of options with Republicans.
Kasich has perhaps the best policy foundations, but is unfortunately tainted by his party dogma, and has a low energy threshold.
Cruz quips and has good debate skills, but an abominable personality and general untrustworthiness.
Rubio still has maturity issues, loses his cool and seems weak and petty.
Unfortunately, with the possible exception of Trump, all are stuck in the mold of their party ideology and none in the group including Trump are ready to lead the country.
Americans have run out of options with Republicans.
4
The few minutes of this so-called debate that I could stand to watch were appalling.
Not one of these candidates is suitable to be the President of the United States of America. They should not even be class president with their schoolyard taunts. This is childish; it is offensive; and it is certainly not about policies.
Any of these people would be a terrible embarrassment to the country, whether it is in the White House or representing the nation abroad.
The Republican Party is dying with a whimper and insults.
Not one of these candidates is suitable to be the President of the United States of America. They should not even be class president with their schoolyard taunts. This is childish; it is offensive; and it is certainly not about policies.
Any of these people would be a terrible embarrassment to the country, whether it is in the White House or representing the nation abroad.
The Republican Party is dying with a whimper and insults.
5
It truly is humorous when Rubio invokes the names of Lincoln and Reagan and the Republican party (that neither man would recognize today, and Mr. Lincoln would with absolute certainty disavow) in his attempts to turn the tide of support "his" Republican party has for Trump and not for him. Why, then, if all boats don't rise in a political tide, do Republicans still hold to the trope that all people reap the benefit of a rising economic tide?
It has become obvious, and to Republicans it should be painfully so, (that its anti- stance toward anyone not Caucasion and Christian and against everything that education, science and especially scientific research has revealed) the party has a yuge problem with math. It's core is shrinking...numerically, educationally, intellectually...and this core has found its pied piper.
The GOP should cut its losses. Tell Trump to play on, and his supporters to be gone and good riddance, and start over afresh. Trump can't win the election as a Republican, and he most certainly will not if forcibly ejected. Lick your wounds and regroup. Put forth a true moderate (if you can find one) while accepting that you cannot win this year; work with Obama to replace Scalia, as is your duty as majority of the Senate; and truly open your party to the tide of changing humanity in this nation.
Rock/Republican Party/Hard Place.
It has become obvious, and to Republicans it should be painfully so, (that its anti- stance toward anyone not Caucasion and Christian and against everything that education, science and especially scientific research has revealed) the party has a yuge problem with math. It's core is shrinking...numerically, educationally, intellectually...and this core has found its pied piper.
The GOP should cut its losses. Tell Trump to play on, and his supporters to be gone and good riddance, and start over afresh. Trump can't win the election as a Republican, and he most certainly will not if forcibly ejected. Lick your wounds and regroup. Put forth a true moderate (if you can find one) while accepting that you cannot win this year; work with Obama to replace Scalia, as is your duty as majority of the Senate; and truly open your party to the tide of changing humanity in this nation.
Rock/Republican Party/Hard Place.
6
Why did no one, not Cruz, Kasich or Rubio, or any of the moderators mention Trump's tax returns?
3
For Americans, information of all kinds is limited to length of twitter; we are board with any substance; we resort to one-liners to sum up the news cycle; we need to move to the next one minute in case we miss something. New broadcasts are entertainment segments, with weather and sports the highlights. So too, political debates have become entertainment platforms. The shock here is that governing matters and insults and one-liners are not in the best interest of America.
How can any reasonable, thoughtful Republican watch that debate last night and not walk away as a Kasich supporter? Oh, right.
3
What I wonder is whether or not the Donald will run as an independent if the Republican party won't support his nomination. I can't see him shutting his tent down and walking quietly away. The Republican party has created its own demise, or at least the greatest challenge to its existence since, well, a long, long time.
1
The arrogance, ignorance, and self-aggrandizing condescension that left the GOP plutocrats so surprised at Romney's defeat also accounts for their failure to understand the appeal of this populist bully until it is too late to stop him. GOP voters are apparently more moved by class rage, racism and xenophobia than they are by ideological purity--economic or evangelical. The donor class is now left with truly C-list candidates, lacking in stature, experience and--now--dignity. It matters not a whit that Trump is not a "true conservative" and he knows it--hence the effective hostile takeover of the party.
4
The end result of the debate was to illustrate clearly and forever the true and exact meaning of the word "crude".....
4
How is it democracy when voters are made to select from a handful of flawed candidates? We need to reform the system that brings candidates so clearly unqualified so close to the Presidency.
4
Either that, or we need better candidates.
1
Set aside Trump's reply implying genitals. Don't you think that Marco Rubio's attack saying Trump has small hands; is completely weird?
They are supposed to be campaigning to be the US president.
In the campaign rallies and in the televised debate, Rubio is accusing Trump of having small hands?
Wow, that one came for Cuckoo Land.
So what if it is true and so what if it is not true? Since when did the size of a candidate's hands matter in a US presidential election?
This must be the result of Rubio listening to the advice of lousy overpaid "campaign consultants" who tell him to adopt all sorts of gutter behavior.
Has Rubio become insane? This is not good for his image. He is supposed to look presidential. He only won 1 miserable state. Soon Rubio will be flushed down the toilet.
They are supposed to be campaigning to be the US president.
In the campaign rallies and in the televised debate, Rubio is accusing Trump of having small hands?
Wow, that one came for Cuckoo Land.
So what if it is true and so what if it is not true? Since when did the size of a candidate's hands matter in a US presidential election?
This must be the result of Rubio listening to the advice of lousy overpaid "campaign consultants" who tell him to adopt all sorts of gutter behavior.
Has Rubio become insane? This is not good for his image. He is supposed to look presidential. He only won 1 miserable state. Soon Rubio will be flushed down the toilet.
1
It's kind of funny seeing the one percent crowd destroy each other
7
It would probably be funnier if it were certain that one of them wouldn't end up being elected.
2
Maybe we need to take the long view, regarding Trump. Germany elected Hitler, was demolished militarily and rebuilt as a strong, economically vibrant, non-militarist and cosmopolitan society, with a high standard of living and attention to environmental stewardship.
Germany didn't exactly "elect" Hitler. They didn't have much choice in the matter. There's a difference.
Those who Trump's brown shirts would come for first would rather not take the long view. It takes a lot of privilege to express the view that you expressed.
3
At some point, the problem isn't the candidates, it's the electorate voting for those candidates. There is a record turnout of Republican voters, there are even Democrats switching party to vote for these bozos. And there is a corresponding drop in Democratic turnout. America will get the leader it deserves.
4
That party-switching is because of contempt for Hillary. If the media gets behind Sanders like it genuflects before Hillary, she'll be all gone and the Democrats can work on getting their party back from the DNC.
2
Donald Trump's children are grown. But, how do Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz go home to their own children and explain to them how they behave. What role models are they for them? Would they be for the rest of us?
8
Good point. I feel sorry for Rubio's children and I fear for Cruz's daughters. Rubio is stupid but Cruz is truly evil.
2
What a humiliating performance.
6
Cruz and Rubio are both as buffoonish and dangerous as Trump
9
I am absolutely appalled by FoxNews. Instead of being impartial hosts of a political debate Megan Kelly and Fox joined the debate. I sat in disbelief as Ms. Kelly introduced “graphics” clearly prepared well in advance of the debate to attack the credibility of one candidate.
Please note that I am not naming the candidate attacked by Ms. Kelly. It doesn’t matter. What matter is that a news organization hosting a political debate would select a single candidate and prepare well in advance to attack him. All four candidates on that stage could be cited for inconsistencies in things they have previously stated yet Fox chose to focus on only one. Where were the pre-prepared "graphics" for the other candidates?
One would hope a news organization hosting a national political debate would be even handed and stay above the fray. Instead Ms. Kelly and FoxNews chose to promote their own political agenda rather than let the candidates promote their own.
The republican led 114th congress is an embarrassment to our country and to the republican party. Clearly they fear a candidate who, if elected, may not tow the outdated and failing party line. Apparently, the only success they can claim is their success in influencing FoxNews.
Shame on you Megan Kelly and FoxNews.
Please note that I am not naming the candidate attacked by Ms. Kelly. It doesn’t matter. What matter is that a news organization hosting a political debate would select a single candidate and prepare well in advance to attack him. All four candidates on that stage could be cited for inconsistencies in things they have previously stated yet Fox chose to focus on only one. Where were the pre-prepared "graphics" for the other candidates?
One would hope a news organization hosting a national political debate would be even handed and stay above the fray. Instead Ms. Kelly and FoxNews chose to promote their own political agenda rather than let the candidates promote their own.
The republican led 114th congress is an embarrassment to our country and to the republican party. Clearly they fear a candidate who, if elected, may not tow the outdated and failing party line. Apparently, the only success they can claim is their success in influencing FoxNews.
Shame on you Megan Kelly and FoxNews.
4
You do know that it is Faux News right?
2
Your first mistake is thinking of Fox News as a "news organization".
5
Murdoch announced he was through with Rubio, that he wanted a candidate they could push. This from a "news organization". Laughable.
Let's deport Murdoch- his Lie Machine has been a disaster.
Let's deport Murdoch- his Lie Machine has been a disaster.
2
All of the remaining Republican candidates have pledged to support an aspiring fascist dictator, if it comes to that. Trump last night says that he expects the military to carry out whatever orders he gives, international agreements and the Constitution be damned. Those are not the words of democracy. Is there anything more anyone needs to know about the Republican Party at this time? Unless and until they cleanse this rot that they have spent the past 50 years building, they are unfit for civil society.
5
Candidates: The issues? What about the [any] issues?
3
A billionaire has an innate advantage over all others as a Republican candidate: money is the party's true core value.
Bush, Romney, and now Trump.
Gore, Obama, Clinton, Sanders.
If one thinks political leadership and necessary presidential character is shown in business success, alone, then the road ahead for Republicans will continue on as it has--- to failure.
Note the significant difference in life experience and the issues that have defined them among the four Democrats, above.
The choices couldn't be clearer.
Bush, Romney, and now Trump.
Gore, Obama, Clinton, Sanders.
If one thinks political leadership and necessary presidential character is shown in business success, alone, then the road ahead for Republicans will continue on as it has--- to failure.
Note the significant difference in life experience and the issues that have defined them among the four Democrats, above.
The choices couldn't be clearer.
3
Same scripts, same incessant puerile sniping in the weeds, same lack of substance. Nothing has changed except the diminished number of hangers on.
Rubio is now the default establishment favorite. Cruz is still belligerently wearing the same hair shirt. Kasich continues to be the also ran who plays the adult in the room and touts his insider record.
The real momentum undisputedly remains with Trump. Going forward the insider core of the Republican Party will certainly intensify its effort to damage control the party’s own obvious unravelling by trying to obliterate the Donald before the nominating convention.
This desperate effort will have exactly the opposite effect by exponentially strengthening Trump’s anti-establishment credentials while simultaneously accumulating the very fodder that will insure their defeat at the polls in November.
You reap what you sow.
Rubio is now the default establishment favorite. Cruz is still belligerently wearing the same hair shirt. Kasich continues to be the also ran who plays the adult in the room and touts his insider record.
The real momentum undisputedly remains with Trump. Going forward the insider core of the Republican Party will certainly intensify its effort to damage control the party’s own obvious unravelling by trying to obliterate the Donald before the nominating convention.
This desperate effort will have exactly the opposite effect by exponentially strengthening Trump’s anti-establishment credentials while simultaneously accumulating the very fodder that will insure their defeat at the polls in November.
You reap what you sow.
4
John Kasich-- the only one on the stage worthy of the Presidency.
3
Really? He's for voter suppression and against abortion.
9
Problems with Gay Rights too.
4
What's funny is that these "debates" are being held on pay TV!! They are not on the regular (local) broadcast channels, showing that the media have co-opted the "democratic" process of electing our President.
Bread and circuses for the masses, and you have to pay to see the circus. What a joke.
Bread and circuses for the masses, and you have to pay to see the circus. What a joke.
5
Move over Ringling Brothers!
You've been replaced as the "Greatest Show on Earth!".
You've been replaced as the "Greatest Show on Earth!".
2
Parlay this debate with Mitt Romney's ridiculous speech yesterday afternoon and I think we just watched the Republican Party commit suicide on national TV.
7
"all of Mr. Trump’s rivals on stage indicated that they would support him if he became the Republican nominee."
Tells us all we need to know about Republicans, scary huh?
Tells us all we need to know about Republicans, scary huh?
6
After reading all the responses what I don't understand is why not John Kasich? He has not acted like a juvenile and he has real solutions and used those solutions in Ohio to make Ohio work after it was broken. He was re elected by a landslide, has experience balancing a budget and can work together with others to get done what is in the best interest of the people he serves. He won't run from challenges nor will he resort to name calling. He has stood up in all the debates and answered with solutions. Why are we talking about everyone else and leaving out the only one with the right message. It feel like we are all letting anger guide our direction. We have the chance to make this country work and we aren't able to work together to do that. We, the voters need to change what we respond to. If we keep responding to insults and fighting over who is the best one to screw the GOP we are going to screw ourselves. That is what WE are doing. We drive the media to talk about what they think we want to hear. I am sick of hearing Trump and other making fun of body parts and if I hear the word "disgusting" as an answer to anything one more time I am going to stop watching. Please hear this. We need to change then "they" meaning the politicians and the media will change. We need to demand really answers and real solutions. We need to ask to hear that and get mad when so much time is spent playing and replaying the little hands videos. I mean really...who cares?
Congratulations Dr Frankenstein. The supreme irony of watching establishment Republicans imploring voters to ignore the bluster and incoherence of Donald Trump and instead parse his record of lies, half truths and fictions and ignore the attraction of his personality and claims is a long time coming. Trump is nothing short of the inevitable result of the GOP's 35 year experiment with ignoring facts in favor of a disingenuous and manipulative mix of lies, propaganda and base stupidity. 15 debates in and still no rational discussion regarding climate change, race relations, Wall St regulations, structural unemployment, health care. The same discredited approach to reducing taxes on the wealthy, dismantling environmental regulation, building the military and fealty to corporations and banks which have brought us to the sorry state we are in now. The same fairy tale about American exceptionalism and opportunity when the actual facts show an underachieving educational system, expensive non inclusive health care and a crumbling infrastructure. Trump simply represents the GOP philosophy writ large---an obsession with power, arrogance, ignorance and no vision to govern but rather an obsession with power itself.
190
Last night they all agreed to support Trump..That slaps Romney right across the face..basically, they admitted defeat
4
Having to bring out Mitt Romney admits defeat.
2
When the trap question of 'Will you support the eventual Republican nominee, no matter who it is?' was asked, all of the candidates of course answered yes. Is it not patently obvious that Trump would go back on this promise if in a brokered convention he felt he'd been misused? He's flexible after all and I have no doubt his followers would not care a whit about this coerced 'promise'. After all, two of the other people on the stage just said they'd endorse a man they call a 'con man, a fraud, a liar, a Democrat'. This is the second time Fox News has used this little gambit as a poison pill if somehow Trump's nomination can be prevented. Nice try but it won't work.
2
I'm not sure you were watching the same debate. Trump looked weak. In response to most questions he tried to attack other candidates or Romney. Trump seldom answered direct questions with definitive answers and that's the problem. Those who support him don't seem to realize the utter weakness of his candidacy. Frankly Ted Cruz demonstrated far more on message control-which is necessary for a head of state. These loose cannon comments-that thanks to The Donald have sunk to new lows-are not presidential. I'm a conservative, but I can't vote for Trump. And I am not alone.
2
I can't stand the embarrassment of listening to any of these candidates anymore,and wish that a moderator who could redirect the conversation to real issues that will affect all of us no matter who or what we believe in would be brought on board .[not on Fox,that's for sure].I am dreading the mean spirited bullying that we will be subjected to in the general election.
4
I think if Cruz and Rubio genuinely cared about the party, one of them would bow out and allow the other to receive the nomination. Either alone might beat Trump; both in the running splits the vote.
2
Sadly, America is looking at itself in the mirror. Years of reality TV, scandal chasing 24-hour "news" cycles, leverage of social/cultural wedge issues by GOP business elites, suspension of evidence and reason in discourse, have all led to this GOP "Presidential" debate spectacle last night. The GOP has created this license to publicly and repeatedly lie, cuss, and descend into the vulgar in lieu of subjecting political discourse to reason and evidence. On the Dem side, economists are weighing the fiscal costs of Hillary's and Bernie's proposals. On the GOP side, the peanut gallery is racking up the number and intensity of insults GOP candidates are hurling at each other, hoping that prankish references to genitalia resurface.
5
For those who are still voting for Trump after this debate must be loyal to a fault. They showed a video of his constant flip floping on issues. Even though he tried to make it sound like a virtue. Cruz and Rubio are are right that he hasn't been a consistent conservative on red meat issues that matter to the GOP base. He couldn't give a straight answer to save his life on the tough questions asked of him. His classic fall back was to insult and to belttle his rvals for the White House. Trump is a mile wide but a inch deep on policy issues. For a billioniare you would think he have a better command of the issues if not the basics. But again this is a free country and one can vote for whoever you like. Before we cast our vote this November remember to look past the soundbites and the one-liners and really ask yourself is this guy can be trusted to lead our country regardless of party label or position.
2
There may be every truth and reason why Mr. Cruz and Mr. Rubio might join forces to attack Mr. Trump. The trouble is neither of them offer much more by way of being candidates, and by joining the fracus and using the same type of caustic verbiage, they defeat their own cause by leaving America with very little choice in the end.
1
Do not understand why the NY times is being so biases against Trump... are you guys being coached by Fox?
And no, I am not a Trump supporter.
It is just terrible to see how the media became cheer leaders and no longer professionals reporting the news.
Sad.
And no, I am not a Trump supporter.
It is just terrible to see how the media became cheer leaders and no longer professionals reporting the news.
Sad.
If it wasn't for the media Trump's campaign would be nowhere. The media is chasing ratings and money, true journalism doesn't exist any longer.
1
Do I live in the United States? Is this my country? Have we so confused "reality" TV and fantasy with the real world of complexity, humanity, compromise and values?
When the intelligent, mature and seasoned person on the stage who actually cares more about the people of Ohio than himself (Kasich) is irrelevant we have gone very, very low as a people. This is how republics and democracies fail. Time is short.
When the intelligent, mature and seasoned person on the stage who actually cares more about the people of Ohio than himself (Kasich) is irrelevant we have gone very, very low as a people. This is how republics and democracies fail. Time is short.
3
This is all too horrifying to contemplate! Where is Kim Kardashian's butt when you need it?!
3
While I find a few of Mr Trump's ideas interesting, overall he is unfit and likely has a major personality disorder. The telling part from this article for me is..
"Pressed about whether military officers would carry out such orders — killing terrorists’ family members would violate the Geneva Conventions — Mr. Trump offered a boast.
“If I say ‘do it,’ they’re going to do it,” he said."
So much for the rule of law. That sort of behavior makes us more the rouge nation than an enlightened superpower. And how far a stretch is it to go from killing families overseas to such strong arm tactics here in the US?
A dangerous man for sure.
"Pressed about whether military officers would carry out such orders — killing terrorists’ family members would violate the Geneva Conventions — Mr. Trump offered a boast.
“If I say ‘do it,’ they’re going to do it,” he said."
So much for the rule of law. That sort of behavior makes us more the rouge nation than an enlightened superpower. And how far a stretch is it to go from killing families overseas to such strong arm tactics here in the US?
A dangerous man for sure.
6
The problem with someone who doesn't think before speaking is that there's a good chance he also doesn't think before ACTING.
2
Surely, the most absurd debate I have ever seen. At times, Kasich seemed the only adult in the room. But even when the candidates weren't hurling fifth-grade insults at one another, the debate was frequently absurd. Abolish the EPA? Abolish the IRS? I suggest that in the next Republican debate, the candidates be provided with finger paint, because it's the level to which their discourse has fallen -- again, with the exception of the unflappable Kasich, who alone among the four, seems like he could handle the presidency.
In the meantime, I wish the Republlcan and Democratic establishments could understand that Trump is a symptom fo their persistent fecklessness. Trump is playing everybody -- the press, the voters, the parties -- like a fiddle. If the party establishments offered the voters real reform -- strong action against globalization and illegal immigration, getting the money out of politics, help to close the income gap and the debt bondage of young graduates -- we would have an alternative to Trump. Unfortunately, Trump's Republican opponents and the capable but uninspiring Hillary Clinton are weak tea indeed.
In the meantime, I wish the Republlcan and Democratic establishments could understand that Trump is a symptom fo their persistent fecklessness. Trump is playing everybody -- the press, the voters, the parties -- like a fiddle. If the party establishments offered the voters real reform -- strong action against globalization and illegal immigration, getting the money out of politics, help to close the income gap and the debt bondage of young graduates -- we would have an alternative to Trump. Unfortunately, Trump's Republican opponents and the capable but uninspiring Hillary Clinton are weak tea indeed.
4
I'm a life long Republican. I will not vote for Trump. Quite frankly, I don't see much of a difference between Trump and Hillary. They both want to be President -- very, very badly (and I hate adverbs).
They both want to be President because, well, they want to be President. They both have serious issues with the truth and will do and say anything to get elected. I'm clueless as to what either would do if he or she became President.
I'll sit this one out. It will be my first on the sidelines; since 1976.
They both want to be President because, well, they want to be President. They both have serious issues with the truth and will do and say anything to get elected. I'm clueless as to what either would do if he or she became President.
I'll sit this one out. It will be my first on the sidelines; since 1976.
3
Exactly what we need to have the Democrats take the Senate back. Thank you and I hope there are lots more like you.
3
I assure you, I'll vote in the other elections. Just not President. Sorry.
Robert Dana - How has that been working for you?
Stephen Colbert is not a fan of Trump..by any means.
However when Mitt Romney spoke in SLC, Utah he essentially told the other candidates what to do. Help each other win in their home states--Kasich in Ohio, Rubio in Florida etc. Then the GOP can stop Trump.
Romney said that Trump was destroying our "democracy." So according to Mitt, democracy is Romney telling the voters who they should vote for? Romney also said the candidates should gang up on Trump..."vote him off the island" so to speak by pointing out that he is a terrible business man who has failed in so many ways. (Romney basically covered all of John Oliver's talking points from "Last Week Tonight"--except not calling him Drumpf.)
Colbert said "They think that they can attack Trump like a reality TV show? Trump is the king of reality TV! It would be like trying to kill off great white sharks by their all jumping into shark-infested waters with a ham hung around one's neck. Trump will eat you alive."
Colbert also stated that since Mitt is telling voters who to vote for they should all get a sticker saying "I voted the way Mitt Romney told me to vote!"
Romney: "We need a leader chosen by all the people!" Colbert told Romney to get in the van with the whole family and drive from SLC to Cleveland for the RNC convention--including that dog on the roof (Tip of the hat to Gail Collins)-and SAVE the GOP!"
Mitt Romney-our new savior!
However when Mitt Romney spoke in SLC, Utah he essentially told the other candidates what to do. Help each other win in their home states--Kasich in Ohio, Rubio in Florida etc. Then the GOP can stop Trump.
Romney said that Trump was destroying our "democracy." So according to Mitt, democracy is Romney telling the voters who they should vote for? Romney also said the candidates should gang up on Trump..."vote him off the island" so to speak by pointing out that he is a terrible business man who has failed in so many ways. (Romney basically covered all of John Oliver's talking points from "Last Week Tonight"--except not calling him Drumpf.)
Colbert said "They think that they can attack Trump like a reality TV show? Trump is the king of reality TV! It would be like trying to kill off great white sharks by their all jumping into shark-infested waters with a ham hung around one's neck. Trump will eat you alive."
Colbert also stated that since Mitt is telling voters who to vote for they should all get a sticker saying "I voted the way Mitt Romney told me to vote!"
Romney: "We need a leader chosen by all the people!" Colbert told Romney to get in the van with the whole family and drive from SLC to Cleveland for the RNC convention--including that dog on the roof (Tip of the hat to Gail Collins)-and SAVE the GOP!"
Mitt Romney-our new savior!
6
I don't see how the apparent Republican establishment strategy of keeping several candidates in the race to deny Mr. Trump a majority of delegates is supposed to work. Mr. Trump said last September that he would support the Republican candidate but only if he was "treated fairly." If Mr. Trump wins a plurality of delegates and the RNC oust him at the convention, two outcomes seem likely. First, Mr. Trump will not consider that as being "treated fairly"and will likely run a 3rd party candidacy and deny the GOP the White House. But, even if he doesn't, they are telling all those Trump voters that their vote doesn't count and they will likely not vote for the party's anointed candidate because that's exactly the sort of political game Trump supporters are voting against. The only logic I can see is that Republicans will concede the presidency to avoid having Mr. Trump with an "R" next to his name so they can repudiate Mr. Trump in the hope that they can retain the senate and other down-ticket offices. Like all their efforts so far, I expect this will fail too.
6
So the upshot from last night's "debate?" An 8th grade boys' discussion of genital size. This is just what we want from our national candidates, I'm sure.
5
Voters have been swayed by Mr.. Trump's larger-than-life personality and his unapologetic scorch-the-earth approach, and have made him the front runner and likely the republican nominee. This is the right of the American people. On the other hand, the Republican establishment sees him as a dangerous candidate who is not fit to assume the Presidency. Is their presumed convention "coup" the right position? Will this not interfere with our democratic principles? He has been instrumental in not only splitting his party but also dividing the American people. I can only wonder what the long term effects of his campaign will be.
2
Someone should require the candidates to look up the meaning of the word"debate". What we watched was clearly not a "debate".
2
Its important to know the policy specifics of Mr Trump . Looks like he has given very little thought on the policy and this is his biggest weakness . Unfortunately his opponents are not able to pin him down on this . US is the world leader , so the "would be" President must reflect a view of the world that benefits US . Mr Trump doesn't have that but he is lucky , his opponents doesn't have the ability to exploit it,,and, he knows it too well ! And as long as he can keep his opponents in divided house, nothing can stop him . Intelligent Politics !!
Thus its not a choice of the best but selection of "least bad " !!
Thus its not a choice of the best but selection of "least bad " !!
1