It's astonishing how Donald Trump has become the standard bearer for middle-class blue-collar workers...really? Someone who has gold plated faucets in his penthouse?...multiple houses ,degrading and dividing all of us is not my definition of someone who is defending the middle class it's more about the intellectual savvy of people who are voting for him , the sophistication of the American voters which has degraded to fourth grade level in the last 30 years
13
The Right's business model now is the Mafia. When they're afraid to shun one another because the blowback would be hurtful, they've probably given up on holding any actual convictions. And that is to say, they're betrayed the very purpose of political organizations in favor of personal survival. Leave the gun, take the cannoli.
4
Donald Trump is no more of a narcissist than Barack Obama.
Obama supporters are just throwing hissy fits because it's not going to be their narcissist in the White House for much longer. Too bad, so sad.
Obama supporters are just throwing hissy fits because it's not going to be their narcissist in the White House for much longer. Too bad, so sad.
4
Perhaps you are not aware that your schoolyard taunt provides evidence to support the opinion that Trump supporters lack substance and gravitate towards him because he is a bully.
16
Well, at least President Obama never bragged about his private parts.
8
To the 25-cent psychiatrists and psychologists who choose to assume they can delve into the thoughts and minds of someone they have never met: your thoughts and writings aren't worth a plugged nickel, much less a quarter. (BTW: those who are qualified to analyze are constrained by ethics and common sense from attempting to do so.)
To those who feel Donald Trump has a huge ego, as evidenced by his desire to be the President of the United States: Name one candidate, now or in the past, who does not have a huge ego. It's simple: in order for someone to feel s/he is the one person in the country who can do the best job, that person must have a huge ego.
Of course, we hope that somewhere, somehow, someone will be able to fix our problems and bring us together. That's why we continue to vote.......we still have hope that the middle class will survive and that working class will once again thrive. Someday.......
To those who feel Donald Trump has a huge ego, as evidenced by his desire to be the President of the United States: Name one candidate, now or in the past, who does not have a huge ego. It's simple: in order for someone to feel s/he is the one person in the country who can do the best job, that person must have a huge ego.
Of course, we hope that somewhere, somehow, someone will be able to fix our problems and bring us together. That's why we continue to vote.......we still have hope that the middle class will survive and that working class will once again thrive. Someday.......
2
"Donald Trump’s Presidential Run Began in an Effort to Gain Stature".
But in our culture, you don't have to run for president to "gain stature". if you've got umpteen (or whatever it is) billion $'s, you already have "stature"..
By MAGGIE HABERMAN and ALEXANDER BURNSMARCH 12, 2016
But in our culture, you don't have to run for president to "gain stature". if you've got umpteen (or whatever it is) billion $'s, you already have "stature"..
By MAGGIE HABERMAN and ALEXANDER BURNSMARCH 12, 2016
All you far, far left liberals who read this far, far left paper have no idea what we middle of the road non-conservative, non-liberal people are thinking. And what we are thinking happened way before Donald Trump decided to run for president. We don't like Cruz, Rubio, Clinton or Sanders.
Add that in your pipe and smoke it!
Add that in your pipe and smoke it!
2
I'm starting to wonder when are people, press or media going to begin to seriously question Donald Trump's mental stability to actually be President.
Trump is starting to exhibit signs of paranoia and blaming everyone else for something he has done and won't except any responsibility for anything...even if it's shown to him on recorded tape.
Trump has a megalomaniac type personality and is also showing to be a lot irrational, not the man we want to be in control of a nuclear arsenal.
Trump is starting to exhibit signs of paranoia and blaming everyone else for something he has done and won't except any responsibility for anything...even if it's shown to him on recorded tape.
Trump has a megalomaniac type personality and is also showing to be a lot irrational, not the man we want to be in control of a nuclear arsenal.
7
"Starting to exhibit signs"?? - No. Those signs have been there all along, and are classic signs of the HUBRIS he suffers from. Maybe it's because we're already familiar with Trump here in New York City that his behavior is not so much surprising, as what's to be expected.
Good thing you have started to notice it now.
Good thing you have started to notice it now.
1
Not to worry, they will broker the Republican Nominee and you will vote or not vote for the GOP choice!
Given what the GOP has recently presented for choices, that's still worrying.
Good article. It needs an update.
Instead of saying --
"Having stepped back from a campaign of his own, Mr. Trump sought relevance through Mr. Romney’s."
It is far more accurate today to say --
"Having stepped back from a campaign of his own, Mr. Romney sought relevance through Mr. Trump's."
Instead of saying --
"Having stepped back from a campaign of his own, Mr. Trump sought relevance through Mr. Romney’s."
It is far more accurate today to say --
"Having stepped back from a campaign of his own, Mr. Romney sought relevance through Mr. Trump's."
2
“The self-professed genius was just stupid enough to buy our ruse,” said Ryan Williams, a former spokesman for the Romney campaign.
Now that's a hysterical remark from a failed campaign. Who's "ruse" is it now?
Now here's a good idea - Why doesn't every Republican group and individual who objects to having Donald Trump as the GOP nominee, especially those who speak out loud in opposition to him, return every dollar, the entire sum of money, that Trump has given to them?
Each of these GOP establishment members needs to put their mouth where their money is, and shut up and work with what they got.
That or they will be the only ones to blame for the White House becoming occupied by [email protected] !!
Now that's a hysterical remark from a failed campaign. Who's "ruse" is it now?
Now here's a good idea - Why doesn't every Republican group and individual who objects to having Donald Trump as the GOP nominee, especially those who speak out loud in opposition to him, return every dollar, the entire sum of money, that Trump has given to them?
Each of these GOP establishment members needs to put their mouth where their money is, and shut up and work with what they got.
That or they will be the only ones to blame for the White House becoming occupied by [email protected] !!
3
Ha! Well said.
As you will recall, they laughed at Fulton, even as he motored his steamboat down the river. They said it would not work and predicted failure. The Establishment and "Business as Usual" people are destroying this country with their selfishness, lying, and manipulative behavior. It was Bush, Paulson, and Greenspan who brought the DOW down to 6,000 and ruined millions of lives. If Trump is so bad, then why is his message ringing true with the overwhelming majority of Americans?
2
Wrong! A majority of Americans are against Trump. Look at the numbers. Your statement is as inaccurate as most of what Trump proclaims.
5
@john
I wouldn't rush to call it an "overwhelming majority of Americans". He may run circles around the other Republican candidates, and capture the dreams of Working-class Whites, and other demographic groups (racists, bigots). But there's a whole new world of people out there who will do their utmost to keep Donald Trump out of the Oval Office. And I am one of them.
I wouldn't rush to call it an "overwhelming majority of Americans". He may run circles around the other Republican candidates, and capture the dreams of Working-class Whites, and other demographic groups (racists, bigots). But there's a whole new world of people out there who will do their utmost to keep Donald Trump out of the Oval Office. And I am one of them.
3
Is the American public really going to elect this oversized baby president? Read his remarks on 'branding', which is his fancy name for name-calling. This guy has never gotten out of elementary school. At 75, I would really like my chance to take him down.
5
I have always thought Donald Trump's presidential ambition was based on redeeming himself after the 2011 Correspondents dinner. Trump was thoroughly (and deservedly) lambasted by Seth Meyers and President Obama, largely as response to Trump's ridiculous and discredited birther assertions.
Once again, Trump has inserted himself into the political conversation solely to sooth an ego he is responsible for wounding, and debased the process with bombast, racism, xenophobia and puerile sexual boasts. Donald Trump used to be the butt of the joke; he has succeeded in turning the United States into the joke.
Once again, Trump has inserted himself into the political conversation solely to sooth an ego he is responsible for wounding, and debased the process with bombast, racism, xenophobia and puerile sexual boasts. Donald Trump used to be the butt of the joke; he has succeeded in turning the United States into the joke.
11
I agree with you...he couldn't take the jokes, and most people learn to do that early on in their lives.
1
My email indicates I made a comment on Donlad Trump, who is he?
1
Excellent article. Thank you for writing
1
This is one of the most revealing, thought-provoking articles written about Donald Trump since the beginning of the 2016 Presidential Primary campaign. Now voters have a better understanding why the Republican Establishment, in a state of utter panic, is dreading Tuesday's election results.
3
Is this article implying that Obama indirectly (or directly) enticed or humiliated Trump into throwing his warped hat into the presidential candidates' ring?Let it not be so!
Anybody else scared for the future of the United States and the world? Has the US really reached a point in time where so much hate is called upon for no good reason what so ever
4
Honestly speaking, I'm not only scared "for" the United States. I'm starting to be scared OF the United States.
2
There is one way to defeat Trump.
The media must bite the bullet.
A total blackout or at least "blackdown" of appearances, rallies, interviews,
social media. Did I mention small print???
The place for him is in the backwaters of websites, social media and newspapers.
It's time. Now.
The media must bite the bullet.
A total blackout or at least "blackdown" of appearances, rallies, interviews,
social media. Did I mention small print???
The place for him is in the backwaters of websites, social media and newspapers.
It's time. Now.
4
You're going to get your wish when Donald Trump wins in November.
All the Trump obsessed, lightweight hacks that masquerade as journalists and the news media will be done, over, finished.
A Trump presidency means only the best and brightest will stay in Washington DC, only the people who are talented and are good at their jobs.
In other words, President Trump, Ivanka, me, and about 14 others will be the only ones left in this town from the Obama Era.
All the Trump obsessed, lightweight hacks that masquerade as journalists and the news media will be done, over, finished.
A Trump presidency means only the best and brightest will stay in Washington DC, only the people who are talented and are good at their jobs.
In other words, President Trump, Ivanka, me, and about 14 others will be the only ones left in this town from the Obama Era.
1
Good idea. But probably easier to pull off if we were living in China, or Turkey.
Still I agree. Trump is the gift-that-keeps-on-giving to the mainstream media.
Still I agree. Trump is the gift-that-keeps-on-giving to the mainstream media.
1
Why isn't there a requirement for candidates to be evaluated for their mental health? Other professions require this so why wouldn't this be essential for the potential leader of the free world?
4
Perhaps the desire for a feeling of importance increases as human beings age?
All of us have seen these symptoms begin in persons of "a certain age."
All of us have seen these symptoms begin in persons of "a certain age."
3
@DeBraose
Not a very valid argument when considering a text-me-tweet-mad-selfie-generation, where 24-hour social media access determines the extent of one's overall worth and existence.
Not a very valid argument when considering a text-me-tweet-mad-selfie-generation, where 24-hour social media access determines the extent of one's overall worth and existence.
2
I absolutely disagree. I think younger people are more likely to feel self-important and older people tend to mellow out and become more aware of varying points of view and values. Most older people are also better listeners, having less of a need for attention to be directed at themselves, I've noticed.
2
No matter how humiliated by President Obama Trump was, how he plotted and planned, how much huge sums of money he donated, how well he inculcated himself into the Republican sinew, the recipe which Trump was brewing up in his pot with the sweet smell of success had to assume the one thing that could not fail, the one thing that could not go wrong. Trump's elaborate master plan had to calculate that when The Donald took on his role as blunderbuss blowhard presidential candidate he would be a hit, even more so then his role on "The Apprentice". And he was.
The politicos and pundits larfed, chortled, guffawed. They were beside themselves with incredulity. Wait they thought until this guy gets out there in the hustings. He will make a fool of himself. But, he didn't.
He was a breath of if not fresh air let's say brash air. He was all talk, no action, all bravado, all about him. He referred to polls as ratings. The world is a stage after all, and the TV is as real as realty TV and life itself. Try, if you can, to spot the difference.
The Republican poobahs waited for the shoe to drop, then the next one, and so on. Finally they were met with a horrible sinking feeling in the pit of their stomachs. This guy Trump, like Regis mockingly shouted, is out of control!
And Republicans do not know what to do to stop him. This mayhem will continue to the convention and to Fall. We will all be witness in slow-motion the complete collapse of the Republican party.
DD
Manhattan
The politicos and pundits larfed, chortled, guffawed. They were beside themselves with incredulity. Wait they thought until this guy gets out there in the hustings. He will make a fool of himself. But, he didn't.
He was a breath of if not fresh air let's say brash air. He was all talk, no action, all bravado, all about him. He referred to polls as ratings. The world is a stage after all, and the TV is as real as realty TV and life itself. Try, if you can, to spot the difference.
The Republican poobahs waited for the shoe to drop, then the next one, and so on. Finally they were met with a horrible sinking feeling in the pit of their stomachs. This guy Trump, like Regis mockingly shouted, is out of control!
And Republicans do not know what to do to stop him. This mayhem will continue to the convention and to Fall. We will all be witness in slow-motion the complete collapse of the Republican party.
DD
Manhattan
6
"He will make a fool of himself. But, he didn't." Now I'm laughing.
2
Trump's secret sauce is that he can make a fool of himself, and gain support by deliberately doing so. Lots of people like fools because they need each other's company to protect themselves against the rest of the world that doesn't tolerate fools gladly.
2
Trump is mocked for being a silver spoon brat. That's fair, but let's not forget who else grew up in a bubble of privilege:
- Mitt Romney
- John Kerry
- John Mccain
- Teddy Roosevelt
- FDR
- Kennedy clan
- Bush clan
- Mitt Romney
- John Kerry
- John Mccain
- Teddy Roosevelt
- FDR
- Kennedy clan
- Bush clan
3
Dear Erica:
And your point?
You list persons who were to the manor born. Then you state that Trump is a silver spoon brat. Do you know that to be the case? Most New Yorker's are not familiar with Trump's early, formative years, but you seem to be. Do tell.
Then you go on to list men who were to the manor born. Or, as you refer to them, a bubble of privilege. Again, what is the connection?
Mitt Romney served as governor of Massachusetts. John McCain and John Kerry served in Vietnam. McCain was a Navy fighter pilot and POW, Kerry enlisted in the Navy, volunteered for Vietnam, served hazardous duty on a Swift boat. They both were elected to the Senate. Teddy Roosevelt's Rough Riders charged up San Juan Hill, served as NYC mayor and governor of NY. FDR crippled by polio served as governor of New York. Prescott Bush was Senator of Connecticut, his son George H.W. was a WWII Navy pilot shot down over the Pacific, served in Congress, was CIA Director, Ambassador to China and Vice President. Then there's the Kennedy's: Joe a WWII pilot killed in action over the English Channel, John served in the Pacific on PT-109 when he was hit by a Japanese destroyer, he then served in the House and in the Senate before becoming president, Robert was Attorney General, Senator from New York and was assassinated in '68 while running for president, and finally, Teddy, who became one the longest tenured and effective Senators in history.
And Trump? Spot the difference?
DD
Manhattan
And your point?
You list persons who were to the manor born. Then you state that Trump is a silver spoon brat. Do you know that to be the case? Most New Yorker's are not familiar with Trump's early, formative years, but you seem to be. Do tell.
Then you go on to list men who were to the manor born. Or, as you refer to them, a bubble of privilege. Again, what is the connection?
Mitt Romney served as governor of Massachusetts. John McCain and John Kerry served in Vietnam. McCain was a Navy fighter pilot and POW, Kerry enlisted in the Navy, volunteered for Vietnam, served hazardous duty on a Swift boat. They both were elected to the Senate. Teddy Roosevelt's Rough Riders charged up San Juan Hill, served as NYC mayor and governor of NY. FDR crippled by polio served as governor of New York. Prescott Bush was Senator of Connecticut, his son George H.W. was a WWII Navy pilot shot down over the Pacific, served in Congress, was CIA Director, Ambassador to China and Vice President. Then there's the Kennedy's: Joe a WWII pilot killed in action over the English Channel, John served in the Pacific on PT-109 when he was hit by a Japanese destroyer, he then served in the House and in the Senate before becoming president, Robert was Attorney General, Senator from New York and was assassinated in '68 while running for president, and finally, Teddy, who became one the longest tenured and effective Senators in history.
And Trump? Spot the difference?
DD
Manhattan
5
Trump is all about branding:
I don't think Trump actually wants the Presidency. He has a more sinister plan that will not require him to spend the time or money to run as the Republican candidate.
You have to first factor in that to Trump, this effort is ALL about branding. He realizes he'll be the nominee with a minimal investment of 20 million dollars or so. That is an astounding number when you consider Jeb alone spent 70 million greenbacks. And is out. Trump got a huge return on investment. Win.
Trump ran the numbers and knows in order to mount a truly national campaign for the White House it will cost him on the order of 150 million bucks. Given all his business interests and the huge added valuation the Trump brand has already experienced, Trump will decide it is not worth his money to actually BE the president.
At the RNC Trump will default "on his doctor's recommendation he get a heart/brain transplant" and will transfer his delegates to whomever HE decides he wants as president. If the new Republican nominee were to win the presidency, Trump will OWN him/her. Controlling the deal for the long term business benefit of the Trump Organization.
One of Trump's key conditions for giving his delegates over, will be the ability to insist whom is to be the VP running mate on the Republican ticket. That spot will go to Michael Bloomberg so that Trump ends up owning HIS butt as well. Plus, Bloomberg would then be indebted to refinance Donald's next bankruptcy filing.
I don't think Trump actually wants the Presidency. He has a more sinister plan that will not require him to spend the time or money to run as the Republican candidate.
You have to first factor in that to Trump, this effort is ALL about branding. He realizes he'll be the nominee with a minimal investment of 20 million dollars or so. That is an astounding number when you consider Jeb alone spent 70 million greenbacks. And is out. Trump got a huge return on investment. Win.
Trump ran the numbers and knows in order to mount a truly national campaign for the White House it will cost him on the order of 150 million bucks. Given all his business interests and the huge added valuation the Trump brand has already experienced, Trump will decide it is not worth his money to actually BE the president.
At the RNC Trump will default "on his doctor's recommendation he get a heart/brain transplant" and will transfer his delegates to whomever HE decides he wants as president. If the new Republican nominee were to win the presidency, Trump will OWN him/her. Controlling the deal for the long term business benefit of the Trump Organization.
One of Trump's key conditions for giving his delegates over, will be the ability to insist whom is to be the VP running mate on the Republican ticket. That spot will go to Michael Bloomberg so that Trump ends up owning HIS butt as well. Plus, Bloomberg would then be indebted to refinance Donald's next bankruptcy filing.
3
We want to look at Trump as the villain in the current day discourse being played out in this current politic season. The fights, the racist language and all the other ugly scenes we see at Trumps rallies are to be laid at the feet of Trump. We hear that a certain segment of America has felt it has been left behind by the right and no one really cares for its plight. In truth Trump was not created in a vacuum. Trump is the pin that pricked the boil that has been festering for years. Trump is the last vestige of hope for his most supporters to hold on to white privilege. The days of junior following dad into the trades or jobs on the factory lines are gone. In the past most of jobs in the trades were gotten by not what you know but by who you knew. Today the high paid factory jobs making tires, steel and cars are mostly gone. So the guys driving 4 by 4's with a gun rack in the back are feeling someone stole their life and they want it back. Instead of blaming the business and tax practices that has caused this mess they have to blame somebody. Who better to blame than someone who doesn't look or believe like you? These folks think Trump is going to restore their right to stay at the front of every line. Someone needs to tell these folks nothing ever stays the same. Wither its Trump of some other demagogue the days of always sitting at the head of the table is over. I for one find nothing wrong with giving everybody a shot to participate for the good of all of America.
4
@McCain
Granted. There's nothing wrong with "giving everybody a shot to participate for the good of America."
The problem is, it's NOT Trump. Because he isn't for ALL of America -- and his race-baiting speeches are clear evidence of that.
Besides there is a very big difference between governing a country, and participating in it as though it were some kind of game show. Simply because the losses could be incalculable, and the stakes are much too high.
Granted. There's nothing wrong with "giving everybody a shot to participate for the good of America."
The problem is, it's NOT Trump. Because he isn't for ALL of America -- and his race-baiting speeches are clear evidence of that.
Besides there is a very big difference between governing a country, and participating in it as though it were some kind of game show. Simply because the losses could be incalculable, and the stakes are much too high.
4
Maybe the point wasn't made so once again I dare. The problem is not Trump the problem is us. We are not as shining as we think we are. 20 per cent of Trumps supporters think abolishing slavery was a mistake. . Half of the GOP think the president is a Muslim. Even if he was would the be a Problem? So in short we are a country where race matters and matters a great deal. Where was the stop Trump movement in the infancy of the Birther Movement? Now all of a sudden we have grown a conscious. I relish Trump for one reason and one reason only and that is maybe it will force us to take an honest look at ourselves
2
@McCain
Valid points. And thank you for the clarification. However I still tend to dread Trump more than"relish" him. The risk of having him in the White House is a very high price for a bit of honest self-introspection.
Valid points. And thank you for the clarification. However I still tend to dread Trump more than"relish" him. The risk of having him in the White House is a very high price for a bit of honest self-introspection.
Made a few grammatical fixes in my earlier submission:
Much actual and digital ink has been spilled, conjecturing on what drives Donald Trump’s quest to become the next and best U.S. President. Haberman and Burns argue that a fierce desire for respect is likely crucial. On this, I’d like to offer some general comments as a psychiatrist: Individuals can feel deeply wounded when not taken seriously, treated dismissively, and even ridiculed. Such treatment can fuel smoldering and sometimes explosive anger, even rage. Typically, the deepest wounds of this sort have been inflicted prior to adulthood, when the person is relatively helpless and dependent on malign adult(s) – often one or both parents. As such children grow up, they begin to realize their long-held wish to be big, powerful, and invulnerable. This often combines with vengeful wishes towards those perceived (generally subconsciously) as similar to his childhood persecutor(s). But the same wounded individual may also feel disgusted by those, who in some way, remind him of himself as a child, when he was a target of emotional abuse. Too often, rather than empathize with those he perceives as vulnerable and powerless, he tragically reacts against his felt resonance, and does unto others as had been so wrongly done unto him.
Much actual and digital ink has been spilled, conjecturing on what drives Donald Trump’s quest to become the next and best U.S. President. Haberman and Burns argue that a fierce desire for respect is likely crucial. On this, I’d like to offer some general comments as a psychiatrist: Individuals can feel deeply wounded when not taken seriously, treated dismissively, and even ridiculed. Such treatment can fuel smoldering and sometimes explosive anger, even rage. Typically, the deepest wounds of this sort have been inflicted prior to adulthood, when the person is relatively helpless and dependent on malign adult(s) – often one or both parents. As such children grow up, they begin to realize their long-held wish to be big, powerful, and invulnerable. This often combines with vengeful wishes towards those perceived (generally subconsciously) as similar to his childhood persecutor(s). But the same wounded individual may also feel disgusted by those, who in some way, remind him of himself as a child, when he was a target of emotional abuse. Too often, rather than empathize with those he perceives as vulnerable and powerless, he tragically reacts against his felt resonance, and does unto others as had been so wrongly done unto him.
1
And like all bullies, the classic bullied-turned-bully will target people who are less likely to defend themselves, and/or less likely to have friends who will defend them, even if the people that the bully targets when he grows up, as you say, are anything like he was.
4
"Donald Trump’s Presidential Run Began in an Effort to Gain Stature"
The same can be said about virtually every prez wannabe.
Prez wannabes are not a random sample of people. They are self-selected, corrupt or corruptible, power-hungry mediocrities with poor self-images. They are psychologically abnormal. Normal people don't lust for omnipotence.
2
"Prez wannabes are not a random sample of people. They are self-selected, corrupt or corruptible, power-hungry mediocrities with poor self-images."
So. Does this statement also include Bernie Sanders?? -- We already know the knives are out for Clinton and the Republicans.
So. Does this statement also include Bernie Sanders?? -- We already know the knives are out for Clinton and the Republicans.
2
When a person inherits a large amount of money some may feel they must rationalize what good came of it.
Reporting? You missed the whole backstory motivating President Obama's White House correspondents dinner comments. Trump was the key figure badgering the president for his whole birth certificate. It didn't just happen out of the blue.
9
That's a name I'll remember, Lally Weymouth. She's the one who dump this monster in the middle of the Establishment media by sponsoring him to attend the White House Correspondents Association meeting. It's not surprising that her parents owned Newsweek and that Lally, like Trump, eased right into the family business, journalism in her case.
They were both born with yuge silver spoons in their mouths and don't like to think about that.
They were both born with yuge silver spoons in their mouths and don't like to think about that.
2
You missed the whole linchpin of President Obama's White House correspondents dinner comments about Trump -- he was the key figure badgering the president for his whole birth certificate. It didn't just happen out of the blue.
10
So, it's all true... Trump really is a needy, grossly self-absorbed adolescent - a twelve year old megalomaniac in a sixty-nine year old's body. No surprise whatsoever!
The surprise is, with all the ugly facts so obviously out there for decades now, why is ANYONE voting for him?
The surprise is, with all the ugly facts so obviously out there for decades now, why is ANYONE voting for him?
7
All dumb people are created equal; but some are dumber than others.
10
If Donald spent the next few Trump Force One flights reading policy books instead of watching all three cable news channels simultaneously, he'd be a real force at the next debate. It would certainly catch everyone off guard if he started sprinkling in some policy substance to his off the cuff style.
4
That's a mighty big "IF", and Foreign Policy is not something you learn automatically on overnight flights. Plus Trump's "off the cuff style" wouldn't earn him any points in Diplomatic circles. Otherwise I agree, he might learn something by not watching three cable news channels simultaneously.
3
pretty funny writing this after advocating for a junior senator with virtual no experience doing anything to be president!!! Who has given us record violence, record debt, record income inequality, rewarded wall street for failure, disastrous foreign policy(whose highlights are reward a dictatorship and a theocracy)
4
So many Americans support Trump. I do not think it is helpful to degrade him, or them. So many people are hurting, and the established politicians on both sides, have done nothing. The NYTs supports HRC, ugh the Grey Lady, who use to be on the people's side. A Bernie supporter , and hope many Trump supporters, come over to Bernie's side. We want things to be fair too, but let's not throw the disenfranchised under the bus. Let's throw the ones responsible for all the lost jobs, for our angst, trying to put our kids through college, and save for our retirement. Let all of us , say NO to another war, and funding our defense department, putting millions into the corporations, that profit from the wars that kill and maim our young people.
3
If anything, many Bernie supporters are going to go over to the Trump side, if Bernie doesn't get the nod. -- At least that's what MANY have been saying...
Makes one think twice about Bernie to begin with...
Makes one think twice about Bernie to begin with...
1
If Trump is such a buffoon, with no shot at the White House, why are both the left-wing media and right-wing establishment so obsessed with taking him down? Seems November would be a no-sweat victory for grandma Clinton, yes? The reality is that the establishment on both sides realizes Trump's populism can and will win in November.
6
You seem to forget that there is a significant part of the voting electorate that Mr. Trump has managed to alienate, and a Republican Party that is ready to replace him as a nominee at a moment's notice.
3
And you seem to ignore the blue collar democrats abandoning their party to support Mr. Trump
@timk
Your premise is incorrect. The preponderance of Mr. Trump's electorate in both Parties has already been established and well-reported.
Your premise is incorrect. The preponderance of Mr. Trump's electorate in both Parties has already been established and well-reported.
1
Mr. Romney made a reference to the birther accusation the day after the 2012 Republican Convention, when at a campaign stop in Michigan, he quipped of ha and his wife holding Michigan birth certificates. Romney knew that that would play well, especially in Ohio, where 30 percent of the Republican electorate were self described bothers. The Republicans now fault the president for the creature they created. How rich!
3
Although this article may be interesting and insightful, I don't understand why it is being run as the top "news" article and not as a news feature.
2
Donald Trump has certainly changed things back to more violent times. But Bernie sending protesters to Donald's rally's sounds very communist. He has lost me on this one. I will vote for Hillary despite her baggage!
3
#Daniel Locker:There is no evidence that Sanders sent protesters. Your source for your statement?
4
Do you really believe that Sanders is "sending protesters to Donald's rallies," or are you just saying that because you think it might take? If Sanders wanted to do damage by orchestrating protests, which of course he doesn't, but if he wanted to orchestrate protests to do damage, he would dress folks in Clinton T-shirts and have them rudely protest him. What you are saying is just the classic Clinton rhetoric of deceit.
2
Democrats are always terrified of people with actual experience....hence they picked Obama...with ZERO! Obama's rescue of the richest, massive debt and disastrous foreign endeavors show what happens. Is Obama still arming ISIS in Syria so they can kill 100's of thousands?
2
What are you reading, bizarro world history? He took over after W's foreign exploits and W's economic meltdown.
11
Obama was handed the worst possible hand (thank you, "W") that one can get at the poker table. Instead of folding, he pulled us out of the abyss. Spectacular job of righting the right's trashing of our economy.
16
Are you saying that Mr. Trump has "actual experience"?? -- at what, self-promotion???
12
So maybe Trump is genuinely a patriot willing and yearning to serve his country. As a kid, I always thought that it should be all our civic duties in gratitude to the country and the people who came before us who made possible everything we can enjoy today, to serve of country in order to keep that going for future generations to come. Not just doing it as a way to fulfill the biggest ego-trip that's even bigger than Hollywood stardom, like all his critics claim Trump's solely doing it for.
We as people and a country have become so cynical over the recent years, thanks in part to so many crass and self-serving professional politicians on every level, we've just naturally come to assume that anyone who's running for anything must always be coming from that same cynical place. But I didn't read anywhere in this analysis of Trump's donating and support for candidates where it made it appear as if he was doing so strictly for his own personal or financial gain, which is typically what I'd expect to have read about someone in his position. So what gives? Maybe he really does have a genuine ulterior motive? God knows, his ego is big enough, who on earth could anyone conceivably think they could get it any bigger, just by running for a mere presidency. Wouldn't it come as a pleasant surprise to all of us to find out we don't know as much as we think we do?
We as people and a country have become so cynical over the recent years, thanks in part to so many crass and self-serving professional politicians on every level, we've just naturally come to assume that anyone who's running for anything must always be coming from that same cynical place. But I didn't read anywhere in this analysis of Trump's donating and support for candidates where it made it appear as if he was doing so strictly for his own personal or financial gain, which is typically what I'd expect to have read about someone in his position. So what gives? Maybe he really does have a genuine ulterior motive? God knows, his ego is big enough, who on earth could anyone conceivably think they could get it any bigger, just by running for a mere presidency. Wouldn't it come as a pleasant surprise to all of us to find out we don't know as much as we think we do?
1
Do you seriously think that a President Trump would somehow "pleasantly surprise" us by not actually being the kind of person he has actually, and vehemently, demonstrated himself to be? Do you really think a person should be president who repeatedly, for months, has called on his supporters to beat up people who protest against him? Do you think he'd announce at his inauguration that he really isn't like that, and just did it to get votes, and that this would somehow bode well for how he would run his administration?
and for all criticism of Mr Drumpf, what distinguishes him from other GOP pres candidates, other than that he's a bit less mendacious and obsequious than Cruz / Rubio / et al?
2
People who say Obama is a Muslim, the earth is flat and 6000 years old, gays are evil and can be cured, vaccines are a conspiracy by the government and cause autism, we never landed on the moon, dinosaurs never existed, brown people are dumber than white people, etc, are idiots.
11
As well as Republican voters.
3
Maybe they just never got to go to the museum of natural history when they were kids. Now that a lot of public schools are cutting out field trips because they don't have the money, a lot more otherwise bright kids won't get to see those dinosaur bones either.
2
They could visit a library, search the Internet.
3
Trumps run began as an effort to gain stature? That sounds like an absolute no-brainer to me. That is what Trump is about, and that's about all. And every dictator does it for stature also, and for a need to Control, no matter who gets hurt or worse in the process. Every mass shooter's underlying reason are a need to gain stature...to finally be recognized and seen and validated..and to have their rage and insanity validated. Sometimes I just don't understand the simplitic tone of article titles or descriptions. The man is out of control however you want to look at it, and I still hope and believe his brand of insanity is going to trip him up and be barred from being the 'Republican'(?) nominee for President of the United States of America.
2
When one's addiction to power and renown are great enough (like sticking one's chin out at all times), then getting that chin smacked hard is not unusual. Poor Donald.
2
“I can handle criticism.”
Trump's ego is as fragile as a porcelain tea cup. When the American public in their great wisdom turn over the nuclear button to Trump, it should be interesting how he deals with his counterpart in North Korea,
Trump's ego is as fragile as a porcelain tea cup. When the American public in their great wisdom turn over the nuclear button to Trump, it should be interesting how he deals with his counterpart in North Korea,
4
Trump needs to get out asap. Someone's going to pop him sooner than later. It's getting really scary out there. He's angered so many different groups of people its bound to happen. Personally I think he would not make decent President, but we don't need violence because of his naivety or ego.
1
@Kareena,
If 'pop' means what I think it means, I've wondered about that for some time now. As for him in the Oval Office, I'm not going there.
3-13-16@8:05 pm
If 'pop' means what I think it means, I've wondered about that for some time now. As for him in the Oval Office, I'm not going there.
3-13-16@8:05 pm
2
Then the problem is solved, right? I admire the fact that unlike many, you're looking out for his well being, and that's touching especially because I'm also listening to Bill Mahr, as I write, ranting about Trump like he wishes he were dead already.
@Iver Thompson,
I am not advocating violence. MLK, Gandhi, Gloria Steinem,
etc. are my idols and have been my role models. I believe in changing minds and hearts peacefully, etc., for the obvious reasons.
Because of that I do wonder and worry if there will be more attacks incited by this man. Also, while something quite permanent could happen to him, I fear that he could be eventually replaced by another, from the same toxic soup from whence he came. So harming him, which I do not advocate, would solve nothing. It is just so very painful to consider the damage this man has already done to this country and to our reputation abroad.
It is hard to ignore or forget that David Duke likes him. When my mother was a child during Jim Crow, the Klan came to the university campus where she lived and was raised. For me, a Black woman, people like that are danger incarnate.
3-13-16@10:39 pm
I am not advocating violence. MLK, Gandhi, Gloria Steinem,
etc. are my idols and have been my role models. I believe in changing minds and hearts peacefully, etc., for the obvious reasons.
Because of that I do wonder and worry if there will be more attacks incited by this man. Also, while something quite permanent could happen to him, I fear that he could be eventually replaced by another, from the same toxic soup from whence he came. So harming him, which I do not advocate, would solve nothing. It is just so very painful to consider the damage this man has already done to this country and to our reputation abroad.
It is hard to ignore or forget that David Duke likes him. When my mother was a child during Jim Crow, the Klan came to the university campus where she lived and was raised. For me, a Black woman, people like that are danger incarnate.
3-13-16@10:39 pm
3
Donald Chump acts like a big tough bully, blaming everyone else for what he has caused......but he's more like a little panty-waist.
I wouldn't be surprised if Roger Stone is still advising him in the shadows, because that guy is one slimy creep. He has always been an unethical mudslinger and doesn't have any qualms about lying and distorting anyone's character.
I wouldn't be surprised if Roger Stone is still advising him in the shadows, because that guy is one slimy creep. He has always been an unethical mudslinger and doesn't have any qualms about lying and distorting anyone's character.
4
The MSM dismissed the doubts about Obama's birth in HI and the serious issues with the birth certificate that was released which included major inconsistencies in the stamp affixed and the use of language, which was not used on birth certificates at the time Obama was allegedly born in HI. The MSM made it is a joke and a GOP stunt and dismissed it.
As a foreigner myself, I understand how you can get favored scholarships by applying as a foreign student etc. Harvard has never released Obama's application form details.
Obama maybe an US citizen through his mother but it is doubtful he was natural born according to the analysis by his own professor Lawrence Tribe, if he was NOT born in the US. Tribe's argument against Cruz not being a "natural born" citizen and therefore not eligible to become a POTUS is focused on Cruz's birth in Canada.
As a foreigner myself, I understand how you can get favored scholarships by applying as a foreign student etc. Harvard has never released Obama's application form details.
Obama maybe an US citizen through his mother but it is doubtful he was natural born according to the analysis by his own professor Lawrence Tribe, if he was NOT born in the US. Tribe's argument against Cruz not being a "natural born" citizen and therefore not eligible to become a POTUS is focused on Cruz's birth in Canada.
3
@ktermalkut,
If you want to waste your time doubting where President Obama was born, do it.
3-13-16@8: 11pm
If you want to waste your time doubting where President Obama was born, do it.
3-13-16@8: 11pm
3
@ktermalkut
Wait. You're a foreigner and you're knocking that 'Birther' trope about???
And just what is "natural born"? -- as opposed to what? -- unnatural born??
Wait. You're a foreigner and you're knocking that 'Birther' trope about???
And just what is "natural born"? -- as opposed to what? -- unnatural born??
4
ktermalkut: so you're suggesting the reason Harvard hasn't released President Obama's application form, is because you think it might say that he applied as a foreign student? In spite of the fact that Obama's birth certificate--the long form, actual certificate issued at the time of his birth--says he was born in Hawaii, and the local papers said so too at the time? Do you think Harvard would have somehow missed those?
2
I'm still laughing at the delusional narcissism this guy is so successful at with (and mostly only with) a certain demographic http://www.nytimes.com/2016/03/13/upshot/the-geography-of-trumpism.html
I'm praying that he will be the nominee because he will go down so hard. Even more than Cruz, Trump is an absolutely uuuuuge target -- so many skeletons in the closet of this con artist flim-flam man will be revealed under closer scrutiny in the course of the general that he just won't be able to con a majority of voters.
And with his fall, possibly the Senate will swing :-)
Trump 2016! What a laugh.
I'm praying that he will be the nominee because he will go down so hard. Even more than Cruz, Trump is an absolutely uuuuuge target -- so many skeletons in the closet of this con artist flim-flam man will be revealed under closer scrutiny in the course of the general that he just won't be able to con a majority of voters.
And with his fall, possibly the Senate will swing :-)
Trump 2016! What a laugh.
6
Actually, I get quite confused how Trump became that popular even reading this biography of a hero.
Seeing the latest violence at Trump rallies I can hardly imagine something similar during elections in Germany. Who is responsible for protests at rallies if Trump doesn't? If you could help me understanding, take part in the survey which I created on stirvox.com. I would be really thankful if you shed light for me and my German friends on your opinion about this politician.
Seeing the latest violence at Trump rallies I can hardly imagine something similar during elections in Germany. Who is responsible for protests at rallies if Trump doesn't? If you could help me understanding, take part in the survey which I created on stirvox.com. I would be really thankful if you shed light for me and my German friends on your opinion about this politician.
1
@Barbara
Just for the record. There's plenty of violence going on in Germany at the moment -- even though it doesn't always happen at election rallies. Just look at today's elections, that saw Sachsen-Anhalt with 23% of the vote going to the right -wing Alternative für Deutschland (AfD), which is making gains across Germany thanks to anti-immigrant sentiments and demonstrations. It's very similar to Mr. Trump's violent hate-messages at his rallies.
I can't speak for ALL Americans, but I will say this -- I have a very low opinion of this man, and believe his divisive manner and politics will do nothing for this country.
Just for the record. There's plenty of violence going on in Germany at the moment -- even though it doesn't always happen at election rallies. Just look at today's elections, that saw Sachsen-Anhalt with 23% of the vote going to the right -wing Alternative für Deutschland (AfD), which is making gains across Germany thanks to anti-immigrant sentiments and demonstrations. It's very similar to Mr. Trump's violent hate-messages at his rallies.
I can't speak for ALL Americans, but I will say this -- I have a very low opinion of this man, and believe his divisive manner and politics will do nothing for this country.
1
I an incredulous that the NY Times would frame this story in such a way as to suggest that the motivation for Trump's campaign is that the President poked fun at him. Seriously? And on the front page? Did you speak to anyone associated wuth Trump to find thus out? Because it reads like it was made up out of thin air. This pop psychology is so beneath standards of good journalism that I am speechless,
10
The NYT is in full lie mode...the left and their rich benefactors(GOP establishment as well) are not happy with the possibility of someone not beholden to them....just ask Buffet, Soros, and Wall Street leader, etc
1
WOW! I think we all feel like Donald Trump to some degree. From being used a punch line by the President, to having Washington politicians take our money and then wanting us to go away quietly. While the New York Times article tries to explain why Trump's run for President was driven by a desire to be taken seriously, it actually describes why an increasing number of Americans relate to how Donald Trump felt when the political insiders, both Democrat and Republican, were doing their best to humiliate him. They took him for granted as someone who was not part of their inner circle, just like they take the American people for granted. I get it now. We all feel like Donald. While the media does their best to make Trump out to be a racist, it is not surprising that African Americans from Ben Carson to Diamond & Silk are supporting Donald Trump.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EYyASU-iNI
If you do nothing else today, copy and paste this link into your browser. I love Diamond and Silk.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EYyASU-iNI
If you do nothing else today, copy and paste this link into your browser. I love Diamond and Silk.
7
The classic is Paul Begala, a Brock-class acolyte for Hillary, on CNN Jake Tapper's weekly panel, who in 2015 laughed that "A Donald Trump candidacy would be a godsend for Hillary." After Super Tuesday a couple weeks back, Paul turned multiple hues of scarlet when Jake played that video clip back, and asked how he felt now? Eat that crow, Paul.
There is nothing more tiring than American adults engaging in victimology, including Trump. So things are not entirely to your liking. That's the human condition.
A Lion is the King and never pretends to be a Sheep. The problem with the politically correct politicians is that their gestures to not offend anyone to their face is just a facade. They smile in the face of the public while stabbing them in the back. They never really address the issues for the whole of the country. Instead they pander to special interest groups and campaign donors. They speak eloquently and pretend to care. Yet they lie to your face and hide behind their political correctness. These phonies and frauds have the so-called educated elite in their pockets.
Historically great leaders are not always the most popular and politically correct. Take a look back in history at Teddy Roosevelt " The Rough Rider" as he was hated by the liberals of that time which were referred to as the elite. Teddy Roosevelt got in their face and did not speak so eloquently. He was a president for the people and did not pander to the special interest groups of his time. He was tough and got things done. Yes, he offended some people along the way. Read his quotes on Immigration. Look at his record on cleaning up the fraud and abuse in the civil service unions of his time. Look at his record in getting worthless politicians out of office. By the way Teddy Roosevelt was 1 of the 4 greatest presidents in US history. BTW: Mount Rushmore attests to that. Like it or not! The working people in our country are tired of smooth talking LIARS that are politically correct.
Historically great leaders are not always the most popular and politically correct. Take a look back in history at Teddy Roosevelt " The Rough Rider" as he was hated by the liberals of that time which were referred to as the elite. Teddy Roosevelt got in their face and did not speak so eloquently. He was a president for the people and did not pander to the special interest groups of his time. He was tough and got things done. Yes, he offended some people along the way. Read his quotes on Immigration. Look at his record on cleaning up the fraud and abuse in the civil service unions of his time. Look at his record in getting worthless politicians out of office. By the way Teddy Roosevelt was 1 of the 4 greatest presidents in US history. BTW: Mount Rushmore attests to that. Like it or not! The working people in our country are tired of smooth talking LIARS that are politically correct.
4
Sure, a lion. A guy who dodged the draft for Vietnam three times because of sore feet and then disrespected John McCain, a man who sent six years being tortured when he could have gone home at any time if he had made a propaganda film. And boy wasn't that a lion-like move he made in Dayton when a protester rushed the stage. Look at Trump clawing at the Secret Service guys shoulder like a frightened kitty cat. It looked like he wanted to jump into the guy's arms.
2
So obviously we're saying that even trump is obama's fault, is that it?
10
''Trump's a phenomena but the various 'hosts' on MSNBC and CNN who gave Trump free unlimited airtime should be held accountable for the 'aid' they gave him. These networks and 'hosts' didn't provide this same free airtime/coverage to any other candidate.''
Very true but this media you talk about includes, unfortunately this once great paper, whose total lack of objective coverage of Sanders has put us in the situation of choosing between a sociopath (trump) and an political insider whose own responsibility to the sad an corrupted state of this nation is very much her (and Bills) fault too. In particular if you compare her to both Obama and Sanders where her endless enthusiasm for war, insider corruption and silence on Israels descent into theocratic apartheid make her a co-conspirator in the rule by lobbyists and crony capitalism of our democracy.
A corruption that by enabling the very wealthiest in their effort to take even more has led to a nation where the 90% lose hope for a good life. This fact AND Trumps media enhanced demagogery explain why Donald Trump has been able to run at all!
Very true but this media you talk about includes, unfortunately this once great paper, whose total lack of objective coverage of Sanders has put us in the situation of choosing between a sociopath (trump) and an political insider whose own responsibility to the sad an corrupted state of this nation is very much her (and Bills) fault too. In particular if you compare her to both Obama and Sanders where her endless enthusiasm for war, insider corruption and silence on Israels descent into theocratic apartheid make her a co-conspirator in the rule by lobbyists and crony capitalism of our democracy.
A corruption that by enabling the very wealthiest in their effort to take even more has led to a nation where the 90% lose hope for a good life. This fact AND Trumps media enhanced demagogery explain why Donald Trump has been able to run at all!
6
I just had an epiphany! We've all been treating this the wrong way!
Donald J. Trump Jr. is a very, very clever man. Way too clever to try to take over America the same way a certain mustached Austrian took over Germany in 1929-1933. Every person on the planet would remember these bad times and therefor make that comparison.
So, by doing it _exactly_ as that little guy in the 30's did (minus the brownshirts, at least for now) The Donald is sending a message. I can see only two possible meanings:
1) "You are all so stupid and angry that I can even emulate the biggest mass-murder of all times and you would STILL vote for me!!! You disgust me!"
2) "I do this little routine to enlighten you about how easy it has become to lead you all away from the path of democracy, intelligence, truth and goodness. Shame on you!"
Both messages are designed to disrupt the political landscape as it is now. But I don't believe he will follow through with it. I don't believe he want's to become the President (or "Dictator for Life") of the U.S.
I believe his run is like Herman Cain's: a performance art project!
A day before the Republican convention he will pull out, stating some absolutely bogus reason ("Aliens are going to make me ruler of the galaxy instead, much better dental plan!").
And then the GOP will be in even MORE trouble than they are in right now, or would be if he becomes the nominee. Because then they would have to explain how they ever let him get that far...
Donald J. Trump Jr. is a very, very clever man. Way too clever to try to take over America the same way a certain mustached Austrian took over Germany in 1929-1933. Every person on the planet would remember these bad times and therefor make that comparison.
So, by doing it _exactly_ as that little guy in the 30's did (minus the brownshirts, at least for now) The Donald is sending a message. I can see only two possible meanings:
1) "You are all so stupid and angry that I can even emulate the biggest mass-murder of all times and you would STILL vote for me!!! You disgust me!"
2) "I do this little routine to enlighten you about how easy it has become to lead you all away from the path of democracy, intelligence, truth and goodness. Shame on you!"
Both messages are designed to disrupt the political landscape as it is now. But I don't believe he will follow through with it. I don't believe he want's to become the President (or "Dictator for Life") of the U.S.
I believe his run is like Herman Cain's: a performance art project!
A day before the Republican convention he will pull out, stating some absolutely bogus reason ("Aliens are going to make me ruler of the galaxy instead, much better dental plan!").
And then the GOP will be in even MORE trouble than they are in right now, or would be if he becomes the nominee. Because then they would have to explain how they ever let him get that far...
6
Until recently, I suspected exactly this. But I think the clue that Trump is serious about becoming president, and is exactly the person he's been portraying himself as, is the fact that he's become so insistent that his followers beat up protesters, to the point where it's very possible that some will be maimed or killed. That's not something that someone who's simply engaged in a performance piece would do.
Two words: Nouveau riche!
4
if he wants to be taken seriously, why doesn't he offer some serious ideas?
12
His hands and everything else about him is small, especially his lack of ideas.
10
America needs to put a lot less focus on explaining Mr. Trump's massive insecurities, and more on how to eject him from the process. Mainstream media has a really bad habit of giving people like him platforms and then wondering what went wrong...
11
@mjb,
No disagreement from this American.
3-13-16@8:21 pm
No disagreement from this American.
3-13-16@8:21 pm
2
Having let the tea party voters inside the republican tent, the establishment is now at their mercy.
9
This article (and Trumps likely nomination) provides further proof of money's power when cultivated properly. When "policymaking is dominated by powerful business organizations and a small number of affluent Americans, then America’s claims to being a democratic society are seriously threatened." Not rhetoric, but analyses of 1,779 policy issues.
http://scholar.princeton.edu/sites/default/files/mgilens/files/gilens_an...
http://scholar.princeton.edu/sites/default/files/mgilens/files/gilens_an...
5
Trump's exhibits all the characteristics of a narcissist. " Narcissistic personality disorder is a mental disorder in which people have an inflated sense of their own importance, a deep need for admiration and a lack of empathy for others. But behind this mask of ultra confidence lies a fragile self-esteem that's vulnerable to the slightest criticism."
When people feel insecure and desperate they are also vulnerable. Their propensity for violence is very high when their fear and anger are stoked by scapegoating others who are seen as threats. Individuals are responsible for their own actions or inactions. When political parties fosters these behaviours by the use inflammatory language people are motivated to become hateful and at times violent. My hope is that our better angels will appeal to us.
When people feel insecure and desperate they are also vulnerable. Their propensity for violence is very high when their fear and anger are stoked by scapegoating others who are seen as threats. Individuals are responsible for their own actions or inactions. When political parties fosters these behaviours by the use inflammatory language people are motivated to become hateful and at times violent. My hope is that our better angels will appeal to us.
7
I agree with your characterization of the man with the brittle personality we have before us today as the frontrunner of the Republican Party.
Not a supporter of this candidate, I will attest to the fact that President Obama's 2011 mockery of this man was uncalled for, unprovoked and unnecessary, if we assume, whether rightly or wrongly, that Mr. Obama should have descended to levels of personal attacks as president.
Now everyone must take Mr. Trump seriously because he is wielding tremendous power over so many dissatisfied and resentful Americans.
I suppose that the man with the vulnerable and "narcissistic" personality has been made in part worse by those whom we least suspect and those in his own party who could not afford to forego his endorsement.
Not a supporter of this candidate, I will attest to the fact that President Obama's 2011 mockery of this man was uncalled for, unprovoked and unnecessary, if we assume, whether rightly or wrongly, that Mr. Obama should have descended to levels of personal attacks as president.
Now everyone must take Mr. Trump seriously because he is wielding tremendous power over so many dissatisfied and resentful Americans.
I suppose that the man with the vulnerable and "narcissistic" personality has been made in part worse by those whom we least suspect and those in his own party who could not afford to forego his endorsement.
2
What is overlooked by critics of the president's behavior in 2011 is this: Trump brought this on himself with his birther comments and his promotion of the myth that Obama was not born in the US. Who can blame Obama for wanting to play Trump as the chump!
6
Reminds me of Adolf Hitler's feelings of inferiority motivating his desire to become leader of the German people.
Much of this campaign is reminiscent of the thirties in Germany: the unemployment, the appeal to the population's racism and other base instincts. One big difference is red caps instead of brown shirts.
Much of this campaign is reminiscent of the thirties in Germany: the unemployment, the appeal to the population's racism and other base instincts. One big difference is red caps instead of brown shirts.
6
It seems Roger Stone was prescient in his view that Trump could win based on "wall-to-wall media coverage". The American "news" media has been complicit in the Trump political rise, where nightly news reports and morning print outlets (including the venerable New York Times) have been all about The Donald. We reap what we sow, and now the same news outlets that have given Trump disproportionate coverage and favorable news banners seem shocked at the likelihood that he might be come President. Walter Lippmann once said that "it requires wisdom to understand wisdom: the music is nothing if the audience is deaf." To which I would add, the music is also nothing (with apologies to John Cage) if all the orchestra ever plays for its audience is dissonant noise.
5
Trumps meteoric rise is truly an American story. He comes from humble beginnings, blue collar Queens NY, from an immigrant family. Like most of us, he worked hard put his heart and should into his school work and then his business and built an epic empire from a little bit of seed money, with world wide name recognition and panache. Now he is willing to sacrifice everything to serve our nation. We owe him a debt of gratitude.
5
What the he'll are you talking about? Did you get that from his website or something? His father gave him more than a little bit of seed money. His business model includes branding and tanking using the bankruptcy code to leave investors holding the bag. He's been able to fool bank after bank into lending him money for projects that fail. He's a bigot, a cad, a crude, vile person, and a dangerous demagogue. Read about him somewhere that's somewhat less biased for him. He is not a leader we need.
9
You are so right it looks A good number of people drank the Trump cool aid. They are like sheep following blindly.
3
don't have much of a sense of humor or sarcasm, do you Gtpeppel?
2
It has to be admitted that there is logic to the Trump vow to close down the Department of Education and abandon the Common Core standards. The only way to perpetuate conditions that allow the nonsensical cant he espouses to remain persuasive is to make sure future generations grow up functionally illiterate.
6
This is news to you? Where have you been during the last 40 years?
The Republican party (by way its state-level minions, fed pre-formed laws by ALECS) has been systematically undermining public education for years!
Because the best way to control a population is to control the information it receives, and the way it processes that information.
Dictators and demagogues always hate education, because it leads to critical thinking.
Combine the degradation of the news media (beginning with USA Today and proceeding to Fox News) with the demolition of the education system and you have near-complete control of the population's thinking. And in contrast to the "hard" censorship of the Soviet system, this "soft" censorship comes across looking like it is open and uncensored. Divergent opinions are allowed, but marginalized.
Noam Chomsky has been writing about this for at least 40 years. You'd better crack the books and catch up!
The Republican party (by way its state-level minions, fed pre-formed laws by ALECS) has been systematically undermining public education for years!
Because the best way to control a population is to control the information it receives, and the way it processes that information.
Dictators and demagogues always hate education, because it leads to critical thinking.
Combine the degradation of the news media (beginning with USA Today and proceeding to Fox News) with the demolition of the education system and you have near-complete control of the population's thinking. And in contrast to the "hard" censorship of the Soviet system, this "soft" censorship comes across looking like it is open and uncensored. Divergent opinions are allowed, but marginalized.
Noam Chomsky has been writing about this for at least 40 years. You'd better crack the books and catch up!
5
In defense of Donald Trump:
1. He is hilarious. Inappropriate at times, but so refreshing.
2. He is running for office for the first time. His incredible success suggests he might make a good President . He excels at things. He runs a lean and mean machine. Mega-competent.
3. He is honest and courageous. He has invited the base to the table rather than feeding them raw scraps out the back door and then denying it (like W Bush/Romney). By connecting with the base he can lead them in new, positive directions.
4. He sends dog whistles. But they are targeted at liberals and moderates. I hear them loud and clear, which is why I am open to him.
5. Trump has channeled the concerns of what might be the majority of Americans. They appreciate that he is listening and that he will work hard on their behalf. They don't take his campaign rhetoric at face value.
6. Trump is no racist.
7. Trump is smarter than 99.9% of us.
8. Trump would bring an incredible excitement to the Presidency. We need some fun after 8 years of (much needed) sober competence. Ying/Yang.
9. Trump is anti-war.
It's a bit of a gamble, but Donald is doing what needs to be done to win the Republican nomination. Once he gets past that hurdle, he might surprise us all.
1. He is hilarious. Inappropriate at times, but so refreshing.
2. He is running for office for the first time. His incredible success suggests he might make a good President . He excels at things. He runs a lean and mean machine. Mega-competent.
3. He is honest and courageous. He has invited the base to the table rather than feeding them raw scraps out the back door and then denying it (like W Bush/Romney). By connecting with the base he can lead them in new, positive directions.
4. He sends dog whistles. But they are targeted at liberals and moderates. I hear them loud and clear, which is why I am open to him.
5. Trump has channeled the concerns of what might be the majority of Americans. They appreciate that he is listening and that he will work hard on their behalf. They don't take his campaign rhetoric at face value.
6. Trump is no racist.
7. Trump is smarter than 99.9% of us.
8. Trump would bring an incredible excitement to the Presidency. We need some fun after 8 years of (much needed) sober competence. Ying/Yang.
9. Trump is anti-war.
It's a bit of a gamble, but Donald is doing what needs to be done to win the Republican nomination. Once he gets past that hurdle, he might surprise us all.
4
No one in Germany was surprised by Adolf, just stunned.
5
Number seven is accurate only if applied to his supporters.
2
@Greg: What Ivy League college is your degree from? How many billions are your holdings worth? If Trump was a dummy he would have been eaten alive by the ruthless sharks in Manhattan over the last 40 years.
3
Donald Trump is a genius at controlling the media cycle. Who knows what he really thinks and what his real motivations are, but we do know that by making the election more like the 'Real Candidates of the Republican Party' than like the 'Republican Presidential Nominating Process' he has scored a hit.
Please start reporting on his policies and ideas not on his antics. Focusing on his personality wastes valuable time that should be spent understanding the candidates positions and policy solutions. I'd like to know how Trump will get any of his so called policy through Congress ( negotiate isn't an answer ), was a 35% import duty will do to our economy ( forget China and other countries ) and how is going to fund Social Security.
Lets focus on his policy not his drama.
Please start reporting on his policies and ideas not on his antics. Focusing on his personality wastes valuable time that should be spent understanding the candidates positions and policy solutions. I'd like to know how Trump will get any of his so called policy through Congress ( negotiate isn't an answer ), was a 35% import duty will do to our economy ( forget China and other countries ) and how is going to fund Social Security.
Lets focus on his policy not his drama.
4
Cleveland 2016 is lining up to be the TPs (the GOP is long gone -RIP) Chicago 1968, only the TP will be armed to the teeth. Open carry, Trump's incediary rhetoric, the Klan, Nazi salutes, white power. What if he gets the nomination? Better yet what do his people if he doesn't? and that is just the flamethrowers in the TP.
This is on you McConnell, Ryan, Brooks, Douthat, Fox, Hannity, Rush, Kelly, Koch, Cruz, Kasisch, Rubio, et al (the list is endless) and every single one of the Republican party who does not repudiate what they have done by ginning up this hate and division over the last 8 years.
Want to see what it was like without the guns, Crosby, Stills and Nash "Want you please Come to Chicago'? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fEFsBF1X1ow. with the video of that horror. I remember.
This is on you McConnell, Ryan, Brooks, Douthat, Fox, Hannity, Rush, Kelly, Koch, Cruz, Kasisch, Rubio, et al (the list is endless) and every single one of the Republican party who does not repudiate what they have done by ginning up this hate and division over the last 8 years.
Want to see what it was like without the guns, Crosby, Stills and Nash "Want you please Come to Chicago'? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fEFsBF1X1ow. with the video of that horror. I remember.
6
We’ve all seen or experienced it at one time or another…we misplace something around the house (keys, cell phone or whatever), and we find ourselves running around the house frantically in search of it! I once thought that I had misplaced my reading glasses when lo and behold…my son came running up to me and said, “But Dad, you’re wearing them!”
Hillary Clinton's gross negligence…at the very least…with her personal emails as U.S. Secretary of State is staring us straight in the face. But her zombie, “Stepford Wife” type followers either can’t see it or simply don’t want to know!
Similarly the reason for all the outrage, back-stabbing and internal dissent among the GOP establishment should be obvious to everyone. They’d rather hand the Presidency over to Hillary than have their own inner sanctum turned on its head…by a genuine political outsider like Donald Trump!
Hillary Clinton's gross negligence…at the very least…with her personal emails as U.S. Secretary of State is staring us straight in the face. But her zombie, “Stepford Wife” type followers either can’t see it or simply don’t want to know!
Similarly the reason for all the outrage, back-stabbing and internal dissent among the GOP establishment should be obvious to everyone. They’d rather hand the Presidency over to Hillary than have their own inner sanctum turned on its head…by a genuine political outsider like Donald Trump!
1
Nothing to critisize about your points...but as a jsb fan I would opt to hear you perform Rachmaninoff.
3
Fabulous! The great Baroque, Classical and Romantic composers learned enormously from the music of J.S. Bach! Much of Rachmaninoff’s music…with its soul deeply rooted in mother Russia…has contrapuntal characteristics harkening back to the teachings of J.S. Bach. Bravo!!
Oh, I thought you said those Classical and Romantic composers learned erroneously from the music of JS Bach.
1
D'ja know what Malcolm X said? "Chickens coming home to roost." That is about the 1%-protecting Republicans and Conservatives and the Koch brothers and corporations being counted as people by Scalia, et al.
6
Case study in narcissism
8
What created Donald Trump and his tremendous needs? My office is a male dominated laboratory for the culture at large, where the boss is a lot like Trump. He used to be nicer and more trusting, and was badly burned - humiliated, to use the perfect word to describe everyone's worst nightmare and motivator for I'll show them revenge. The "light-hearted" correspondents dinner - I've watched as people being made fun of try to look light-hearted. Being mocked, made fun of, bullied is what creates school shooters as well as Trumps. Nothing enrages like being laughed at. But it's a big part of our culture, particularly male culture. It can be funny to make fun of people, I get that. I've laughed myself, plenty. But we should know there are limits, that there are human beings on the other end. I believe the enormous gulf between liberals and conservatives in this country has a lot to do with a feeling of being put down, belittled, mocked. Each side believes the other is almost sub-human - and liberals do this too - liberals surely believe conservatives are idiots - I see the postings all over FB and hear my friends and others say so, making fun of them. This put-down culture we live in has just gone way overboard.
8
I agree with you. It is soft bullying, but it is bullying, nonetheless
1
I disagree... "Liberals" don't believe conservatives are idiots... They KNOW they are idiots...
5
Trump viciously attacked the president over and over and over. Sometimes his rhetoric came surprisingly close to calling for someone to assassinate him. In return, the president made fun of Trump for ten minutes. And you blame the president for Trump's behavior.
To alter a saying slightly: conservatives like Trump hate and fear liberals because they hate being made fun of. Liberals are terrified of conservatives because we're afraid they will destroy the country. This is not a symmetric fear.
To alter a saying slightly: conservatives like Trump hate and fear liberals because they hate being made fun of. Liberals are terrified of conservatives because we're afraid they will destroy the country. This is not a symmetric fear.
6
The problem with this column is the problem of the column, publicity.
1
Establishment is corrupt and dysfunctional. Regardless of personal outcome for trump,hopefully political status quo is no more.
Rebalancing of wealth transfer? Kindled by a celebrity billionaire?
Rebalancing of wealth transfer? Kindled by a celebrity billionaire?
1
I am reacting to a quote from another story about Trump pushing violence: "And Mr. Trump’s rivals in both parties denounced his candidacy as the match that lit the fire, even as they try to harness the same electoral forces that have turned him into the Republican front-runner. "
One of the tropes that allows a demagogue like Trump to ascend is "both sides do it". I'm not sure what the "electoral forces" are, but only one party, the Republicans, is being led by a hammy violence-stirring fascist and only the Republicans are promising to support the selfsame monster that they are currently opposing. There is no "equal and opposite" Trump on the Democratic side.
One of the tropes that allows a demagogue like Trump to ascend is "both sides do it". I'm not sure what the "electoral forces" are, but only one party, the Republicans, is being led by a hammy violence-stirring fascist and only the Republicans are promising to support the selfsame monster that they are currently opposing. There is no "equal and opposite" Trump on the Democratic side.
5
LOL. I cannot wait till Trump wins the general election. The pain that you writers and editors at 'The New York Times' are going through is glorious.
3
You just see what you want to see, don't you? They are covering him extensively. They are going into his background. Like any front runner. What pain?
1
The problem for you is that Trump won't win. That's why the Republican leaders have their panties in a bunch.
This analysis makes sense, the question then is whether Trump is winning back his stature by campaigning for the office but he's never really thought through being the president?
Interesting to read the different articles about Trump today.... Sulzberger's island retreat with Karl Rove et al. speaks volumes. You sold us on the Iraq war with neocon misinformation. You should be ashamed of yourselves. Ignore Bernie, attack Trump.... whatever you can do to keep the war machine going.
1
I am a Black attorney in Washington DC, who remembers watching the 2011 White House Correspondents' Dinner speech at the Hilton, standing with the overflow crowd watching on a monitor.
By the end of the speech, the crowd was groaning, and embarrassed by Barack Obama's insulting, disrespectful attack on Donald Trump. Many felt Mr. Trump was blindsided by a supposedly civil, humble and respectful Barack Obama who was petty, childish and acting like the drunk guy who gets the microphone at the wedding reception and doesn't realize the polite, uncomfortable laughter isn't a sign of success.
This article rests on Obama's attack on Trump in the 2011 WHCD as the basis for it's self drawn conclusions about Trump. This is a hit piece. I've yet to read a NYT "news" article about Obama's humiliating moments as the basis for his behavior. And there have been many.
My favorite was when Obama embarrassed America with his idiotic behavior with Queen Elizabeth, talking over ceremonial music, wholly unaware of tradition and classless. Or when Obama delivered not one but two eulogies that consisted of talking about himself. Why aren't we treated to probing news "analysis" of how embarrassing events have shaped Obama's psyche?
By the end of the speech, the crowd was groaning, and embarrassed by Barack Obama's insulting, disrespectful attack on Donald Trump. Many felt Mr. Trump was blindsided by a supposedly civil, humble and respectful Barack Obama who was petty, childish and acting like the drunk guy who gets the microphone at the wedding reception and doesn't realize the polite, uncomfortable laughter isn't a sign of success.
This article rests on Obama's attack on Trump in the 2011 WHCD as the basis for it's self drawn conclusions about Trump. This is a hit piece. I've yet to read a NYT "news" article about Obama's humiliating moments as the basis for his behavior. And there have been many.
My favorite was when Obama embarrassed America with his idiotic behavior with Queen Elizabeth, talking over ceremonial music, wholly unaware of tradition and classless. Or when Obama delivered not one but two eulogies that consisted of talking about himself. Why aren't we treated to probing news "analysis" of how embarrassing events have shaped Obama's psyche?
7
How can an American be embarrassed by a slight to a member of the English royalty? We fought a bloody revolution to throw them out and deliberately created a political system that excludes them. The English should be embarrassed that they have allowed those parasites to remain at all.
4
Well, DCBarrister, I recall watching the same 2011 WH Correspondents' Dinner, and my recollection is a bit different from yours. Mr Obama got his point across about the whole 'birther' issue that Donald Trump so enjoyed bringing up time and time again, regardless of the fact that there was nothing to back it up. Where was the 'evidence' that Donald claimed repeatedly to have? He never produced anything because, well, it didn't exist. If Mr Trump was a bit embarrassed, he had it coming.
I have also traveled to Europe every year since Mr Obama has been president. I have talked to numerous European citizens in cities and smaller towns, and virtually every one I have spoken with has gone out of his/her way to mention how much they like and respect our president.
I have also traveled to Europe every year since Mr Obama has been president. I have talked to numerous European citizens in cities and smaller towns, and virtually every one I have spoken with has gone out of his/her way to mention how much they like and respect our president.
6
I travel to Italy, France, Belgium, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Austria and England to participate in panel discussions. When I am there, I watch the European versions of our Sunday political shows. I've seen Obama portrayed as everything from a toddler, to a rapper to a clown.
Their version of the Daily Show treats Obama the way our Daily Show treated GW Bush.
I honestly do not know about the Obama birth certificate thing because the news media squashed it so terribly. Anyone who could even wonder for a split second about that is immediately branded as crazy, so it's a hot potato nobody in the establishment wants to touch. I never understood either side, because I am a phone call away from my birth certificate while it took Obama a year, and he's POTUS to get what I, an ordinary person could get in less than 30 seconds.
Their version of the Daily Show treats Obama the way our Daily Show treated GW Bush.
I honestly do not know about the Obama birth certificate thing because the news media squashed it so terribly. Anyone who could even wonder for a split second about that is immediately branded as crazy, so it's a hot potato nobody in the establishment wants to touch. I never understood either side, because I am a phone call away from my birth certificate while it took Obama a year, and he's POTUS to get what I, an ordinary person could get in less than 30 seconds.
2
Trump is committing crime of hate. Therefore, he must be stopped. A hate crime is committed to intimidate, harm or terrify not only a person, but an entire group of people to which the victim belongs.
Trump's criminal conduct is disguised as political campaign. Hence it is quite elusive. But more and more savvy and conscious people have realized the peril which Trump is carrying to USA. He must be stopped from further agitating the chaos among ignorant people.
When a crime is being committed against you or your family, such as robbing you, killing you, raping you whatsoever, you must stop it with whatever force that you have, if you don't like to be the inevitable victim.
Trump's criminal conduct is disguised as political campaign. Hence it is quite elusive. But more and more savvy and conscious people have realized the peril which Trump is carrying to USA. He must be stopped from further agitating the chaos among ignorant people.
When a crime is being committed against you or your family, such as robbing you, killing you, raping you whatsoever, you must stop it with whatever force that you have, if you don't like to be the inevitable victim.
3
This post makes me a little nervous. If you'd said it about the president or an ex-girlfriend, you'd get a visit from law enforcement. Just what are you planning?
As a Black attorney in Washington DC, with a degree in American History, I'd be open to accepting the premise of this "news" article, explaining Donald Trump's motives to me, but there are two problems:
1. As a lawyer, I've been trained to know the best source of intent and motive about Donald Trump comes from Mr. Trump, not liberal elite with an axe to grind.
2. Today is March 13, 2016. This is the 81st Trump-splaining article published by the NYT in 6 months. If you're explaining something or someone to me 81 times in 6 months, that means there's a problem with your message. The most common problem with messaging is truth.
1. As a lawyer, I've been trained to know the best source of intent and motive about Donald Trump comes from Mr. Trump, not liberal elite with an axe to grind.
2. Today is March 13, 2016. This is the 81st Trump-splaining article published by the NYT in 6 months. If you're explaining something or someone to me 81 times in 6 months, that means there's a problem with your message. The most common problem with messaging is truth.
9
" . . .Still many in the news media did not take him seriously." And more is the pity. The media could have shut this whole circus down in the first month and, yet, here we are at this late date, reading simplistic academic summations of recent events and bland historical minutia about Trump's personal supposed thoughts, if you can call what goes on in his head thinking. This guy needs to be put in his place soundly. So the media was asleep at the wheel earlier on. And now? That wheel is squeaking loudly enough to permanently deafen. Time to wakey-wakey Fourth Estate.
3
The sad reality is that decades of union busting and sending manufacturing, and even many service jobs, to Mexico and overseas has destroyed the "working" or blue-collar middle class. As a result, millions of Americans are looking in the mirror and seeing failure. Those people are angry, frustrated and, worse, scared to death.
They now believe they have found their savior and advocate in Donald Trump. Talk about voting against your self-interest.
The challenge for his responsible opponents is to expose Trump as the twisted narcissist and manipulative snake oil salesman that he is.
They now believe they have found their savior and advocate in Donald Trump. Talk about voting against your self-interest.
The challenge for his responsible opponents is to expose Trump as the twisted narcissist and manipulative snake oil salesman that he is.
6
Proposed first question for Trump: "when it's windy out, or the forecast calls for wind, you typically use a lot of gel to keep your fly-away hair in place. Which is your gel of choice, Trump, Brylcreem Original?"
Trump: "Yes. Nothing like Brylcreem to keep your hair in place when it's windy out or the forecast calls for wind. And to appear presidential, or befitting a president, I use VO5 styling gel which gives my fly-away hair long-lasting hold-- even in damp or humid conditions."
Trump: "Yes. Nothing like Brylcreem to keep your hair in place when it's windy out or the forecast calls for wind. And to appear presidential, or befitting a president, I use VO5 styling gel which gives my fly-away hair long-lasting hold-- even in damp or humid conditions."
1
Thank goodness Barack Obama, the selfie taking, arrogant, insular, insecure, self-serving, me first publicity hound never sought acceptance, right?
When Donald Trump does it, it's wrong.
When Obama does the same thing, it's extraordinary stuff of legend.
Enough, NYT.
Enough.
When Donald Trump does it, it's wrong.
When Obama does the same thing, it's extraordinary stuff of legend.
Enough, NYT.
Enough.
7
Wow... So you're a lawyer with a degree in American History? Where from? Trump U?
3
That's so cool Tom!
You're one of those people my classmates joked about during my Harvard days. Fortunately, I managed to be way more accommodating and I stood up for the average joes.
You're one of those people my classmates joked about during my Harvard days. Fortunately, I managed to be way more accommodating and I stood up for the average joes.
3
It is an intriguing contradiction, isn't it? I guess it's okay for insiders, but don't outsiders dare to do it. If feel like we're watching all the cool kids get their noses bent out of shape because the new kid in town suddenly looks way cooler than all of them, and they don't like it at all.
1
Mr. Trump had been active stirring up the "birther" movement about President Obama prior to the 2011White House Correspondents Dinner, if I recall correctly. It is hard to reconcile that with the idea that Trump was "gracious" when he arrived at the dinner- he had already invested much into seeking to tarnish and cast our president as illegitimate. Mr. Trump's graciousness is certainly seems one sided.
5
The scariest part of the presidential race so far is not the behavior of Mr. Trump but the historically unprecedented unanimity of the media's sliming of a candidate who clearly has the support of a vast number of hard-working Americans.
5
What the statesman is most anxious to produce is a certain moral character in his fellow citizens, namely a disposition to virtue and the performance of virtuous actions. Aristotle
So, all of this is a means to salve his ego.
What does it gain a man, Mr. Trump, to gain the whole world but to suffer the loss of your soul? And, as for all of those people who have shown their support with their voices, their votes and their fists: what do they imagine this has been gaining them?
What does it gain a man, Mr. Trump, to gain the whole world but to suffer the loss of your soul? And, as for all of those people who have shown their support with their voices, their votes and their fists: what do they imagine this has been gaining them?
3
"This is a huge opportunity for progressive change in this country."
Historical trends aren't in the Democrats' favor (only once in the last 60+ years has the Presidency not been handed to the other major party after one party has held it for two terms – Bush the elder, in 1988). And the Republicans pretty much "ran the table" in the 2014 election. Finally, Hillary is not what anyone would describe as a "strong candidate." I think she'd beat Trump, but that's only because he's an even weaker candidate. (Bernie might do better, but let's get real here: a self-declared socialist is very unlikely to get elected.)
Bottom line, I don't know what makes you think this is "a huge opportunity for progressive change." Looks to me like the Democrats will be lucky just to hang on, even if Trump gets the nomination. And if they do hang on, I can't imagine that much, if any, "progressive change" will occur. More likely we'll see 4 or 8 years of stalemate.
Historical trends aren't in the Democrats' favor (only once in the last 60+ years has the Presidency not been handed to the other major party after one party has held it for two terms – Bush the elder, in 1988). And the Republicans pretty much "ran the table" in the 2014 election. Finally, Hillary is not what anyone would describe as a "strong candidate." I think she'd beat Trump, but that's only because he's an even weaker candidate. (Bernie might do better, but let's get real here: a self-declared socialist is very unlikely to get elected.)
Bottom line, I don't know what makes you think this is "a huge opportunity for progressive change." Looks to me like the Democrats will be lucky just to hang on, even if Trump gets the nomination. And if they do hang on, I can't imagine that much, if any, "progressive change" will occur. More likely we'll see 4 or 8 years of stalemate.
1
Tick tock, tick tock, waiting for 12:01 am Tuesday. Say goodnite, Marco. Enjoy Ohio, John, you richly deserve it. Ayatollah Ted? Go back to Texas and help it secede, as your penance. The lower 47 states will thank you for it.
P.S.: Marco, stop stalking Jeb! for his endorsement. He warned you to wait your turn last year. Silly boy.
P.S.: Marco, stop stalking Jeb! for his endorsement. He warned you to wait your turn last year. Silly boy.
In a nutshell, he's a childish bully who can't take what he dishes out.
6
Sorry, to disagree. Trump is a neo-Nazi, much more dangerous than the reporters' articles or pundit's analyses note. Cable stations endlessly present his propaganda, while audiences applaud, dismiss or ignore. We know what can happen with this sort of authoritarian movement as is the history of recognizing it much too late. The republican party, in particular, has spawned this brand of American fascism with the gun-slinging militias on the front lines. Wake up, American. It's late!
3
We keep talking about the man, the performer, the "businessman" and the wannabe politician. His chronic delusion of grandeur is too obvious of a theme to tackle. When do we really start tackling the psyche of his fans (fanatics)? He stood on the soap box and "we," the people, turned it into the throne.
It was fun once... Funny is perhaps the better word here. Heck, SNL didn't have to do much to turn the thing into a skit. Remember Sarah Palin (2008)? Now it's haunting. It felt like a glimpse of hope when Palin came and delivered that nauseating endorsement. Now the campaign would crumble... Nope.
So what is really going on? The economy, jobs, ISIS, immigration? If people were really concerned about these and really thought about these, that's the man we want to put on the world stage?
Palin, Hannity, Ann Coulter... Come on! What is this new Kool-Aid flavor?
Cruz looked like it would be the next parody to have a good laugh with and move on. But it's uncanny what we are left with. At this point I'll take W for 4 more years.
Haunting.
Can we give him another TV show instead? We can just go back and make fun at the hair. He'll be able to feed the narcissism without having to make tough decisions for you and I. If we don't, we could perhaps watch live: Trump is Nero in The Fall of The Greatest Nation II.
It was fun once... Funny is perhaps the better word here. Heck, SNL didn't have to do much to turn the thing into a skit. Remember Sarah Palin (2008)? Now it's haunting. It felt like a glimpse of hope when Palin came and delivered that nauseating endorsement. Now the campaign would crumble... Nope.
So what is really going on? The economy, jobs, ISIS, immigration? If people were really concerned about these and really thought about these, that's the man we want to put on the world stage?
Palin, Hannity, Ann Coulter... Come on! What is this new Kool-Aid flavor?
Cruz looked like it would be the next parody to have a good laugh with and move on. But it's uncanny what we are left with. At this point I'll take W for 4 more years.
Haunting.
Can we give him another TV show instead? We can just go back and make fun at the hair. He'll be able to feed the narcissism without having to make tough decisions for you and I. If we don't, we could perhaps watch live: Trump is Nero in The Fall of The Greatest Nation II.
3
like the little boy who kicks over the lamp to get people to pay attention to him
1
Recommended as "must see" viewing: Elia Kazan's 1957 classic, A Face in the Crowd, starring Andy Griffith. If your only exposure to Andy has been as a homespun country sheriff or a folksy southern lawyer, you are in for an eye-opener. The Trump campaign as Hollywood movie script.
5
No matter what the reasons motivating Trump.. the growing unrest, violence, & disharmony growing from his campaign make it clear that he would only lead our country down the wrong path. To vote to have this become the leading voice of the United States, is to vote against all the hope and promise this country has stood for through hundreds of years. To vote for this is to turn away from any hope that we might bring to the world in the future.
3
A vote for Trump is nothing more than a frank admission of one's selfishness and small mindedness. Some day you won't find anyone who will admit to having voted for this crazy man walking.
8
So Trump says he can handle criticism. Is this why he encourages his followers to beat up anyone who even simply stands up in silent protest at his rallies?
9
He makes the case for socialism better than any person or event.
2
The article might be on to something. However, what's really important is what he stands for and his behavior and his leadership harnessing people's anger in a negative fashion. Clearly he does not have well thought through positions on the issues, he rallied his supporters against other groups of people, he has clearly inspired violence against protestors. His latest is the encouragement of his supporters to have at it in Sander's rallies. What-ever his motivation he needs to be stopped. He does not share American values. If he makes office he will set this country back for a generation.
3
This could have been avoided if we had only adhered to a monarchy. We have only ourselves and our founding fathers to blame for this. Boring, but predictable.
"[The Democrats] have only ONE credible candidate, and she is soooo long past her sell-by date it's comical."
Hillary may be long past her sell date, but she's younger than Trump.
Hillary may be long past her sell date, but she's younger than Trump.
3
Will the insanity stop? The man has issues galore, all unworked out. Money clearly isn't the issue. Granting him presidential power would be the act of a suicidal nation.
7
That's us. One can only hope not, but we have a vast electorate that knows nothing and gets all its information from conservative talk radio. There is a mad reasoning that keeps these people uninformed and uneducated. it is easier to maneuver them this way.
3
I don't really think this a bad thing and it may actually be to his benefit. Anyone who's been on the receiving end of derision and ridicule is someone more likely to have been able to develop empathy from the experience and can relate better to others who've also had to endure the same. Sometimes, when things come too easily for people, they take those things for granted and don't care much about what they do with it. Say if Trump were to get elected, for all anyone knows he'd take the position far more seriously than another to whom the office was merely a "stepping stone" along an otherwise predestined political patch. Does the name Bush come to mind for anyone else but me?
Donald Trump's evident narcissism is matched only by his greed and his cruelty. President Obama was correct in treating Trump as a huckster and a chump. The reason so many people have been rioting at his rallies in this reality show is that many American people don't really appreciate a presidential candidate who wants to institute a Third Reich. Donald Trump is the ultimate prevaricator who wants to sell you the lie that he is honest and after your best interests as a spiteful warmonger and bully.
4
If he wants dos be taken seriously he should quit the race tomorrow. That would show he's a real man, not a cartoon character who's getting far too close to the "real deal."
Unfortunately, this says more about the Republican party's state of decay than it does Donald Trump. His self promoting bluster and ego issues have been evident for years. The oxymorons of principled Republican politicians and altruistic Republican constituencies emerge as themes only eclipsed by the incompetent judgement of those attempting to preserve political market share. This story should bring profound embarrassment to our American political process and any who claim loyalty to this nation.
Obama's April 2011 boorishness' towards Mr. Trump is as classless as it gets. The NYT should be ashamed of itself for recounting this event.
Mr. Obama, the radical progressive left and mainstream media have created Mr. Trump. He would not have the allegiances that he has had it not been for the policies and attitudes promulgated by the three of you.
Congratulation, I think you did a great job at one thing - the only thing.
Mr. Obama, the radical progressive left and mainstream media have created Mr. Trump. He would not have the allegiances that he has had it not been for the policies and attitudes promulgated by the three of you.
Congratulation, I think you did a great job at one thing - the only thing.
2
Of course, the article worfully omits, and Jurgen doesn't seem to remember, that by the time of that dinner, Trumplestiltskin had been banging the birther-in-chief drum on every Republicant leaning outlet for three full years. After the long form birth certificate was produced, well after its best by date, and well after it had stopped being funny, entertaining, or edifying.
6
On the Republican side, we have one wide-mouthed fear monger (Donald Trump), one oil-slick-slippery pathologically lying extremist candidate (Cruz), one well-bribed know-nothing talking-point-memo man-boy (Rubio), one woman-hating worker-union destroying self-deluded liar posing as a moderate (Kasich), and one Wall Street owned moderate posing as a progressive (Clinton)...
And the Democrat side, we have Bernie Sanders.
And the Democrat side, we have Bernie Sanders.
5
What 'success' has Sanders had exactly?
The economy in Vermont is stagnant and child poverty is rising. In 2011, 15.2% of Vermonters received food stamps, compared to 14.8% nationally.
Vermont is 95% Caucasian. It has no inner cities ghettos, a tiny percentage of minorities, and a few immigrant enclaves - the people who tend to use expensive social services the most - yet Vermont is a poor state.
Perhaps that is was ranked by Forbes magazine as 42nd best among states in which to do business has something to do with it, but the bottom line is that is does not have a thriving economy, so how again would Sanders do better with an entire county?
Oh, right, everything will be 'free'.
The economy in Vermont is stagnant and child poverty is rising. In 2011, 15.2% of Vermonters received food stamps, compared to 14.8% nationally.
Vermont is 95% Caucasian. It has no inner cities ghettos, a tiny percentage of minorities, and a few immigrant enclaves - the people who tend to use expensive social services the most - yet Vermont is a poor state.
Perhaps that is was ranked by Forbes magazine as 42nd best among states in which to do business has something to do with it, but the bottom line is that is does not have a thriving economy, so how again would Sanders do better with an entire county?
Oh, right, everything will be 'free'.
Hillary's a Democrat, by the way.
If he wanted to be taken seriously, he should behave like a serious person, not a sociopath or bully. He is a joke because he acts like a joke and doesn't even realize it.
True - it has become a very bad joke that will greatly harm this country.
True - it has become a very bad joke that will greatly harm this country.
1
That's not what America's voters think, is it? My condolences.
2
chuck
may you enjoy th real president trump as much as you enjoy th one you imagine in your head
may you enjoy th real president trump as much as you enjoy th one you imagine in your head
2
Actually, thankfully, it is.
1
This article is sheer speculative nonsense. Trumplestiltskin's campaign is a continual ego stroke of an irredeemable narcissist.
And Obama's speech at the 2011 WH Correspondent's dinner was a sharp rebuke to THREE YEARS of Trumplestiltskin's relentless birtherism. How did Haberman and Burns omit something quite so obvious?
And Obama's speech at the 2011 WH Correspondent's dinner was a sharp rebuke to THREE YEARS of Trumplestiltskin's relentless birtherism. How did Haberman and Burns omit something quite so obvious?
5
They didn't omit it, but they did touch on it only briefly: "[Obama] ridiculed [Trump's] fixation on false rumors that the president had been born in Kenya."
1
Das Trump is sooooo insecure and only his money allows him to reach out this far. real shame to those who can not see the false prophet they follow
1
This fits into Putin's playbook to divide countries politics.
2
He's in this race too? Holy cow, and I thought the field was narrowing!
Conquerors have been doing the same since time began, it's hardly only in his playbook.
Conquerors have been doing the same since time began, it's hardly only in his playbook.
I would like to know: Is the Trump "campaign" paying local law enforcement costs in the cities where he rallies, causing overtime pay for security needed for the violence he ferments with his violent rhetoric?
2
If he was paying them then C.P.D. would not have let the riots occur. But then, who would want to deal with the Chicago Police Dept., and live to tell about it? One more reason he skipped the debacle.
It sounds like Obama, desperate to stroke his own ego and defame Trump, went over-board with his not-so-funny one liners and now Trump is getting even. Moreover, Trump out-smarted the arrogant establishment politicians of both parties who thought they could simultaneously take Trump's money and control him. Clearly, they've all underestimated Trump and the American voters.
Given the current status of Trump's political power and appeal, it's clear he is beating Obama and the establishment of both parties at their own games. After the last 8 years of lies, corruption and miserably costly failures by our so-called leaders, and an economic system that favors the arrogant monied class at the expense of the harder working poor and middle class, Trump's blunt criticism and weakening of the political and media establishment is the kind of victory that the vast majority of Americans want to be part of.
Given the current status of Trump's political power and appeal, it's clear he is beating Obama and the establishment of both parties at their own games. After the last 8 years of lies, corruption and miserably costly failures by our so-called leaders, and an economic system that favors the arrogant monied class at the expense of the harder working poor and middle class, Trump's blunt criticism and weakening of the political and media establishment is the kind of victory that the vast majority of Americans want to be part of.
9
Trump remains a joke, just a more dangerous one given his pandering to the worst elements of human nature.
4
Trump's "political power"? Surely you jest. 25% of 33% isn't exactly a vast majority. You're still a sideshow. Come back after Hillary wins 40 states this fall.
4
Look up Obama's current approval rating! Gallup poll, March 11 2016. Check out job numbers and state of the economy compared to Bush.
6
Trump wants to "gain stature" and "be taken seriously"?
Does the man listen to himself? Is he incapable of judging his own actions?
Does the man listen to himself? Is he incapable of judging his own actions?
8
Strikes me odd no one has drawn a parallel between Donald Trump and Warren Beatty's eponymous movie character, Bullworth. Trump is so truly adept as a politician it obscures the fact he is a dangerous, vengeful, demagogue. I have a hunch is Enemies List is already a mile long. Trump is not only a threat to The American Way, he may be the key to Bernie Sander's defeat of Hillary. The protests against Trump will surely gain momentum, and the protesters will mainly be Sander's supporters.
2
Dear M.J.Wheeler:
"Bulworth" is an apropos selection but one needs to go back further, decades in fact, to an absolute classic, Elia Kazan's directed and Budd Shulberg-penned "A Face In The Crowd".
Starring Andy Griffith as Lonesome Rhodes in no way does Griffith's character act like the beloved sheriff from Mayberry Andy Taylor we came to love in the Sixties. It's definitely a film worth checking out. You will be amazed at the similarity to the Trump character being played to the hilt by the billionaire blowhard.
DD
Manhattan
"Bulworth" is an apropos selection but one needs to go back further, decades in fact, to an absolute classic, Elia Kazan's directed and Budd Shulberg-penned "A Face In The Crowd".
Starring Andy Griffith as Lonesome Rhodes in no way does Griffith's character act like the beloved sheriff from Mayberry Andy Taylor we came to love in the Sixties. It's definitely a film worth checking out. You will be amazed at the similarity to the Trump character being played to the hilt by the billionaire blowhard.
DD
Manhattan
Whatever his faults, Donald Trump has spawned a generation of young people who are now self-educating themselves about the history of this country. That it is unstructured will lead to seriously dangerous echo chambers. But the truly curious shall seek and they will find. Hearts hardened and minds closed will only cause their own ossification and putrefaction. I am optimistic that we as a nation may finally confront our history and heal or condemn ourselves.
1
I'm no Donald Trump fan, but strangely enough, I find him the least dishonest and the least dangerous of the remaining Republican candidates....
Consider:
Cruz is an already promised war monger, full of hate, fear, suspicion, and lies, and is just plain insane.
Rubio is a soulless man-boy who can't manage his own household bills, can't be trusted with a government credit card, and who's never actually accomplished anything - but has proven he will do any billionaire's bidding if the price is right.
Kasich is a self-proclaimed moderate, but in reality is woman-hating anti-abortion zealot who crushes worker unions and credits himself with everything good that ever happens when he's in office, and blames everyone but himself for everything bad that happens...
All egotistical baldfaced liars without any solutions for 99 percent of America's citizenry.
Just say "No!" to the lot of them....
Consider:
Cruz is an already promised war monger, full of hate, fear, suspicion, and lies, and is just plain insane.
Rubio is a soulless man-boy who can't manage his own household bills, can't be trusted with a government credit card, and who's never actually accomplished anything - but has proven he will do any billionaire's bidding if the price is right.
Kasich is a self-proclaimed moderate, but in reality is woman-hating anti-abortion zealot who crushes worker unions and credits himself with everything good that ever happens when he's in office, and blames everyone but himself for everything bad that happens...
All egotistical baldfaced liars without any solutions for 99 percent of America's citizenry.
Just say "No!" to the lot of them....
15
You can say "NO" all you want -- in the voting booth. That's where the Democrats collapse -- even in mail-in ballot states! Hillary has not inspired any big turnout, as the GOP has. As the Democrat riots show, they know their tired Establishment candidates can not beat Donald.
3
Trump's legacy is one of hate, anti-intellectualism, crass and base behaviors, and is based on elevating the minority of racist, fanatic, and undereducated people, to create a media storm that drenches us with his purulent discharges. He says nothing. He is the personification self promotion, incitements to violence, and manipulation of the demented haters and ignorant fearful; a con man, perhaps the greatest con man ever; a place from which I never thought Bernie Madoff could be displaced from.
Our only hope is that his followers, comprise about 25% of the population, in spite of 95% of the coverage they collectively get. The media sits in the middle, feeding the pablum of our own destruction to those not aware enough to close their mouths.
Our only hope is that his followers, comprise about 25% of the population, in spite of 95% of the coverage they collectively get. The media sits in the middle, feeding the pablum of our own destruction to those not aware enough to close their mouths.
11
On the other hand: It might be well to note that the current crop of "reporters" no longer report the news. Instead, they salivate opinions filled with over the top invective.
In long ago America, the civilized response to candidates disapproved of was simple -- there was no need to vilify, we just voted for someone else.
Protest is fine, but reminiscent of fascist mob-think, peaceful protest has gone the way of the Two-Cents-Plain. (For any too young to know, or from other climes, that how one ordered a glass of seltzer at any NY candy store.)
These days the accepted way of dealing with those with whom one disagrees is to storm their rallies and swing from the chandeliers. The media loves it.
You don't like some guy? Good. That's your right; and that's what the ballot box was made for.
In long ago America, the civilized response to candidates disapproved of was simple -- there was no need to vilify, we just voted for someone else.
Protest is fine, but reminiscent of fascist mob-think, peaceful protest has gone the way of the Two-Cents-Plain. (For any too young to know, or from other climes, that how one ordered a glass of seltzer at any NY candy store.)
These days the accepted way of dealing with those with whom one disagrees is to storm their rallies and swing from the chandeliers. The media loves it.
You don't like some guy? Good. That's your right; and that's what the ballot box was made for.
9
the other guy? You mean the racist white supremacists like Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, George Wallace?
The violence at many protests, including the one at the Trump rally in Chicago, is often initiated by the people being protested against, not by the protesters. Instead of calling for no public protest, why not call for people being protested against to grow a thicker skin and not attack the protesters? It can be done. It may be true that even many otherwise peaceful protests do have a lot of shouting and chanting by protesters, but until it escalates to violence, it can still be called a peaceful protest. Why not just say you wish people would protest without a lot of shouting, instead of calling for no public protest at all? Public protests are a way of showing numbers in public, to let people sitting at home know that their point of view is supported by others not afraid to announce their beliefs in public. God knows the Trump crowd has been vociferous at their rallies.
There are many amazing things about Trump, but the most amazing is how long it is taking for him to fall back into oblivion.
What everyone one missed is how seetheingly angry some folks are at Obama, a black president, and a media (including social) that seems geared towards liberal, multi-ethnic sentiments. Some folks are not ready for this, in spades.
And so the revolt is on, and Trump is its name.
But it is an aftershock that will settle down, as all aftershocks eventually do.
Trump will fade and fade fast, but who knows when.
What everyone one missed is how seetheingly angry some folks are at Obama, a black president, and a media (including social) that seems geared towards liberal, multi-ethnic sentiments. Some folks are not ready for this, in spades.
And so the revolt is on, and Trump is its name.
But it is an aftershock that will settle down, as all aftershocks eventually do.
Trump will fade and fade fast, but who knows when.
3
i know when
when he has to show his tax returns, then place his assets in blind trusts
thats exactly when
when he has to show his tax returns, then place his assets in blind trusts
thats exactly when
2
Africans have a saying: "when mother cow is chewing cod, the little ones watch her mouth. "
Trump was just chewing the cod the same way the Republican Congress taught him to.
Trump was just chewing the cod the same way the Republican Congress taught him to.
2
This is beginning to look like a new reality show which would be a cross between Trump and Vlad Putin, mano a mano, and one of our overly zealous, publicity seeking tv evangelists.
The new show is a documentary called "Democrat Political Violence 1968-2016". Lots of archival footage of mobs running amok and running gun battles with police, interspersed with new cellphone videos from Democrat rioters.
Unless not initiated, you do not provide easy solutions to hard issues through sweeping statements. It is easy to say - believe me I have contacts, or read my lips I can politics and know how to handle politicians, and basta, you have a solution!
Humans have filters. Filtering can be helped by experience, by age, by education plus a relentless urge to question. Populists have long known how the human mind works. It works on surfaces, the human mind can be duped in multiple ways which explains the shrivel of advertisements. You have to give it to Trump because he is a businessman and as such has been involved in programs aimed at selling his products. He knows how the human mind works. It is not hard science to postulate why he has been successful well aware of the way you can sell a message.
Humans have filters. Filtering can be helped by experience, by age, by education plus a relentless urge to question. Populists have long known how the human mind works. It works on surfaces, the human mind can be duped in multiple ways which explains the shrivel of advertisements. You have to give it to Trump because he is a businessman and as such has been involved in programs aimed at selling his products. He knows how the human mind works. It is not hard science to postulate why he has been successful well aware of the way you can sell a message.
1
As someone rightly commented Donald Trump was the product of irresponsible, profit and rating-oriented media. They are now trying unsuccessfully hard to put the genie back in the bottle. Donald Trump has now -- with his stamina, wisdom, tactic and resources -- gotten past that stage when he could be subdued. In the process, he has at least shown many aspirants, including Jeb Bush, their right place. He's foul mouthed which most politicians are behind the camera, but he has been bold in some initiatives as well: such as taking big donors, Republican party establishment, the media tycoons in his stride and spending his own money initially on his campaign. On some questions like on the Wall, illegal immigration, admission of Muslims in the country, Donald Trump has either not explained himself fully or he has been mis-represented. Their must be some merit in his candidacy only because of which he has trounced his competitors in so many states and drawn endorsements from two of them. If this monster genie is out of the Republican Party bottle, only the people can put him back.
3
Standing with a group of Bernie supporters at the Chicago Trump rally Friday night, I sensed something bad about to happen and left the event early. I was ashamed (and scared) to be standing shoulder-to-shoulder with a group who's obvious intent was to induce violence and attempt to deny the opposing candidate's/supporters' constitutional right to publicly assemble. I'm appalled this isn't be treated as a civil rights violation. These violent student protests are being provoked in part by promises of 'free college tuition for everybody' and it is dangerous to use such tactics on a desperate, naive, and vulnerable segment of the voting public.
10
Poppycock.
11
@ DaveT
The more Leftists who show up at Trump's rallies to shout him down, the more clear it becomes that political correctness is just another form of Fascism...sadly, these young people learned nothing about free speech rights in college, where their Far Left teachers told them that only 'correct' speech should ever be allowed.
The more Leftists who show up at Trump's rallies to shout him down, the more clear it becomes that political correctness is just another form of Fascism...sadly, these young people learned nothing about free speech rights in college, where their Far Left teachers told them that only 'correct' speech should ever be allowed.
It was reported that the actual pushing and shoving did not start until after the "event" was cancelled. Tell me Trump didn't set this up?
1
Pride goeth before the fall. Also all evil self-destructs, just not in a timely way.
3
I am not worried too much about Trump - he will come and go as every other presidential candidate, but the American people.
Why are we sooo angry? Why cannot we choice a more classy way to deal with our anger, instead of lowering ourselves to the level of street gangs and hooligans? Haven't we been proud of what we are, cool and composed and logic and rational?
What's wrong with us?
Do you think by electing Trump, we can be better than what we are???
Why are we sooo angry? Why cannot we choice a more classy way to deal with our anger, instead of lowering ourselves to the level of street gangs and hooligans? Haven't we been proud of what we are, cool and composed and logic and rational?
What's wrong with us?
Do you think by electing Trump, we can be better than what we are???
6
This country was never any of those things. From the beginning, it was about not paying taxes, buying human beings, stealing land from those who were here, starting wars with other countries to get their resources, celebrating the lynching and burning of human beings. Educate yourself about the real history of this country.
2
The Republican Party is so out of touch with the public that no matter what they do, they will continue to lose national elections, I predict. It's just a matter of how badly they will get beaten this time. This is a huge opportunity for progressive change in this country. Let's not waste it.
5
National elections only come every 4 years. Are gaining control of the House and the Senate not important? - sounds more like the Democratic party is out of touch.
5
They may only come every four years, but they are likely to pick up seats in the Senate and then the majority in the Supreme Court.
1
Why is the Republican establishment pulling its hair out about how to stop Trump? Should Trump become President, Republicans already have the playbook in place for stymieing a president: do exactly as they did to President Obama. What, all of a sudden they're too dainty for that?
5
Oh snap!!!
Brilliant!
Brilliant!
3
If Trump were not there, someone else who can act independently of the country's manipulation machinery would take his place. Trump and Sanders (my guy) represent true bottom-up social movements. It's NOT coming from the top - and the political establishment and mainstream media are very nervous. The string pullers STILL don't see what's happening all around them. They try to vilify Trump and marginalize his supporters by claiming he appeals to base human instincts and suggest they are being led like lemmings. But who is really trying to lead sheep here? Who is trying to create news from these massive social events? I now live among Trump supporters in the Ozarks and they are not as racist as they're being portrayed. Many truly care about this country. Most of the pundits here treat all this as sport - but how can human suffering be so entertaining? For example, some democrats have personally identified with Hillary during her battles with Republicans - like it's a soap opera or knockem sockem robots. I'm sure these folks aren't putting food back at the check out line.
6
DID YOU READ THE STORY?
Trump -- bottom up?? He's been planning this run, for years. A previous Times story goes back to when he wanted to be governor of NY, years back, as a way of moving onto the presidency.
Bernie -- yup -- real deal. Sat in Senate for 30 years doing nothing, but his heart is in right place.
For Trump, this is top down -- and as he says,he's self-funding,he's the guy running the show -- and the masses are his props. Stage sets, "extras" on his reality show, to hold up Trump signs.
Trump -- bottom up?? He's been planning this run, for years. A previous Times story goes back to when he wanted to be governor of NY, years back, as a way of moving onto the presidency.
Bernie -- yup -- real deal. Sat in Senate for 30 years doing nothing, but his heart is in right place.
For Trump, this is top down -- and as he says,he's self-funding,he's the guy running the show -- and the masses are his props. Stage sets, "extras" on his reality show, to hold up Trump signs.
I believe that these two, related social movements are bottom-up processes and would occur, in some form, with or without these leaders. They are the consequence of a very real breakdown of our representational democracy. Concerning Sanders, do you really think he would have been voted in 13 times in VT (where I lived) if he was "doing nothing". He just got 87% of the democratic vote and we know him very well, after 33 years. Apparently he's known as the Amendment King in Washington. He has a long list of political accomplishments.... just do some homework.
1
@ carl
Sanders, elected to Congress in 1990, has had 26 years to convince his colleagues to pass something, anything, to get his 'revolution' started, yet out of 781 bills he has sponsored, he was able to get only three bills passed.
Three.
And two of them were about renaming post offices in his home state of Vermont. The other one was about a cost of living adjustment for veterans, hardly controversial with the GOP.
But this time it will be different somehow?
Sanders, elected to Congress in 1990, has had 26 years to convince his colleagues to pass something, anything, to get his 'revolution' started, yet out of 781 bills he has sponsored, he was able to get only three bills passed.
Three.
And two of them were about renaming post offices in his home state of Vermont. The other one was about a cost of living adjustment for veterans, hardly controversial with the GOP.
But this time it will be different somehow?
1
People are gravitating towards Trump for these main reasons: They hear "wall", they hear "immigrants", and "great again." In essence they want separatism, exceptionalism and the privilege of living in a bygone era where certain people in this country controlled others - because "back then," even if you had a 3rd grade education, your ethnicity afforded you more power and access than other Americans. What supporters of these ideas fail to understand is that in a world that has become smaller by way of technology, separatism is no longer possible, prudent, or smart. Nor do they understand that walls are in themselves a form of aggression, as well as rejection, especially when diplomacy is a viable option. They do not realize that the good old days are exactly where they should be - in the past. If we were not meant to make progress, we would still be traveling by horse and buggy. Finally, Americans will never be truly exceptional unless we come come together in mutual respect and see ourselves as American nationals first with ethnicity as a footnote instead of a definer.
5
Your goals sound very laudable, but here is the problem. There is a double standard playing out. Minorities have much more freedom to talk about racial and cultural matters than do whites, who are under the presumption of guilt regarding the past. I can share specifics regarding comparisons of treatment, but we all know all this already. Simply put, there is a lack of honesty in this conversation. Until this fact is faced, we will continue to move in separate directions and spheres.
1
By all means this is a conversation we should have. Why don't we begin by your citing the instances of white people being enslaved by African Americans or killed off en masse while having their culture and language ripped away from them by Native Americans. Just to get us started.
1
It's simple economics. Trump has acknowledged, and everybody understands it and agrees, that people with money buy politicians to get what they want out of our government. Trump's position is, why pay big money to buy influence in government when he can essentially buy the entire Republican Party for very little expenditure, and become the leader of the GOP by becoming President? What's wrong with that? This is the American Way taken to an extreme. The only thing that is needed by Trump for nearly absolute control is to become the President. Once President, if he still needs to buy voles in Congress, he can use his family to donate through a SuperPac. I say, give the man a chance. It can't get any worse than it is now, and might get a whole lot better with Trump as President. Remember, the Lord works in strange ways, and this could be one of them. If you don't like him in four years, try something else.
3
With the destruction of the establishment Republican party by the Tea Party and other inchoate sound boxes of bigoted anger, Mr. Trump lumbered in with his nationalist demagoguery. Trump is the ultimate example of conspicuous consumption. Of course the NYTs "shows" that Bernie Sanders is a guy who makes a lot on noise but has no future. Which may be true. But he at least he offers the hope that America's the rich run the show political system might have to see the grass roots something to say and will be heard. But Trump is a member of the glitterati which the news media spends endless time focusing on. Then Hillary Clinton's lack luster campaign is trumpeted by the Times. Foreign policy mistakes are turned to Foreign policy expertise like a sub prime mortgage was turned into a AAA bond.
1
once youre all drinking trump water this will make much more sense
have a big cold glass right now
trumptopia is just a pitcher away
have a big cold glass right now
trumptopia is just a pitcher away
1
It smells more like Jonestown Kool-Aid. Thanks, but I'd rather go thirsty.
4
Obama had the crony political machine, lobbyists and much of the media push him into power and reelection, but Trump has all those same forces aligned against him and the will of the people; the will of the people will win this time around.Obama had the crony political machine, lobbyists and much of the media push him into power and reelection, but Trump has all those same forces aligned
2
His "looking into paying for the defense" of one of his violent followers should be where his campaign ends. In doing that he is condoning violence.
4
"Trump will win Ohio on Tuesday. Kasich will be gone. Trump will win Florida. Rubio will be gone."
No question that Rubio will be "gone" if he loses Florida, as appears very likely. Either he'll formally withdraw (most likely) or simply be ignored.
The same might be true for Kasich, but not necessarily since his strategy is different: the "brokered convention." Nonetheless, if Kasich loses Ohio, his "brokered convention" strategy will have suffered a severe blow. It's arguably a long shot already (though I don't think so), but a Kasich loss in Ohio would pretty much seal his fate.
Cruz won his home state – Texas – and thus has "earned" the right to stay in. It looks like Rubio will lose his home state – Florida – in which case he will not have earned the right to stay in. There's a pattern there. Kasich had better win Ohio.
No question that Rubio will be "gone" if he loses Florida, as appears very likely. Either he'll formally withdraw (most likely) or simply be ignored.
The same might be true for Kasich, but not necessarily since his strategy is different: the "brokered convention." Nonetheless, if Kasich loses Ohio, his "brokered convention" strategy will have suffered a severe blow. It's arguably a long shot already (though I don't think so), but a Kasich loss in Ohio would pretty much seal his fate.
Cruz won his home state – Texas – and thus has "earned" the right to stay in. It looks like Rubio will lose his home state – Florida – in which case he will not have earned the right to stay in. There's a pattern there. Kasich had better win Ohio.
2
Marco Menudo is about to summon a priest for the Last Rites. Then Kasich the RINO will fold, as Jeb! and Christie did. Then Democrats are on th horns of a dilemma: who can bell the cat? They have only ONE credible candidate, and she is soooo long past her sell-by date it's comical.
2
I read somewhere years ago (it was probably in Vanity Fair) that Trump has nursed an underlying need to prove he is as good as or better than members the super wealthy "old money" families who represent the American version of aristocracy. I suspect that this to be a factor given his long-showy lifestyle, that mistakes tacky bigger, brighter, shinier and opulent with good taste. Trump extols endlessly on who and what is "classy". Nothing and no one is of value unless they represent the richest, most expensive, or the "best", and he is a final arbitrator on all these subjects. In this, I doubt Trump will ever be accepted or acknowledged as one of them; he is merely a crass, vulgar, nouveau riche hustler who somehow must be tolerated, often pandered to. I had a good bit of exposure to the old money crowd in my hometown growing up due to my father's work. They are a different creature entirely, and one does not buy his way in. His determination in the presidential race is just another extension of needing to prove himself as good as or better.
5
You NAILED it!
you survived bush, but just barely
you survived obama
you wont survive trump
you survived obama
you wont survive trump
3
My only question is whether these delusional supporters of Trump can recall their overwhelming confidence that Romney was going to beat the Muslim, America Hating, Nigerian born, etc, President Barack Hussein Obama? How'd all of that work out? Exactly.
Trump has even less of a chance of winning than Romney did. Presently Trump loses in head to head polling to Clinton and especially to the Socialist Senator Sanders by yuuuuuge margins. Trump is going to be consigned to the ash heap of also rans, enough with covering a man who will never step inside the Oval Office----never. The impending implosion of the GOP is nearly complete. The Neocons such as the perennially wrong, Bill Kristol are already touting a third party candidate. So, between picking Trump and a candidate blessed by the Neocons? DNC heaven. Heckuva job, Trumpie!
Trump has even less of a chance of winning than Romney did. Presently Trump loses in head to head polling to Clinton and especially to the Socialist Senator Sanders by yuuuuuge margins. Trump is going to be consigned to the ash heap of also rans, enough with covering a man who will never step inside the Oval Office----never. The impending implosion of the GOP is nearly complete. The Neocons such as the perennially wrong, Bill Kristol are already touting a third party candidate. So, between picking Trump and a candidate blessed by the Neocons? DNC heaven. Heckuva job, Trumpie!
2
Play it again Sam, "See me, feel me, touch me........."
Am I missing something here?
Marco Rubio and Jeb Bush reportedly have talked several times in the past week, with Rubio asking for Bush's endorsement. Bush has been non-committal, and why not? If Rubio performs poorly in Florida, as polls predict, he may withdraw next week (or be ignored from here on out, if he insists on staying in).
Why would Bush – or anyone else – want to hitch is wagon to that star?
Bush probably will wait to see how Ohio and Florida turn out on Tuesday. If Kasich does reasonably well in Ohio – and especially if Rubio does poorly in Florida and withdraws – Bush will endorse Kasich.
Marco Rubio and Jeb Bush reportedly have talked several times in the past week, with Rubio asking for Bush's endorsement. Bush has been non-committal, and why not? If Rubio performs poorly in Florida, as polls predict, he may withdraw next week (or be ignored from here on out, if he insists on staying in).
Why would Bush – or anyone else – want to hitch is wagon to that star?
Bush probably will wait to see how Ohio and Florida turn out on Tuesday. If Kasich does reasonably well in Ohio – and especially if Rubio does poorly in Florida and withdraws – Bush will endorse Kasich.
I'm guessing Trump will find this story, "boring, boring, very boring."
1
Not Trump but Obama who is acting the way a Gang leader would behave, he divided this country and promoted hate. the silent majority knows this.
4
Except for the fact that the Republican leadership on the day after Obama was elected agreed to vigorously oppose anything he tried to accomplish...who really divided the country?
1
No, Ronk, it was not "the day after" - nor the month, nor the year after - that Mitch McConnell said that. (Why would it be?) Look it up.
Just because you say it doesn't make it so.
It surprises me, somewhat, that there is not more discussion about what appears to be this candidate's case of a personality disorder with narcissism. Perhaps, given our societal penchant for 'selfies' and great self promotion, Trump's narcissism is a reflection of the societal trend. Still, there are degrees and his unprincipled type is not only risky for the electorate but a danger about the illness that is now filtering into the bloodstream of American democracy.
3
Trump had supported President Obama during his first election, and donated to his campaign. Apparently they subsequently had a falling out.
President Obama's decision to publicly humiliate Trump and tear him down in front of people who were important to him apparently backfired. Applying basic principles of Jewish thought, publicly humiliating a person is in many respects worse than murder. When you publicly humiliate a person, you effectively kill that person's soul. Since the event in which he was publicly humiliated, Trump became motivated to make his own imprint on American politics, one that vehemently opposes much of what the Obama administration stood for, tapping into an anger that hasn't existed in this country since the end of the Jimmy Carter administration.
President Obama's decision to publicly humiliate Trump and tear him down in front of people who were important to him apparently backfired. Applying basic principles of Jewish thought, publicly humiliating a person is in many respects worse than murder. When you publicly humiliate a person, you effectively kill that person's soul. Since the event in which he was publicly humiliated, Trump became motivated to make his own imprint on American politics, one that vehemently opposes much of what the Obama administration stood for, tapping into an anger that hasn't existed in this country since the end of the Jimmy Carter administration.
3
One of the most telling lines in this piece, to me, was spoken by Newt Gingrich, who said he assumed Trump was just "playing a game with the birther stuff".
To the Republican party, months of casual racism directed at and calling in to question the legitimacy of the nation's first black president was just "a game."
To the Republican party, months of casual racism directed at and calling in to question the legitimacy of the nation's first black president was just "a game."
3
And then he found out how stacked the deck, how rigged against the common citizen our society has become, due to the rabid, manic attacks on him when ever he questioned the status quo, and so he apparently decided to try to fight the few percent business owner, Wall Street nobility and their NY Times and their bought off by the 1% major media propagandists that oppress this nation.
3
I hope the GOP Frankenstein can kill their monster. This is scary stuff.
1
I bet you also hope that Hillary's adjutant who took the FBI's immunity deal keeps his mouth shut. Democrats are sweating an October Surprise for Hill, just like one-term Jimmy Peanut got.
6
The rise of Donald Trump is real and I can not fault Ted Cruz or Mark Rubio any longer But am sure they were never not the winning candidates. After incidences of violence in Chicago IL, Dayton OH and the latest in MO, Trump still remains unrepentant.
Saw the real face of Trump in front of us as I was watching the Sunday Morning shows. Unmasking face of of a man full of HATE who calls himself a shrewd businessman.
Saw the real face of Trump in front of us as I was watching the Sunday Morning shows. Unmasking face of of a man full of HATE who calls himself a shrewd businessman.
3
I had a funny thing happen once back in the late 90s while staying at the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City New Jersey. I was traveling with some business associates and we found that the hotel had lost a reservation when we arrived late at night. When the hotel found that we were in the publishing business, they wanted to make sure we were satisfied so they put us up in private suites on an upper level. I was "floored" by the ostentatiousness of the room that was decorated with many photos of Donald Trump and his then wife Marla Maples . Not only were there photos all of over the room of them, but the TV had the biography of Donald Trump playing 24 hours a day! You couldn't avoid it either, because every time you turned off the TV then turned it back on, it would go right back to the Trump biography, We joked about the ego of this man for years after staying in that hotel!
7
Trump tells us what we do not want to hear about our self, America is the bully going around the world invading, attacking, and polluting At home we incite violent, division, our fake media bombard us poisoning ignorance, and promoting hate to our divided tribes. Obama is a master gang agitator . We are not a nation that is seeking to better itself but a power of ignorance that spread en filth violent and bigotry.
2
a lot of unsupported conjecture in this piece. How do you get inside Trump's head? He states that the dinner didn't bother him. Was he lying? How does one know? I'm not a Trump supporter, but careless armchair psychoanalysis doesn't get us further in understanding the man.
3
When it comes to Trump, " far out" is not far enough.
He is the voice of the New American Fascism.
He needs to be exposed, by everyone with a voice, for the hatred he stands for. That is the way to stop him and his fascist movement.
He is the voice of the New American Fascism.
He needs to be exposed, by everyone with a voice, for the hatred he stands for. That is the way to stop him and his fascist movement.
3
Finally, Trump is being called the fascist that he is, but American neo-Nazism didn't start with Trump. It is what the republican party has become; what the gun-slinging militias stand for and what is so frightening to many Americans. So far, anti-Semitism has been missing from Trump's platform, but now he want to go after Bernie. 'Us against them' is a serious contagion that we must recognize and stop.
1
I could not support someone who is motivated by a desire for stature. That tells me that motivation to serve the public is secondary, at best, and Mr. Trump has no prior record to suggest otherwise. And since we have little else to base a decision on, other than building a wall on the border with Mexico, excluding Muslims, and waving a magic wand to change our balance of trade, we're lost when trying to find rationale for his candidacy.
5
Let's look at a plausible scenario.
Trump looks to Super Tuesday -- knows he has to win BIG or it may all fall away.
How can he dominate the news channels for three or four days? How can he INFLAME his supporters?
1) Pick a rally venue designed for chaos -- diverse neighborhood, diverse student body.
2) Set it up to let in hundreds of protestors. Remember his crack team clamped down in quiet little Burlington to make sure NO protestors got in.
3) THIS TIME, let in hundreds of obviously likely protestors -- by their very race alone, obviously carrying signs.
4) Pack that hall with hate-filled supporters and protestors. Fill it up, with almost NO Trump security on hand. Get the kindling in place. Pour the kerosene.
5) Then drop the match -- guy runs to mike, says police say cancel. Start the chaos.
6) Blame police for cancelling-- say you MET with them, when police say you never spoke with them.
7) THEN blame protestors -- this was a PLANNED disturbance, we knew in advance. So if you knew in advance, why fill the hall?????
Net net: Trump totally responsible, blames everyone else-- BUT he gets the airwaves for days (MSNBC kept with it in KC when even CNN quit). AND he gets to reach all of his supporters and inflame them.
All for FREE courtesy of the media.
He needed a near riot. He wanted a near riot. He GOT a near riot. And never even had to show up at the rally.
Trump looks to Super Tuesday -- knows he has to win BIG or it may all fall away.
How can he dominate the news channels for three or four days? How can he INFLAME his supporters?
1) Pick a rally venue designed for chaos -- diverse neighborhood, diverse student body.
2) Set it up to let in hundreds of protestors. Remember his crack team clamped down in quiet little Burlington to make sure NO protestors got in.
3) THIS TIME, let in hundreds of obviously likely protestors -- by their very race alone, obviously carrying signs.
4) Pack that hall with hate-filled supporters and protestors. Fill it up, with almost NO Trump security on hand. Get the kindling in place. Pour the kerosene.
5) Then drop the match -- guy runs to mike, says police say cancel. Start the chaos.
6) Blame police for cancelling-- say you MET with them, when police say you never spoke with them.
7) THEN blame protestors -- this was a PLANNED disturbance, we knew in advance. So if you knew in advance, why fill the hall?????
Net net: Trump totally responsible, blames everyone else-- BUT he gets the airwaves for days (MSNBC kept with it in KC when even CNN quit). AND he gets to reach all of his supporters and inflame them.
All for FREE courtesy of the media.
He needed a near riot. He wanted a near riot. He GOT a near riot. And never even had to show up at the rally.
9
Highly astute comment. People have been saying this since last night. I was dubious but when you focus on what is the Trump MO -- How do I get maximum attention? -- it becomes logical.
1
After lifetime of brand building,he is seeking relevance. He is a true modern celebrity,who burnished his image through popular tv show based on his billionaire status.His unpredictable foray in to political fray has revived antiestablishment movement, buttressing his bombastic persona.
Apolitical he wants to be, enigmatic ,trump is paralyzing his support to rewrite american political playbook.
Apolitical he wants to be, enigmatic ,trump is paralyzing his support to rewrite american political playbook.
Dear NY Times,
While I appreciate the fact finding and election coverage, I am getting tired of seeing and hearing Trumps name everywhere I look. I am most definitely not a Trump supporter and I would assume that the overwhelming majority of NY Times readers are in the same boat, so why are almost all of the headlines and Op-eds focused on Trump? I doubt many readers need any more convincing that he is not fit for office. His only way of gaining more support is by media attention. I urge the NY times to cease reporting on Trump and find a more productive way to ensuring he does not make it to the Whitehouse. Lets all take the high ground and focus on what really matters.
While I appreciate the fact finding and election coverage, I am getting tired of seeing and hearing Trumps name everywhere I look. I am most definitely not a Trump supporter and I would assume that the overwhelming majority of NY Times readers are in the same boat, so why are almost all of the headlines and Op-eds focused on Trump? I doubt many readers need any more convincing that he is not fit for office. His only way of gaining more support is by media attention. I urge the NY times to cease reporting on Trump and find a more productive way to ensuring he does not make it to the Whitehouse. Lets all take the high ground and focus on what really matters.
5
There is only one real newspaper in the United States, the NYT. This election season has shown me that the Washington Post is not deserving of respect. Mr. Trump is a candidate for President, and his message rings true, and true not just with the segment hatefully described as "low information," non-college educated, "poor whites" and all painted as racist. So would the NYT simply insulate itself from the issues, and not report Trump? Well, if like the Post you are going to not recognize the obvious, that Trump like Sanders represents a new majority, you will not be serving the role of the responsible press. I want to vote for Mr. Sanders, if I cannot I would choose Mr. Kasich. And if not, I will vote for Mr. Trump, because I do not want 4-8 more years of the Clintons. The Democratic establishment has lost its way, and is as corrupt as the Republican establishment, albeit less so.
5
WaPo is comical in its visceral hatred of Trump. Krauthammer, Will, Gerson, Sargent, Marcus, Rampell, Robinson, 1 or 2 others, and the Editorial, on many days are ALL against Trump. Six boxes on their Opinion page, and all 6 reviling Trump. It's hilarious, really. Poor George Will and his bowtie, lachrymose.
I'm not american, I'm french. But i allow myself to comment the presidential elections of the USA here. Donald Trump seems to be victim of a smear campaign. He is always showed as a dangerous and hateful bouffon. But if he's millionaire, he isn't so stupid that the people believed ! He has take the good decision for the rally in Chicago. He has cancelled it to prevent that some people was injured or worst, killed.
7
He started life as the son of a multimillionaire. That's an easy way to be dumb and rich.
3
Rich does not automatically equal intelligent, as proven by Trump.
That's true… but the fact is that he is elected in many states of the USA with an overwhelming majority against his contenders of the Republicans during the Primary. He has maybe a very good campaign tactics. Money makes not all ! Even if it makes much easier ! He has a speech which is enjoyed by many americans. So he is considered as an independant candidate unlike his challengers. He says the truth about criminality, delinquancy, terrorism. He is determinded to annihilate ISIS. "I prefer the speechs which save people rather than the speechs which is enjoyed by people" (Demosthene)
all this analyzing and looking for deeper meaning is hilarious
trump appeals to th lowest common denominator in america -- morons
since they are legion trump has lots of support
trump appeals to th lowest common denominator in america -- morons
since they are legion trump has lots of support
7
This article seems to imply that Obama's 2011 remarks were somehow causative. That ignores the fact that Trump's birtherism predates it and was unprovoked by anything except raw racism on Trump's part. Trump clearly struck the first blow.
7
Riots yesterday to prevent a Trump rally and Riots in Ferguson and the racist "Black lives Matter"that disrupted Bernie Sanders stimulated me into writing something. Incredibly Hillary and others have blamed Trump for riots to suppress his 1st amendment right to have a rally. One of their spokesmen yesterday was Bill Ayres who was the head of the "Weather Underground" in the 1960's a radical who admitted to bombing the Pentagon and was released on a technicality. Vote for Hillary and you vote for these groups. You can disagree with Trump but he has millions of supporters whose rights are being infringed by the "New Left" that wants open borders, welfare for non citizens. Preferred enrollment at colleges at cheaper rates than citizens and a continued flow of heroin across our open border with Mexico. Ask any border patrol agent about the situation. Is this the America you grew up in and fought for?
6
Trump is no liar. It is precisely why he is doing so well with voters. He says exactly what he thinks and while his unvarnished proclamations maybe politically, socially and even factually incorrect, they express the deep rooted, poorly thought through dogma of the Republican Party more genuinely than the other Republican candidates. Why is Cruz's "carpet bombing"of Issis (presumably with total disregard for civilian casualties) any different from Trump's pledged to go after the families of terrorists? And as far as I've been able to see, all the candidates want to build a Wall. What is the real difference between Trump and the rest of the field? I'm truth he just more blunt about what they all believe and what a fair share of the American people believe. Oh, and no one believes that Trump will be a "do nothing" President, which is the passive aggressive operating mode of action for the rest of the Party. What Trump represent, more fundamentally, is a wish fulfillment of what grass root Republicans truly want, a juggernaut that will purge the party of corruption, self interest, elitism, and lies. By the way, that's exactly what grass root Democrats want too.
5
Trump lied about lots...birther nonsense, David Duke....
1
"It is not a lie if you believe in it." -- clinical psychopathic delusion?
1
As in any dysfunctional family, large and small lies abound, abuses are ignored, blue curtains are used to hide reality, violence is justified, accepted and rationalized, etc. - and eventually a price is paid, lives are damaged and destroyed, and new dysfunctions are created in compensation. It's a cancer on the family, and the cancer that has been the Republican party for the last 20 years is doing what cancers often do: turning on their hosts and creating disability, death and bereavement.
2
Simply seems as if Trump's motive is that of a child demanding attention. While he may have been nudged by some in hopes of moving a sleepwalking electorate that is so devoid of hope and a sense of participation that it has withdrawn from voting altogether, essemtially, the guy just is an attention wh.
This article shows that Trump is beholding to the Republican establishment, which may explain its more conciliatory tone to him of late. He is not different; he Is schooled in -- and unabashedly displays -- the same prejudices, only writ larger.
How could anyone continue to think he will refresh or reform the GOP? Without experience in government, he will have to turn to them to fill his cabinet, diplomatic and agency posts and any Supreme Court vacancies.
How could anyone continue to think he will refresh or reform the GOP? Without experience in government, he will have to turn to them to fill his cabinet, diplomatic and agency posts and any Supreme Court vacancies.
4
Trump and his supporters hate America.
This is seen most clearly in the slogan "Make America Great Again." America is already great, and Trump and his supporters spend most of their time smearing it.
Their attacks are based on fabrications, e.g. "America is the most highly taxed country in the world," (not even in the running!), "The Muslims in New Jersey were celebrating on the rooftops when the World Trade Center fell," (an outright lie), and...well, I could go on and on.
When people are furious about things that aren't true, I call that mentally ill.
As to Trump himself, does he think these things are true, or is he deliberately lying? The only thing I can tell with any certainty is that he doesn't care.
This is seen most clearly in the slogan "Make America Great Again." America is already great, and Trump and his supporters spend most of their time smearing it.
Their attacks are based on fabrications, e.g. "America is the most highly taxed country in the world," (not even in the running!), "The Muslims in New Jersey were celebrating on the rooftops when the World Trade Center fell," (an outright lie), and...well, I could go on and on.
When people are furious about things that aren't true, I call that mentally ill.
As to Trump himself, does he think these things are true, or is he deliberately lying? The only thing I can tell with any certainty is that he doesn't care.
3
If you were a kid on the playground or in the gym and you ran your mouth like that you would get whipped.
3
In 2008, an anti-establishment junior senator from Illinois ran for president with the stated goal of “fundamentally transforming America”. More than 7 years later, it appears that for many, the promised transformation is not what they expected. As a consequence we now have a business tycoon running for president with an unambiguous goal to “make America great again”.
The Times is free to ascribe motives to Mr. Trumps political ambitions but it occurs to me that without the former, we wouldn’t have the latter.
The Times is free to ascribe motives to Mr. Trumps political ambitions but it occurs to me that without the former, we wouldn’t have the latter.
5
First: I inadvertently clicked the "recommended" button, when what I wanted to click was "Reply."
Second: You're blaming the rise of Donald Trump on President Obama? Seriously?
Second: You're blaming the rise of Donald Trump on President Obama? Seriously?
1
I'm shocked that Donald Trump may be insecure, unlike all the rest of us who totally have everything in under control and in or grasps. Delving into Trumps' inner working as to what makes him tick seems like something more appropriately resigned to a psychiatrists office, rather than the front page of a major newspaper. Next week I'll expect to see a complete psychological analysis of all the candidates. Why should we just listen to what they say, when we can have them publicly drilled into and dissected before our very eyes. Once he's opened and splayed out like a biology-class frog, we'll see for a fact if his anatomy bravado was for real, as well.
2
We have an "abnormal" person posing as a "normal" person running for in the presidential campaign. "God" help us all.
3
This article answers conclusively what having "small hands" means.
2
When I was a kid, I wanted to be a comedian. And they laughed at me. But now, I made it; I am a comedian, and... nobody's laughing now.
All this was true six months ago, but the media was having a romp.
All this was true six months ago, but the media was having a romp.
Over the past several months how many columns in the Times had headlines stating that Trump must be stopped; not too late to stop Trump; can Rubio stop Trump?, can Cruz stop Trump? for the good of the nation Trump must be stopped. Day after day the Times, the Post etc. had the same message. Was the idea to play patty cakes? Like the olden days, "The Unions must be stopped!" Patty cakes? or strike breaking scabs doing the bidding of the "establishment".
At a White House Correspondent's dinner Seth Meyers had a number of Donald Trump jokes that had much of the audience laughing. Mr. Trump sat as still as a statue throughout the hilarity.
1
Donnie's got the bad hair.
1
Am I the only one who is baffled by "surrendering to a jones" ? What does this mean?
A "jones" is a need, an itch, a "thing," a hankering for..., often used of addicts (all sorts) and their fixes
1
jones is an archaic american English usage, meaning to really crave something, to want something to happen
im jonesin' for a nathans hot dog, w potato knish
throw in an egg cream
when you surrender to a jones you give in to it
im jonesin' for a nathans hot dog, w potato knish
throw in an egg cream
when you surrender to a jones you give in to it
I am not a Trump fan, but I am amazed by the fact that the big take away from this article is Trump's reaction to being the butt of the joke at the dinner. I get that it is supposed to be a light hearted evening, but I do not agree with the president singling out one person. When I read so many comments in this paper about how insensitive our society is and the strong focus on how much words can hurt even if that is not the intent. Why is it that so many of the comments here seem to want to ignore that just because it fits within their world view? I do not care who you are and how successful you have been or not, if the president of the US singles you out to make fun of in front of a large group, you are going to be hurt. To be honest, I do not see how the president isn't being the one labeled as a bully. He seems to fit the definition that is advocated on this site. He is in a position of authority and singling one person out to make fun of.
7
Although I can understand your point, I view this from a completely different perspective. Donald Trump is a man of visibility and he singled out President Obama to harass him with the birther nonsense. Simply put,
1
Trump positioned himself for ridicule because he has a long history of bragging, dismissing and diminishing others, and threatening retaliation whenever others challenge or disagree with him. In addition, he chose to be a very "public" public figure, seeking the limelight at every chance, and speaking in a characteristic unfiltered style without regard to facts, feeling, or differing perspectives. Eventually, every bully is challenged; usually they prove to have a very thin skin and play the victim. Don't let him fool you. He made his own bed.
22
The paragraph that describes Romney's alliance with Trump during his bid against Obama's 2nd term campaign shows exactly the problem with the Republican party and why they can no longer gain the trust of most Americans (unfortunately, most Americans neglect to vote in mid-term, non-presedential elections). "More dangerous to shun [Trump]...than to build a relationship with him and try to contain him" describes a clear deal with the devil scenario and exemplifies the fact that Republican's navigate with an old, broken moral compass.
2
The grandson of a pimp, who inherited a fortune yet proudly lists four bankruptcies under his belt, reality star, and target of endless jokes about his laughable, stubborn bouffant, seeking approval? Well, it probably makes sense in his mind.
7
No Mr. Trump, we're not laughing at all.
We're horrified and angered that you have reduced the nomination of the Presidency to historic new lows. We're shocked as you insist on using foul language, bullying, and trumpeting the size of your sexual organ as examples of behavior your young son and students watching your debates should emulate. We're frightened at the amount of ignorance, racism, and hate your campaign has exposed of you and your supporters.
It's time for you to go back to your ridiculous tv show, aptly named "The Apprentice".
We're horrified and angered that you have reduced the nomination of the Presidency to historic new lows. We're shocked as you insist on using foul language, bullying, and trumpeting the size of your sexual organ as examples of behavior your young son and students watching your debates should emulate. We're frightened at the amount of ignorance, racism, and hate your campaign has exposed of you and your supporters.
It's time for you to go back to your ridiculous tv show, aptly named "The Apprentice".
6
Don't over analyze him, he isn't that complicated. It's just simple fascism, and it has happened here before, and has taken total control elsewhere.
It needs to be stopped by information, by education, and most importantly, TRUTH.
We have deeply simmering anger, and fear, here in America. Mr. Trump uses this to stir the mob. We also have light, and community to expose his exaggerations, and lies.
Shine a bright light on him, to expose the fear and hatred.
It needs to be stopped by information, by education, and most importantly, TRUTH.
We have deeply simmering anger, and fear, here in America. Mr. Trump uses this to stir the mob. We also have light, and community to expose his exaggerations, and lies.
Shine a bright light on him, to expose the fear and hatred.
4
Those suggesting Trump’s quest for “stature”, is more precisely identified as a drive to command respect, hit a persuasive note.
This recalls a scene in Saturday Night Live’s 15th anniversary show, in 1989. Chevy Chase was out in the audience, with a bucket of popcorn. The setup was, he was going to talk with someone •else• up in the audience. To get there, he edged along the row of seats behind the one the guy was sitting in.
As it happened, that guy was several seats beyond Donald Trump. When Chase edged to the point in the row just behind Trump, in a very deft play on his “klutz” persona he stumbled slightly, and spilled a good amount of the popcorn on Trump’s head, mumbling, “Oh, sorry; excuse me . . . .”
The (rest of the) audience burst into enthusiastically appreciative laughter and applause. And it was obvious why: Trump was, and is, representative of the type of guy who rides high, who appears overinflated to so many people, and who simply does not have to deal with the, shall we say, “crud” in life that most people can’t entirely avoid. But here, the tables were turned, he was on the butt end of Chase’s prank, and there was nothing he could do about it. The audience loved it.
Trump forced a smile, and gave a gesture of acknowledgement that suggested a good sport. But I suspect he doesn’t really appreciate why others got a kick out of that. Instead, it was just another instance that rankled him, because he wasn’t getting the respect he feels he deserves.
— Brian
This recalls a scene in Saturday Night Live’s 15th anniversary show, in 1989. Chevy Chase was out in the audience, with a bucket of popcorn. The setup was, he was going to talk with someone •else• up in the audience. To get there, he edged along the row of seats behind the one the guy was sitting in.
As it happened, that guy was several seats beyond Donald Trump. When Chase edged to the point in the row just behind Trump, in a very deft play on his “klutz” persona he stumbled slightly, and spilled a good amount of the popcorn on Trump’s head, mumbling, “Oh, sorry; excuse me . . . .”
The (rest of the) audience burst into enthusiastically appreciative laughter and applause. And it was obvious why: Trump was, and is, representative of the type of guy who rides high, who appears overinflated to so many people, and who simply does not have to deal with the, shall we say, “crud” in life that most people can’t entirely avoid. But here, the tables were turned, he was on the butt end of Chase’s prank, and there was nothing he could do about it. The audience loved it.
Trump forced a smile, and gave a gesture of acknowledgement that suggested a good sport. But I suspect he doesn’t really appreciate why others got a kick out of that. Instead, it was just another instance that rankled him, because he wasn’t getting the respect he feels he deserves.
— Brian
2
Trump's hijacking of the conservative press is one of the most important stories of the campaign. After figuratively roughing up a beloved Fox News reporter, and having someone in his campaign literally rough up a Breitbart correspondent, those organizations jettisoned their people in favor of Trump.
Trump's ability to make news in every news cycle, and steal everyone else's press has also been a significant factor in his success -- to date. But now his ugly side is coming out more c learly for the people who count in this campaign -- the independents and moderates. Trump's well worn nativism has turned to condoning and encouraging violence on those whom he sees as disrespectful to him. His disdain for the First Amendment (except for him) is becoming obvious. And his narcissistic personality, as demonstrated by his bizarre Home Shopping Network moment extolling brands he does not own (and which underscore business failures), shows where his weaknesses lie. Trump the politician's biggest problem is Trump the narcissist. Trump is no Huey Long. He is a little strutting rooster who more clearly resembles George Wallace, and that is about to bring him down.
The Republicans have done the internal polling. They know how bad it's going to be. It's going to be very very bad.
I look forward to Trump's final fall. It's going to be spectacular, and spectacularly satisfying.
Trump's ability to make news in every news cycle, and steal everyone else's press has also been a significant factor in his success -- to date. But now his ugly side is coming out more c learly for the people who count in this campaign -- the independents and moderates. Trump's well worn nativism has turned to condoning and encouraging violence on those whom he sees as disrespectful to him. His disdain for the First Amendment (except for him) is becoming obvious. And his narcissistic personality, as demonstrated by his bizarre Home Shopping Network moment extolling brands he does not own (and which underscore business failures), shows where his weaknesses lie. Trump the politician's biggest problem is Trump the narcissist. Trump is no Huey Long. He is a little strutting rooster who more clearly resembles George Wallace, and that is about to bring him down.
The Republicans have done the internal polling. They know how bad it's going to be. It's going to be very very bad.
I look forward to Trump's final fall. It's going to be spectacular, and spectacularly satisfying.
2
When Donald J. Trump suggests beating someone’s face, he may desire to be taken seriously. One follower suggested Trump is not to be taken seriously. If the follower is correct, we have a candidate who is not to be taken seriously, which would not be a novelty. A puzzle arises: which words are serious; which are not. Followers take him seriously and beat an exerciser of free speech. It must be serious for consistently only the beaten person is apprehended, perhaps by a law officer or government seeking to be sued over the exercise of free speech. Donald J. Trump says he pays legal fees for beaters. Putting money where the mouth is shows seriousness. Note well, in no case has a beater been apprehended by an officer of the law. Whether Donald J. Trump would pay a local government’s civil liability on behalf of a beater is an open question. Would Trump view payments as bragging about wealth so vast that tax deductibility is not required or merely wishing to enrich lawyers? Whether Trump is practical or merely too rich, Trump must calculate what he is getting himself into.
The most powerful position on earth: What better business plan for a business man and with narcissistic personality. His business smarts showed him the Party that has promoted "outsider", "anti-government" and "anti-immigration" for decades and controls most State houses would be the perfect fit for his plan. The only real surprise it that the smartest members of the Republican Party thought no one was believing their rhetoric. How smart can they be if they missed so much anger, fear, and hate in their base.
2
What is behind many of his supporters is not race issues, but economic conditions and marginalization. The Left does not want to come to terms with that: it's so much easier to simply demonize and dismiss his supporters as "white trash" or "racist" or "uneducated hayseeds" or "xenophobes", without any recognition or acknowledgement that they have legitimate grievances.
The Democrats have abandoned the working class to instead focus on identity and racial politics that inevitably turn into attacks on white males, who are tired of hearing how they and their "privilege" are the cause of any and all social ills in America and the entire world.
I am not a Trump supporter, but it does the Left no good to denigrate the supporters of Trump as dirty, poorly-dressed, uneducated rubes who deserve only their contempt.
The Left comes off as insufferable snobs, coddled Limousine Liberals who seem clueless that their smugness and superiority has the opposite affect, in that it makes many people sympathize with Trump and his followers.
Just stop it, Lefties. You are shooting yourself in the foot.
The Democrats have abandoned the working class to instead focus on identity and racial politics that inevitably turn into attacks on white males, who are tired of hearing how they and their "privilege" are the cause of any and all social ills in America and the entire world.
I am not a Trump supporter, but it does the Left no good to denigrate the supporters of Trump as dirty, poorly-dressed, uneducated rubes who deserve only their contempt.
The Left comes off as insufferable snobs, coddled Limousine Liberals who seem clueless that their smugness and superiority has the opposite affect, in that it makes many people sympathize with Trump and his followers.
Just stop it, Lefties. You are shooting yourself in the foot.
8
Sorry, but I grew up among a lot of such folks. And unlike the Trump supporters who're earning the criticism, they weren't stupid, they weren't lazy, they weren't willful ignoramuses, and they weren't sucker punchers.
Oh, and they didn't cheer for demogogues.
Oh, and they didn't cheer for demogogues.
Trump supporters are the same people who have spent years electing GOP candidates who grind them down.
I'm not a fan of either party, but I find it peculiar that you blame the Left for this.
I'm not a fan of either party, but I find it peculiar that you blame the Left for this.
@ David
I blame the Left for helping his cause with endless ad hominem attacks on Trump and his followers, as are the majority of the comments here.
And that does not include the Leftists who disrupt his rallies, who wrongly believe that only speech they agree with should be 'free'.
I blame the Left for helping his cause with endless ad hominem attacks on Trump and his followers, as are the majority of the comments here.
And that does not include the Leftists who disrupt his rallies, who wrongly believe that only speech they agree with should be 'free'.
1
Can it really happen here? It's getting so uncomfortably close to becoming reality. Sinclair Lewis's 1935 novel, "It Can't Happen Here", was a fictionalized story of a Fascist takeover of the U.S. Donald Trump is the perfect demagogue for the far right wing of the Republican party willing to cure the overbearing "big government" problem with something much worst by hijacking the American election process to destroy itself. That was the great weakness of direct democratic elections which caused the downfall of Greek democracy. Hopefully the American electoral system's party nomination process and Electoral College will be sufficient to provide safety checks to prevent disaster from happening.
3
Unless not initiated, you do not provide easy solutions to hard issues through sweeping statements. It is easy to say - believe me I have contacts, or read my lips I can politics and know how to handle politicians, and basta, you have a solution!
Humans have filters. Filtering can be helped by experience, by age, by education plus a relentless urge to question. Populists have long known how the human mind works. It works on surfaces, the human mind can be duped in multiple ways which explains the thrival of advertisements. You have to give it to Trump because he is a businessman and as such has been involved in programs aimed at selling his products. He knows how the human mind works. It is not hard science to postulate why he has been successful well aware of the way you can sell a message.
Humans have filters. Filtering can be helped by experience, by age, by education plus a relentless urge to question. Populists have long known how the human mind works. It works on surfaces, the human mind can be duped in multiple ways which explains the thrival of advertisements. You have to give it to Trump because he is a businessman and as such has been involved in programs aimed at selling his products. He knows how the human mind works. It is not hard science to postulate why he has been successful well aware of the way you can sell a message.
1
It's interesting. Trump a billionaire seeming comes off as insecure.
For all of his riches, with his name in over tall lettering, could it be that Trump is trying to validate himself to himself.
It doesn't matter that he has million of followers, that he has national attention, numerous companies, name recognition, status, somehow it seems by his actions that he's a man seeking validation.
Interesting.
For all of his riches, with his name in over tall lettering, could it be that Trump is trying to validate himself to himself.
It doesn't matter that he has million of followers, that he has national attention, numerous companies, name recognition, status, somehow it seems by his actions that he's a man seeking validation.
Interesting.
1
Did he actually say, "I can take criticism" ????
That statement makes the man even scarier than he was already. Because if he truly believes that, it means Trump is delusional. Seriously, there's not a person on God's green earth LESS able to take criticism, nor a person more thin-skinned than Donald Trump.
That statement makes the man even scarier than he was already. Because if he truly believes that, it means Trump is delusional. Seriously, there's not a person on God's green earth LESS able to take criticism, nor a person more thin-skinned than Donald Trump.
2
The only thing to be taken seriously about Trump is his eerie ability to raise hatred and anger in people similar to the way Hitler did it.
2
Obama did the same thing to get elected. Racial pandering.
3
He doesn't know American history. He is risking assassination. There are so many guns and so many people with mental problems.
2
In short, the man is friendless, a mass of poorly resolved instincts, acting out as he pleases, a legacy brat ashamed of his legacy, untrusted by those that know him best, ignored by most, once tolerated for his wake, essentially infantile and quite evidently unable to control himself in public.
Ben Carson sold out. That's a given. There are examples of this in Ben's favorite Book. I know the man. He had good hands.
Chris Christie found a kindred soul: with similar insecurities and the need to bully, they pair well.
Read the seasoned Correspondent Alan Feuer in The New York Times. Read others. The Trump profile is forming, finally.
Alan Feuer saw the light at the end of the tunnel, and counted those that have disembarked HMS Trump.
The Donald is an an ambitious man. Rome had its share. Trump a dangerous man. Rome had more than its share. A demagogue that seeks to divide further the already divided, he has The Falwell Endorsement to prove it.
Let's hope Gov. Kasich can find the way, perhaps with Trump's Little Marco for the senator's exquisite ability to turn a phrase on the ticket. Let's hope Rubio prevails in Florida.
We are in a sorry state if Donald J. is the best use can do. The Red Neck Express is rolling. Should we thank Reagan or Nancy for this, or Jimmy Carter?
I would not employ the man... and we should ask the retiring powerful real estate mavens and others, any others, if they would.
If they would not, should We the People hire him?
Ben Carson sold out. That's a given. There are examples of this in Ben's favorite Book. I know the man. He had good hands.
Chris Christie found a kindred soul: with similar insecurities and the need to bully, they pair well.
Read the seasoned Correspondent Alan Feuer in The New York Times. Read others. The Trump profile is forming, finally.
Alan Feuer saw the light at the end of the tunnel, and counted those that have disembarked HMS Trump.
The Donald is an an ambitious man. Rome had its share. Trump a dangerous man. Rome had more than its share. A demagogue that seeks to divide further the already divided, he has The Falwell Endorsement to prove it.
Let's hope Gov. Kasich can find the way, perhaps with Trump's Little Marco for the senator's exquisite ability to turn a phrase on the ticket. Let's hope Rubio prevails in Florida.
We are in a sorry state if Donald J. is the best use can do. The Red Neck Express is rolling. Should we thank Reagan or Nancy for this, or Jimmy Carter?
I would not employ the man... and we should ask the retiring powerful real estate mavens and others, any others, if they would.
If they would not, should We the People hire him?
1
Trump’s Presidential Run is an "Effort to Gain Stature"??? Why state the obvious, when all presidential runs are efforts to gain stature; including those of Sanders and Hillary. And it applies to all presidential candidates we have had in recent history.
NYT can't stop attacking Trump. Here they blame him for wanting ""stature" when their candidate Hillary wants the same. Ok with Hillary, but not with Trump?
And then they blame him for altercations in Chicago when it was the left wing students and visitors who did the disrupting. It's not Trump's words which inspire such actions. Rather, it's the words from the liberal press, who condone the attempts to prevent people from listening and cheering for their candidate. In a sense, it's the left wing which inspires violence.
NYT can't stop attacking Trump. Here they blame him for wanting ""stature" when their candidate Hillary wants the same. Ok with Hillary, but not with Trump?
And then they blame him for altercations in Chicago when it was the left wing students and visitors who did the disrupting. It's not Trump's words which inspire such actions. Rather, it's the words from the liberal press, who condone the attempts to prevent people from listening and cheering for their candidate. In a sense, it's the left wing which inspires violence.
4
Trump has a common sense message for patriots delivered with a native New York style. The country is voting for him.
4
Whatever the reasons this man has for running, we have only ourselves to blame for creating a political system that allowed a dangerous busineman with something to prove to run for Prseident.
1
"But it's just about sex!" Remember? Him, her, and a cigar? Democrats greased the slippery slope for Presidential ethics and morality on the mountain of moral relativism, and now proclaim "We are shocked! Shocked!"
2
All these articles about Trump, telling us what we already know, what all media outlets have been telling us. Anything but some honest articles about Bernie's appeal to voters. Come on, NYTimes (Rather, the Clinton Times), stop with the over-exposure of Trump and do something about your under-reporting on Bernie.
5
Trump is a bully and gets way too much credit. His fomenting violence and invoking hate speech should be challenged. He doesn't get a free pass because he's orange, I mean, obtuse.
1
It is Bernie Sander's empty promises of 'free college for all' that is inspiring chaotic reactions toward his opponent. The violent college protest at the Trump rally in Chicago is a direct result of promising free stuff to a naive, uneducated, and vulnerable segment of the voting public. Also, if you sincerely didn't mean to say 'orange', please simply use the backspace key instead of exposing yourself as one who take juvenile pleasure in making fun of someone's appearance.
4
So today Trump accused the man who was sucker punched at his rally of being associated with ISIS based on a video. When told that the video was fake Trump said the video still raised questions about the man.
This is beyond demagoguery. Is Trump, a man who has lived in a bubble his entire life, becoming insane when faced with the real world?
This is beyond demagoguery. Is Trump, a man who has lived in a bubble his entire life, becoming insane when faced with the real world?
1
Bully--yes, Narcissist with a capital N--capital YES. What struck me listening to him ramble on (and on, and on and on and on…..) on the drive home from a lecture on the brain the other night, though, was is there something else amiss with Mr. Trump? A lack of coherence to his thought patterns? A lack of inhibition or restraint? Compulsive behavior? A diminishing of the ability to recognize the effect of his words and actions on others? An inability to control his basic drives? Mr. Trump, perhaps, is losing control in areas that he was more able to keep a lid on in the past. Early stages of Frontal Lobe Dementia, anyone? Am I being an arm-chair psychiatrist--certainly. The more I think about it, though, the more it makes me wonder what is going on in Mr. Trump's brain.
4
He is very repetitive. He has a stream of consciousness, jumping from one unrelated topic to the next. I used to think that he used the repetitiveness etc as a tool. But when you watch him lose his composure I'm not so sure. I agree with you.
This sentiment is exactly why the Republicans need to jettison Trump at the convention:
"... Trump ... is frankly nauseating. Yet I want this repellant clown to be nominated because I know Hillary will mop the floor with him."
It's not entirely clear that Hillary would beat Trump (or even that Hillary will beat Bernie). But it does strike me as likely. It also strikes me as likely that she (or Bernie) would beat Rubio or Cruz.
That leaves Kasich – a better candidate anyway. He'd easily beat Hillary (who is – let's face it – one of the weakest Democratic candidates to come down the pike in quite some time), and would beat Bernie too.
The Republicans have three choices:
1. If the Republicans run Trump and he loses, that's not good for the Republicans.
2. If the Republicans run Trump and he wins, that's not good for the Republicans, since the weakness of the party (not to mention the predictable buffoonery of Trump-as-President) would become apparent to everyone almost instantly.
3. If the Republicans ditch Trump and run Kasich and he wins, that's good for the Republicans.
So which choice should the Republicans make?
"... Trump ... is frankly nauseating. Yet I want this repellant clown to be nominated because I know Hillary will mop the floor with him."
It's not entirely clear that Hillary would beat Trump (or even that Hillary will beat Bernie). But it does strike me as likely. It also strikes me as likely that she (or Bernie) would beat Rubio or Cruz.
That leaves Kasich – a better candidate anyway. He'd easily beat Hillary (who is – let's face it – one of the weakest Democratic candidates to come down the pike in quite some time), and would beat Bernie too.
The Republicans have three choices:
1. If the Republicans run Trump and he loses, that's not good for the Republicans.
2. If the Republicans run Trump and he wins, that's not good for the Republicans, since the weakness of the party (not to mention the predictable buffoonery of Trump-as-President) would become apparent to everyone almost instantly.
3. If the Republicans ditch Trump and run Kasich and he wins, that's good for the Republicans.
So which choice should the Republicans make?
The history in this article is well-researched and well-written, but the overall conclusion is kind of a Duh! Anyone reading NYT long ago recognized The Donald for the insecure bully he is, anxious for praise, power, and above all the submission of others to act as foundation for his wobbly sense of self-worth.
1
"Donald Trump's Presidential Run" is a culmination of corrupt DC politics financed by Wall Street giants. Furthermore, an electorate dissatisfied with condescending politicians who have belittled the voter for over 40 years while they feed on donor money.
I personally believe that Bush brought Obama and Obama brought Trump. Consider this: Obama ran a campaign on hope and change- promising the people that things will get better after the financial collapse of 2008. What happened? He passed stimulus budgets funded by American tax dollars that helped irresponsible corporations get out of their own mess. He promised to pull us out of the M.E., a mistake of Bush's candidacy, leaving a vacuum for ISIS to fill. The American people were fearful then and they are now. People are still dissatisfied either way.
Ask yourself this: why has Trump succeeded? B/c people have rejected a lying, failing establishment.
I personally believe that Bush brought Obama and Obama brought Trump. Consider this: Obama ran a campaign on hope and change- promising the people that things will get better after the financial collapse of 2008. What happened? He passed stimulus budgets funded by American tax dollars that helped irresponsible corporations get out of their own mess. He promised to pull us out of the M.E., a mistake of Bush's candidacy, leaving a vacuum for ISIS to fill. The American people were fearful then and they are now. People are still dissatisfied either way.
Ask yourself this: why has Trump succeeded? B/c people have rejected a lying, failing establishment.
3
The next 4 yrs and hopefully the next 8 will cure many of the current brainwashed, naive and clueless Liberals of their chronic case of delusion as they see what a real leader and man of accomplishment, Trump, can accomplish compared to the Community Organizer from Chicago, Obama, whose 2 terms will forever stand as a testament to the gullibility and naivety of the American electorate. That is, those who possesed the innate intelligence to begin with and should have seen that the man was, as Clint Eastwood so expertly skewered him, simply an empty suit.
7
Yes,let's talk about Clint Eastwood, who spent the Vietnam war life guarding at a California swimming pool. Let's talk about the Eastwood, who's gone through women like Trump, leaving the women he left to raise his children. And compare that to the President, who has an intact family. You people sure know how to pick 'em. Any old big mouth that comes along.
3
The Republican party is afraid of a Trump nomination for one reason, and one reason only: he will lose the election. Yugely.
If Trump were elected, he might be a wild card on some issues, but he is solidly pro-business, pro-oligarchy. Like the other Republican leaders and candidates.
He might throw a few crumbs to the masses, but deep down, he sees us as a different, lower life-form. As do most billionaires. After all, we work for a living, and he does not. That really is a big difference!
If Trump were electable, the Republican heirarchy would be fawning all over him. And even now, they pledge unanimously to support him if he's nominated.
I would be more worried about a Cruz or Rubio or Kasich nomination: they are just as awful on the inside, just a bit more presentable on the outside.
This is a scary election, but we the people will come out of it on the good side. I'm not at all complacent, but I'm confident.
Be brave and have courage!
If Trump were elected, he might be a wild card on some issues, but he is solidly pro-business, pro-oligarchy. Like the other Republican leaders and candidates.
He might throw a few crumbs to the masses, but deep down, he sees us as a different, lower life-form. As do most billionaires. After all, we work for a living, and he does not. That really is a big difference!
If Trump were electable, the Republican heirarchy would be fawning all over him. And even now, they pledge unanimously to support him if he's nominated.
I would be more worried about a Cruz or Rubio or Kasich nomination: they are just as awful on the inside, just a bit more presentable on the outside.
This is a scary election, but we the people will come out of it on the good side. I'm not at all complacent, but I'm confident.
Be brave and have courage!
1
Nothing wrong with Trump wanting to enforce border control and immigration laws so as to protect his own citizens and make the USA great again. It is called patriotism. Makes more sense than giving a hand up to illegals and refugees whilst USA citizens get a hand down because all the nations energies are focusing in pampering to all the illegals and refugees needs, wants, and demands...
7
Since when is it patriotic to knowingly lie like this, whip up hatred, and encourage violence?
Trumpolini (aka grandson of Mussolini) seeks attention by grandstanding as a racist, sexist and worse. He does condone his "black shirts" to act violently by offering no less on "Meet the Press" this Sunday, to pay legal fees of his supporters who get arrested (some even threatening to kill protesters). This is the moment for young people (and all of us actually) to protest and stand up for the Constitution. And, bring the spirit of the protests of the sixties back. Trump is not about making America great again (a lie anyway since it is already great, if not perfect), but about endangering the USA's democracy and economy, and of course diminishing our standing in the world. No democracy is safe from authoritarians (semi-dictators like Trump) unless we all vote, and not just let the the passionate ones believing in a "cause" go to the ballot box. Not voting is the same as voting against democracy. Not voting allows right-wing politicians to rule Congress and State houses.
2
Trump sickens me, but that Romney spokesperson who gleefully says "the stupid genius bought our ruse" really rankles. Elitist Romney held his one percent nose while taking Trump's $$$ and endorsement, like oh, aren't we so clever. This attitude should enrage Trumpers, who feel betrayed and exploited by the rich elite.
4
Trump has monetized the office of the President. He wins either way. If he loses the election his brand increases in value. If he
wins he has a bully pulpit to pound on and scare us all with...and still increase his brand value when he get's out in 4...( with all kinds of quid pro quo understandings waiting for him).
He is a one man self promotion machine that is now a self priming pump...It doesn't matter what he professes to stand for, what his mysterious polices are, how he is going to "make America great again" by bullying deals through....just does not matter. He has tricked the low information voter, appealed to the base instincts and fears ( which he largely has created through his incendiary rhetoric) and will reap the benefits.
NYC will, within the net 4-8 years, have some new monstrosity built right next door to the Statue of Liberty...only this one will be a cop, with his hand up signalling you to STOP...
wins he has a bully pulpit to pound on and scare us all with...and still increase his brand value when he get's out in 4...( with all kinds of quid pro quo understandings waiting for him).
He is a one man self promotion machine that is now a self priming pump...It doesn't matter what he professes to stand for, what his mysterious polices are, how he is going to "make America great again" by bullying deals through....just does not matter. He has tricked the low information voter, appealed to the base instincts and fears ( which he largely has created through his incendiary rhetoric) and will reap the benefits.
NYC will, within the net 4-8 years, have some new monstrosity built right next door to the Statue of Liberty...only this one will be a cop, with his hand up signalling you to STOP...
1
Regardless of your opinions, Mr Trump's candidacy has shone a flashlight on the tremendous anger and frustration people the world over feel with the tremendous damage and suffering the actions of politicians have brought upon them. This is not merely an American issue, but a global one. If his nomination has caused but one politician to take a good hard look at themselves in the mirror and think before they act, then his candidacy will not have been in vain.
6
I agree. I have "always" been a mainstream voter, at times and for different offices, alternating between Democrats and Republicans. But I came to many of the same conclusions about politicians as Trump has (as I understand him). I think it is about time somebody gave the Democratic and Republican candidates a run for their money and something to think about. Whether they will do that, however, remains to be seen. It seems they are primarily interested in demonizing Trump instead of taking a second look at why he appeals to many people and act accordingly.
3
The media is obsessed with Donald Trump and has only propelled his exposure and popularity. Rubio and Cruz are worse - at least Trump is pro gay marriage and pro-choice - but those two don't make as good copy. What would this newspaper write about without Trump? He is a gift to the journalism gods. Let's face it, it's who let in the clowns for the Republicans and liars and more of the same from the Democrats.
Trump is PRO LIFE, anti abortion. Said he had evolved his position.l
Feel free to shill for him, but at leastmbe factual.
Feel free to shill for him, but at leastmbe factual.
1
Sure Kathy. Sure he is.
How hard is it to see and understand this Americans?...Trump is a true, clinical megalomaniac and narcissist. Sorry that I'm "telling it like it is" and not being "politically correct."
2
I don't get it. Mitt Romney accepted Donald Trump's endorsement 4 years ago. They might want to spin it as much as they want -chose Nevada over Florida, didn't take questions, yada, yada, yada.
The Trump who endorsed Romney in 2012 is the same Trump now running for President. Romney was happy to receive the endorsement of the leader of the "birthers" who questioned the legitimacy of our first Black President. And those businesses Romney now questions - Trump had them 4 years ago as well.
Romney looks even more of a mealy-mouthed, holier-than-thou has-been than before. If any of his advisors suggested he stay out of this, he should have listened to them.
The Trump who endorsed Romney in 2012 is the same Trump now running for President. Romney was happy to receive the endorsement of the leader of the "birthers" who questioned the legitimacy of our first Black President. And those businesses Romney now questions - Trump had them 4 years ago as well.
Romney looks even more of a mealy-mouthed, holier-than-thou has-been than before. If any of his advisors suggested he stay out of this, he should have listened to them.
5
I feel like to many people are overlooking the responsibility that the media holds for this dangerous man steamrolling his way to the front of a broken Republican Party.
Since day one Trump has had his face and quotes in every newspaper and news channel! Everyday it was his anger face and terrible comments. And the media made sure it was "front page"! He's had enough free advertizment!
It's shocking how much attention NY times continues to give him! Can we stop focusing on him please...
Since day one Trump has had his face and quotes in every newspaper and news channel! Everyday it was his anger face and terrible comments. And the media made sure it was "front page"! He's had enough free advertizment!
It's shocking how much attention NY times continues to give him! Can we stop focusing on him please...
1
Why the public ridicule by Pres. Obama in 2011? For me this incident seems to lie at the heart of Donald's motivation.
1
I think Trump was unhinged a long time before Obama came on the scene.
1
I still think the big money interests are, mum, concerned about the rise of someone who patently doesn't need them .
I think political favors were pulled to get BLM to act up the other day in Chicago (Chicago! Is that a clue or what?)
I suspect the bought and paid politicians are doing the best the can to help make sure their corporate sponsors can continue their level of control in Washington.
The status quo has to change, most of us have had pain resulting from retail politics, it's about time the tables were turned.
We're seeing the smear tactics against Trump and recognizing the cowardly reasons.
I think political favors were pulled to get BLM to act up the other day in Chicago (Chicago! Is that a clue or what?)
I suspect the bought and paid politicians are doing the best the can to help make sure their corporate sponsors can continue their level of control in Washington.
The status quo has to change, most of us have had pain resulting from retail politics, it's about time the tables were turned.
We're seeing the smear tactics against Trump and recognizing the cowardly reasons.
6
Well said. We can all see that what you say is true and we will make it happen.
What is the emotional health of someone who is constantly bragging and displaying the size of this hands? It is not a prescription for a secure, amenable and prosperous environment within the U.S. nor as a nation that is a citizen of the world.
8
Trump was after Obama long before the correspondents dinner and has always been a narcissist seeking validation. Why is everyone so Amazed by Trumps rise he represents the Eurpopeanisation of American politics in the same way the Sanders does. Sanders represents the traditional Social Democratic/Green Party coalition and Trump the Neo-Fascist Nationalists.
4
Bernie is a one-man band.
Interesting how trump's view of things is so myopic that he can only see his own rights, free speech for example, but not the same rights of his protesters.
I also notice that the original mocking him by Obama is echoed in his mocking of opponents or protesters. Again, it's ok if he does it. Bits his right! But no one else, unless those willing to swear allegiance to him, has similar rights.
That's what makes him so dangerous. Enemies should be tortured. How long till he views even protesters that way? He wants to limit freedom of the press - no criticizing of trump!
He doesn't just want to take over the GOP. But the country! He'd use the military as his own private army.
Such grandiosity, under pressure, can turn to paranoia. He must never be allowed anywhere near the levers of power. Never. He's a danger to the ship of state.
I also notice that the original mocking him by Obama is echoed in his mocking of opponents or protesters. Again, it's ok if he does it. Bits his right! But no one else, unless those willing to swear allegiance to him, has similar rights.
That's what makes him so dangerous. Enemies should be tortured. How long till he views even protesters that way? He wants to limit freedom of the press - no criticizing of trump!
He doesn't just want to take over the GOP. But the country! He'd use the military as his own private army.
Such grandiosity, under pressure, can turn to paranoia. He must never be allowed anywhere near the levers of power. Never. He's a danger to the ship of state.
12
Trump doesn't grasp that what he does unto others inspires them to do it back unto him.
You have a confused view. Protestors have a right to speak but not disrupt or prevent other speech.
1
So. Just how stupid is the American public supposed to be??? After months of bullying and bluster, we are now supposed to ready ourselves for the next presumable Republican Presidential nominee --the "REAL" Donald Trump?-- as opposed to that nine-car-pile-up we've seen so far?...And then, we're supposed to take him SERIOUSLY?.. Really. Are you serious?? Well. I for one, just somehow can't get on board with this. The man is an unrepentant racist and bigot, appealing to the lowest denominator in human nature, and now he's suitable merely because the Republican Party after creating him, and the mindset of his raging hordes of followers, can't find a way of reigning him in? Sorry. Every trick in the book will not, and does not make Donald Trump more appealing, or more fit to President of the United States. And God help us if it does.
11
It really is delusional to expect any help from God with anything.
That's not what miraculous medical cures show, Steve. Esp. Anne Mattingly, Rita Klauss, Jake Finkbonner, Colton Burpo, Lisa Larrios, and 100s of other Americans. Learn something.
Luck favors the prudent and provident. What happens by chance does not prove the existence of a guiding intelligence.
Donald Trump never impressed me as a tough, strong and confidant man. He never served in the military, was never in a war zone, never put his life at risk, never saw the blood flow and never came face to face with his own mortality. The danger in Mr. Trump lies in the insecurities and resentments that have been built up over the years and are festering and boiling over with each success. He seems to desperately need affirmation, from himself and his audience. Yet, in more than one way he has done the nation a service in exposing the Republican Party in what it has become. It is no longer a Party of the Dwight Eisenhowers, Richard Lugars, Olympia Snows, let alone Abraham Lincoln, but rather a Party of 5th rate extremists whose ignorance makes Donald Trump look like Pericles. In the end Mr. Trump will be a tragic figure, whether elected or not and the almost certain subject of a film perhaps entitled "Citizen Trump". His and our tragedy is that he made the much needed attack against "political correctness" and then was incapable or unwilling to articulate the serious social, economic and cultural questions that the mindless conformity of political correctness suppresses.
86
Well said. Too bad, the real tragic figure in this tale will be the collective American people.
I think the tragedy of a Trump election will be for the nation and not for than man himself. Don't take our relatively "normal" America for granted!
Elliott Jacobson - what the hell does political correctness mean? Y'all are driving me crazy using this inept term and not explaining what you mean by passing that phrase around like it means something authentic. I care about fellow citizens, does that mean political correctness? My caring about myself and others without being cruel, does that make me 'politically correct'? If that is so then I AM PROUD TO BE POLITICALLY CORRECT!!!
1
The GOP establishment failed to note until it was far too late that Mr. Trump had a plan and a strategy, a very good one it seems, and the party hacks and pundits were utterly blind and clueless and failed to notice or respect it until this shockingly successful candidate was on the brink of the nomination. Did you see the crowd that was waiting for Trump yesterday in Dayton, Ohio? Trump will win Ohio on Tuesday. Kasich will be gone. Trump will win Florida. Rubio will be gone. Cruz cannot stop the Donald. Trump can win Ohio in the general election. He deserves an Oscar for best performance as a presidential candidate. They laughed at him. Now they are crying out in fear and consternation.
2
This whole sage of Trump and his Republican friends is frankly nauseating. Yet I want this repellant clown to be nominated because I know Hillary will mop the floor with him.
Red O. Greene, Albuquerque, NM, USA
Red O. Greene, Albuquerque, NM, USA
6
Be careful what you wish for. I could very easily be the other way around. Hillary has so many targets for Trump to eviscerate her. If you want a Democrat as POTUS, vote Bernie.
1
A Canadian, of course, would not find Bernie's 50% income tax rate to be onerous at all, eh? God save the Queen.
I read an interesting comment on the Guardian the other day:
"Americans believe they are having another election, the rest of the world sees it as their national IQ test."
"Americans believe they are having another election, the rest of the world sees it as their national IQ test."
18
It's a reality check here.
1
Adolph Hitler began his rise as an insecure and festering legend in his own mind. Initially marginalized and ignored by his countrymen, he eventually got a foothold with his repeated promises to a declining country that he would make the motherland greater than it had ever been. His crowds grew larger as his rhetoric grew more hateful and prejudicial.
Weak minds always seek solace and solutions in scapegoating, and our failing educational system has produced plenty to carry Adolph -- uh, I mean Donald -- to the Republican nomination.
Weak minds always seek solace and solutions in scapegoating, and our failing educational system has produced plenty to carry Adolph -- uh, I mean Donald -- to the Republican nomination.
13
Read Erik Larsen's "In the Garden of the Beast"! Trump's campaign is a chilling parallel to the rise of Hitler and the Nazi Party. Trump is following the playbook....
1
Is this really America! It this the kind of political reality we fought so hard for in Iraq, Afghanistan and all the previous wars? We are seeing the demise of the two party system..the conservatives are doing more damage and they think today..and tomorrow.
3
Donald J Trump - God sent savior and messiah for all the racists, white supremacists, ignorant in the world that was trying to go sane!
5
William Shakespeare would have loved this character. Perhaps "The Unleashing of the Shrew."
5
Or alternatively, "The Loosening of the Screw"
1
Worthless tv programs, poorly written books and news programs that inaccurately report the news wouldn't exist if there weren't people that want them. Likewise Mr. Trump and his like wouldn't be "successful" politicians if there weren't millions of people who want them. There are millions of Americans who want Mr. Trump and all he represents, and there's the truly scary bit.
6
A Call to Bernie, Hillary, Barack, Dem party leaders, the MSM and Trump Protesters*
Whatever Trump and his supporters are doing - whatever the other Rep candidates and leaders are or are not saying - there is something that the Dem/Indie side must do immediately!
They need to go on the record, like today, in no uncertain terms, and ask all anti-Trump protesters not to attend and disrupt these Trump rallies.
Why?
1) Because Trump rallies have become a powder keg and there is a real threat of violence on a large scale.
2) Because freedom of speech aside for the moment, this is really about de-escalating this surging anger and violence - which trumps (pun intended) any fluffy notions of righteous activism.
I'm a Bernie supporter, but I think Trump is partly right about one thing - these protesters aren't all serious, informed, activists. Some are jumping on the bandwagon, some are looking for a fight, some are just plain angry and lost.
And even those that are dedicated and sincere activists - there are other effective ways to protest which don't involve inserting yourself in the middle of the lion's den, and quite possibly leading to vicious fights and possible death.
And of course the number one tool is exercising your vote.
3) Because Bernie, Hillary Barack and others must go on the record, as political leaders and reps for this country as a whole, and as civilized and decent human beings, without concern for voter outcome, and say the right thing here.
Whatever Trump and his supporters are doing - whatever the other Rep candidates and leaders are or are not saying - there is something that the Dem/Indie side must do immediately!
They need to go on the record, like today, in no uncertain terms, and ask all anti-Trump protesters not to attend and disrupt these Trump rallies.
Why?
1) Because Trump rallies have become a powder keg and there is a real threat of violence on a large scale.
2) Because freedom of speech aside for the moment, this is really about de-escalating this surging anger and violence - which trumps (pun intended) any fluffy notions of righteous activism.
I'm a Bernie supporter, but I think Trump is partly right about one thing - these protesters aren't all serious, informed, activists. Some are jumping on the bandwagon, some are looking for a fight, some are just plain angry and lost.
And even those that are dedicated and sincere activists - there are other effective ways to protest which don't involve inserting yourself in the middle of the lion's den, and quite possibly leading to vicious fights and possible death.
And of course the number one tool is exercising your vote.
3) Because Bernie, Hillary Barack and others must go on the record, as political leaders and reps for this country as a whole, and as civilized and decent human beings, without concern for voter outcome, and say the right thing here.
4
Maggie and Alex forget to mention one of the worst elements of this Trump disaster: the self-serving indulgence of the news media in endlessly broadcasting every word out of Trump's mouth. Whatever happened to the concept of "public watchdog"?
7
I profoundly dislike insulting and demeaning people.The only purpose for doing so, is to incite strong and sometimes violent reactions. He is wrong on the adopted style and right on the issues that matter to the American people.
I like Donald Trump's focus on the issues that would turn around the plight of the middle class. It is not that much different then Bernie Sanders'. The only thing that worries me about Bernie Sanders is, a free pass to citizenship to millions of people who broke our laws and no plans to stop millions more from walking in.
I like Donald Trump's focus on the issues that would turn around the plight of the middle class. It is not that much different then Bernie Sanders'. The only thing that worries me about Bernie Sanders is, a free pass to citizenship to millions of people who broke our laws and no plans to stop millions more from walking in.
2
The media doesn't get it. Trump's huge popularity is not about his style but his message. While the establishment and ivory tower types cannot miss an opportunity to knock him or publish a lousy picture the people have taken to his concern for them.
While the zip codes around Washington prosper with corporate dollars the rest of the country is slowly moving down hill.
Why has the media not taken more interest in the border? Why hasn't the media dissected the TPP? Why hasn't the media dissected the phony figures emanating from the Labor Department. Why hasn't the media done their job...holding truth up to power?
Shame on you not Trump!
While the zip codes around Washington prosper with corporate dollars the rest of the country is slowly moving down hill.
Why has the media not taken more interest in the border? Why hasn't the media dissected the TPP? Why hasn't the media dissected the phony figures emanating from the Labor Department. Why hasn't the media done their job...holding truth up to power?
Shame on you not Trump!
10
“I loved that dinner,” Mr. Trump said, adding, “I can handle criticism.”
So, we apply the Trump "exact opposite" filter to anything that comes out of his mouth, (Trump University has an A rating from BBB, those were Trump steaks on the stage with him, "the Iran deal is a disaster", "we're going to have a great health care system") and you get the truth.
He hated the dinner and of course we can all see how graceful and unaffected he is by criticism. Ha.
You get how this works?
So, we apply the Trump "exact opposite" filter to anything that comes out of his mouth, (Trump University has an A rating from BBB, those were Trump steaks on the stage with him, "the Iran deal is a disaster", "we're going to have a great health care system") and you get the truth.
He hated the dinner and of course we can all see how graceful and unaffected he is by criticism. Ha.
You get how this works?
5
This is one of the most thought provoking, revealing articles I have read about Donald Trump during the 2016 Republican Presidential Primary. Well done New York Times.
3
I actually don't care why Donald Trump is a mean-spirited, ignorant jerk who'll fold under real pressure, and who's built his campaign on whipping up fear and hatred.
I don't think anybody who's not married to him should, either. I just look forward to his getting whupped by Bernie Sanders or Hillary Clinton. Oh, and I'd pay cash money to see Trump try his ugly little act on Joe Biden.
I don't think anybody who's not married to him should, either. I just look forward to his getting whupped by Bernie Sanders or Hillary Clinton. Oh, and I'd pay cash money to see Trump try his ugly little act on Joe Biden.
8
Yes, Obama had a goodmtime zinging Trump that night. But you know what,he who laughs last laughs best. And Trump is having an even better time reminding the nation day in and day out what an incompetent and stupid bunch we presently have occupying the White House and various federal agencies.
6
You are really not in any position to blame President Obama for not doing what the Republicans blocked him from doing.
2
Uninvited protesters not allowed into anyone's private meeting in a private space they rented to have a supporters rally or have rented for any other legal purpose. They should be asked to leave immediately if they interfere with the meeting and if they refuse they should be physically removed. If the locale where the rally is being held has laws prohibiting such behavior the protestors should be arrested. If they resist they should be charged with resisting arrest. Not so hard to understand, is it? It applies to everyone in similar circumstances.
6
Trump and Ben Carson have made Bernie Sanders possible. By taking down Trump the press really is going after all outsiders including Sanders.
The underlying theme is that all of these outsiders are crazy, uninformed, mentally disturbed, have no experience, can't lead, quirky and dangerous. Without Trump then the press can go after Sanders and ridicule him.
This story is a contrived hit job trying to fathom someone's state of mind but all the anti Trump dogs will bark in agreement not realizing they are blind pawns being moved on the chessboard.
This is why journalists don't have much respect.
The underlying theme is that all of these outsiders are crazy, uninformed, mentally disturbed, have no experience, can't lead, quirky and dangerous. Without Trump then the press can go after Sanders and ridicule him.
This story is a contrived hit job trying to fathom someone's state of mind but all the anti Trump dogs will bark in agreement not realizing they are blind pawns being moved on the chessboard.
This is why journalists don't have much respect.
4
This campaign is mingling three unusual American political phenomena: 1) the rise of a new civil rights protest movement in response to excessive policing, 2) the rise of a disgruntled class adversely affected by massive economic changes of the past 20 years, and 3) the rise of a 24/7 news media that financially benefits by its new ability to elevate a person or issue virtually overnight.
Trump is not a fascist, nor are his followers. He is an ugly Don Draper who is milking the media's ability to build an emotional mass audience.
Trump is not a fascist, nor are his followers. He is an ugly Don Draper who is milking the media's ability to build an emotional mass audience.
2
America is getting the Republican nominee (and perhaps even the president) it deserves. We have allowed our society to degenerate into a celebrity-exalting, knowledge-poo-pooing, slogan-embracing, amnesia-loving, and ultimately apathetic object of worldwide derision. Trump's experience as a wheeler-and-dealer turned reality TV star has allowed him to hone his instincts for approval and ratings into unbelievably good props for poll numbers. He is impervious to criticisms that point out his pattern of nearly constant lying or displays of ignorance of foreign affairs, macroeconomics, or science. He is a schoolyard bully who uses every nasty trick in the book to demean his opposition, and America's education system is so abysmal (probably thanks to our unfathomable faith in local school districts as opposed to common sense) that many adults still seem to fall for these tricks. Yes, America is far from great now, but Trump's experience does nothing more than demonstrate that he could perhaps improve our poll numbers of ourselves. And we might even allow ourselves to be convinced that a "Trump-America" is great, as we sit behind our ineffective and inevitably unfinished wall on the Mexican border (it will surely run out of money due to contracter cost-overruns and budget cuts), as our environment degrades, as our economy continues to polarize, and as racism is permitted to flourish out of control. He will remain as divorced from reality as he is from his ex-wives.
5
The enablement of local school boards to countenace teaching of creationism is one of the worst consequenes of the unconstitutional legislation that put the US "under God".
Adolph Hitler began his rise as an insecure and festering legend in his own mind. Initially marginalized and ignored by his countrymen, he eventually got a foothold with his repeated promises to a declining country that he would make the motherland greater than it had ever been. His crowds grew larger as his rhetoric grew more hateful and prejudicial.
Weak minds always seek solace and solutions in scapegoating, and our failing educational system has produced plenty to carry Adolph -- uh, I mean Donald -- to the Republican nomination.
Weak minds always seek solace and solutions in scapegoating, and our failing educational system has produced plenty to carry Adolph -- uh, I mean Donald -- to the Republican nomination.
6
Trumps rally in Chicago was cancelled due to Chicago’s history of violent crimes and homicides.
Chicago's homicide rate had surpassed that of Los Angeles by 2010 (16.02 per 100,000), and was more than twice that of New York City (7.0 per 100,000) in the same year. By the end of 2015, Chicago's homicide rate would rise to well over 17.0 per 100,000. Chicago's biggest criminal justice challenges have not changed much over the last 50 years, and statistically reside with homicide,armed robbery, gang violence, and aggravated battery.
Chicago is considered the most gang infested city in the United States, with a population of over 100,000 active members from nearly 60 different factions. Gang warfare and retaliation is common in Chicago. Gangs were responsible for 61% of the homicides in Chicago in 2011. Examples of large Chicago street gangs include the Gangster Disciples, Black Disciples, Vice Lords, Black P. Stones and Latin Kings.
Blessed are those who do not see yet believe. To those who believe in His name: who are born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
Chicago's homicide rate had surpassed that of Los Angeles by 2010 (16.02 per 100,000), and was more than twice that of New York City (7.0 per 100,000) in the same year. By the end of 2015, Chicago's homicide rate would rise to well over 17.0 per 100,000. Chicago's biggest criminal justice challenges have not changed much over the last 50 years, and statistically reside with homicide,armed robbery, gang violence, and aggravated battery.
Chicago is considered the most gang infested city in the United States, with a population of over 100,000 active members from nearly 60 different factions. Gang warfare and retaliation is common in Chicago. Gangs were responsible for 61% of the homicides in Chicago in 2011. Examples of large Chicago street gangs include the Gangster Disciples, Black Disciples, Vice Lords, Black P. Stones and Latin Kings.
Blessed are those who do not see yet believe. To those who believe in His name: who are born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
2
Trump's campaign is largely a continuation of his "businesses." He slaps his name on something and peddles it like a carny barker to people who don't have the experience or knowledge to understand what they're buying.
With a know-nothing vulgarian and a crackpot socialist utopian both doing so well, 2016 is going to be remembered as the year of the ninny.
With a know-nothing vulgarian and a crackpot socialist utopian both doing so well, 2016 is going to be remembered as the year of the ninny.
1
The man is a thug and a criminal. This is no joke. If he becomes President he will strangle democracy in America the way his buddy Putin has in Russia.
3
This is the politics of humiliation: of those who have mocked him, discounted him, did not treat him with appropriate respect. So much of his rhetoric about himself, the bullying, the grandiosity, the angry dominance all are ways of humiliating his adversaries and enemies -Obama, the other candidates, the Republican establishment, lobbyists, specific people who have particularly "dissed" him. The psychology of the bully is to control, dominate, and humiliate the victim. Indeed, by telling his followers they are "suckers", Trump paints them as humiliated. He will restore them to the state of power, strength, and control. This sense of national humiliation, rage, and the wish for vengeance and reascendence was part of what Hitler exploited in his rise in Germany. Trump taps into similar strains in the Republican base and others who feel they have "lost" what they have to minorities (read Obama), the PC Democrats, and have been forgotten by the Republican establishment. He is the Frankenstein monster the Republicans have created. Until now, they have manipulated their base like the slave owners manipulated the poor whites of the old South: lying to them to have them angrily oppose policies, e.g., Obamacare – flawed as it is – that actually are in their interest. Similarly, the covert and not so covert racism that has been a Republican staple since the late 60s, has served a similar end: Socialism and deregulation for the rich and corporations, capitalism for the poor.
8
This is more what I call professional journalism.
Thanks.
I am not a Trump supporter but a voter who wants to see fairness;
especially from the Media who has been so tragically bias.
Wainer
Thanks.
I am not a Trump supporter but a voter who wants to see fairness;
especially from the Media who has been so tragically bias.
Wainer
2
It seems to me that Mr. Trump has tapped into the sense of betrayal by those Americans who have lost their jobs and economic security. Trade agreements favored by republicans and democrats alike shipped work abroad. The rapid increase in technology eroded the skill set of remaining workers. These displaced workers are the core of his supporters. They are angry and see Mr. Trump as the only man who can set things right. The failure to find work leaves many people with plenty of time to raise the cry for change.
4
Trump-yearning for stature soaked in vitriol and anger.
2
well, hes no gandhi
1
The phenomenon that is Trump is like a drug that causes addiction. People feel good for a brief time using the drug. Soon the drug loses it's ability to make the individual feel good. It's too late by then, the individual is addicted. The drug lies to them, promising to make them feel good like the first time, and the addiction continues. Eventually some individuals learn that the drug is destroying their lives and break free. But for others, those living in denial, they never learn and the drug destroys them.
5
This article is absolutely seminal. It reveals dimensions of Donald Trump that have remained mostly hidden in the manic media feeding frenzy to exploit Trumps gaudy theatrics of his quest for the Republican Presidential nomination.
“I loved that dinner,” Mr. Trump said, adding, “I can handle criticism.”
Criticism is one thing. Public ridicule from the President of the United States in a high profile public forum in the thin guise of jest is another altogether.
While Donald has appeared as the Bull in the GOP China Shop, an unrelenting raucous affront to the political status quo and establishment, he has been engaged in an intensely committed, disciplined, and methodical push for personal vindication and recognition both in the political back rooms and on the national stage.
Candidate Trump has clearly gained the recognition. Vindication remains a matter of his ultimate political fate.
What is absolutely certain is that the real Donald Trump has yet to be revealed.
That is immensely unsettling indeed.
“I loved that dinner,” Mr. Trump said, adding, “I can handle criticism.”
Criticism is one thing. Public ridicule from the President of the United States in a high profile public forum in the thin guise of jest is another altogether.
While Donald has appeared as the Bull in the GOP China Shop, an unrelenting raucous affront to the political status quo and establishment, he has been engaged in an intensely committed, disciplined, and methodical push for personal vindication and recognition both in the political back rooms and on the national stage.
Candidate Trump has clearly gained the recognition. Vindication remains a matter of his ultimate political fate.
What is absolutely certain is that the real Donald Trump has yet to be revealed.
That is immensely unsettling indeed.
8
Mr. Trump said, adding, “I can handle criticism.”
apparently he cant handle a joke
bill maher quipped his father was an orangutan
trump sued for $ 5 mill ( later withdrawn for lack of merit )
you bet hes a vindictive ---- all th way to th bottom
apparently he cant handle a joke
bill maher quipped his father was an orangutan
trump sued for $ 5 mill ( later withdrawn for lack of merit )
you bet hes a vindictive ---- all th way to th bottom
Trump's ambitions are not new. Jon Meacham, in his biography, "Destiny and Power: The American Odyssey of George Herbert Walker Bush," writes that the businessman sounded out Bush's people in 1987 about the possibility of running as Bush's vice president. After getting over their surprise, they ignored the overture.
2
Non-stop media coverage was the oxygen that fed this preening, pouting, petulant beast.
If Trump's bad behavior hadn't been applauded (via attention) by the "news media" we wouldn't be facing the very real prospect of a bargain basement Mussolini planting his orange butt in the Oval Office.
Thanks, news media!
If Trump's bad behavior hadn't been applauded (via attention) by the "news media" we wouldn't be facing the very real prospect of a bargain basement Mussolini planting his orange butt in the Oval Office.
Thanks, news media!
6
but dont forget to visit th gift shop to pick up some quality trump items
located in th former oval office
located in th former oval office
Is this article a sign of beginning panic by the NY Times? What both the NY Times and too many of its readers (if I can judge by the numerous comments) seem to ignore is the appeal of Trump to the working classes and lower middle classes of this nations. Both political parties have promoted policies that have actively harmed the aforementioned groups by trade agreements that have shipped too many jobs overseas while allowing unfettered illegal immigration-issues that Trump has addressed directly but mostly avoided by the other candidates (except for Sanders to a limited extent).
Let's face it, most of our political leadership has been made up of second-rate attorneys who have accomplished little or nothing in their lives (I include all of the other current candidates for president as well as President Obama) with their main goal of enriching there supporters, themselves and any special interest groups they pander to. I include local and state politicians in New York who mostly resemble a criminal conspiracy of incompetents. What politicians really stand up for the best interests of their constituents or the nation?
As obnoxious as Trump might appear to me, this life long Democrat just may find me voting for him as president.
Let's face it, most of our political leadership has been made up of second-rate attorneys who have accomplished little or nothing in their lives (I include all of the other current candidates for president as well as President Obama) with their main goal of enriching there supporters, themselves and any special interest groups they pander to. I include local and state politicians in New York who mostly resemble a criminal conspiracy of incompetents. What politicians really stand up for the best interests of their constituents or the nation?
As obnoxious as Trump might appear to me, this life long Democrat just may find me voting for him as president.
6
Just what we need is another President with an insecurity complex. The usual result is an ego-boosting war.
3
My grandfather was a fervent believer in two things; his Catholic faith and trade unions. Both, he felt, should be there to help the working class in achieving a decent standard of living. We all know the sad track record of the former, as well as the old boys club record of the latter.
The likes of Donald Trump gutted and hollowed out the working class, turning many into the modern day service industry serfs - there to do the bidding of the modern day economic lords and ladies.
As he said, and I paraphrase, he has the educated and the uneducated...and he loves the uneducated. Sad, really.
The likes of Donald Trump gutted and hollowed out the working class, turning many into the modern day service industry serfs - there to do the bidding of the modern day economic lords and ladies.
As he said, and I paraphrase, he has the educated and the uneducated...and he loves the uneducated. Sad, really.
2
The trickster hard at it, orchestrating this reality show, which I'm coming to believe is a brilliant effort to manage the electorates perception, so they come to regard the very idea of Republicanism as anathema to Democracy itself, creating a massive swing to a democratic candidate, this instance the candidate is his good friend Hillary.
The pundits and Trump, and Hillary, and her handlers, and by default the power elites, are attempting to manage something known as "political dissonance" an inherent characteristic of humankind, unwittingly at work all of the time.
This Presidential election year, as is nearly always the case, unless a Bernie Sanders upsets the plan, is the fact that our one only party system, the party of the Plutocratic Oligarchy, always there behind the false face, is pulling the strings, maintaining the status quo.
See excerpt and link:
Joe Keohane has a summary of our political biases in the Boston Globe. It’s probably not surprising that voters aren’t rational agents, but it’s always a little depressing to realize just how irrational we are. (This irrationality applies to both sides of the political spectrum.) We cling to mistaken beliefs and ignore salient facts. We cherry-pick our information and vote based on an inexplicable stew of superficial hunches, stubborn ideologies and cultural trends. From the perspective of the human brain, it’s a miracle that democracy works at all".
http://scienceblogs.com/cortex/2010/07/13/political-dissonance/
The pundits and Trump, and Hillary, and her handlers, and by default the power elites, are attempting to manage something known as "political dissonance" an inherent characteristic of humankind, unwittingly at work all of the time.
This Presidential election year, as is nearly always the case, unless a Bernie Sanders upsets the plan, is the fact that our one only party system, the party of the Plutocratic Oligarchy, always there behind the false face, is pulling the strings, maintaining the status quo.
See excerpt and link:
Joe Keohane has a summary of our political biases in the Boston Globe. It’s probably not surprising that voters aren’t rational agents, but it’s always a little depressing to realize just how irrational we are. (This irrationality applies to both sides of the political spectrum.) We cling to mistaken beliefs and ignore salient facts. We cherry-pick our information and vote based on an inexplicable stew of superficial hunches, stubborn ideologies and cultural trends. From the perspective of the human brain, it’s a miracle that democracy works at all".
http://scienceblogs.com/cortex/2010/07/13/political-dissonance/
2
Read "The Sociopath Next Door" by Martha Stoudt if you want to better understand Donald Trump. Trump is not insecure. This is the same kind of logic that allowed him to slip past leaders in the Republican Party. If you think he is like others and is insecure because he has small hands or a powerful mother, you are not prepared for the con he is planning. Trump has no concern about others, only his own aggrandizement. Rather than wounded by all the derision heaped upon him, like a true psychopath, Trump just gets mad and then he plots revenge. He loves it that Romney and others are scrambling to contain him way too late. It matters not to him that he is caught in his lies because the MO of psychopaths is to keep lying. He also knows that the bigger the lie the more acceptance by ordinary people. Why do con artists walk away with our money or our hearts? First, they get us to suspend our disbelief. Second, they play to our fears and insecurities so that we want to lean on their confidence. This is known as the CONFIDENCE GAME.
10
The Trump equation is quite simple. Narcissist + Opportunist =Trump.
Trump sees this presidential run as a way to build his Trump brand which he will continue to monetize.
If he were truly a great businessmen and visionary as he suggests he would have built a world class organization to run his campaign. Instead he relies on outrageous statements to generate free media from an obliging press and polls which he views as just another form of ratings.
Trump was quoted in Fortune magazine as saying "It is very possible that I could be the first presidential candidate to run and make money on it". Watch how he quickly turns to outside money as his campaign progresses while putting very little of his own money into it (except as loans to be repaid).
At the end of the day, Trump is not a Prophet just another one-percenter seeing a profit.
Trump sees this presidential run as a way to build his Trump brand which he will continue to monetize.
If he were truly a great businessmen and visionary as he suggests he would have built a world class organization to run his campaign. Instead he relies on outrageous statements to generate free media from an obliging press and polls which he views as just another form of ratings.
Trump was quoted in Fortune magazine as saying "It is very possible that I could be the first presidential candidate to run and make money on it". Watch how he quickly turns to outside money as his campaign progresses while putting very little of his own money into it (except as loans to be repaid).
At the end of the day, Trump is not a Prophet just another one-percenter seeing a profit.
5
GOP establishment leaders continue their decade long record of historic missteps. First, they permitted extremist elements into the party in an attempt to broaden their base. Next, they severely underestimated the power of their expanded base and its ability to spawn an authoritarian like Trump. And now, it appears, they are blind to the true danger of Trump and the existential threat he poses not only to their party, but to the Republic itself.
These are just a few recent comments from current senators: Marco Rubio – “I’ll support Donald if he is the Republican nominee…” Orrin Hatch – “If he is our nominee, I will do everything I can to elect him” Roy Blunt – “I’m resigned to whoever we nominate” Kelly Ayotte – “I plan to support the Republican nominee”
This is not a game. Trump is transparently unfit for office and he would put the Republic in peril. The GOP urgently needs to summon up the courage to take an unequivocal stand against Trump and to put country ahead of party.
These are just a few recent comments from current senators: Marco Rubio – “I’ll support Donald if he is the Republican nominee…” Orrin Hatch – “If he is our nominee, I will do everything I can to elect him” Roy Blunt – “I’m resigned to whoever we nominate” Kelly Ayotte – “I plan to support the Republican nominee”
This is not a game. Trump is transparently unfit for office and he would put the Republic in peril. The GOP urgently needs to summon up the courage to take an unequivocal stand against Trump and to put country ahead of party.
4
Not so much a Batman super-villain (a 2-dimensional caricature) . . . but more reminiscent of all dictators' cravings for acceptance, admiration, and "legitimacy." What disturbs me most is that this assessment is appearing in the NYT now, when Trump has displayed the evidence for it in mannerisms, posture, facial expressions, intonations, and speech patterns from the beginning. He oozes diminishment, and his behavior doesn't meet even the minimal standard for bombast.
This is not a function of highly developed or huge ego--it is the absence of it, and what's really frightening is that it demonstrates we have lost our instinct for "hearing" character, or in this case, its deficit. (We’ve lost it before, of course, but it troubles me that we’re still doing it.) Rather than having spent our energies for months wondering how this could have happened and fretfully stomping about saying there was no way he could ever be the Republican nominee (let alone commander in chief), we should have realized that this individual is not a man, he's an infant, with all of the manipulative energies associated with that life stage. Now, we may be stuck with the terrifying consequences of getting what we deserve.
The only way to rectify our cultural lapse of judgment (after all, we all keep reading these articles and the press keeps writing them) and avert this impending disaster is to stop talking about this side-show and be resolute about the opportunity we have to cast responsible votes.
This is not a function of highly developed or huge ego--it is the absence of it, and what's really frightening is that it demonstrates we have lost our instinct for "hearing" character, or in this case, its deficit. (We’ve lost it before, of course, but it troubles me that we’re still doing it.) Rather than having spent our energies for months wondering how this could have happened and fretfully stomping about saying there was no way he could ever be the Republican nominee (let alone commander in chief), we should have realized that this individual is not a man, he's an infant, with all of the manipulative energies associated with that life stage. Now, we may be stuck with the terrifying consequences of getting what we deserve.
The only way to rectify our cultural lapse of judgment (after all, we all keep reading these articles and the press keeps writing them) and avert this impending disaster is to stop talking about this side-show and be resolute about the opportunity we have to cast responsible votes.
4
The trickster hard at it, orchestrating this reality show, which I'm coming to believe is a brilliant effort to manage the electorates perception, so they come to regard the very idea of Republicanism as anathema to Democracy itself, creating a massive swing to a democratic candidate, this instance the candidate is his good friend Hillary.
The pundits and Trump, and Hillary, and her handlers, and by default the power elites, are attempting to manage something known as "political dissonance" an inherent characteristic of humankind, unwittingly at work all of the time.
This Presidential election year, as is nearly always the case, unless a Bernie Sanders upsets the plan, is the fact that our one only party system, the party of the Plutocratic Oligarchy, always there behind the false face, is pulling the strings, maintaining the status quo.
See excerpt and link -
Joe Keohane has a summary of our political biases in the Boston Globe. It’s probably not surprising that voters aren’t rational agents, but it’s always a little depressing to realize just how irrational we are. (This irrationality applies to both sides of the political spectrum.) We cling to mistaken beliefs and ignore salient facts. We cherry-pick our information and vote based on an inexplicable stew of superficial hunches, stubborn ideologies and cultural trends. From the perspective of the human brain, it’s a miracle that democracy works at all".
http://scienceblogs.com/cortex/2010/07/13/political-dissonance/
The pundits and Trump, and Hillary, and her handlers, and by default the power elites, are attempting to manage something known as "political dissonance" an inherent characteristic of humankind, unwittingly at work all of the time.
This Presidential election year, as is nearly always the case, unless a Bernie Sanders upsets the plan, is the fact that our one only party system, the party of the Plutocratic Oligarchy, always there behind the false face, is pulling the strings, maintaining the status quo.
See excerpt and link -
Joe Keohane has a summary of our political biases in the Boston Globe. It’s probably not surprising that voters aren’t rational agents, but it’s always a little depressing to realize just how irrational we are. (This irrationality applies to both sides of the political spectrum.) We cling to mistaken beliefs and ignore salient facts. We cherry-pick our information and vote based on an inexplicable stew of superficial hunches, stubborn ideologies and cultural trends. From the perspective of the human brain, it’s a miracle that democracy works at all".
http://scienceblogs.com/cortex/2010/07/13/political-dissonance/
2
The best way to rid ourselves of the likes of Donald Trump is to ignore him. And if people you know support him, say nothing and change the subject. If you criticize Trump, you will only make people who support Trump support him even more. Trump is simply the definition of hatred. Don't give The Donald a platform.
8
Great idea, but you just did.
Watching Donald Trump on the Sunday Morning News Shows and what becomes obvious when listening to him is he is a GAS BAG!
7
A search for "stature" is an incomplete explanation. "Respect" would be more like it. From the outset, the article describes a string of public humiliations that surely rankled (and were supercilious and unfeeling, to boot).
Not incidentally, those humiliations mirror the sense of humiliation many Trump supporters express. No wonder that Trump and his supporters resonate so strongly.
Not incidentally, those humiliations mirror the sense of humiliation many Trump supporters express. No wonder that Trump and his supporters resonate so strongly.
5
So it is just being reported that some unhinged person in Milwaukee killed three of his neighbors because he thought they did not speak English. He killed a Puerto Rican gentleman in front of his young son, and broke down the door of an Asian couple and shot them. So where does this come from, you ask? I have never found Trump smudging in any way. And Reince Priebus is a greedy, malignant force.
5
I notice that my own attitude toward Trump has changed. I used to consider him a dangerous threat. Now he strikes me more as the town crank.
...although town cranks sometimes pose real dangers.
3
"Pundits seemed unaware of the spade work he had done throughout that spring, taking a half dozen trips to early voting states of Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina and using forums hosted by Mr. Bossie’s group to road test a potential campaign."
Trump, astonishingly, knows how to put one foot in front of the other, He can also do spadework.
Give Trump's big mouth and huge ego, all the information in this piece was available months ago, If Gingrich can put two and two together and come up with an accurate take on Trump's intentions, so too could have the media. With that, we could have gotten an early threat assessment.
And the media still has the opportunity to publish facts that puncture Trump's grandiose lies. There are several stories buried in this article.
One of them puts the lie to Trump's sneering claim that Romney "begged" Trump to endorse him. In fact, it's clear the savvy operators in the Romney camp saw Trump coming. They pegged him as a buffoon known to part with his money. The truth is Trump got rolled by Romney's team. The story's outside the current 24-hour cycle, but if the media doesn't expose Trump's big lies, who will?
Trump, astonishingly, knows how to put one foot in front of the other, He can also do spadework.
Give Trump's big mouth and huge ego, all the information in this piece was available months ago, If Gingrich can put two and two together and come up with an accurate take on Trump's intentions, so too could have the media. With that, we could have gotten an early threat assessment.
And the media still has the opportunity to publish facts that puncture Trump's grandiose lies. There are several stories buried in this article.
One of them puts the lie to Trump's sneering claim that Romney "begged" Trump to endorse him. In fact, it's clear the savvy operators in the Romney camp saw Trump coming. They pegged him as a buffoon known to part with his money. The truth is Trump got rolled by Romney's team. The story's outside the current 24-hour cycle, but if the media doesn't expose Trump's big lies, who will?
2
Yeah, Romney's losing team sure "rolled" Trump. Romney lost, and is currently a bitter and desperate old man on the sidelines. Trump, on the other hand, is going to be the republican nominee.
1
It has become increasingly clear that Donald Trump not only revels in a sea of ignorance about international affairs and the world around him, but that he has serious Fascistic tendencies that not only have no place in American democracy . but also would portend serious dangers to that democracy if he ever accessed the levers of political power. Millions of American voters may rightfully feel dispossessed about the negative evolution of their place in society over the past several decades, but they should think long and hard about whether a vote for Trump would be jumping from the frying pan into the fire. Demagoguery has never been a solution to societal problems - in fact only made them much worse.
8
The media war on Trump puts to death the notion that the so called "free press" takes a balanced view in covering politics. Even though I despise Trump he is no worse than Cruz or Rubio as Krugman has pointed out. However they are handled with kid gloves.
8
We all have a bit of authoritarianism in us --- the need to bring certainty to an uncertain world. Education, to a degree, helps us to discipline that need to make the world into our own image. Trump has skillfully unleashed that authoritarian strain in populations who crave a strong man to make things right again.
3
The G.O.P. let Donald Trump off his leash and is surprised that he is running around biting everyone. What's worse, all Republicans, all Americans, will soon end up with a terrible choice - a liberal Democrat or what they themselves have unleashed. It's making the 'Dog Bites Man' story front page everyday.
Like Goldilocks, the G.O.P. has either too little gravitas, with Trumps' dalliance, or too much with Cruz' intransigence but never gets it just right. And, both men clearly yearn to be Large and In Charge. Using very different approaches each man seeks the office to empower himself to right the wrongs they see. Neither of these two has sought to empower the nation to do so.
Yes it's a good year to run for King but usually Americans make a different choice.
Like Goldilocks, the G.O.P. has either too little gravitas, with Trumps' dalliance, or too much with Cruz' intransigence but never gets it just right. And, both men clearly yearn to be Large and In Charge. Using very different approaches each man seeks the office to empower himself to right the wrongs they see. Neither of these two has sought to empower the nation to do so.
Yes it's a good year to run for King but usually Americans make a different choice.
1
Liberal Democrat = badge of honor. Sadly, you say it like it's a bad thing.I feel sorry for your misunderstanding.
Trump is a curious contradiction. On the one hand, he's a sociopath in the sense that he's immune from feeling shame. Yet, he desperately needs others to applaud his greatness. Maybe that duality is part of his particular character disorder.
3
Whether the media took Trump seriously or not,it ,including the "liberal " media ,covered entire campaign events of his,perhaps finding him "entertaining." Which gave his campaign national attention other more credible candidates,such as Bernie Sanders' . Now ,in the event Trump gets the nomination, liberals such I have to take seriously because of his talent at manipulating a very willing media.
What if the media wants him as their candidate.
There's this perception that Donald fooled the media somehow and that the GOP is apoplectic that this guy is winning. But what if this is exactly what they wanted all along.
There's this perception that Donald fooled the media somehow and that the GOP is apoplectic that this guy is winning. But what if this is exactly what they wanted all along.
1
Sounds like he made an effort to study politicians, realized they're all phony stiffs, and decided to perform a hostile takeover of the party—without any aid from special interests or lobbyists. Pretty commendable, actually.
6
Encouraging supporters to beat protestors -- and saying, as he did this morning on TV, that he will pay the legal expenses of the supporters who punched the guy and then said he should have killed him . . . .
Commendable,eh?
Odd values you have.
Commendable,eh?
Odd values you have.
1
Ouch! Is this what you become growing up in an affluent and functioning family where half of your contacts envy you and the other half is aware of your and their success? Is it better to grow up in a dysfunctional (Bill Clinton) or struggling (Obama) family?
I doubt the search for approval is best exemplified by Trump. Neither it is the worst psychological trait for a president of the most powerful country in the world.
Now lets analyze Hillary Clinton's propensity for killing some geopolitically inconvenient opponents and laughing when succeeding.
I doubt the search for approval is best exemplified by Trump. Neither it is the worst psychological trait for a president of the most powerful country in the world.
Now lets analyze Hillary Clinton's propensity for killing some geopolitically inconvenient opponents and laughing when succeeding.
4
It is my greatest fear, that disparaging comments like this will use the usual anti-Clinton (and anti-Obama) trope trying to convince others that Trump is the better candidate between the two.
If anything needs to be analyzed, it's where these comments are coming from.
If anything needs to be analyzed, it's where these comments are coming from.
On April 27, 2011, President Obama released his birth certificate. In one fell swoop, Donald Trump’s entire political raison d’etre disappeared. Without the “birther” issue to stand on, Trump was a sitting duck. The White House Correspondents Dinner on April 30, underscored Trump’s weakened position. He gamely took his lumps from President Obama – being mocked by the leader of the free world is almost an accomplishment, after all. Then came Seth Myers. The suave comedian eviscerated Trump.
On May 2, 2011, a triumphant President Obama announced the death of Osama bin Laden. In the space of a week, therefore, the President fully affirmed his legitimacy as an American and as Commander-in-Chief. True leadership, as Trump surely learned in those days, is not when you tell a supplicant, “You’re fired,” but when the American people say, “You’re hired.” True power comes when you can say to the nation’s number one enemy, “You’re dead.” Trump is closing in on that degree of power. Heaven help us all.
On May 2, 2011, a triumphant President Obama announced the death of Osama bin Laden. In the space of a week, therefore, the President fully affirmed his legitimacy as an American and as Commander-in-Chief. True leadership, as Trump surely learned in those days, is not when you tell a supplicant, “You’re fired,” but when the American people say, “You’re hired.” True power comes when you can say to the nation’s number one enemy, “You’re dead.” Trump is closing in on that degree of power. Heaven help us all.
7
Only small people take cheap shots.
Trump had no podium to fight back.
Five years later we still don't have full details of Osama's death.
Trump had no podium to fight back.
Five years later we still don't have full details of Osama's death.
So similar to the rise of Hitler. History doesn't repeat itself but what if he became president of the U.S ?
3
God help us if Trumpler is elected!
History doesn't repeat itself, but it does rhyme. --Mark Twain (paraphrased)
At that dinner in 2011 I had how Mr Trump had been targeted. One joke or two is fair but not a barrage of them. It is truly the mark of a strong personality that he has used that incident to raise himself to be taken seriously. I have seen Mitt Romney speak, and others and they do not look "real". They all look as they are reading off a script, and do not look convincing. Mr Trump looks genuine in his conversations and that is what the ordinary person likes. USA has MORE ordinary persons than the so called "elite" and it is the votes that count. So, unless the country says that only the elite can continue to vote for the elite among them, the regular people are going to get their regular talking candidate who can talk their language. I say, good luck to Mr Donald Trump and perhaps 4 years of President Trump is what the country needs to bring back to reality that this is government by and of the people. We have a republic and not some monarchy where the Bushes and the Kennedys and the Clintons will rule.
4
After what he dished out on Obama, he couldn't take a few jabs. Typical of the town bully.
3
Have you even listened to his outrageous comments? I, at 73, do NOT want to go back to the 50's and 60's where women and blacks knew their place. We have fought hard for what we have, I do not as a white female want someone like Trump with his finger on the nuclear button!!!!!!!
President Donald J. Trump January 20, 2017 to January 20, 2025.
A great man of strength, peace, harmony, common sense, brilliance and the only true LEADER who can start to reverse 50 years of the left wing radical extremist policies of Democratic Party that have left us headed to $21T in destructive debt and the only LEADER that can help the downtrodden black unemployed in America like Ronald Reagan by deporting 12M+ illegals!
I am so elated the NYT and all its writers are getting behind the Trump Train!
A great man of strength, peace, harmony, common sense, brilliance and the only true LEADER who can start to reverse 50 years of the left wing radical extremist policies of Democratic Party that have left us headed to $21T in destructive debt and the only LEADER that can help the downtrodden black unemployed in America like Ronald Reagan by deporting 12M+ illegals!
I am so elated the NYT and all its writers are getting behind the Trump Train!
5
"death from above," huh? Nice, and thanks for illustratng the problem.
By the way, the word you're searching for isn't, "Leader."
It's "Fuehrer."
By the way, the word you're searching for isn't, "Leader."
It's "Fuehrer."
5
The Chicago shutdown is blamed in the left leaning media on Trump setting a coarse, belligerent tone. But most of the belligerent, coarse people in that situation were anti-Trump protesters. Why not lambast the coarse and belligerent anti- Trump protesters? Bernie is not crass (unlike Trump) but he is fervently hate-spewing.
7
Trump usually monitors attendance at his rallies and lets in very few "others."
Kinda wonder why this time they put their rally in the middle of a power keg neighborhood,and let in hundreds of obvious protestors . . . . .
Gee, wonder if he needed some chaos to gin up more coverage?
Kinda wonder why this time they put their rally in the middle of a power keg neighborhood,and let in hundreds of obvious protestors . . . . .
Gee, wonder if he needed some chaos to gin up more coverage?
1
That well could be true, Kathyinct. I wouldn't put it past Trump's people. Still, you can't blame Trump for what the protesters did: "Well, Trump led on those protesters, riled them up. It's not their fault; it's his!" Sounds like blaming a rape victim for her rape. "It's not his fault, she flirted, riled him up!" The rapist is at fault and the protesters are at fault
I have no issues with a non-politician running for President. An outsider with an understanding of how things work - that pesky checks and balances thing - could do wonders running our country. Trump does speak of things that have been our undoing the last 20 years but so does Bernie Sanders. It's the way he speaks of things that I take issue with as well as the race-baiting. Adding to that, he seems to think that he will just be able to step into office, make some deals and bada bing, solved. "Next," he cries with that horrible (really it is a fright) smirk on his face. Part of me wants him to get elected just to see him get his comeuppance.
1
Not sure how Trump takes advantage of poorly educated people, or poor people in general, any more than a lot of major companies. He just seems to not be concerned about the PR implications.
2
In the Wizard of Oz climatic scene where the curtain falls away revealing the reality of the Wizard one can see the predictive climax of the Trump Presidential campaign. While some hard core supporters will continue skipping along their own equivalent of the Yellow Brick Road, reality will finally reach enough voters to render him a lost cause. It is always a happy ending when the bully finally gets its due.
1
The thought police are out in force even if they are drug dealers and gun runners.
2
Too bad we don't have Orson Wells to star in a film called Trump. As the media and the public alike wrestle to understand and explain the Trump phenomena of today, I'm reminded of Wells' towering performance in his masterpiece Citizen Kane (1941).
The parallels aren't perfect, of course, but that film's dark glimpse into the psyche of an American tycoon (William Randolph Hearst) tells us something about what we are seeing repeated before our very eyes today in the person of the vile Trump.
The parallels aren't perfect, of course, but that film's dark glimpse into the psyche of an American tycoon (William Randolph Hearst) tells us something about what we are seeing repeated before our very eyes today in the person of the vile Trump.
7
This wonderfully informative article provided context and confirmed my analysis of Donald J. Trump. Trump is nobody's fool and nobody is going to make a fool of him and not pay a price. This stems from a deep-seated inferiority complex which is assuaged by a healthy does of megalomania.
Understanding the backroom or behind the scenes maneuvers is enlightening, for us of course, but also for those who were there and witnessed in person how someone operates. I would characterize these as business relationships. Personal relationships are equally revealing. Consider Trump's relationships with women including four wives, two daughters and I assume dozens of women. Women are treated as possessions, a commodity which is bought and controlled with money.
Money is at the heart of, and defines Trump's self-worth. Money gives him power, recognition and influence. Money allows him to overcome his inferiority complex and satisfy his meglalomanical tendencies.
Trump has that rare combination of smarts, intelligence and knowledge which makes him a veritable force both in business and politics. Unfortunately, he is a sociopath, somebody that lacks a conscience, or if you prefer he is rotten to the core.
In many ways Trump fits the mold of many politicians and business people who have led this country into socioeconomic decline. Income and wealth inequality is throttling our economy and slowly suffocating half the population. Trump is not the solution, he's the problem. 10:10 EST
Understanding the backroom or behind the scenes maneuvers is enlightening, for us of course, but also for those who were there and witnessed in person how someone operates. I would characterize these as business relationships. Personal relationships are equally revealing. Consider Trump's relationships with women including four wives, two daughters and I assume dozens of women. Women are treated as possessions, a commodity which is bought and controlled with money.
Money is at the heart of, and defines Trump's self-worth. Money gives him power, recognition and influence. Money allows him to overcome his inferiority complex and satisfy his meglalomanical tendencies.
Trump has that rare combination of smarts, intelligence and knowledge which makes him a veritable force both in business and politics. Unfortunately, he is a sociopath, somebody that lacks a conscience, or if you prefer he is rotten to the core.
In many ways Trump fits the mold of many politicians and business people who have led this country into socioeconomic decline. Income and wealth inequality is throttling our economy and slowly suffocating half the population. Trump is not the solution, he's the problem. 10:10 EST
98
Four wives? Only three.
As far as anyone knows he has a very close relationship with his daughters and they are upright, powerful, self-assured women.
You are just typing without thinking.
As far as anyone knows he has a very close relationship with his daughters and they are upright, powerful, self-assured women.
You are just typing without thinking.
Trump lacks moral constraints, so he lacks constraints entirely: such is the thinking that confuses sociopathy with omnipotence. I'm just speculating, but I would bet that many of his supporters don't need to know *how* he would "make America great again." I'd bet they think he could do it just by bending geopolitical or macroeconomic forces to his will, in a godlike "fiat majestas," turning back ballistic missiles with his mind.
Donald Trump is terrifyingly ignorant. He cannot give a speech with the command of the English language that most college graduates would have. This is continually amazing.
As others have commented he appeals to the dark underbelly of prejudice and racism in this country. This underbelly has been an unpleasant revelation this year.
He is dangerous in both his ignorance of foreign affairs and in his belief in his own non-stop utterances of non-truths and fantasies. It has been perplexing to see both moderators in the debates and opponents avoid calling him on this,calling a spade a spade. The media pundits also go beyond being polite to him showing deference to him that is frustrating.
I agree that in many ways he fits the mold of many politicians and businessmen.It is reminiscent of the fairy tale,The Emperor's New Clothes.
If he were ever to become the nominee for the Republican party or President the country would be in grave danger.
He is the prototype of a manipulative narcissistic bully. His actions all through his life have shown this.The Republicans unfortunately brought this on themselves by accepting his money.
Chris Christie lost all credibility when he came out backing him.
I am embarrassed for our country.
As others have commented he appeals to the dark underbelly of prejudice and racism in this country. This underbelly has been an unpleasant revelation this year.
He is dangerous in both his ignorance of foreign affairs and in his belief in his own non-stop utterances of non-truths and fantasies. It has been perplexing to see both moderators in the debates and opponents avoid calling him on this,calling a spade a spade. The media pundits also go beyond being polite to him showing deference to him that is frustrating.
I agree that in many ways he fits the mold of many politicians and businessmen.It is reminiscent of the fairy tale,The Emperor's New Clothes.
If he were ever to become the nominee for the Republican party or President the country would be in grave danger.
He is the prototype of a manipulative narcissistic bully. His actions all through his life have shown this.The Republicans unfortunately brought this on themselves by accepting his money.
Chris Christie lost all credibility when he came out backing him.
I am embarrassed for our country.
1
A quirky political outsider who works ceaselessly on his image and message, desperately trying to gain acceptance from a political party that first writes him off as a joke, but then tries unsuccessfully to control him. His constituency: poorly educated and white, battered by economic calamity, feeling betrayed by a country coming off an unsuccessful military adventure, and looking for scapegoats. Do you believe that history repeats itself? I do.
5
The constituency you mention is not all white or poorly educated.
There are 100's of millions is us - and we are coming after you with pitchforks in hand. Your city may be big and metropolitan but it's no match for the heart beat is America.
Your opinion on culture is your opinion and frankly 100's of millions of us disagree with you and it is now going to change. You in your ivory towers have asked us to conform or be cast out. Now YOUR in for the great reckoning so you better behave and accept the people with the pitchforks and our beliefs and culture.
Trump 2016
Your opinion on culture is your opinion and frankly 100's of millions of us disagree with you and it is now going to change. You in your ivory towers have asked us to conform or be cast out. Now YOUR in for the great reckoning so you better behave and accept the people with the pitchforks and our beliefs and culture.
Trump 2016
2
Not very subtle threats.
1
If Trump supporters could master technology more advanced than pitchforks, they wouldn't have to worry so much about their futures in the modern world.
2
"Ivory towers?" Please, everyone knows you cowards go after blacks and "illegals" or the low-hanging fruit. Your ring leader outsources his stuff to China and hires illegals to build his golf courses. You are being led like a cow by the nose, and you want us to take you seriously? You don't have to be in an ivory to see your low IQ. By the way, NYC ALONE is 8 mil+. Try us.
2
It should not shock us to be told thatTrump has a massive ego-the infantile name calling emanating from other candidates teaches us that almost all of the candidates have sensitive egoes.
It is probably axiomatic that anyone who thinks that they have the ability to lead millions of people has a well developed sense of identity. It comes with occupying the center stage. Casper Milquetoasts' rarely emerge as leaders (witness Ed Muskie's public collapse in 1972).Trump is an "old style"politician reminding us of "hell's kitchen" style politics. Julius Caesar, General McArthur-even Winston Churchill and Teddy Rooseveldt exhibited the same kind of sensitivity to personal attacks, and responded in kind, often with profanity. The public expects, even requires their leaders to be confident and to display a larger than normal persona -radiating self worth. Carson and Rubio often seemed meek, almost whiney.If you want to find humility, look to the Pope.
It is probably axiomatic that anyone who thinks that they have the ability to lead millions of people has a well developed sense of identity. It comes with occupying the center stage. Casper Milquetoasts' rarely emerge as leaders (witness Ed Muskie's public collapse in 1972).Trump is an "old style"politician reminding us of "hell's kitchen" style politics. Julius Caesar, General McArthur-even Winston Churchill and Teddy Rooseveldt exhibited the same kind of sensitivity to personal attacks, and responded in kind, often with profanity. The public expects, even requires their leaders to be confident and to display a larger than normal persona -radiating self worth. Carson and Rubio often seemed meek, almost whiney.If you want to find humility, look to the Pope.
3
Right now Trump needs to gain his freedom of speech back and all Americans need to support that and it is not a special stature for Trump. All Americans should have their freedom of speech including the protesters. The protesters should hold their own rallies and not disrupt rallies of some one else. As an independent I have attended rallies of several presidential candidates for decades and the reason I go is to give them a chance to voice their opinions and try and convince me on why I should vote for them. I also go to observe and gauge the enthusiasm of their supporters. Attending a Trump rally was a big challenge although the entry was free and without any discrimination, there was a big line and once inside there was an unprecedented threatening and discomforting situation in the middle of his speech, created by the protesters who were being escorted out by burly police. I had my right to listen to free speech violated. Whether or not I agreed or disagreed with what was being said was not the issue, I felt that those like me who had taken the trouble of getting inside did not deserve to be in the midst of an uneasy situation. There were some protesters outside standing silently with placards, that was perfectly legitimate form of democratic protests but those inside needling the supporters with slogans after gaining entry and drowning the free speech of the person who had the floor and who had attracted a crowd to listen was uncalled for and should be discouraged.
52
You forgot freedom of assembly in your analysis. Who are you to prescribe where protesters can speak?
By the way, hecklers are not exclusive to Trump, he just has more. Wonder why?
By the way, hecklers are not exclusive to Trump, he just has more. Wonder why?
1
In Vermont,Trump's people carefully screened out all protestors.
Now he does open online ticketing and anyone can come.
In Chicago,people who obviously looked like they could be protestors walked in carrying big signs.
It's a private event.
Why don't his people manage it?
Kinda wonder what' s changed . . . . four days before huge election . . . . him not ahead in a key state . . . . close in others . . . . gee, maybe he needed some non-stop coverage.
He OWNS those rallies.
He OWNS his words.
He OWNS this situation.
Now he does open online ticketing and anyone can come.
In Chicago,people who obviously looked like they could be protestors walked in carrying big signs.
It's a private event.
Why don't his people manage it?
Kinda wonder what' s changed . . . . four days before huge election . . . . him not ahead in a key state . . . . close in others . . . . gee, maybe he needed some non-stop coverage.
He OWNS those rallies.
He OWNS his words.
He OWNS this situation.
1
I am not prescribing where protesters can speak. I am suggesting where they should speak without interrupting in other person's place to speak. I would like all the candidates to be heard by their respective supporters and those who do not support the candidate but would go with an open mind to hear the candidate speak. I am looking forward to listening to Bernie come to my town and speak and if someone interrupts him and I am unable to hear him, I will be just as disappointed. I can make up my own mind after giving every candidate a fair hearing and let others wonder why Trump is doing well in the ballot box, I would like to find first hand. Do I agree with all he that a candidate says of course not. Even an Islamic country like Pakistan said officially that it does not worry about what Trumps says about Muslims because words of campaigns invariably do not translate into actions that mirror rhetoric.
1
As far as I know, the only voters who take Mr. Trump seriously are the hot heads. In relative numbers they are few, but they certainly make a lot of noise. Their vocal support of their own hot head candidate is probably doing the Republican party far more harm than good and playing into the hands of the Democratic party, perfectly OK with me. With Mr. Trump remaining in the race, the legitimate Republican is not heard and that is not OK with me. For countless reasons, IMO, Mr. Trump should pack up Trump Air One and go home. The Other Party, the Republicans, have a legitimate voice and one that should be heard. Halting him at the RNC's convention may be the last opportunity, but Mr. Trump cannot win November's general election. Mr. Trump would make a truly horrible president.
3
If the premise of this article is that Mr. Obma's ridiculing Mr. Trump at May 2011 WH Correspondents Dinner prompted Trump to enter politics, why is there no mentioning of the majority of the ridiculing was led by Seth Meyers?
He called Trump a "joke."
https://www.google.com/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&ion=1&espv=...
He called Trump a "joke."
https://www.google.com/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&ion=1&espv=...
I am reading and responding on an iPad. Mine is a technical matter. Embedded URLs provided by the readers seem, more often than not, to be truncated such that the destination cannot be reached. This reader's insertion is an example. It's been going on for years. Do you not know this? Is it intentional? Why, why, why?
Not to mention the digs at Trump while discussing talks with Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau last week.
Not showing a lot of class to bring up election politics in that setting. It shows what a threat they think Trump actually is.
Not showing a lot of class to bring up election politics in that setting. It shows what a threat they think Trump actually is.
Some of us have never taken Mr Obama seriously as a person, although he is by his actions, he is as serious a bubonic plague
and of course his anti-racist racist fans and followers, as serious as a heart attack, except when they degenerate into cartoon and parody
and of course his anti-racist racist fans and followers, as serious as a heart attack, except when they degenerate into cartoon and parody
Would this be the "some of us," hiding under the kivvers in our own private fortress? Till the black President goes away?
1
At a dinner party with all relatively successful people, all at least with one degree, the choice of at least 7 of 8 were either sanders first and trump second if sanders were not the candidate. Your view of his supporters is as dismissive as the media view of sanders and trump
6
Relatively successful Georgians. Which is to say total losers.
Dismissive is actually the kindest attitude one could take toward people supporting a candidate who mocks the disabled, insults American prisoners of war, proposes racist and xenophobic policies, and calls on people at a rallies to beat up protesters. There are good reasons Trump's supporters are compared to Nazis - they talk and act like them.
Trump is what happens when the line between politics and entertainment is obliterated. Despite his obvious flaws, Trump is also a funny, charismatic guy, a breath of fresh air to Republicans accustomed to the stench of programmed GOP politicians. But the increasingly fascistic type meetings Trump holds are an ominous sign of what a Trump presidency will bring.
For those who still don't get it, I suggest renting "A Face In the Crowd," where a show business buffoon gets real power. Filmed more than half a century ago, it eerily resonates in 2016. Beware.
www.newyorkgritty.net
For those who still don't get it, I suggest renting "A Face In the Crowd," where a show business buffoon gets real power. Filmed more than half a century ago, it eerily resonates in 2016. Beware.
www.newyorkgritty.net
8
Sorry, but I don't bother to read articles about men that call women "dogs".
He's either going to be President or not, but I already know what he thinks and how he will rule over my ladyparts.
Never support anyone that doesn't support you.
And Republicans, all Republicans, do not support me.
Never have.
He's either going to be President or not, but I already know what he thinks and how he will rule over my ladyparts.
Never support anyone that doesn't support you.
And Republicans, all Republicans, do not support me.
Never have.
17
At this very moment, there are thousands of first-time voters; future teachers, diplomats, scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and doctors who are watching all this unfold even as this paper, once the standard-bearer of the American liberal tradition, tells us our best bet is to send the Clintons back to the White House.
My generation will never allow this to occur again.
My generation will never allow this to occur again.
5
Wish that were true, Yinka. But your generation - assuming it's the one who routinely either doesn't vote or only votes in the general election and never at the local and state level, which is where it really matters - will go back to complacency after the Bern burns out, or is elected.
Mr. Trump knows he cannot win this election. In fact, he has known it for a while. He is on the ultimate ego trip, then, and thumbing his nose at both the Republican establishment that tolerated him while holding their noses and pocketing his checks and at President Obama and the millions of Americans who voted him over the top in 2012. Meanwhile the ego trip has merged with the power trip and the ride he takes us on reveals the man behind the rhetoric: amoral and cold. This is how he continues his campaign "sinverguenza" - he simply cannot muster the compassion (where none exists) for America and Americans. Having said this, however, he will not be president - not because of any brilliant counter-campaigning by the rest of the pack, but because we are still a civil society by majority in this country: a majority without party affiliation, without required membership in one religion or another, and without a skin color test to pass for citizenship.
6
What is disturbing about the rise of a personality such as Donald Trump is how much the bar for civility must be lowered to interact with him. Marco Rubio bit Trump's bait enough to embarrass his children, if not the rest of us.
Without even trying one can hear reference to the thought of a Trump Presidency and it's meaning to the world, not the least of which is what depths will we have to sink to carry on with the US, War? Torture? Cancel the Iran deal? Bring it on says Donald. Diplomacy, Geneva Convention is for losers. In one fell swoop, a Trump Presidency make a mockery of grace and
dignity and regard for the other. He would ask of us our soul.
Without even trying one can hear reference to the thought of a Trump Presidency and it's meaning to the world, not the least of which is what depths will we have to sink to carry on with the US, War? Torture? Cancel the Iran deal? Bring it on says Donald. Diplomacy, Geneva Convention is for losers. In one fell swoop, a Trump Presidency make a mockery of grace and
dignity and regard for the other. He would ask of us our soul.
2
It's incredible and mind-boggling the power of the Establishment, political: Left and Right and media alike, descending and unleashing upon Trump. The latest, a concerted and organized effort to disrupt and create turmoil and bad publicity at any of Trump's rallies. This powerful convergence of anti-Trump forces as Trump seems to be closer to a nomination and, obviously the Presidency, will stop at nothing to destroy Trump. One wonders if Trump continues to win at the voting poll what would be the next step.
I suppose someone forgot to tell Mr. Trump that if you don't play by the Establishment rules and fall in step you will find out how powerful they are and how insignificant and meaningless a few $billions in your account really is. They will show him what is real power. They control, mold and shape the American people and their lives. They are the master puppeteers of the Western world and they don't want a rogue POTUS who doesn't follow the rules. The master puppeteers have decided they don't like him and don't want him and aim to destroy him. And if he still manages to become, POTUS, no worries, they will reign him in with a clear warning that you will fall in step or you will not finish your term, period. It isn't about democracy, it's about real power and if you pay close attention, you can clearly see it at work.
I suppose someone forgot to tell Mr. Trump that if you don't play by the Establishment rules and fall in step you will find out how powerful they are and how insignificant and meaningless a few $billions in your account really is. They will show him what is real power. They control, mold and shape the American people and their lives. They are the master puppeteers of the Western world and they don't want a rogue POTUS who doesn't follow the rules. The master puppeteers have decided they don't like him and don't want him and aim to destroy him. And if he still manages to become, POTUS, no worries, they will reign him in with a clear warning that you will fall in step or you will not finish your term, period. It isn't about democracy, it's about real power and if you pay close attention, you can clearly see it at work.
5
I am sure psychologists could have a field day with Trump. But there was an in depth documentary on Canadian T.V. the last few days which did a far superior job of explaining the Trump movement then anything the idiot media in the States has done to date. He has created this xenophobic monster to fuel his ego; and now he has no choice but to keep feeding it if he wants to keep up the pretense he knows what he is doing. No less than Tom Brokaw accurately told of how he does not have a clue what being President of the U.S. would mean; and how pathetically unprepared he is to do the job!
6
Trumps ego and the support of millions of people who support authority is the perfect storm for Trump's political success to date and likely Republican nominee for president. Here is a fascination article that explains the Authoritarianism embedded in Trump's ascent to power.
http://www.vox.com/2016/3/1/11127424/trump-authoritarianism
http://www.vox.com/2016/3/1/11127424/trump-authoritarianism
1
Basically, it's all about assuaging his monster size ego, which most of us recognized all along. The GOP created their own Frankenstein, and now can't control him. The Donald doesn't seem to realize he still lacks credibility by most decent American's standards. He's pandering to the same ignorance that believes the birther conspiracy that he promoted. The sight of DT sickens me, and the thought of him as president is scary beyond belief. Bullies deep inside harbor a sense of inadequacy. It's a appetite that can't be satiated. Imagine that kind of person with access to the nuclear codes, leader of the free world. He'd be shooting off his mouth with no regard for the consequences. It's a terrifying thought.
2
"the Romney campaign viewed him as an unpredictable attention-seeker with no real political foundation."
Maybe the only thing the Romney campaign got right.
Maybe the only thing the Romney campaign got right.
6
I don't know what all the carping is about - Trump is going to replace ObamaCare with "something really terriffic !"
1
In the new American Words and Phrases lexicon, when the phrase "heated words and violence" is defined, there will also be a photo of Donald Trump in the election of 2016.
2
I'LL BE HONEST--Donald Trump leads the pack of candidates in the worst way. He often says I'll be honest, an absolute pointless phrase implying he wasn't honest before. He regularly uses false statements to express fundamental truths about his views. Numerous examples exsist such as he said he got to know Putin very well while the two were on 60 Minutes, although they were interviewed separately thousands of miles apart. Donald Trump uses "i'll be honest" as refuge for being inarticulate. It makes one fretful, is it possible he can become President of the United States? He claims he tells things like they are. Perhaps one day he'll say, I'll be honest, I really don't know what I'm talking about.
2
I have long rejected the comparison of Trump to the Nazis (he is neither a fascist nor an anti-semite despite an earlier comment about Jews knowing how to negotiate). Nevertheless, I am struck by the last sentence in this article where Trump says: “A lot of people have laughed at me over the years. Now the're not laughing so much.” In a January 30, 1939 speech to the Reichstag, Hitler complains that that the Jews have been laughing at himself. "Their laughter has been uproarious," he says. "Now the're laughing on the other side of their face."
6
Although a comparison to the Nazis should be used only in the most egregious situations, it shouldn't be avoided either if the circumstances call for it lest the same terrible mistake is made again. The world waited too long to confront that evil in the 30's and millions of people paid for it.
Trump's popularity is easy to understand. The middle and working class sees it's getting screwed. Everyone is benefitting but them. The rich are getting absurdly richer, the poor are being taken care of by larger and larger government handouts bankrolled on the backs of the working class, and the politicians want nothing to do with helping those that actually do the work.
The working/middle class sees all the flaws in Trump's vague and non defined plans but they give him the benefit if the doubt because he offers them hope. Even a little hope is better than no hope, and that is who much hope they give the same old political establishment that has been doing nothing for them for the last 40 years as they see their quality of life go down the toilet.
Trump might not actually be able to do what he promises. He might not be able to do much in battling the status quo for needed change, but at least he'll try! People see he has his own money and that gives them hope he might be able to make a difference.
The working/middle class sees all the flaws in Trump's vague and non defined plans but they give him the benefit if the doubt because he offers them hope. Even a little hope is better than no hope, and that is who much hope they give the same old political establishment that has been doing nothing for them for the last 40 years as they see their quality of life go down the toilet.
Trump might not actually be able to do what he promises. He might not be able to do much in battling the status quo for needed change, but at least he'll try! People see he has his own money and that gives them hope he might be able to make a difference.
2
And he should be taken seriously--seriously as bubonic plague.
4
Given the title of this article, it is plain that Donald Trump is not a fully formed person. This is not what Americans need. His whole campaign is geared to feeding his ego. For this he needs a psychiatric social worker.
If Trump doesn't step out of the race we are going to be left with a foreign policy in tatters and a nation at war with itself. Just seeing him on the podium reveals what he is.
If Trump doesn't step out of the race we are going to be left with a foreign policy in tatters and a nation at war with itself. Just seeing him on the podium reveals what he is.
What kind of rot is this? The article suggests that the republican establishment, and right wing think tanks kind of thought of Trump as a buffoon, wanted his money, and never took him seriously - as if this is an anomalous situation.
It is not.
Right wing think tanks, ranking republicans, and the party establishment - in some shape and form - has coddled, promoted, engaged, encouraged, provided succor to, triggered, every form of hate mongers starting with KKK, survivalists, climate deniers, hate radio hosts and hate TV. They have done the exact same to every religious organization that preaches hatred and exclusion (and leaders who are too often caught with young boys and/or with dangerous drugs).
This is a power mad party that is seriously into free loading and finding ways to turn the country into a banana republic in every shape and form, seeking immunity by wrapping itself in a flag, clutching the bible, and waving a gun. It is a party of fiscal profligacy and social regress. It takes a Trump to bring out their rank and file from the woodwork; all the people who found themselves uncompetitive because of personal choices, want to feed copiously at the government teat, and get rid of all the people they don't like.
He is not the first, nor the last. Remember Newt?
Trump is not their unintended consequence. He is the epitome of what they have worked to produce in America - i.e., bring out the worst among citizens by producing a cauldron of hate.
Kalidan
It is not.
Right wing think tanks, ranking republicans, and the party establishment - in some shape and form - has coddled, promoted, engaged, encouraged, provided succor to, triggered, every form of hate mongers starting with KKK, survivalists, climate deniers, hate radio hosts and hate TV. They have done the exact same to every religious organization that preaches hatred and exclusion (and leaders who are too often caught with young boys and/or with dangerous drugs).
This is a power mad party that is seriously into free loading and finding ways to turn the country into a banana republic in every shape and form, seeking immunity by wrapping itself in a flag, clutching the bible, and waving a gun. It is a party of fiscal profligacy and social regress. It takes a Trump to bring out their rank and file from the woodwork; all the people who found themselves uncompetitive because of personal choices, want to feed copiously at the government teat, and get rid of all the people they don't like.
He is not the first, nor the last. Remember Newt?
Trump is not their unintended consequence. He is the epitome of what they have worked to produce in America - i.e., bring out the worst among citizens by producing a cauldron of hate.
Kalidan
10
Small fingers. Small minded. brash statements. Trophy wives. Exaggerated self image. Exaggerated net worth. Fake hair. Fake tan. Military school grad who dodged the war. Business genius with 4 bankruptcies. Swindler of unsophisticated students at Fake Trump "University". Sxindler of investors at multiple construction projects. Settle the lawsuits. Claims he never settles lawsuits when in fact he frequently settles lawsuits. Says he has solutions when, in fact, he does not.
It is not enough to point out the obvious problems in Washington and beyond. You have to be a credible person with plausible solutions.
It's time for "The Donald" to fold his tent and leave town before the towns people get wise and start melting the tar and gathering the feathers!
It is not enough to point out the obvious problems in Washington and beyond. You have to be a credible person with plausible solutions.
It's time for "The Donald" to fold his tent and leave town before the towns people get wise and start melting the tar and gathering the feathers!
6
I've got my tar can all ready!!
To this psychologist, Donald Trump's not-so-"Presidential run" seems more like the ancient tribal rite of revenge than to "gain stature." Peevish pettiness has been the constant hallmark of his campaign from his attacks against Megyn Kelly of Fox News to his most recent lambasting of Sen. Lindsey Graham as he basked in last week's primary victories by denigrating over his long-vanquished opponent. The Donald seems to have a very weak ego that constantly needs to be fed sacrificial victims to enhance his wounded sense of sense. It may make for good reality TV, but we can only hope that America wakes up in time to avoid the reality of being the ultimate sacrifice.
6
“A lot of people have laughed at me over the years,” he said. “Now, they’re not laughing so much.”
Sounds like this could be direct quote from a little known former wall-paper hanger and failed architect/painter born Adolf Schickelgruber after the publication of his best-seller, "Mein Kampf."
Donald Grumpf?
Sounds like this could be direct quote from a little known former wall-paper hanger and failed architect/painter born Adolf Schickelgruber after the publication of his best-seller, "Mein Kampf."
Donald Grumpf?
5
What you write, Maggie and Alexander, may be true. But I would like to see read something that explains the American People. They are ultimately responsible for this and all the other fiascoes in the country.
4
Possibly "Political Dissonance".
An astonishing psychologically inherent condition, in all of us.
Excerpt and link -
"Joe Keohane has a fascinating summary of our political biases in the Boston Globe Ideas section this weekend. It’s probably not surprising that voters aren’t rational agents, but it’s always a little depressing to realize just how irrational we are. (And it’s worth pointing out that this irrationality applies to both sides of the political spectrum.) We cling to mistaken beliefs and ignore salient facts. We cherry-pick our information and vote for people based on an inexplicable stew of superficial hunches, stubborn ideologies and cultural trends. From the perspective of the human brain, it’s a miracle that democracy works at all. Here’s Keohane:'
http://scienceblogs.com/cortex/2010/07/13/political-dissonance/
An astonishing psychologically inherent condition, in all of us.
Excerpt and link -
"Joe Keohane has a fascinating summary of our political biases in the Boston Globe Ideas section this weekend. It’s probably not surprising that voters aren’t rational agents, but it’s always a little depressing to realize just how irrational we are. (And it’s worth pointing out that this irrationality applies to both sides of the political spectrum.) We cling to mistaken beliefs and ignore salient facts. We cherry-pick our information and vote for people based on an inexplicable stew of superficial hunches, stubborn ideologies and cultural trends. From the perspective of the human brain, it’s a miracle that democracy works at all. Here’s Keohane:'
http://scienceblogs.com/cortex/2010/07/13/political-dissonance/
1
So now amateur psychoanalysis passes for political reportage at the NY Times. When you grind your political axes you shouldn't be so obvious.
6
The genesis of the Trump obsession with the White House is fair game. Did you miss similar stories about Obama, Romney, HILLARY, Bernie . . . .
When you have political myopia, don't be so obvious.
When you have political myopia, don't be so obvious.
2
Go figure anyone's obsession with the White House - I mean who in their right mind would run? I am always suspicious of people - even professionals - trying to figure out what makes other people tick. When it's a political reporter, using anecdotal and circumstantial evidence, writing for a newspaper that tries (unsuccessfully) to hide its political bias watch out.
1
Trump blaming Sanders supporters for violence at his rallies is like Charlie Sheen blaming vitamins for his psychosis.
7
I don't think it was Saunders supporters, but I do suspect Democrat supporters.
Bottom line: The reason Donald Trump wants to be president is because he was a punch line at a dinner known for its humor.
There are a lot of reasons to run for president. This one has to be near the bottom of the list.
There are a lot of reasons to run for president. This one has to be near the bottom of the list.
8
How stupid of Romney to not Trump campaign with him. He might have won. Romney lost because he was afraid to go after Obama's record and his radical ideology. People love Trump because he's not afraid of being politically incorrect. Good, bad or indifferent, he doesn't take a poll every time he opens mouth. Romney is a hypocrite of the worse kind. I had to hold my nose four years ago to vote for Romney so how dare he tell me who is or isn't a true Republican this time.
"The annual dinner features a lighthearted speech from the president;"
"A short while later, the humiliation [of Trump] started."
It's always lighthearted to humiliate someone in public. MAGGIE HABERMAN and ALEXANDER BURNS must be experts in human psychology to have analyzed Donald Trump's motives to run for president and based them on his humiliation by President Obama. Could this be politically correct or a new low in "journalism"?
"A short while later, the humiliation [of Trump] started."
It's always lighthearted to humiliate someone in public. MAGGIE HABERMAN and ALEXANDER BURNS must be experts in human psychology to have analyzed Donald Trump's motives to run for president and based them on his humiliation by President Obama. Could this be politically correct or a new low in "journalism"?
4
Or could it be that Obama told it like it was and Trump couldn't take a taste of his own medicine?
1
Jtati - You honestly believe that someone in the position of President of the United States should humiliate a fellow American in public as a "taste of his own medicine"? Two wrongs make a right in your world?
The irony of Obama, belittling Trump and his accomplishments at the Correspondents Dinner, is too rich for words. Obama, a community organizer- still don't know what that is...
6
Look it up, then, it's not a difficult concept. But more to the point, Obama is a graduate of Harvard Law School, taught constitutional law at the University of Chicago School of Law, wrote two best-selling books which earned in the million dollar plus range, and has served as state senator in Illinois, U.S. senator from the same state, and now president of the United States for two terms. And he did it all without his daddy paving the way for each step or leaving him a big pile of money. No one thinking straight could construe this as an unaccomplished resume.
8
Yes, Obama was at the top of his game that night, doing what he does best....reading from a teleprompter and delivering lines with the skill of a talk show host. Unfortunately, that's the beginning and end of his talent, a man perfectly designed for this media age with his big smile and skillful oratory. And having the nation's Liberal MSM pushing you along every step of the way doesn't exactly hurt either.
Trump was undoubtedly annoyed by the attack and now he's doing what does best. Getting his revenge by publicly exposing and shaming Obama and his bunch for what has long been evident...A not very bright bunch who are responsible for the current state of the nation. A real unemployment rate close to 20% counting all the people who have given up looking for work and are, conveniently, no longer counted and a foreign policy which has left the Middle East in shambles and has earned Obama the disrespect of most allies and not-so allies as a weak figurehead who greatest gift is talking out of both sides of his mouth. And lastly, and most significantly, Obama, along with his ex AG Holder, did more to inflame racial animosity by making it a habit to insert himself into every black-white event before the facts were fully know. Trump is the natural antidote to the 8 yrs of the Obama infection.Ain't Life grand and more than a little ironic.
Trump was undoubtedly annoyed by the attack and now he's doing what does best. Getting his revenge by publicly exposing and shaming Obama and his bunch for what has long been evident...A not very bright bunch who are responsible for the current state of the nation. A real unemployment rate close to 20% counting all the people who have given up looking for work and are, conveniently, no longer counted and a foreign policy which has left the Middle East in shambles and has earned Obama the disrespect of most allies and not-so allies as a weak figurehead who greatest gift is talking out of both sides of his mouth. And lastly, and most significantly, Obama, along with his ex AG Holder, did more to inflame racial animosity by making it a habit to insert himself into every black-white event before the facts were fully know. Trump is the natural antidote to the 8 yrs of the Obama infection.Ain't Life grand and more than a little ironic.
5
You people do not take responsiblity for anything you do. Trump deserved every bit of ridicule he earned as a birther.
4
I guess you've conveniently forgotten that Dubya, not Obama, invaded Iraq, eh? :/
6
Can you provide any examples or context? Teleprompter? Really? That's original.
2
Trump is a classic narcissist -- needy for attention and approval, grandiose and bellicose when he gets it. Petulant , devaluing, and deflated when he doesn't. The correspondents dinner described it perfectly. The video of him cowering when the protester charged the stage is the true Donald J. Trump: an insecure bully who, when faced with real potential threat, buckled. It was a humiliating sight. Soon, he'll realize that he is the most popular kid in a party where no cool kid wants to come. I can't imagine his patrician children or trophy wife mingling among any of his supporters.
11
Stature does not come with the height of a tower, or the amount of money, or the office - at least not in the civilized world. Trump has none of the qualities that give a man moral and huma stature, only perhaps in the US where money and aggressiveness and pushing other people around are considered "™personal values". So go ahead, make the street bully president.,, while the rest of the world keeps scratching its collective head.
4
" we are going to make our country great again and I'll be a greatest jobs president that world has ever seen." " And pay no attention to that little girl holding her dog over there." The past few months would be such a joke if the craven density of this primary season hadn't been exposed as perverse "reality."
Donald Trump lacks the psychological stability to be POTUS and it has been pretty obvious from the get-go...from the bluster, the attacks, the bragging, the insults, the bravado, the belittlings, the oft repeated "they love me," going ballistic over simple critiques and minor criticisms, garishly plastering his name on anything and everything from New York to California to the 'size' of his personal airplane...these aren't just manifestations of Mr. Trump's hubris and his narcissism, but are also indications of something much more serious in broad reaching effect - deep insecurity.
Insecurity is not a desirable nor beneficial condition for a sovereign - it's quite detrimental and dangerous - since insecurity has the tendency to stifle pragmatism and enhance emotionalism making the afflicted perceive all criticisms and critiques as personal attacks.
Polls still show Mr. Trump stands a better than average chance of capturing the GOP's nomination...fortunately, polls also show Mr. Trump stands a better than average chance of losing in the general election.
Insecurity is not a desirable nor beneficial condition for a sovereign - it's quite detrimental and dangerous - since insecurity has the tendency to stifle pragmatism and enhance emotionalism making the afflicted perceive all criticisms and critiques as personal attacks.
Polls still show Mr. Trump stands a better than average chance of capturing the GOP's nomination...fortunately, polls also show Mr. Trump stands a better than average chance of losing in the general election.
5
Behind all of the bloviating bullying bravado bluster of Donald John Trump is an insecure cowardly weak rich boy brat. Born to white wealth and privilege he has never been in a real street fist fight on a play ground, in a park on a baseball field or on a basketball court. I don't believe that he ever played any sports.
My South Side Chicago streetwise upbringing can detect an effete punk a mile or two away. The one doing all of the loud profane talking is going down first. The same goes for Christie, Carson, Cruz, Bush, Santorum, Jindal etc. If Trump and Carson behaved as they claim they did then they would have gotten a royal rump whipping every day in my hood. Or worse. Trump and his minions were not welcomed in Chi-raq. We know you boy!
My South Side Chicago streetwise upbringing can detect an effete punk a mile or two away. The one doing all of the loud profane talking is going down first. The same goes for Christie, Carson, Cruz, Bush, Santorum, Jindal etc. If Trump and Carson behaved as they claim they did then they would have gotten a royal rump whipping every day in my hood. Or worse. Trump and his minions were not welcomed in Chi-raq. We know you boy!
7
Get your facts straight- Trump was actually a pretty good baseball player in school.
@Hotspur Babe Ruth was merely a great white baseball player who played great white baseball on a great white team in a great white league. But Babe never played in the Major Leagues against great black and brown players.
Trump was a great "white" baseball player. That is like being a great "white" basketball or football player.
Trump was a great "white" baseball player. That is like being a great "white" basketball or football player.
1
Good article. It needs an update.
Instead of saying --
"Having stepped back from a campaign of his own, Mr. Trump sought relevance through Mr. Romney’s."
It is far more accurate today to say --
"Having stepped back from a campaign of his own, Mr. Romney sought relevance through Mr. Trump's."
Instead of saying --
"Having stepped back from a campaign of his own, Mr. Trump sought relevance through Mr. Romney’s."
It is far more accurate today to say --
"Having stepped back from a campaign of his own, Mr. Romney sought relevance through Mr. Trump's."
8
An extremely interesting article.
But I believe that you may have missed something. You say:"he would quickly withdraw from the race and return to his reality show." Not so. What he has done is to turn the race into his reality show. And a large swath of the public seems to love it.
Let's hope it doesn't run for another season.
But I believe that you may have missed something. You say:"he would quickly withdraw from the race and return to his reality show." Not so. What he has done is to turn the race into his reality show. And a large swath of the public seems to love it.
Let's hope it doesn't run for another season.
6
Sad fact that Trump has already done so much damage to America's
image and stature, just as a primary candidate.
American diplomacy now has rebuilding ahead of it because of
his buffoonery that the media so ridiculously bought into.
image and stature, just as a primary candidate.
American diplomacy now has rebuilding ahead of it because of
his buffoonery that the media so ridiculously bought into.
4
It is Obama's and Hillary's misguided, passive and feckless foreign policies that Trump is seeking to repair.
1
Then how do you explain President Obama's being the most admired person in the world??
The foreign papers are full of articles by world leaders (our allies) that are terrified of a Trump presidency. They see a world war on the horizon with him!!
The foreign papers are full of articles by world leaders (our allies) that are terrified of a Trump presidency. They see a world war on the horizon with him!!
1
You've just described pretty much everyone who is now striving to be president. Pathologically greedy for power & affirmation, humorless about themselves, unrealistic about their own foibles. Some are just better at hiding it than others.
I'm beginning to wonder if some are trying too hard to paint Trump as some sort of aberrant outlier. And, as a result, miss the very real issues all the other candidates have. Ultimately, then, we end up merely rewarding the best actor, not the best person.
I'm beginning to wonder if some are trying too hard to paint Trump as some sort of aberrant outlier. And, as a result, miss the very real issues all the other candidates have. Ultimately, then, we end up merely rewarding the best actor, not the best person.
4
Oh sorry -- Kasich especially is about as normal and grounded as they come. he has said all along, if I lose, my life goes on, my kids still love me.
Defending a lunatic by saying "everyone else does it" is NO defense.
Defending a lunatic by saying "everyone else does it" is NO defense.
1
I don't think that this night was the beginning of Trump, since he'd been going on about the birther conspiracy for months. However, the Times failed to note what else was going on that night: the Obama administration's mission to get Osama Bin Laden.
Just one more difference between Trump and Obama.
Just one more difference between Trump and Obama.
4
This is great journalism. Finally, NYT has taken the lead in discovering Trump and his real motivations. How Trump mad it to where he is politically today, whether he is nominated or not, is a big story. So far, nobody bothered to write. Of course, if this story had appeared at least immediately after New Hampshire Primary, it would have helped Trump immensely. Why did NYT decide to hold such a genuine story about Trump. Perhaps, this story could have impacted more positively on Trump. WPost and WSJ so far have refrained from writing any story that would encourage or help Trump candidacy. Journalism should not play politics. Voters have the right to know the undercurrents. Congratulations to the writers.
If it was always Trump's desire to be taken seriously well people are standing up now and ARE taking him seriously.
His opposing candidates are taking him very seriously.
If he becomes president perhaps Iran and North Korea will also take him seriously.
But does America want a serious president or one who believes in diplomacy..??
STAN CHUN
Wellington
New Zealand
His opposing candidates are taking him very seriously.
If he becomes president perhaps Iran and North Korea will also take him seriously.
But does America want a serious president or one who believes in diplomacy..??
STAN CHUN
Wellington
New Zealand
1
"The annual dinner features a lighthearted speech from the president; that year, President Obama chose Mr. Trump, then flirting with his own presidential bid, as a punch line."
Obama is such a consistent target for blame, it was only a matter of time before he'd get blamed for Trump too, thanks for closing the loop.
Obama is such a consistent target for blame, it was only a matter of time before he'd get blamed for Trump too, thanks for closing the loop.
3
[[“The self-professed genius was just stupid enough to buy our ruse,” said Ryan Williams, a former spokesman for the Romney campaign.]]
Wow! Smart move, talking about how you duped someone you negotiated with. And I understand Williams backed Jeb! this time around.
Quite a career.
Wow! Smart move, talking about how you duped someone you negotiated with. And I understand Williams backed Jeb! this time around.
Quite a career.
He reads like a textbook case of Narcissistic Personality Disorder. The grandiosity (huge ego); the bait and switch comments (mean words then a subtle retraction that is overlooked, such as "he is a ----, no, I'm kidding); the psychological child who, due to severe trauma in youth such as rejection or abandonment, has become extremely resentful and also is horribly insecure and has never matured; one who manipulates to obtain the power, control, and attention needed to survive; one who arranges 'Echos' (mirrors) around him to fuel his ego (I'm wonderful, etc., etc.); a bully either physically or psychologically; an extremely resentful and jealous person driven by selfish ambition and denial; a pathological (unconscious due to habit) liar, cheat, or thief.
He is not psychologically suited to holding office, by any stretch of the imagination.
He is not psychologically suited to holding office, by any stretch of the imagination.
5
George W Bush?
2
NOT a Trump supporter here, but given all the protesters' outburst at Trump rallies, could there be an element of "dirty tricks" going on, some of which sponsored by the GOP? Probably not, but . . .
5
I think you are correct. Time will tell.
Poor wittle Donny-So thin-skinned. He can dish it out but just can't take it. A true pathological liar & narcissist he can no longer distinguish between his avalanche of lies and anything truthful. What makes him dangerous is not that he is a belligerent huckster who should be on QVC but that he exposed a segment of the populace the GOP has pandered to for decades. He embraced them with appeals to the worst of their humanity-the racism, anti-immigration, & misogyny of white people being told for the last 30 years they are losing their country. Abject failures of Corporate TV not only to hold him accountable but allow him unfettered, unchallenged access to free air time, have only fueled his narcissism & way over-exaggerated sense of importance. Isn't it time for it all to STOP?
2
I cannot get rid of my suspicion that Trump is Cruz's supporters worst nightmare, i.e. that he does in fact have "New York" values despite all his revolting style. And his illberal supporter base has not figured that out yet. He rants on about economic issues, not social ones.
2
Yes, it is overious the Donald wants, loves and needs to see his name and be the star. He has been acting like the campaign is a reality show where he can say whatever he likes to whoever he wants and everyone will laugh and applaud and he will be the atar. He even got the media to put his face on the front page. Well he meet the real reality of trashing other people the other day when the secret service had to surround him, guess he felt scared because he cancelled his rally. Its about time he is starting to learn life is not a game show and being president of the US is not a TV show.
2
It is not too hard to figure out that a huge portion of the American population see little hope for the future. Protracted wars, extreme wealth in the hands of the very few and corporations sending factories overseas or to Mexico all cross political lines. All politicians are complicit.
Mr. Trump certainly sees this. He has the rhetoric, showmanship and motivation. Hard to beat. Trouble is, after last week he may declare war on Chicago if elected.
Mr. Trump certainly sees this. He has the rhetoric, showmanship and motivation. Hard to beat. Trouble is, after last week he may declare war on Chicago if elected.
2
We are in a difficult spot economically, transitioning from an era when the US was an impenetrable force, driving the tastes and habits of the world, serving as the global breadbasket, assembling its cars, stitching its clothing, and yielding its innovations.
A small and vocal part of our population treats all of this as a parlor game, gazing down from a perch that is part intellectual, often judgmental, always non-negotiable. The Left, firmly and jealously guarding the academy and the news and entertainment media, believes:
- Women should have careers
- Whites are responsible for the plight of Blacks
- The family "construct" must evolve to embrace new models
- Faith is a crutch for the weak-minded who ignore science
- Economic outcomes can be resolved by redistribution
- Open immigration equals compassion
Unfortunately, the cost does not fall evenly on the population. Middle class women don't really have the career options of their upper class sisters, and raising children is still a desire that many cherish. Families with intact mothers and fathers do produce better outcomes in children. Blacks harm Blacks without much outside assistance. Immigration rejuvenates a nation, but, unchecked, floods the labor market with excess capacity. Class envy eventually cripples.
Trump speaks to this. I don't think he believes it all nor is he wise, but he reaches a chord in ways that traditional candidates have not caught up to. He is neither Left nor right. He is anger.
A small and vocal part of our population treats all of this as a parlor game, gazing down from a perch that is part intellectual, often judgmental, always non-negotiable. The Left, firmly and jealously guarding the academy and the news and entertainment media, believes:
- Women should have careers
- Whites are responsible for the plight of Blacks
- The family "construct" must evolve to embrace new models
- Faith is a crutch for the weak-minded who ignore science
- Economic outcomes can be resolved by redistribution
- Open immigration equals compassion
Unfortunately, the cost does not fall evenly on the population. Middle class women don't really have the career options of their upper class sisters, and raising children is still a desire that many cherish. Families with intact mothers and fathers do produce better outcomes in children. Blacks harm Blacks without much outside assistance. Immigration rejuvenates a nation, but, unchecked, floods the labor market with excess capacity. Class envy eventually cripples.
Trump speaks to this. I don't think he believes it all nor is he wise, but he reaches a chord in ways that traditional candidates have not caught up to. He is neither Left nor right. He is anger.
3
So you want women back in the kitchen???
I wonder if the anger you describe is based on the tweaked and twisted understanding of progressive values you've listed here. You make "The Left" sound alien and disconnected from the average American, and I'm not sure whether this is your perception of how Trump voters think, or your personal take on Lefties. I can't let your characterizations float by without offering my take on the progressive values you've chosen:
- women should have equal opportunity for all career and family choices
- whites are each responsible for their own level of discrimination against people of color after a long history of systemic racism in this country
- evolving models of family "constructs" are valid and real
- faith can be a very good and necessary thing, but will be resented if used to discriminate against those outside a particular faith. Science can be tested in ways faith cannot.
- inequities in the economic system can be partially ameliorated by governmental programs
- compassion is a valid factor in weighing a person's chance to immigrate and become an American citizen
Addressing other assertions:
- children do well in loving families, regardless of parental number or gender
- yes, blacks harm blacks, which is to say, people harm people. This does not nullify the harm done by racism.
I agree that Trump is neither here nor there nor wise. He is Trump.
- women should have equal opportunity for all career and family choices
- whites are each responsible for their own level of discrimination against people of color after a long history of systemic racism in this country
- evolving models of family "constructs" are valid and real
- faith can be a very good and necessary thing, but will be resented if used to discriminate against those outside a particular faith. Science can be tested in ways faith cannot.
- inequities in the economic system can be partially ameliorated by governmental programs
- compassion is a valid factor in weighing a person's chance to immigrate and become an American citizen
Addressing other assertions:
- children do well in loving families, regardless of parental number or gender
- yes, blacks harm blacks, which is to say, people harm people. This does not nullify the harm done by racism.
I agree that Trump is neither here nor there nor wise. He is Trump.
1
@kathyinct
You must be in High Tech, because you have made a binary assessment of a more nuanced problem based on your belief that work is a means for self-actualization. That is a relatively new conceit of our modernist therapy culture.
A woman in Fairfield, CT is in the Top 1% and does not speak for the millions of women who drop their kids in daycare to go off to do menial jobs, either with break-even wages or (worse) as single parents.
I do most of the cooking. And my wife owns shoes.
You must be in High Tech, because you have made a binary assessment of a more nuanced problem based on your belief that work is a means for self-actualization. That is a relatively new conceit of our modernist therapy culture.
A woman in Fairfield, CT is in the Top 1% and does not speak for the millions of women who drop their kids in daycare to go off to do menial jobs, either with break-even wages or (worse) as single parents.
I do most of the cooking. And my wife owns shoes.
1
So, Trump used his money to buy influence into the Republican party... and is now the "populist" candidate who is going to fix everything wrong with America. Lets get real - the Conservative rubes have been fooled once again. There is nothing in Trump's record that is Conservative, or indicative of concern for the working man. He just realized that this base is the easiest to manipulate, and like the clever marketer and showman he is took advantage of it.
Trump is not the answer, he is the poster boy for the problem. The gullibility of the Conservative Republican base is breath taking
Trump is not the answer, he is the poster boy for the problem. The gullibility of the Conservative Republican base is breath taking
10
Well, it dies show that we humans must zoom out from ourselves and become the witnesses to our behavior. And treat one another accordingly. Everyone wants validation. This is of course an extreme example but perhaps the rise of Trump is offering us a mirror in which to look at ourselves as a society and learn. May there be peace and love in the minds and hearts of all.
4
Extremely well written and researched piece of journalism. It does reveal the depth of Trump's "due-diligence", before launching his campaign and demonstrates the false perception (by the left and establishment) that he is a "shoot-from-the-hip" candidate.
5
I am one of those who long laughed at Mr. Trump. Then, I began to feel disturbed, not at Trump exactly, but at the throngs of belligerent and ignorant followers he attracted. Now, however, reading this piece makes me feel, more than anything, sad for him. This man could use some long-term therapy, and, for his sake, I hope he gets it.
7
Donald Trump is to politics, what a quack is to medicine. He is a gross figure and a major embarrassment to our country. Watching him the last two days has been astonishing. The Chicago demonstrations threatened him. Yes, his first amendment rights were violated. But I was happy to see that someone shut him down. The next day in Kansas he tried to make a comeback and get even with those who stopped him in Chicago. He flinched and wet his pants when someone jumped the barrier while secret service agents rushed to protect him. Mr. Trump is used to getting away with bullying in the private sector. He is surrounded by head breakers all the time. He even holds a carry pistol license in New York City which is incredibly hard to get. People with actual need for one are turned down routinely. Draw your own psychological conclusions as to that. HIs son got one too. Last night he read a poem from the stage. He spoke to his dumb admirers to their delight. He relished throwing people out again and taunted them on the way out the door. All the usual bully stuff. Last week, the pollster Frank Luntz said he feared that his rhetoric was going to spill over to violence. Indeed it did.
I have been waiting for months for someone to take him off the stage, shut him down, and make him go away. The media enabled him and fed his ego and need for attention. The ratings came first. I've been waiting for that Joseph Welch moment in the McCarthy hearings to come. Sadly, it never did.
I have been waiting for months for someone to take him off the stage, shut him down, and make him go away. The media enabled him and fed his ego and need for attention. The ratings came first. I've been waiting for that Joseph Welch moment in the McCarthy hearings to come. Sadly, it never did.
11
Commendations, sir. You have captured the entire story in a reply. CNN and MSNBC are particularly culpable, having religiously aired every word of every speech, rally, rant and rave, right out tomthe ear a of more sad people who follow the siren's song. Tuesday night they had his sell-steaks-"press conference" on live for 52 minutes while other breaking news was ignored. Last night, even CNN went to regular programming and the once proud network of Maddow and O'Donnell covered every minute of his lunatic ravings in Kansas City. They have lost any principle they ever had.
1
I remember watching Trump get humiliated by Obama at that dinner. It was hilarious. At the same time, I really respect that Trump used it as motivation, was focused, and worked to become the presumptive nominee. He's a billionaire, yet he was taunted and called among other things, a carnival barker, and buffoon. In other words, he was bullied and was an underdog. So I respect how he has been able to beat the odds. That drive (the same that made him into a multi-billionaire) is what we need in the White House.
9
Wow, that's the most far faetched definition of "underdog" I've ever heard!
2
Ray; although I appreciate your appreciation of grit, it is not the kind of drive needed in the White House. There, you need vision and ability to withstand criticism and go for your vision.
Trump does not have the vision for a nation.
Trump does not have the vision for a nation.
3
Please remember that it wasn't just one night that Trump spent ridiculing President Obama. Birth certificate, college transcripts? At the correspondence dinner, jabs are thrown, including self-deprecating ones, in roast fashion. Seeking revenge and retribution to this degree for such a slight should give every thinking voter pause.
" ... members of the Republican establishment wagered that they could go along with Mr. Trump just enough to keep him quiet or make him go away. "
That is exactly how the republican establishment sustained the life of the Tea Party.
That is exactly how the republican establishment sustained the life of the Tea Party.
13
In terms of the scenes at some Trump events, do not ignore the fact that there is black ops in play here.
The establishment will stop at nothing to ensure that Trump does not become President.
Infiltrating agent provocateurs to orchestrate scenes at his events has the effect of creating a chaotic climate where the emergence of an apparently deranged crazy who takes out Trump becomes an entirely plausible and predictable event and deflects any suspicion from the true perpetrators of Trump’s assassination.
This story is as old as the world itself.
Those with the power and privileges will do what it takes to ensure that their position is not undermined by Trump becoming President.
The establishment will stop at nothing to ensure that Trump does not become President.
Infiltrating agent provocateurs to orchestrate scenes at his events has the effect of creating a chaotic climate where the emergence of an apparently deranged crazy who takes out Trump becomes an entirely plausible and predictable event and deflects any suspicion from the true perpetrators of Trump’s assassination.
This story is as old as the world itself.
Those with the power and privileges will do what it takes to ensure that their position is not undermined by Trump becoming President.
7
Speaking of black ops . . . .
Why did Trump pick a venue in Chicago that was DESTINED to be a problem-- right in the middle of a diverse neighborhood with highly diverse student body?
WHY did his "crack team" that has managed to screen out all but a few protestors at previous rallies (remember Burlington VT?) suddenly, oh my what a surprise, let in hundreds of protestors? Many minority (his team usually keeps them out), clearly carrying signs? Hmmmmm -- why the big change?
Why if he knew, as he stated yesterday, if he knew there was a PLANNED disturbance, did he let in all of his people AND all the protestors, close the doors, then have a guy get up, say rally cancelled, and run for the door? He put the kindling in the fireplace, poured the kerosene and lit the match.
Blaming the Chicago police -- "I met with law enforcement" (not just consulted with or talked, he told Chris Matthews he MET with police) and so that was his out for cancelling. Except of course he never met with police,he didn't even talk to them.
The scripting is quite clear. We just disagree on who wrote it. Trump controlled venue, entrance and knew a disturbance was planned -- so he just let it happen, stayed safe on his plane,and put lives at risk.
Lives of his OWN people -- that's what is unconscionable. When the inevitable riots happen, probably this summer in Cleveland, he will put his OWN poor pathetic zealots in harm's way, without a second thought.
Read about the Third Reich.
Why did Trump pick a venue in Chicago that was DESTINED to be a problem-- right in the middle of a diverse neighborhood with highly diverse student body?
WHY did his "crack team" that has managed to screen out all but a few protestors at previous rallies (remember Burlington VT?) suddenly, oh my what a surprise, let in hundreds of protestors? Many minority (his team usually keeps them out), clearly carrying signs? Hmmmmm -- why the big change?
Why if he knew, as he stated yesterday, if he knew there was a PLANNED disturbance, did he let in all of his people AND all the protestors, close the doors, then have a guy get up, say rally cancelled, and run for the door? He put the kindling in the fireplace, poured the kerosene and lit the match.
Blaming the Chicago police -- "I met with law enforcement" (not just consulted with or talked, he told Chris Matthews he MET with police) and so that was his out for cancelling. Except of course he never met with police,he didn't even talk to them.
The scripting is quite clear. We just disagree on who wrote it. Trump controlled venue, entrance and knew a disturbance was planned -- so he just let it happen, stayed safe on his plane,and put lives at risk.
Lives of his OWN people -- that's what is unconscionable. When the inevitable riots happen, probably this summer in Cleveland, he will put his OWN poor pathetic zealots in harm's way, without a second thought.
Read about the Third Reich.
Well, he got his wish. He's finally been taken seriously for a rabid hate baiter and lightening rod of racists. A "uniter?" Not so much. The Republicans invited chaos in. Now they'll do nothing about it. Destruction is so easy.
14
Uncultured, uneducated, racist people are voting for Trump. He acts like a dictator. I'm terrified that unqualified people have the ability to vote him into office. We will be the laughing stock of the world.
6
Should the right to vote only go to 'qualified' people then?
And who should decide who passes muster?
And who should decide who passes muster?
2
That's not what I meant. I meant that people are voting out of ignorance without understanding the impact. Trump has orchestrated a campaign catering to people's fears. Voting for him is incredibly irresponsible. Trump thinks he is always right and that he knows better than everyone else. He's a dangerous man and an understanding history proves this. When are his supporters going to wake up and realize that he simply doesn't care about them and that he's manipulating them to get their vote.
When I watched Trump announced his candidacy, a cold shiver went down my spine. Comforted by the pundits, I disregarded my gut feelings. Not anymore! This whole mess is shameful and was to a degree predictable. We've allowed the GOP to get away with an unnecessary war, lunatic fiscal policy, destruction of our economy, obstructionism, overt and covert racism towards blacks and in particular the duly elected President of the US.
I have no sympathy for Republicans. Their hateful, unethical & divisive behavior has come round to them threefold! They are the ones who have poisoned our politics and supreme court with unlimited dark money. These alleged adults have promoted & nurtured racism, sexism, ageism, et al.
Democrats pushed away white blue-collar workers now following Trump. They're angry from decades of being used by the GOP receiving nothing in return. They're not the only group following Trump to be sure. The one thing they all have in common is their predisposition to and/or acceptance of violence/hate as legitimate tools to resolve problems. The GOP created this mess. The only way to fix it is to step back and let Sanders or Clinton take care of this in November. Voting for the democratic nominee is probably too much to hope for. None of the other GOP candidates are the answer. They are all just Trump Lite. They are saying the same things, just not overtly promoting violence. This evil genie isn't going back into the bottle ever!
I have no sympathy for Republicans. Their hateful, unethical & divisive behavior has come round to them threefold! They are the ones who have poisoned our politics and supreme court with unlimited dark money. These alleged adults have promoted & nurtured racism, sexism, ageism, et al.
Democrats pushed away white blue-collar workers now following Trump. They're angry from decades of being used by the GOP receiving nothing in return. They're not the only group following Trump to be sure. The one thing they all have in common is their predisposition to and/or acceptance of violence/hate as legitimate tools to resolve problems. The GOP created this mess. The only way to fix it is to step back and let Sanders or Clinton take care of this in November. Voting for the democratic nominee is probably too much to hope for. None of the other GOP candidates are the answer. They are all just Trump Lite. They are saying the same things, just not overtly promoting violence. This evil genie isn't going back into the bottle ever!
13
The man is mentally ill. At a minimum he suffers from narcissistic personality disorder. Not good in the leader of the free world. He's loved by the GOP base but I find it hard to imagine him winning among Hispanics, women and educated millennials. Evangelicals love him even though he's never read the bible and worships the golden calf and his wife takes off her clothes for money. The pundits claim that Republican voters are angry for having been lied to over and over by establishment politicians, so they are supporting the biggest liar and fraud on the political stage. If it were so potentially tragic for our country it would be hilarious .
8
Like it or not, the Trump phenomenon is necessary. For the wrong reasons and the wrong motives he is bringing daylight to what needs to be fixed. Political correctness that is not backed up with true understanding of the unfairness of society means nothing. Political correctness that is simply in line with accepted ideologies becomes a pressure cooker that eventually explodes. No party is willing to be blunt and say that money has corrupted our democracy. Trump has done that in full view of everyone. He personifies corruption and is proud of it. Tom Friedman wrote this week that the only person who could "trump" Trump is Trump, because he may go too far. Well, it's not just him. It's our system that has gone too far. I hope and believe that this election is going to be a self-correction. THAT is what makes America great.
69
With the accelerating trajectory of money, polarization, dysfunction, blame the other, corrupt control of the political process in America today there was no right way to bring this to daylight to fix it. Let's not be naive, Trump may well have been the only way to do this. His legacy could still be a positive one IF the GOP take responsibility and stop their hate mongering and Congress takes responsibility for its abject failure to cooperate and compromise (the founding basis of all democratic governance). Stopping Trump will take both those acts of responsibility ... the time is late.
1
John Ensley Hooker - You lost me at "political correctness"? What the hell does that mean? Everyone is using that terminology but what the hell does that mean? That people can't care for one another, or be decent that some will die on the streets if there is no medical coverage for some of our citizens? That people (like veterans, seniors, children, disabled) won't be cared for and just ignored? What the hell is that stupid term "political correctness" really mean? Where did it start from? Some rich dude like Gingrich and it floated down to the rest of us ignoring our facts that we are all one paycheck away from "un-political incorrectness"??? What? "Eat cake and die because there is no bread?" Marie Antoinette
First of all, there's no space available to get at the nitty gritty. I'll try in a few words. There's an enormous lack of authenticity among political statements. It doesn't have to be that way, but it is. My perspective comes from comparing political discussions abroad with those happening here. It might be that there is more at stake, given the power of the country involved, but it is still striking to note the difference. As a result, people tend to pick one side or the other and remain within the boundaries of political correctness of both parties. BUT NOTHING GETS REALLY DEBATED for fear of PC. So, I simply have a different definition of PC. In my view, both PC and ideology now overlap. It should be no surprise that the desire for authenticity in this country is huge. Yet the difference between Trump and Sanders is also huge. The former exploits this desire in a very crass way. Sanders is the real thing. That's why he comes through.
The USA has a long tradition of hucksterism and the Republican Presidential contest is yet another example. Why gullibility and self-promotion thrive in culture and society today is a question worth serious scrutiny. Think about it--it seems unthinkable and frightening that one can run for President w/o having held any "high" elected public office. If one were reviewing the resume of the current "front" runner for the job of President, it would've been thrown in the trash during the first round of consideration--no political experience, no indication of public concern (other than the Wollman Rink), a lengthy history of corporate dictatorship--this might make for a CEO but it does not make for a good Presidential choice, even if "everyone loves" him. Suckers and those who take advantage of them are born every minute in America.
5
What is Hilary's yearning? She is beginning to sound like an American Evita Peron - promising this and that and the next thing (and Argentina was once the 5th wealthiest country in the world in the 1940's). It's as if she is purchasing votes in an ever increasingly desperate bid for the White House. And the media doesn't get it, does it? Despite the daily barrage of criticism, Trump continues his climb to power. A British newspaper described the recent events in Chicago as an example of the increasingly liberal fascism emerging in this country (while at the same time being highly critical of the nihilism expressed on the right). It's funny that I must read foreign papers for a viewpoint that is closer to reality. I always expected this newspaper to be the face outside the fish bowl, not just another piece of flotsam preventing egress.
7
You may have read a Rupert Murdoch (The New York Post, Fox News) newspaper in Britain.
Why I think the Republicans will win if they nominate Trump.
1. Working class (blue collar) Americans are voting in record numbers in the primaries (for Trump). The Democrats used to represent the working class - but they have wandered off to the left - and are now mostly about racial preferences and gender issues. Trump puts lots of once blue states (Michigan, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, New Hampshire, etc.) into play.
2. Hillary is the Dems likely nominee. She will be an easy target once Trump turns his attention to her. When she started calling Trump a sexist, he shut her up with one comment about her being an enabler of her husband's sexual "misdeeds".
Hillary is a lady who told the same lie 4 times about landing in Bosnia while dodging sniper fire - when in reality she landed on a calm day and was greeted by a little girl on a very safe airport tarmac. Trump will have a field day with that.
Then there is her deliberately setting up an unsecure email server in her bathroom (of all places) and then running our country's foreign policy and national security information through that "bathroom" server for 4 long years. Trump will ridicule her mercilessly for that!
1. Working class (blue collar) Americans are voting in record numbers in the primaries (for Trump). The Democrats used to represent the working class - but they have wandered off to the left - and are now mostly about racial preferences and gender issues. Trump puts lots of once blue states (Michigan, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, New Hampshire, etc.) into play.
2. Hillary is the Dems likely nominee. She will be an easy target once Trump turns his attention to her. When she started calling Trump a sexist, he shut her up with one comment about her being an enabler of her husband's sexual "misdeeds".
Hillary is a lady who told the same lie 4 times about landing in Bosnia while dodging sniper fire - when in reality she landed on a calm day and was greeted by a little girl on a very safe airport tarmac. Trump will have a field day with that.
Then there is her deliberately setting up an unsecure email server in her bathroom (of all places) and then running our country's foreign policy and national security information through that "bathroom" server for 4 long years. Trump will ridicule her mercilessly for that!
8
There are plenty of villains in this story.
The Trump phenomenon is a witches brew of a socially insecure billionaire with a defective moral compass, a party which has for decades kept blue collar voters on their side by offering them guns, gods and gays and coy winks and dog whistles condoning bigotry and directing their anger against blacks and Muslims, a cynical media desperate for novelty and eager to promote said billionaire because a nation, some supportive, most (I hope) appalled is fascinated by the spectacle.
The Trump phenomenon is a witches brew of a socially insecure billionaire with a defective moral compass, a party which has for decades kept blue collar voters on their side by offering them guns, gods and gays and coy winks and dog whistles condoning bigotry and directing their anger against blacks and Muslims, a cynical media desperate for novelty and eager to promote said billionaire because a nation, some supportive, most (I hope) appalled is fascinated by the spectacle.
6
Something else that I find troubling is the way Trump is self-financing his run.
If an individual can only give a relatively small total amount to a campaign, why is it possible for someone with that much money to in effect contribute so much to his own campaign? There oughta be a law....
If an individual can only give a relatively small total amount to a campaign, why is it possible for someone with that much money to in effect contribute so much to his own campaign? There oughta be a law....
4
Demagogue:
Pronunciation: /ˈdeməˌɡäɡ/
1 A political leader who seeks support by appealing to popular desires and prejudices rather than by using rational argument.
2 Donald Trump
Ted Cruz
Pronunciation: /ˈdeməˌɡäɡ/
1 A political leader who seeks support by appealing to popular desires and prejudices rather than by using rational argument.
2 Donald Trump
Ted Cruz
12
Trump is right: we are not laughing at him anymore. But more folks than ever are deriding him.....and hoping he will not win in November. Those who deride him will then quietly count their blessings if HClnton wins, even if they are Republican elites.
4
Re: "...when Mr. Trump sustained a position of dominance in the race — delivering a familiar, nationalist message about immigration controls and trade protectionism..."
Conservatives derided and ridiculed President Obama's Hope and Change campaign because hope and change are an anathema to the conservative frame of mind. Trump is replacing hope and change with a message that plays to those for whom pessimism for our country is a way of life: fear and loathing.
Conservatives derided and ridiculed President Obama's Hope and Change campaign because hope and change are an anathema to the conservative frame of mind. Trump is replacing hope and change with a message that plays to those for whom pessimism for our country is a way of life: fear and loathing.
7
It seems most are missing the point of Donald Trump's candidacy. While I don't support many of Trump's political leanings, I fully respect his business acumen and ability to make something out of nothing. Hillary, certainly Bernie,and most of the other Republicans running for president have never made a buck in the private sector. Yeh, I know Hillary worked at the Rose Law firm, but really? Trump worked the trenches, he's been near broke more than once, and he's risen. President Obama, well, he was an educator, community organizer, and author. Can he change a light bulb I ask? And, by the say I think the President has done a decent job under tough circumstances. There, I said it! But the degradation and insults meted out to Donald Trump daily right on these very opinion pages is disgraceful. It seems the left always resorts to the same playbook when it comes to electioneering, call the opponent racist, and or fascist. It seems to work and there's not a scintilla of proof that either charge is true. But it works, again and again. We'll end up with the serial liar and her sexually harassing husband back in the oval office and the liberal elite will once again shut their eyes!
5
albert holl,
I think calling all Mexicans rapists and wanting to tear down mosques because they "all preach hate against America" qualifies as racist speech, whether he actually believes what he is saying or not. And what was the whole "birther" thing, if not racially motivated?
Overall, businessmen have not performed particularly well when elected (Rick Snyder comes to mind here, as does GWB - who arguably "never made a buck in the private sector" either since every business he ran went bankrupt). It takes a different skill set and frame of mind to be able to balance the needs of the state or country, rather than the quarterly balance sheet.
I think calling all Mexicans rapists and wanting to tear down mosques because they "all preach hate against America" qualifies as racist speech, whether he actually believes what he is saying or not. And what was the whole "birther" thing, if not racially motivated?
Overall, businessmen have not performed particularly well when elected (Rick Snyder comes to mind here, as does GWB - who arguably "never made a buck in the private sector" either since every business he ran went bankrupt). It takes a different skill set and frame of mind to be able to balance the needs of the state or country, rather than the quarterly balance sheet.
1
If you think that Donald Trumps "business acumen" is what his candidacy is all about, you are missing the point, as well.
You need to get your mind around the fact that Mr. Trump has and continues to break "inciting to riot" laws. The evidence is his ability to stir up a crowd and effect lawlessness.
9
This fish wrap doesn't mention the millions that are voting Trump. It's because the NYTs sees voters as a 'low-information' and 'poorly educated' nuisance. Elites despise pluralism, political messiness and insurgency.
Quite to contrary, it's the millions of once annoying voters that are gaining stature. The flannel fly-over states are delivering the much deserved and overdue comeuppance to the elites in Manhattan, DC, and Malibu.
Sure maybe Trump voters can't spell palingenesis, but they know what 'Government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the Earth' means and how to fight for pluralism vis-a-vis Trump.
Quite to contrary, it's the millions of once annoying voters that are gaining stature. The flannel fly-over states are delivering the much deserved and overdue comeuppance to the elites in Manhattan, DC, and Malibu.
Sure maybe Trump voters can't spell palingenesis, but they know what 'Government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the Earth' means and how to fight for pluralism vis-a-vis Trump.
8
"It's because the NYTs sees voters as a 'low-information' and 'poorly educated' nuisance. "
No, it's because the Trump voters are proving themselves to be low-information and poorly educated by being so roundly taken in. Trump lies and they say he "tells it like it is." Trump has his own merchandise made overseas, and they believe he cares about bringing jobs back. Trump hires noncitizens, and they believe he's all for the US worker. And so on.
When people take bait so easily, you can respect their difficulties, but you can't respect the delusion they call a solution.
No, it's because the Trump voters are proving themselves to be low-information and poorly educated by being so roundly taken in. Trump lies and they say he "tells it like it is." Trump has his own merchandise made overseas, and they believe he cares about bringing jobs back. Trump hires noncitizens, and they believe he's all for the US worker. And so on.
When people take bait so easily, you can respect their difficulties, but you can't respect the delusion they call a solution.
Donald Trump has nothing but disdain for "the people," and has shown it in every aspect of his life.
The claim that God has any stake in government defies government by the people.
1
I am 100% sure Mr Trump will win and will be president Of USA as most people are now thinking about the nation first . If Your nation don't exist you don't. Mr Trump message Make America Great Again, the message touches the heart of each real and true Americans .
7
Nevermind what becomes of the Trump canidacy. He will inevitably lose to either Democratic candidate, and lose "yuge." What will become of the Republican candidate in 2020? Think about how bombastic, how loud and how over the top the next guy is going to have to be. Trump has ignited the racism of the republican base. Usually Republicans just pay lip service to these idiots. Trump has given them a platform to give him a Hitler salute on. They will undoubtedly not go away quietly.
2
This article is particularly symptomatic of the NYT's desperateness in attempting to derail Trump. What it completely fails to mention is that most EVERYONE who has run for the presidency is motivated by enlarged ego and the other traits mentioned. . .it goes with the territory. One of the big reasons Trump is so appealing is that, unlike the others, who appear so hypocritically phony by contrast, he admits both directly and otherwise that he HAS a big ego.
4
Ok, anyone still want to deny that Trump is using people like Mussolini or Hitler as templates for his campaign strategy and rhetoric?
"A lot of people have laughed at me over the years,” he said in a speech days before the New Hampshire primary. “Now, they’re not laughing so much.”
That's pretty much a verbatim Hitler-quote.
"...und ich glaube nicht, dass die Gegner die damals noch gelacht haben heute auch noch lachen". (..and I don't think that these opponents (of mine) who were laughing back then are still laughing today.) From a Juli 1933 Hitler-speech, talking about the passing of the Enabling-Act ("Ermächtigungsgesetz").
"A lot of people have laughed at me over the years,” he said in a speech days before the New Hampshire primary. “Now, they’re not laughing so much.”
That's pretty much a verbatim Hitler-quote.
"...und ich glaube nicht, dass die Gegner die damals noch gelacht haben heute auch noch lachen". (..and I don't think that these opponents (of mine) who were laughing back then are still laughing today.) From a Juli 1933 Hitler-speech, talking about the passing of the Enabling-Act ("Ermächtigungsgesetz").
7
As much as I despise Trump the rest of the republican candidates are no better.
7
Trump is the most, (very, very, very) inarticulate public speaker I have ever heard.
7
Trump and the re-creation of reality. As I remember, he has said that Romney came begging for his endorsement and that if he had asked that Romney get on his knees, he would have. Now, it turns out that Trump harassed Romney for that purpose and continuously begged the nominee for a role in the campaign. How one can take this man seriously is beyond comprehension.
13
This article reads like a GOP response to all the ink spilled lately talking about the GOP dog whistle of bigotry and racism for which Trump has become a real mouthpiece. Much has been written suggesting that the GOP has been carefully nurturing Trump as candidate through its messages and positions for a long time and the hens have come home to roost. Now, apparently, it is Mr. Obama's (or his writers) fault.
7
Not only is it Obama's fault, but the fault of the GOP Establishment that refused to listen to its base.
Republicans have a way of ignoring what might happen as a result of their actions. They ignored that our side in the Afghan struggle against Soviet occupation was a bunch of religious fanatics and warlords who, from an Afghan standpoint, were much worse than the Soviet puppet regime. They ignored what would happen if they deposed Saddam.
They made a mockery of the deficit control legislation passed under Clinton, and ignored what that would do to the deficit. And, in the present instance, they figured they could use the Donald and ignored that the Donald might use them instead. Whatever else his bluster is, it is a cover for a shrewd dealmaker and branding expert and snake oil salesman. They trained the Republican base to respond to crude advertising and now a master of crude advertising is threatening to take them to the cleaners.
They made a mockery of the deficit control legislation passed under Clinton, and ignored what that would do to the deficit. And, in the present instance, they figured they could use the Donald and ignored that the Donald might use them instead. Whatever else his bluster is, it is a cover for a shrewd dealmaker and branding expert and snake oil salesman. They trained the Republican base to respond to crude advertising and now a master of crude advertising is threatening to take them to the cleaners.
34
Trump has clearly stepped on the wrong toes at the NYT. He is now being railroaded out of town. I wonder if it is that his nativist schmeil is offensive to the college barons who pull a lot of weight at the NYT and are reaping enormous wealth by selling citizenship to foreign students.
I don't know what is worse, seeing a fool like Trump take control of the Republican Party or watching fascist like liberals take him down.
I don't know what is worse, seeing a fool like Trump take control of the Republican Party or watching fascist like liberals take him down.
14
The only thing Trump has done well a mass of chaos, he's new future for America.
2
She should stay away from the amateur psychology. His personal income is $1,000,000.00 a day. He could spend the rest of his life in unimaginably luxurious leisure. He personally employs over 30,000 Americans. It is much more likely that he is an everyday patriotic American who believes he can do the job.
17
Luxurious leisure is not what men like Trump long for. It's power.
3
He thinks he can buy the presidency. He's making a mockery of our democracy, displaying failed products behind him like an infomercial, using vulgar language, bullying and mocking his opponents, displaying a gross lack of substance on any issue related to governing, and demonizing the press for doing their jobs. Soon, as his supporters embarrass him with their violent, racist attitudes on display for all to see, he will face the reality that he has created a club that no decent person will want to join. I can't imagine his children or trophy wife mingling with any of them directly.
So money is synonymous with mental health?
He can still be a needy, bombastic narcissist. Interesting how Americans love to equate money not just to virtue but to all good things.
He can still be a needy, bombastic narcissist. Interesting how Americans love to equate money not just to virtue but to all good things.
Trump has succeeded in gaining statute as one of the vilest people in American Politics. On the other hand he might also be remembered for exposing the modern Republican Party for what it really is as the Party of hate and ignorance. Its time we stop blaming Trump for his disturbing spectacle and start blaming it on the likes of Goldwater, Nixon, and Reagan who built the Party by pandering to the worst racial and religious bigotry possible.
37
and finally what is really hard to understand - how somebody can deconstruct himself in such a manner?
We watched it with Sarah Palin whose name is the preverberal 'mud' and if Drumpf must a minimum of 'thought' he must have understood that if you burn down the house in such a manner in the homeland you don't get out of the burning house afterwards alive.
Who will still talk to this man in one or two years?
We watched it with Sarah Palin whose name is the preverberal 'mud' and if Drumpf must a minimum of 'thought' he must have understood that if you burn down the house in such a manner in the homeland you don't get out of the burning house afterwards alive.
Who will still talk to this man in one or two years?
13
Well, I think a lot of people will be speaking to President Trump in a few years, some possibly discussing how his DOJ sent Hillary Clinton and the managers of the Clinton Crime Family, I mean Clinton Family Foundation, in prison.
5
At the Iowa airport I realized something new. He wont accept losing, nor will his brown shirts. His message of 'Make America Hate Again' is gaining strength and is starting to aim at the old grey haired man. Get ready for Guernica America. As the lady's sign said, right in front of him, all the way through his speech, 'He's come to take our children and destroy their future'.
17
President Obama has stature.
After Trump's attempts to delegitimize him, after a racist Congress tried to block his every initiative, after 7 years of being treated by millions of jerks like a pretender to his elected office
President Obama is a great man.
Eat your heart out, Trump.
After Trump's attempts to delegitimize him, after a racist Congress tried to block his every initiative, after 7 years of being treated by millions of jerks like a pretender to his elected office
President Obama is a great man.
Eat your heart out, Trump.
78
I am as proud of our country for electing Barack Obama as I am repelled by those who have been taken in by Donald Trump.
5
President Obama was the least qualified man holding office of President in my voting lifetime. Period. Yet the country survived him. Should Donald Trump become Prsident it will continue to survive. He's better qualified than the 2008 Barack Obama. Period. .
Excellent article about those who wish to be Commander-in-Chief of the USofA. I truly hope Trump wins it. Our country longs for him.
11
The country is changing. And has changed. Please don't speak for me. I do not long for Trump.
2
Munich, Germany, 1923.
Scary stuff.... if Trump is this insecure it bodes very ill for a person who will have that much power. I find it very interesting that Chris Christie and Trump have bonded so well, no doubt because they share similar personalities. Christie has already demonstrated that he bears a grudge and will take revenge on people he feels have slighted him. I have an overwhelming feeling that Trump will be just the same. Not a good trait for someone in this position to have. There is simply way too much riding on this position to let a person with this many 'issues' take control.
23
It has been established that Trump is the classic 'bully' who has power over another which he did not earn; it is implied by the relative status difference and, when challenged, causes the bully to shriek and whine 'not fair'.
What is most revealing about Trump is how his behavior is beginning to mirror some recent third world dictators. 'Slobo' Milosevic comes to mind; he was the leader of the Serbs when the former Yugoslavia broke up. The Serbs are considered 'cousins' of the Russians, sharing their Eastern Orthodox faith. The Serbs had the military left over from the army; the Muslims had nothing. The Serbs shelled the Muslims at will during the presidency of the first Bush, until U.S. led Nato forces stopped the carnage during the Clinton presidency.
Milosevic eventually went before the U.N. He was used to speaking to ultra partisan, adoring, and not especially well informed supporters in a sort of 'echo chamber'. All of a sudden he was challenged by people with a different perspective and a full set of facts. He sounded like a complete idiot.
Trumps statements after the Chicago debacle are quite telling. He generalizes, he tries to shift responsibility, and he acts surprised that some of the anger was aimed at him. He sounds vague. He talks about 'bad dudes'
He never once takes any responsibiity.
What is most revealing about Trump is how his behavior is beginning to mirror some recent third world dictators. 'Slobo' Milosevic comes to mind; he was the leader of the Serbs when the former Yugoslavia broke up. The Serbs are considered 'cousins' of the Russians, sharing their Eastern Orthodox faith. The Serbs had the military left over from the army; the Muslims had nothing. The Serbs shelled the Muslims at will during the presidency of the first Bush, until U.S. led Nato forces stopped the carnage during the Clinton presidency.
Milosevic eventually went before the U.N. He was used to speaking to ultra partisan, adoring, and not especially well informed supporters in a sort of 'echo chamber'. All of a sudden he was challenged by people with a different perspective and a full set of facts. He sounded like a complete idiot.
Trumps statements after the Chicago debacle are quite telling. He generalizes, he tries to shift responsibility, and he acts surprised that some of the anger was aimed at him. He sounds vague. He talks about 'bad dudes'
He never once takes any responsibiity.
34
Is this all you have?
How about more on Hillary and federal crimes?
How about more on Hillary and federal crimes?
23
Here, I'll help. The FBI administrative investigation into the use of email servers at the State Department is not a criminal investigation, nor has Hillary Clinton been singled out. She is in absolutely no danger of being charged with criminal acts or being imprisoned over email maintenance. The entire email flap is a sad joke, but it's all the Republicans have, so they'll drag this nothingburger out whenever they can. You're welcome.
4
Sven, what is this? Did you complain about Vigdis, too? Hillary sat for 11 hours in front of House Select Committee and you know what? Nothing came of it.
4
The simplest explanation is always the best explanation.
Donald Trump is a New York City real estate developer. As a NYC developer, he knows that wealth comes from grabbing public resources and using them for your own purposes. This happens all the time in NYC. A current example, would be the on-going attempt by Related Cos. and Sterling Equities, to grab NYC parkland to put up a shopping center in Queens.
Trump once said that he had simply done in Manhattan, what his father had done in Queens; now he is going all the way, he is putting himself into a position to steal federal resources on an unprecedented level.
Unlike total incompetent Jeb Bush, and replacement incompetent Marco Rubio, the very competent Trump is carefully listening to what Americans say, and then spilling out whatever total nonsense it takes, to get them to vote for him. How complicated is that?
There are no deep psychological issues here - just standard competence beating out encrusted incompetence. The "deal" is that the Republican Party is a ship of fools that Trump has been skillfully luring onto the rocks, so he can pick up the cargo, which is the wealth of our nation.
Don't plan on visiting Yosemite National Park two years from now - it won't be there.
Donald Trump is a New York City real estate developer. As a NYC developer, he knows that wealth comes from grabbing public resources and using them for your own purposes. This happens all the time in NYC. A current example, would be the on-going attempt by Related Cos. and Sterling Equities, to grab NYC parkland to put up a shopping center in Queens.
Trump once said that he had simply done in Manhattan, what his father had done in Queens; now he is going all the way, he is putting himself into a position to steal federal resources on an unprecedented level.
Unlike total incompetent Jeb Bush, and replacement incompetent Marco Rubio, the very competent Trump is carefully listening to what Americans say, and then spilling out whatever total nonsense it takes, to get them to vote for him. How complicated is that?
There are no deep psychological issues here - just standard competence beating out encrusted incompetence. The "deal" is that the Republican Party is a ship of fools that Trump has been skillfully luring onto the rocks, so he can pick up the cargo, which is the wealth of our nation.
Don't plan on visiting Yosemite National Park two years from now - it won't be there.
40
The way Mr. Trump's behaving, as a candidate is only going to bring him more (well deserved) humiliation and ridicule. Want "stature" and respect? Don't run around the country spewing idiotic rumors that the duly elected President of the United States is an ineligible usurper, who must have been born in Africa (hint, hint.)
BTW, he does have awful taste. God forbid he should get to the White House, with his tasted for gilded foppery and up-lighting.
BTW, he does have awful taste. God forbid he should get to the White House, with his tasted for gilded foppery and up-lighting.
22
“The self-professed genius was just stupid enough to buy our ruse,” said Ryan Williams, a former spokesman for the Romney campaign. Buying a ruse is what happened in the mind of Mr. Williams. In reality, Mr. Trump got what he wanted, to share the stage with Mr. Romney for the endorsement announcement.
13
The simplest explanation is always the best explanation.
Donald Trump is a New York City real estate developer. As a NYC developer, he knows that wealth comes from grabbing public resources and using them for your own purposes. This happens all the time in NYC. A current example, would be the on-going attempt by Related Cos. and Sterling Equities, to grab NYC parkland to put up a shopping center in Queens.
Trump once said that he had simply done in Manhattan, what his father had done in Queens; now he is going all the way, he is putting himself into a position to steal federal resources on an unprecedented level.
Unlike total incompetent Jeb Bush, and replacement incompetent Marco Rubio, the very competent Trump is carefully listening to what Americans say, and then spilling out whatever total nonsense it takes, to get them to vote for him. How complicated is that?
There are no deep psychological issues here - just standard competence beating out encrusted incompetence. The "deal" is that the Republican Party is a ship of fools that Trump has been skillfully luring onto the rocks, so he can pick up the cargo, which is the wealth of our nation.
Don't plan on visiting Yosemite National Park two years for now - it won't be there.
Donald Trump is a New York City real estate developer. As a NYC developer, he knows that wealth comes from grabbing public resources and using them for your own purposes. This happens all the time in NYC. A current example, would be the on-going attempt by Related Cos. and Sterling Equities, to grab NYC parkland to put up a shopping center in Queens.
Trump once said that he had simply done in Manhattan, what his father had done in Queens; now he is going all the way, he is putting himself into a position to steal federal resources on an unprecedented level.
Unlike total incompetent Jeb Bush, and replacement incompetent Marco Rubio, the very competent Trump is carefully listening to what Americans say, and then spilling out whatever total nonsense it takes, to get them to vote for him. How complicated is that?
There are no deep psychological issues here - just standard competence beating out encrusted incompetence. The "deal" is that the Republican Party is a ship of fools that Trump has been skillfully luring onto the rocks, so he can pick up the cargo, which is the wealth of our nation.
Don't plan on visiting Yosemite National Park two years for now - it won't be there.
4
Whatever. Get with the real issues NYT. The NYT very recently published an article indicating DT supporters are typically high-school dropout WHITES. I and my 'little' other group are college degree holding whites, hispanics and eurasians who are DT supporters. Let's see, if my math is correct, I'm estimating the past results thus indicate the population of the USA is approximately 43-45% HS dropout whites. NEWs to me! You might try increasing your readership by courting the 43-45% or getting your biased facts correct.
Adios viejo amigo
Adios viejo amigo
16
Nobody said that every DT voter was a white HS dropout. He does well among that group. That's all. We now know he also gets support from insecure college graduates.
A commitment to public service and equality of opportunity for all Americans is not exactly a big characteristic for the entire slate of Republican candidates.
With the single exception of his failure initially to denounce the support of the KKK, I simply don't see the actual positions that Trump has staked out, or even his whole attitude, as being more harsh or objectionable than those generally of the Republican Party. Denying climate science and attempting to deny health care to Americans is as evil as anything Trump has said or done.
The last Republican Presidential candidate repeatedly accused President Obama of increasing food stamps - as if feeding people was a bad thing, particularly when it was because of a disaster caused by Republican economic policies blowing up in their face. Of course, we know now those food stamp soundbites were provided as coded race-bating (of the kind that Mr. Romney has now accused Mr. Trump of).
These folks in the Republican ranks who have so much hatred for minorities and immigrants didn't wake up last year and get these impulses. They've been nurtured along by their party for years.
A lot of the other candidates are self-obsessed egomaniacs as well. The donor billionaires they represent certainly evidence some of these qualities but they mostly hide themselves from public view.
Trump had not only the money but the media savvy to take things in new directions, and seems to have understood where primary voters would want to go.
With the single exception of his failure initially to denounce the support of the KKK, I simply don't see the actual positions that Trump has staked out, or even his whole attitude, as being more harsh or objectionable than those generally of the Republican Party. Denying climate science and attempting to deny health care to Americans is as evil as anything Trump has said or done.
The last Republican Presidential candidate repeatedly accused President Obama of increasing food stamps - as if feeding people was a bad thing, particularly when it was because of a disaster caused by Republican economic policies blowing up in their face. Of course, we know now those food stamp soundbites were provided as coded race-bating (of the kind that Mr. Romney has now accused Mr. Trump of).
These folks in the Republican ranks who have so much hatred for minorities and immigrants didn't wake up last year and get these impulses. They've been nurtured along by their party for years.
A lot of the other candidates are self-obsessed egomaniacs as well. The donor billionaires they represent certainly evidence some of these qualities but they mostly hide themselves from public view.
Trump had not only the money but the media savvy to take things in new directions, and seems to have understood where primary voters would want to go.
11
Is this not what money can do for even the most unqualified in our society? Without money, Trump is like that annoying coworker at work who sometimes makes sexist and racist 'jokes' or that bully from elementary you pretended to be friends with so you weren't picked on. But with his money and family history, the Donald has managed to insert himself into every sphere of life. From construction development to men's accessories to reality TV star, it seems Trump just ran with it until it stuck. Or simply, he was too rich and got too bored, so he sat his sights on something he really wanted next: the presidency.
10
I can feel you (NY Times) feeling it slipping away.
And it's true; much is at stake:
The Supreme Court. Abortion might be returned to the states, and racial preferences ended.
U.S. Borders. Control will return and illegal immigrants deported.
Trade and Tariffs. Labor vibrancy will return to the nation as incentives to employ foreigners disappear.
And perhaps most threatening, this newspaper's self-ordained right to pronounce and impose its values will vanish overnight.
So though your anti-Trump coverage tends to veer from hateful to homicidal, I do understand your dilemma.
Even as I welcome a new age of security and prosperity for all Americans under President Trump.
And it's true; much is at stake:
The Supreme Court. Abortion might be returned to the states, and racial preferences ended.
U.S. Borders. Control will return and illegal immigrants deported.
Trade and Tariffs. Labor vibrancy will return to the nation as incentives to employ foreigners disappear.
And perhaps most threatening, this newspaper's self-ordained right to pronounce and impose its values will vanish overnight.
So though your anti-Trump coverage tends to veer from hateful to homicidal, I do understand your dilemma.
Even as I welcome a new age of security and prosperity for all Americans under President Trump.
16
Labor vibrancy? Didn't Trump say that he thinks US workers get paid too much?
4
Sure..
Just by building a wall, raise import tariffs en deporting muslims?
Just by building a wall, raise import tariffs en deporting muslims?
I always wanted to visit Iceland. Now, I'm not so sure. Apparently, there are hallucinogens in the drinking water.
An astute politico said, "Running for president is like taking an MRI to the soul," so showing one's true self. Trump's MRI exposes him as a complete bully, a blatant racist, a hateful demagogue, a double-talking charlatan, a master manipulator, a hit-or-miss businessman, and a craven opportunist. How is his new image good for the Trump brand? What solid establishment will ever want his name linked to its own? Long gone is the reported $3 billion Trump brand. Adios.
15
The big question to be asked here is how the evangelicals who pride themselves as Christians champion this guy who exploits racial sentiment to advance his own political ambition.
Donald Trump, to date since he launched his campaign to get the Republican nomination of the presidency, has only achieved in dividing the American people and spreading the feeling of hatred among them along racial lines.
Christ taught us to love one another and care for one another. Trump demonizes the Latinos and Muslims and energizes his base to hate those who are not white.
And the evangelical "Christians" hails him as their hero.
Despite being a devout Roman Catholic, I am truly at a loss as to who Christians really are and what is Christianity is all about.
Donald Trump, to date since he launched his campaign to get the Republican nomination of the presidency, has only achieved in dividing the American people and spreading the feeling of hatred among them along racial lines.
Christ taught us to love one another and care for one another. Trump demonizes the Latinos and Muslims and energizes his base to hate those who are not white.
And the evangelical "Christians" hails him as their hero.
Despite being a devout Roman Catholic, I am truly at a loss as to who Christians really are and what is Christianity is all about.
10
Christianity is a simply a myth that one can be better off after death by idolizing Jesus in life.
Laughable. Most Catholic Republicans voted for TRUMP.
Why don't you personally tell them to back off?
Why don't you personally tell them to back off?
Roger Stone obviously gave Mr. Trump the dirt on Jeb. Should be interesting to see how he picks apart Hilary.
5
Roger Stone evidently needs a picking apart.
Jeb Bush got off easy. At no time during his sad little campaign did anyone bring up Jeb's fixing of the 2000 Florida election results to ensure his awful brother would be installed into the White House. Nor did anyone attack him for abducting brain-dead Terri Schiavo from her home and family, because Jeb was told by evangelicals that only he could restore her to full consciousness. Had Jeb Bush posed a serious threat to Trump or any other Republican, all this dirty laundry would have come out again.
2
I Love this thinking; "...members of the Republican establishment wagered that they could go along with Mr. Trump just enough to keep him quiet or make him go away."
I remember a line from the movie Cabaret about being able to control him once he got into power and got rid of the "undesirables" [my word].
I remember a line from the movie Cabaret about being able to control him once he got into power and got rid of the "undesirables" [my word].
6
The flood of Donald Trump's perceived shortcomings listed by his detractors are usually described with an assortment of the most egregious insults the commenters can find to use, and, strangely, the Trump haters seem guilty of using the same abusive language they all too often erroneously attribute to Mr. Trump.
12
.
Perhaps ... Great Stature ... to compensate for his "small hands."
Perhaps ... Great Stature ... to compensate for his "small hands."
2
These endless Times columns and articles about Trump are not merely getting seriously boring but, by default, represent afailure to look at the equally serious implications of the possible election of the other Republican candidates.
Best I can tell, Trump is succeeding brilliantly in his effort to get a zillion dollars of free air time and column inches. Cruz, Rubio, and Kasich would cut off their right arms to have that much copy -- even negative copy -- devoted to them.
Please do readers and the journalistic craft a favor by cutting down on the Trump copy -- especially the armchair psychoanalysis -- and, instead, direct efforts toward the other candidates. True, it may be harder and less titillating and, thus, engage fewer eyeballs, but it would be more appropriate and useful. Unlike much of the campaign coverage, it would at least be some of the news that's fit to print.
Best I can tell, Trump is succeeding brilliantly in his effort to get a zillion dollars of free air time and column inches. Cruz, Rubio, and Kasich would cut off their right arms to have that much copy -- even negative copy -- devoted to them.
Please do readers and the journalistic craft a favor by cutting down on the Trump copy -- especially the armchair psychoanalysis -- and, instead, direct efforts toward the other candidates. True, it may be harder and less titillating and, thus, engage fewer eyeballs, but it would be more appropriate and useful. Unlike much of the campaign coverage, it would at least be some of the news that's fit to print.
20
Steve, Really well said. Thank you.
7
As St. William F Buckley Jr. said, "I'd rather be governed by the first five hundred names in the Boston phone book than by the Harvard faculty." Obama IS that faculty, and not for nothing does he keep his undergrad and law school transcripts, rife with gentleman's C's I infer, deep in the vault.
Contra Obama's slavishness to the Welfare State (read: reparations), America's middle class aspirants and retirees and suburbanites see putative Pres. Trump as embodying the collective wisdom of the first five hundred names in the Manhattan phone book. More in the American vein of Thoreau, self-sufficiency, and the common weal, not the slow-motion riots and anarchy and death culture that The Left specializes in, as Hillary and Bernie feign surprise at their minions' spreading criminality and Free Speech suppressions in the mold of maniacal Melissa Click, faculty harridan, and her "muscle" boys. Bullying, by Democrats. How ironic is that!?
Contra Obama's slavishness to the Welfare State (read: reparations), America's middle class aspirants and retirees and suburbanites see putative Pres. Trump as embodying the collective wisdom of the first five hundred names in the Manhattan phone book. More in the American vein of Thoreau, self-sufficiency, and the common weal, not the slow-motion riots and anarchy and death culture that The Left specializes in, as Hillary and Bernie feign surprise at their minions' spreading criminality and Free Speech suppressions in the mold of maniacal Melissa Click, faculty harridan, and her "muscle" boys. Bullying, by Democrats. How ironic is that!?
12
Wha-a?
7
Look up "populism" in the dictionary.
"Trumps Heated Words Were Destined to Stir Violence Opponents Say"
Interesting that is it the protestors who start the violence, the outcome of this kind of behavior being encouraged at colleges by Far Left professors who teach their students that the only people who have the right to free speech are those who tow the Liberal line.
Trump is not as frightening as the Leftists are today and the more of them who show up at Trump's rallies to shout him down, the more clear it becomes that political correctness is just another form of Fascism.
These fools are helping his cause.
Interesting that is it the protestors who start the violence, the outcome of this kind of behavior being encouraged at colleges by Far Left professors who teach their students that the only people who have the right to free speech are those who tow the Liberal line.
Trump is not as frightening as the Leftists are today and the more of them who show up at Trump's rallies to shout him down, the more clear it becomes that political correctness is just another form of Fascism.
These fools are helping his cause.
12
Well then, better put on your brown shirt and go get yourself some of those leftists, I reckon.
6
Classic nouveau rich guy who wants to get into an old boys club. Sorry Mr. Trump, you can paint everything gold, but you can't buy buy beige. The true rich and powerful are beige and will always turn up their noses, no matter how much money you bring to the table.
7
Exactly. He's the embodiment of "new money" crass. The dissing 'The Donald' has endured, sticking his toe into politics, probably capped off a lifetime of simmering resentment over countless slights from East Coast gentry, Manhattan society. Money can't buy you class. Just imagine, President Trump, "getting even." Shudders.
7
I have been saying for months to anyone who would listen that Trump was a dangerous demagogue. But all my acquaintances would just laugh and not take him seriously. Well, here we are six months later, with protesters being "sucker punched" and riots breaking out at his hate filled rallies.
Trump as taken people's anger to light a fuse of hate. It is now up to decent Americans' to say no to Trump….in order to "save the soul of this nation".
Trump as taken people's anger to light a fuse of hate. It is now up to decent Americans' to say no to Trump….in order to "save the soul of this nation".
17
The "soul of this nation" started to die during the Wilson and T. Roosevelt administrations. Wilson with his one world machinations and Roosevelt who started the "USA! USA! chants. Since FDR the death spiral has been accelerated with his lying and finagling to involve the US in a war the American people did not want. Neutrals do not "lend Lease" armaments to countries without angering their opponents enough to bomb naval bases.
Every administration since then has had a hand in the demise.
Trump won't kill the soul of this nation. It died long ago.
Every administration since then has had a hand in the demise.
Trump won't kill the soul of this nation. It died long ago.
Trump is popular because he has a better sense of reality than the other candidates. Trump got where he is after being humiliated by the people who wanted his donations and by understanding that money can buy knowledge. While they were laughing at him and looking down their nose at him, he was absorbing all the knowledge he could gain from politicians and political parties. Whose got the last laugh now! lol! It's only minority groups that used to get special privileges that don't like him. White people matter too! USA citizens first!
9
Re-read this January New York Times story in the context of the current one on the need to gain stature:
"For Trump, Lessons in a Brother’s Pain"
"One evening in the 1960s, Donald J. Trump, still in college but eager to make it big, met his older brother, Freddy, for dinner in a Queens apartment complex built by their father. Things went bad fast..."
January 03, 2016 - By JASON HOROWITZ
"For Trump, Lessons in a Brother’s Pain"
"One evening in the 1960s, Donald J. Trump, still in college but eager to make it big, met his older brother, Freddy, for dinner in a Queens apartment complex built by their father. Things went bad fast..."
January 03, 2016 - By JASON HOROWITZ
1
An excerpt from that article:
"Then came the unveiling of Fred Sr.’s will, which Donald had helped draft. It divided the bulk of the inheritance, at least $20 million, among his children and their descendants, “other than my son Fred C. Trump Jr.”
Freddy’s children sued, claiming that an earlier version of the will had entitled them to their father’s share of the estate, but that Donald and his siblings had used “undue influence” over their grandfather, who had dementia, to cut them out.
"A week later, Mr. Trump retaliated by withdrawing the medical benefits critical to his nephew’s infant child.
"“I was angry because they sued,” he explained during last week’s interview."
"Then came the unveiling of Fred Sr.’s will, which Donald had helped draft. It divided the bulk of the inheritance, at least $20 million, among his children and their descendants, “other than my son Fred C. Trump Jr.”
Freddy’s children sued, claiming that an earlier version of the will had entitled them to their father’s share of the estate, but that Donald and his siblings had used “undue influence” over their grandfather, who had dementia, to cut them out.
"A week later, Mr. Trump retaliated by withdrawing the medical benefits critical to his nephew’s infant child.
"“I was angry because they sued,” he explained during last week’s interview."
The only way I know how to make sense of this is to make some jokes. So:
I went to a riot and a Donald Trump rally broke out.
They weren't protesters, they were former Trump University students who wanted their money back
If Trump continues his current rate of unifying America, we will be having another civil war by April.
Oh great, now we have to build a wall around Chicago
On the bright side, it will be nice to have Wagner's Die Walküre performed in the Whitehouse.
Donald Trump just promised to make Mexico pay for increased security at his events
If Trump were truly a unifier he would have cooked up some of those delicious Trump Steaks for the protesters
Trump should do well in the Sudetenland primary.
I eagerly anticipate Trump naming Cliven Bundy to be his running mate
Trump wants to turn the U.S. into the Weimar Republic because he has Vienna Sausage fingers
Given the way that Donald Trump has turned his campaign into the ultimate reality show, the biggest question that he needs to answer is which Kardashian is he going to select to be his running mate
On the bad side, the U.S. is turning into 1930s Germany. On the good side, this may mean that the U.S. may finally be able to win a World Cup Soccer Championship.
That's it. Thanks for reading.
I went to a riot and a Donald Trump rally broke out.
They weren't protesters, they were former Trump University students who wanted their money back
If Trump continues his current rate of unifying America, we will be having another civil war by April.
Oh great, now we have to build a wall around Chicago
On the bright side, it will be nice to have Wagner's Die Walküre performed in the Whitehouse.
Donald Trump just promised to make Mexico pay for increased security at his events
If Trump were truly a unifier he would have cooked up some of those delicious Trump Steaks for the protesters
Trump should do well in the Sudetenland primary.
I eagerly anticipate Trump naming Cliven Bundy to be his running mate
Trump wants to turn the U.S. into the Weimar Republic because he has Vienna Sausage fingers
Given the way that Donald Trump has turned his campaign into the ultimate reality show, the biggest question that he needs to answer is which Kardashian is he going to select to be his running mate
On the bad side, the U.S. is turning into 1930s Germany. On the good side, this may mean that the U.S. may finally be able to win a World Cup Soccer Championship.
That's it. Thanks for reading.
30
I long for the days of more common sense Republicans, like Michelle Bachmann and that woman who is not a witch
3
Wonderful. If things don't work out in November, hope to end up sharing a detention cell with you.
7
Fabulous Penelope! Thank you!
2
So it is Obama's fault after all! We should've guessed as much. Everything is always that poor guy's fault. I remember that particular Washington Correspondent's Dinner, and how Obama went after Trump, the King of the Birther Movement. It was delightful, and justly deserved.
It's only 5 mins. long: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k8TwRmX6zs4
It's only 5 mins. long: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k8TwRmX6zs4
17
Society 101;
You are trained to watch TV and all the cop shows, war movies, and politicians.
The politicians call us "The Land of Laws". We used to call ourselves "The Land of Freedom".
Through Television and movies, you learned to love our military government, and police "Forces".
The police protects big money and businesses. Consider "Occupy Wall Street" demonstrations or conflicts between businesses and customers.
The politicians have been reinforcing police ranks with new cops, some seasoned warriors back from war. The politicians are providing military equipment to the police forces.
The military N.S.A. conducts a massive surveillance of all Americans.
The military government wants to defeat all privacy and encryption tugging on your heart strings using a very bad terrorist to win justification. You all are next.
The military government, police, Television industry, politicians, movie industry, and military are all very good friends.
Now there is the television man.
With Don Trump, the last vestiges of freedom will be gone.
Indeed, we are "The Land of Laws".
We used to call ourselves "The Land of Freedom".
Conflicts between the military loving Republicans and the Police loving Democrats are an illusion. All politicians are cooperating in clamping down on freedom.
The government is paranoid and preparing for any outcome and Don Trump seems to be their man creating the atmosphere that will lead to marshal law in America.
You are trained to watch TV and all the cop shows, war movies, and politicians.
The politicians call us "The Land of Laws". We used to call ourselves "The Land of Freedom".
Through Television and movies, you learned to love our military government, and police "Forces".
The police protects big money and businesses. Consider "Occupy Wall Street" demonstrations or conflicts between businesses and customers.
The politicians have been reinforcing police ranks with new cops, some seasoned warriors back from war. The politicians are providing military equipment to the police forces.
The military N.S.A. conducts a massive surveillance of all Americans.
The military government wants to defeat all privacy and encryption tugging on your heart strings using a very bad terrorist to win justification. You all are next.
The military government, police, Television industry, politicians, movie industry, and military are all very good friends.
Now there is the television man.
With Don Trump, the last vestiges of freedom will be gone.
Indeed, we are "The Land of Laws".
We used to call ourselves "The Land of Freedom".
Conflicts between the military loving Republicans and the Police loving Democrats are an illusion. All politicians are cooperating in clamping down on freedom.
The government is paranoid and preparing for any outcome and Don Trump seems to be their man creating the atmosphere that will lead to marshal law in America.
4
Liberty is the power to negotiate one's contracts equitably and have them enforced. Freedom is just another word for nothing left to lose.
As long as we see the political system destroyed.
The thing I find most troubling about Trump is we don't really know what this guy's about. We hear all his pathetic bravado, but what lays underneath? He's frightening because despite his words I don't get a sense of who he is, other than the obvious: a self important blowhard, with money he never made on his own. He's a dime a dozen in NYC. We've seen this act. But unlike Obama, who we could sense was a good decent man, whether you agreed with his politics or not, you could trust he wouldn't do anything to intentionally hurt people. He was a stable family man, with strong values.
But Trump? What is he? the strident bigot he projects? The smarmy businessman? He's hollow. Nothing much going on inside. And that's exactly what frightens me most.
But Trump? What is he? the strident bigot he projects? The smarmy businessman? He's hollow. Nothing much going on inside. And that's exactly what frightens me most.
20
(To Homeland Security and other government data collection goons: my previous comment regarding a grenade is an analogy of voters using the Donald to disrupt the current political system without caring who or what his is, and not actually about using explosives. So don't put me in a black file folder kthx)
Narcissistic personality disorder is a mental disorder in which people have an inflated sense of their own importance, a deep need for admiration and a lack of empathy for others. But behind this mask of ultra-confidence lies a fragile self-esteem that's vulnerable to the slightest criticism. (Mayo Clinic's definition)
15
Definitely, even though there is more to Trump's pathology than "simple" narcissism, as his psychopathy is all too evident: https://goodmarriagecentral.wordpress.com/2016/03/12/narcissistic-psycho...
5
Don Trump is the television man.
For many decades, all you voters watched television and developed lazy minds watching. The politicians knew they had a captive audience and that is why the vast majority of campaign money flows to the television industry. For decades you saw nearly countless political ads and you voted for the candidates who ran the most ads because that's how brainwashing works.
The politicians know it, the television industry knows it, the political strategists and directors know it, and most important, the big donors know it.
Now the Supreme Court knows it and should stop it. Or, how about the F.C.C. that regulates the television industry?
Don Trump is the television man backed by the television industry with incessant free air time. I can guess they want Don Trump in the White House to protect the industry.
The frenzied following of Don Trump proves my point. He appeals to the captive audience with bombast and instigation. He manipulates anger and hatred. He will probably be elected whether we like it or not.
Forget about the movie "Network" as has been cited in a comment.
The movie to watch is "The Matrix". It is timely if you can't relate to my comment, you will to the movie.
Don Trump is the television man
For many decades, all you voters watched television and developed lazy minds watching. The politicians knew they had a captive audience and that is why the vast majority of campaign money flows to the television industry. For decades you saw nearly countless political ads and you voted for the candidates who ran the most ads because that's how brainwashing works.
The politicians know it, the television industry knows it, the political strategists and directors know it, and most important, the big donors know it.
Now the Supreme Court knows it and should stop it. Or, how about the F.C.C. that regulates the television industry?
Don Trump is the television man backed by the television industry with incessant free air time. I can guess they want Don Trump in the White House to protect the industry.
The frenzied following of Don Trump proves my point. He appeals to the captive audience with bombast and instigation. He manipulates anger and hatred. He will probably be elected whether we like it or not.
Forget about the movie "Network" as has been cited in a comment.
The movie to watch is "The Matrix". It is timely if you can't relate to my comment, you will to the movie.
Don Trump is the television man
3
The human race may wind up living as bottled brains experiencing a virtual reality feed yet.
Oh yes I hate the political system. I want the whole thing to burn.
Bluster: Trump will destroy ISIS.
Reality: Trump is too scared to go to Chicago. Huh?
Reality: Trump is too scared to go to Chicago. Huh?
18
Why don't you go to a lynch mob instead? Donald's hateful but still not suicidal.
2
I always thought it was a mistake for Obama to roast Trump during that correspondent's dinner, not because Trump did not deserve derision for his "birther" hoax, but because stooping to Trump's level tarnished the dignity of the office of the president.
In other words, one should roast one's friends as a gesture of camaraderie, not someone who had done his best to demean you, and whose only intention is to hurt you. For people like that, silence is the best response.
In other words, one should roast one's friends as a gesture of camaraderie, not someone who had done his best to demean you, and whose only intention is to hurt you. For people like that, silence is the best response.
9
Trump hasn't got the vocabulary to sum people up at President Obama's level.
1
I'm not sure which is worse, a dishonest politician, or one who spews hate and intolerance and is touted for being honest. If Trump has accomplished anything, he has forced us to look in the mirror and question who we are as Americans. Are we going to continue to evolve as people and as a country, or are we going regress and let fear be our guide?
10
I haven't been to a love-in since 1977. When is the next Occupy riot, or Black Lives Matter Most confrontation? No bullying there! For that matter, I'm still working up the courage to go to a Raiders game. So much love to give, those Democrats.
11
When there's a lot of free floating anxiety and stress out and about, people tend to default to a tribal mentality. When that happens fear, resentment and hate follow. I think Obama said something like that in the recent Atlantic piece, but it makes sense to me. Pretty sure we're watching that show right now.
3
Bernie and Hillary can forget about bringing Wall Street to heel if President Trump becomes the reality (show). Trump, by himself, will stab the fear of God into the hearts of investors, causing money and people to flow out of the USA like never before. The US stock market will become a skeleton of its former self, and the two "C's" --- China (money) and Canada (people) --- will be the beneficiaries.
8
The more we learn, day by day, week by week, we see more of what has already been documented by others over the decades. Trump is what he has always been: an immature self-absorbed megalomaniac, with an absurd,
overwhelming need to get that only thing which money cannot buy: adulation, and the most excessive and fulsome praise. His brand, a self defined edifice of his own imagination and making, is apparently his only care. I cannot even begin to understand the mindsets of so many, who have fallen for someone so obviously unsuitable for the leadership of our country. When will this madness end?!
overwhelming need to get that only thing which money cannot buy: adulation, and the most excessive and fulsome praise. His brand, a self defined edifice of his own imagination and making, is apparently his only care. I cannot even begin to understand the mindsets of so many, who have fallen for someone so obviously unsuitable for the leadership of our country. When will this madness end?!
19
Some people want to see the system destroyed, using Donald as a hand grenade. You think people love hand grenades?
I have always thought Trump simply ripped the Obama playbook and reversed it, perhaps wondering since he is the Donald, why he would not think himself more qualified than Obama jive his way into a job.
The man is almost in every way doing the opposite of Obama 2008, to achieve the same objective, bring in lots of new voters(again opposite to Obama, angry, this time) and overwhelm "the establishment", he may view it as the perfect revenge.
But funny thing is, you can see the end of this movie: in the end they'd still laugh at him, only this time it will be 7 billion people rather than just the American political class that attends Washington dinners. We are, as it were, who we are.
The man is almost in every way doing the opposite of Obama 2008, to achieve the same objective, bring in lots of new voters(again opposite to Obama, angry, this time) and overwhelm "the establishment", he may view it as the perfect revenge.
But funny thing is, you can see the end of this movie: in the end they'd still laugh at him, only this time it will be 7 billion people rather than just the American political class that attends Washington dinners. We are, as it were, who we are.
5
It's okay, as long as we get to laugh at the totally bruised-up and beaten political establishment too.
Donald Trump was born in Scotland. His mother was born there as well.
Many people screamed (his face was terribly red and very scrunched up much like it is today) as they witnessed his birth in Scotland, and that is PROOF that he cannot be elected President. Recently, many other people have demanded that he produce his birth certificate. Trump produced what is certainly a fraudulent birth certificate claiming he was born in Flushing, Queens.
Someone should file a lawsuit! There must be a rogue "birther" out there somewhere.
Hello??????
Many people screamed (his face was terribly red and very scrunched up much like it is today) as they witnessed his birth in Scotland, and that is PROOF that he cannot be elected President. Recently, many other people have demanded that he produce his birth certificate. Trump produced what is certainly a fraudulent birth certificate claiming he was born in Flushing, Queens.
Someone should file a lawsuit! There must be a rogue "birther" out there somewhere.
Hello??????
8
Funny. I never saw nor read any "deeper dive" articles about Obama the times he ran for president. He associated with radicals, had precious little experience, made speeches with very little substance and had others spend millions making aure no one could get at his college records. Hmm, the irony-o-meter is getting a real work out here. I look forward to President Trump the more I see the hypocritical onalaught from the liberal press and establishment political class.
9
Obama never out-and-out lied to us during either of his campaigns. Trump, on the other hand, lies constantly to cover up his other lies. He's clearly unfit for office, and at 70, far too old to even begin to learn how Washington works, if he were even interested in doing so. If elected, Trump's administration would be run by those who actually know the ropes, as Nixon's administration was run by his Mormon Mafia.
Bill Clinton wisely read Trump as not someone who would go down without a fight. Fight him our great USA democracy. Fight him. That being said. We are a country with more light around her because we are based on the ideal of justice. We believe in evidence. Out justice system is based on substantiated evidence furthered by argument. The foundation of our country is good and great. There are a lot of dangerous people in the world. With much regret I see Trump as a threat to all Americans world wide. We would be targets by his provocative language. Me as a mother and worker would not wish to bring this unleashing of reaction to our people. I look to the future and Trump in his eagerness to gain power forgot that the world watches. A Trump presidency would risk all our sons and daughters in future wars brought on by his racist language. What brought me courage were the Obamas and the Trudeau families peacefully mixing in wonderful elegance. That vision is what I hold onto for my family's future. I pray for our country at this dark hour. I hope that we can hold the foundation of this country through the changes in the next 50 years. My vote will go to someone who would not risk our country to get a cheap vote. My vote of course goes to Hillary Clinton who would never harm the country in order to get a vote.
11
A little over the top, but I agree with your basic sentiments.
Please say you are joking. She voted to harm another country (Iraq) to get a vote. And that harm has increased grossly in the years since, harm to the US
(casualties of soldiers, billions in debt) and to the world (ISIS).
(casualties of soldiers, billions in debt) and to the world (ISIS).
1
I can understand Obama not liking Trump for being a birther, but it's messed up for him to invite Trump to a dinner and then mock him in front of the other guests. Would any of you (other readers) do that to a dinner guest? Oh the irony if that dinner planted the seed that grows into President Trump.
10
His host invited him to dinner, a credentialed member of the press with sufficient statue has a right to bring a guest with him Obama got a wind of this and gave him what he was asking for,,, as for the result? The potential of Trump being a nominee for the GOP is strong, second plausible scenario he and the GOP divorce after the convention and he runs an independent
Obama had nothing to do with those invitations; and Trump's racist "investigation" deserved all the scorn it got.
2
If someone is calling in to every morning show and claiming you are a fraud and not born where you say you were every day, while you are trying to deal with Osama bin Laden, I think the least you can do is invite that guy to dinner and make him look foolish.
1
Remember that time during Obamas first term when there were a lot of articles about America being "post-racial"? I think those authors should attend a Trump rally and write a post-script.
14
Donald Trump publicly mocked President Obama and challenged his place of birth. Remember when Trump said he had a team of "investigators" who were going to "uncover" the "truth" about the president's birth certificate? Nothing ever came of it (of course) and the GOP said nothing, but jumped on the crazy train with Donald. Now they are scared the bully is out of control. So much for Republican leadership.
30
Remember when Obama said, "Yes, you can keep your doctor."? But let that go.
More importantly as we see now, the GOP was and is not responsible for anarchy in Chi-Raq, Ferguson, Baltimore, and poor Oakland, whose minority-business owners have lost million$ from the leftist mobs, as its baseball team waits to get out of town. Best thing that ever happened to the NRA's membership rolls, those bullying Democrats.
More importantly as we see now, the GOP was and is not responsible for anarchy in Chi-Raq, Ferguson, Baltimore, and poor Oakland, whose minority-business owners have lost million$ from the leftist mobs, as its baseball team waits to get out of town. Best thing that ever happened to the NRA's membership rolls, those bullying Democrats.
8
The investigators discovered that Obama was born in Kenya, but the lame stream media won't report it.
Only Trump knows the truth.
They also found the WMD - but the media is hiding the truth.
Only Trump knows the truth.
They also found the WMD - but the media is hiding the truth.
3
Better get the FBI right now! Can't believe they missed this!
3
In less than 72 hours, after Ohio and Florida, Donald Trump, savior, will see light at the end of the tunnel. Go into the light, Mr. Pending-President! Sayonara to diminutive Marco, dynastic Jeb, redneck Lindsey, torturous Ted, and to John Kasich's facial tics. Once again, make "the business of America business." Jobs, jobs, jobs. Bring the jobs home, along with the troops.
8
Dynastic, redneck, and torturous are all adjectives that aptly describe Trump and too many of his supporters as well. And also probably diminutive, although Trump will never admit it.
3
At the last debate, Trump said he wanted 20-30k American ground troops to fight ISIS.
What was that about bringing the troops home?
What was that about bringing the troops home?
5
That was the part, Victor, about bringing the troops home from South Korea, and Japan, and other areas where what Obama (belatedly) calls "free riders" are using America's military to protect them, FREE. As Trump has said many times so far: "Bring Them Home!"
Trump is a little man under big hair (mostly air) who makes promises he doesn't care if he can keep.
The Donald is schmoozing and bobbing and weaving and making the pitch of his sorry life to a gaggle of angry white people
who can't stand the fact they are on the losing side of history.
Change is inevitable but Trump is not.
He can and has fooled some of people
who desperately want to be fooled.
But America, across the board, on average
is smart enough and decent enough to reject this obnoxious self promoter.
That is, if the GOP fails to destroy their Frankenstein before he destroys the GOP. I don't know who to root for. I guess I want them both to lose. They both so richly deserve failure, utter repudiation and a one way ticket to permanent irrelevancy. When it happens it will be well-earned. Congress's nonsense over the past seven years. Mitch McConnell's stupidity. The farce that was the Benghazi hearings. The antics of the recently departed John Boehner. The pathological hypocrisy of the Senate Judiciary Committee. And Trump. If the Democrats cannot turn out the votes to beat this clown after what the GOP has inflicted upon this country, whether it's Clinton or Sanders on the ticket - America will not be returning to greatness for a very long time indeed.
The Donald is schmoozing and bobbing and weaving and making the pitch of his sorry life to a gaggle of angry white people
who can't stand the fact they are on the losing side of history.
Change is inevitable but Trump is not.
He can and has fooled some of people
who desperately want to be fooled.
But America, across the board, on average
is smart enough and decent enough to reject this obnoxious self promoter.
That is, if the GOP fails to destroy their Frankenstein before he destroys the GOP. I don't know who to root for. I guess I want them both to lose. They both so richly deserve failure, utter repudiation and a one way ticket to permanent irrelevancy. When it happens it will be well-earned. Congress's nonsense over the past seven years. Mitch McConnell's stupidity. The farce that was the Benghazi hearings. The antics of the recently departed John Boehner. The pathological hypocrisy of the Senate Judiciary Committee. And Trump. If the Democrats cannot turn out the votes to beat this clown after what the GOP has inflicted upon this country, whether it's Clinton or Sanders on the ticket - America will not be returning to greatness for a very long time indeed.
25
But America, across the board, on average
is smart enough and decent enough to reject this obnoxious self promoter.
oh, really ?'
given th state of american education, whatever makes you say that
is smart enough and decent enough to reject this obnoxious self promoter.
oh, really ?'
given th state of american education, whatever makes you say that
1
And while you're making this list, consider asking ourselves about foreign policy, invading a country that had not invaded us, the Kissinger record (coup in Chile;
bombings in So. East Asia). It will be a sign of strength if the US becomes a less war-mongering country that tries to lead in the direction of peace.
bombings in So. East Asia). It will be a sign of strength if the US becomes a less war-mongering country that tries to lead in the direction of peace.
Sadly true up to a point. But not everyone is getting their education via reality TV or Trump University - so I hold out some hope. Check back with me in mid-November.
I'm a proud life long liberal who has never voted Republican, whether it be for President or my local constable, whatever that is. However, as a life long reader of the NY Times I've never been more disappointed, and alarmed for that matter, with the biased, over the top negative coverage of the Trump campaign. I expect more from my paper of record. Instead, the Times has embarked on a race to the bottom with the rest of the media establishment looking to make a buck off this carnival barker.
Top four NY Times headlines :
" Trumps Heated Words Were Destined to Stir Violence Opponents Say "
" Trump Supporter Explains Why She Made Nazi Salute"
" Our Reporter Writes About Witnessing the Danger Up Close at Trump Events"
" Here's a Look at the Places Where Trumpism Thrives"
This tabloid standard of "journalism' has become common fare for the Times with the odds now favoring Trump securing the nomination. I expect better. But I get what Trump is tapping in to. The BIG FIX is in with the USA and the power brokers are calling the shots. They have 100% earned our middle finger. Democracy is governed by the highest bidder. A word of advice to the Times. Stop "reporting" on the WHAT. Focus your time and effort on the WHY. We get what we deserve as a country with a candidate like Trump. Maybe, just maybe, even as a life long Democrat, I will raise my middle finger and cast my vote for Trump. Keep America Stupid Again. Status Quo.
Top four NY Times headlines :
" Trumps Heated Words Were Destined to Stir Violence Opponents Say "
" Trump Supporter Explains Why She Made Nazi Salute"
" Our Reporter Writes About Witnessing the Danger Up Close at Trump Events"
" Here's a Look at the Places Where Trumpism Thrives"
This tabloid standard of "journalism' has become common fare for the Times with the odds now favoring Trump securing the nomination. I expect better. But I get what Trump is tapping in to. The BIG FIX is in with the USA and the power brokers are calling the shots. They have 100% earned our middle finger. Democracy is governed by the highest bidder. A word of advice to the Times. Stop "reporting" on the WHAT. Focus your time and effort on the WHY. We get what we deserve as a country with a candidate like Trump. Maybe, just maybe, even as a life long Democrat, I will raise my middle finger and cast my vote for Trump. Keep America Stupid Again. Status Quo.
20
Such a propitious time for Hillary to release the transcripts of her Wall Street confabs to show she is not, against all odds, the payola toady of Wall Street, the very kind of creature former NY AG Eliot Spitzer made a career of persecuting. What is Hillary Milhous Clinton waiting for? Opportunity knocks once.
10
I'm a life long Republican but when I hear people like you with your middle finger wanting to join us, I have to leave. Ours used to be the party of civility and respect, now only Democrats come close to that ideal.
Good luck on your alleged party switch - you will be waving that finger alone.
Good luck on your alleged party switch - you will be waving that finger alone.
3
HRC is absolutely right that everyone should release their closed-door speeches at the same time. First, it's only fair--these transcripts will provide each candidates' enemies with plenty of live ammunition. And second, wouldn't you like to know what Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio really promised their very shady donors behind closed doors?
What modern president hasn't run for the oval office to gain stature? I think we all agree you have to be nuts to want the office - or at least an ego maniac to seek the office.
7
Well, to Ryan Williams, the former spokesman of the Romney campaign, I'll just say that Trump was smart not to run in 2012. One can't beat an incumbent who has improved the economy. It is Romney, for whom Williams speaks, who is the failure.
The Romney campaign itself was tenuous, apart from Obama's success. It had to garner support from evangelicals who viewed Mormanism as a cult. I admit, the Romney campaign did a clever job here, but evangelicals were stuck. They had to support Romney. He had you evangelicals over a theological barrel. And a political barrel.
Romney still had to deal with the failures of the Bush administration, as will the 2016 Repubican nominee. Note that it is Romney, not George W. Bush, who confronts Trump today. Trump is the candidate who distances himself from that administration without evoking George W. Bush. No Republcan candidate wants to evoke W, or Cheney, who supported his daughter to unseat an establishment Republican.
The schlimazel is the person who failed in his presidency, The zhlub is the person who has to defend that presidency.
The Romney campaign itself was tenuous, apart from Obama's success. It had to garner support from evangelicals who viewed Mormanism as a cult. I admit, the Romney campaign did a clever job here, but evangelicals were stuck. They had to support Romney. He had you evangelicals over a theological barrel. And a political barrel.
Romney still had to deal with the failures of the Bush administration, as will the 2016 Repubican nominee. Note that it is Romney, not George W. Bush, who confronts Trump today. Trump is the candidate who distances himself from that administration without evoking George W. Bush. No Republcan candidate wants to evoke W, or Cheney, who supported his daughter to unseat an establishment Republican.
The schlimazel is the person who failed in his presidency, The zhlub is the person who has to defend that presidency.
2
But Obama ruined the economy.
The labor participation rate is higher than it was under Reagan, as is real median household income and economic output.
And crime has been cut in half.
Don't you see, Obama was horrible.
The labor participation rate is higher than it was under Reagan, as is real median household income and economic output.
And crime has been cut in half.
Don't you see, Obama was horrible.
4
The way I look at the Trump candidacy is that the American People are extremely unfortunate in the scheme of things, that Trump is very much aware of that fact, and realizes that we must confront the greater powers of the future - the eruption of humanity in Asia to improve their lives - in which Wall Street is investing - and that we must as Americans confront the inevitable reality to make sure it is un-inevitable.
My take is that I will do better to invest my 1/2 $Million in the success of China than losing it by believing in Trump.
My take is that I will do better to invest my 1/2 $Million in the success of China than losing it by believing in Trump.
Barack Obama on Trump's candidacy yesterday:
" What is happening in this primary is just a distillation of what’s been happening inside their party for more than a decade. I mean, the reason that many of their voters are responding is because this is what’s been fed through the messages they’ve been sending for a long time — that you just make flat assertions that don’t comport with the facts. That you just deny the evidence of science. That compromise is a betrayal. That the other side isn’t simply wrong, or we just disagree, we want to take a different approach, but the other side is destroying the country, or treasonous. I mean, that’s — look it up. That’s what they’ve been saying.
So they can’t be surprised when somebody suddenly looks and says, you know what, I can do that even better. I can make stuff up better than that. I can be more outrageous than that. I can insult people even better than that. I can be even more uncivil. I mean, conservative outlets have been feeding their base constantly the notion that everything is a disaster, that everybody else is to blame, that Obamacare is destroying the country. And it doesn’t matter whether it’s true or not. It’s not, we disagree with this program, we think we can do it better — it’s, oh, this is a crisis!
So if you don’t care about the facts, or the evidence, or civility, in general in making your arguments, you will end up with candidates who will say just about anything and do just about anything."
And that's Trump!
" What is happening in this primary is just a distillation of what’s been happening inside their party for more than a decade. I mean, the reason that many of their voters are responding is because this is what’s been fed through the messages they’ve been sending for a long time — that you just make flat assertions that don’t comport with the facts. That you just deny the evidence of science. That compromise is a betrayal. That the other side isn’t simply wrong, or we just disagree, we want to take a different approach, but the other side is destroying the country, or treasonous. I mean, that’s — look it up. That’s what they’ve been saying.
So they can’t be surprised when somebody suddenly looks and says, you know what, I can do that even better. I can make stuff up better than that. I can be more outrageous than that. I can insult people even better than that. I can be even more uncivil. I mean, conservative outlets have been feeding their base constantly the notion that everything is a disaster, that everybody else is to blame, that Obamacare is destroying the country. And it doesn’t matter whether it’s true or not. It’s not, we disagree with this program, we think we can do it better — it’s, oh, this is a crisis!
So if you don’t care about the facts, or the evidence, or civility, in general in making your arguments, you will end up with candidates who will say just about anything and do just about anything."
And that's Trump!
783
You aren’t recognizing that Obama was not every person’s favorite president. He was divisive in many ways, not embracing all with equal arms. When it came to race, he sided with African Americans first, then back-pedaled to be more inclusive. Part of Obama’s legacy was to make things better for people of color and unfortunately that message devolved into Ferguson, Black Lives Matter, etc. So there was also violence associated with his Presidency, too. He absolutely didn’t egg it on like Trump does, but it grew from the misconceptions of what political action can and should entail. So there is an imbalance in our national perspective and it doesn’t come from the right only. Just saying -- we won’t solve the problem until we are fully honest about it, on both sides.
1
Yes, that's Trump...
And the nation is In Denial.
See Sigmund and Anna Freud.
And the nation is In Denial.
See Sigmund and Anna Freud.
Obama doesn't go far enough. This is the (il)logical end of LBJ losing the "solid South" Democrats for "a generation" just over 50 years ago with the Civil Rights and Voting Rights Acts.
LBJ vastly underestimated the temporal length of the loss. It started with Jesse Helms and Strom Thurmond becoming Republicants. It was harvested as a strategy by Richard Nixon in 1968, and was the overwhelming subtext of Ronald Reagan announcing his candidacy in 1980 in Philadelphia, MS proclaiming his support for "states' rights." For year, it was all code and dog whistles. Trumplestiltskin makes his declarations loud and proud. I'm sure he'd have the support of Bull Connor and Lester Maddox.
LBJ vastly underestimated the temporal length of the loss. It started with Jesse Helms and Strom Thurmond becoming Republicants. It was harvested as a strategy by Richard Nixon in 1968, and was the overwhelming subtext of Ronald Reagan announcing his candidacy in 1980 in Philadelphia, MS proclaiming his support for "states' rights." For year, it was all code and dog whistles. Trumplestiltskin makes his declarations loud and proud. I'm sure he'd have the support of Bull Connor and Lester Maddox.
1
Back in 2012 Romney and the GOP should have distanced
themselves from Trump the "birther" instead they welcomed
his endorsement and money, shame on them. During the
course of this primary after his racist comments on mexican
and muslim the GOP and the other candidates should have
disqualified him to run as a Republican, instead they did sang
to his tune and took part to the "Trump's show", shame on them.
Now in some pathetic attempt at attacking him, Romney is
suppose to be the voice of reason ? Trump is on his way to win
the candidacy, the GOP candidate will be an extreme right wing
dubious business man full of himself and they deserve him.
themselves from Trump the "birther" instead they welcomed
his endorsement and money, shame on them. During the
course of this primary after his racist comments on mexican
and muslim the GOP and the other candidates should have
disqualified him to run as a Republican, instead they did sang
to his tune and took part to the "Trump's show", shame on them.
Now in some pathetic attempt at attacking him, Romney is
suppose to be the voice of reason ? Trump is on his way to win
the candidacy, the GOP candidate will be an extreme right wing
dubious business man full of himself and they deserve him.
8
The answer to Trump is the Koch Bros. They funded Tea Party whack-jobs in response to Obama/Healthcare, and had them run wild in church basements.
Trump is the de facto Tea Party President. We don't hear from them as a block because they are All Trump. The Kochs can't control these folks, and the Kochs don't have a dog in this fight.
It's what we're not hearing too, some of the time.
Trump is the de facto Tea Party President. We don't hear from them as a block because they are All Trump. The Kochs can't control these folks, and the Kochs don't have a dog in this fight.
It's what we're not hearing too, some of the time.
2
I knew it would somehow be blamed on Obama.
10
Obama's rightly the go-to guy for the dyspeptic. Over 70% of Americans think "the country is on the wrong track." Been that way since Midterms 2014.
4
I feel that the premise of this article is wrong, Trump wants power and for everyone to hang on his every word. And who is more powerful than the president of the US? And I feel that Trump thinks that he can get the necessary people throughout the world to do what he wants them to do. And I feel that he thinks that he knows what everyone needs to do and is honest about telling everyone that. And it frightens me that he might get to be President. But what frightens me more is that Cruz or Mario could be president. Sanders and Clinton frighten me too, but to a lesser degree.
3
You seem to enjoy fright...boo!
2
Coming soon: Citizen Trump, the movie.
Wonder what is "Rosebud" will be.
Wonder what is "Rosebud" will be.
4
Lodged in his hair of course!
2
We all found out (probably too late) that vulgarity is no substitute for wit! Trump has earned all kinds of words that describe him to the fullest and mine for him is just plain EVIL and VULGAR! Can he succeed with his many attempts to MAKE AMERICA HATE AGAIN. Perhaps that HATE is now directed at him.
4
The one thing few talk about as a key for his success is his ability to tackle the dark side of politically correct speech. OK, he's brash, rude and vulgar.
So what? The fact that he can actually practice — gasp! — free speech without being arrested by the PC police is a delight indeed.
The rest of us have been beaten into submission during the past 20 years to only say, in public, what has been approved by the power elite.
I certainly don't agree with a lot of what Mr. Trump says (although he raises valid points on trade and security issues), but I do celebrate the fact that he doesn't seem to be hemmed in by having his words approved by Those in High Places.
We seem to be fine by what liberal activist groups chant on the streets — including fiery, hateful speech — so why be upset when a non-liberal candidate brings "street talk" to the campaign trail?
So what? The fact that he can actually practice — gasp! — free speech without being arrested by the PC police is a delight indeed.
The rest of us have been beaten into submission during the past 20 years to only say, in public, what has been approved by the power elite.
I certainly don't agree with a lot of what Mr. Trump says (although he raises valid points on trade and security issues), but I do celebrate the fact that he doesn't seem to be hemmed in by having his words approved by Those in High Places.
We seem to be fine by what liberal activist groups chant on the streets — including fiery, hateful speech — so why be upset when a non-liberal candidate brings "street talk" to the campaign trail?
7
So, you're saying, in effect, that Trump has now given you and your like-minded Trumpistas permission to go out in public and act and talk like ignorant rubes. Doesn't sound like progress to me.
5
"A man who maketh trouble in his own house shall inherit the wind."
The Book of Proverbs
The Book of Proverbs
7
Was that by Dave Eggers? It's a heavily secular crowd here, BTW. Assume nothing theologically.
3
To be honest, I only started taking his campaign seriously in February. I just kept telling myself, it's name recognition, it's not real, it will fade out, someone sane will win. Now it's likely too late. This primary season is bizarre. I'm seriously concerned for our country's future though, since I think there is a chance he could win the presidency.
3
...and unfortunately you, in a sense, perpetuate the lunacy of this hapless, borderline unstable candidate by continuing to give him loads of press - gratis, to boot!
6
Whatever said about Trump, the fact is he only reflects people who support him.
Hitler would be nothing without the majority of German people who supported him. Trump only takes the lessons from Hitler, Stalin, Mussolini and religious cult leaders: their power comes from the mass of gullible and willing sheep who love to sacrifice themselves for the promise of glory and the orgasm from spewing blood out of "nonbelievers."
If Trump is elected, it indeed shows of what the Americans are made.
Hitler would be nothing without the majority of German people who supported him. Trump only takes the lessons from Hitler, Stalin, Mussolini and religious cult leaders: their power comes from the mass of gullible and willing sheep who love to sacrifice themselves for the promise of glory and the orgasm from spewing blood out of "nonbelievers."
If Trump is elected, it indeed shows of what the Americans are made.
16
I'd like to know what it tells us about Americans if he's not elected, professor. It surely must be perspicacious.
2
Not true about Hitler. He had about a third of the country, and then played some inside politics to get a plurality and after a false flag attack where he was made to look like the victim of violence, he took complete control.
Trump has a plurality of the GOP but is gaming the large field and winner take all state primaries to earn a victory. That only leaves one candidate left. What trickery will he pull to get into the White Haus.
If he is elected President, he'll be the first to do so with a net unfavorable rating. That is for sure. And we'll also have a "terrorist attack" and martial law within 2 months of him taking office.
Trump has a plurality of the GOP but is gaming the large field and winner take all state primaries to earn a victory. That only leaves one candidate left. What trickery will he pull to get into the White Haus.
If he is elected President, he'll be the first to do so with a net unfavorable rating. That is for sure. And we'll also have a "terrorist attack" and martial law within 2 months of him taking office.
Godwin's Law...
The Sunday Times ... two or three prominent articles and at least two editorials on Donald Trump....
One editorial saying how Bernie Sanders should hang it up.... And then they ask why things are as they are.
One editorial saying how Bernie Sanders should hang it up.... And then they ask why things are as they are.
11
You want to be taken seriously? Read a briefing book. Figure out what the nuclear triad is. Study. Listen to people. Ask questions of people less fortunate than yourself. Don't shout one-liners at rallies. Don't incite people to violence. We need less violence in this country, not more.
9
This reads like a real life version of the movie The Sting, which just ended a few minutes ago on cable TV. Trump as a demented and mendacious version of the Robert Redford character... with especially bad hair; the GOP as the mark; and America the victim.
6
Here's why so many people assume that the media is in the tank: Why publish this now? All of the facts were known long ago. Why not have run this the day Trump declared? Perhaps it would have given some of his now rabid supporters pause.
15
I completely agree with your post. I cannot understand the massive failure of journalism to really probe this thing before now. Although there are exceptions, what we have had is a lot of 'commentary' about who is winning, or about armchair psychology. The whole thing -- from the 'debate' formats to the press to the candidates themselves -- has been presented as an episode of American Idol. The fancy camera work and the screaming audience - it is a sickening display. I saw interviews of Trump by Anderson Cooper and Bob Woodward (yes) -- and the questions were just empty softballs. Why does Trump not want to debate again? Because the last debate got closer to highlighting the ignorance. They say he can't win. But he is getting a lot of votes. People need facts and sober analysis and tough questions. They needed it months ago. They are mostly not getting it even now.
21
Mr. Trump is making a big splash, but even he must understand that he Cannot Win the November general election. At least for the 2016 cycle, Mr. Trump may be the Democrat's best friend - and that is perfectly OK with me. The vast majority if his own party rejects him; his only real supporters are a tiny yet very vocal minority. Mr. Trump will go away and the only question is when. The sooner he goes, the sooner the Republican's odds will improve.
6
How to explain 46,000 Democrats re-registering as Republicans in Pennsylvania? or 20,000 in Massachusetts? What about the higher turnout of Republican versus Democrat voters in the primaries?
Is that an improvement?
Is that an improvement?
1
when will we stop talking about Trump? When will we stop giving him any credence in our discussions? I remember my mother telling me how Hitler rose to power,he attracted thugs that had no ethical basis to their life, opposed everything that did not support their self importance. She said Hitler was neither a nationalist nor socialist,& just wanted to make up for his inadequacies. A short little Austrian denied admission to Austrian military, who said anything to gain attention , who bullied his way to the top . Killed anyone who thought or believed in anything different than himself. Are there any parallels here?
6
Trump is following Nazi playbook and very successful. History always repeats itself because men never learn anything from it.
The cause of the destruction of humanity will not be God, climate change, asteroids, extraterrestrial species, of artificial intelligence: the human race itself will do the deed long before any of those.
The cause of the destruction of humanity will not be God, climate change, asteroids, extraterrestrial species, of artificial intelligence: the human race itself will do the deed long before any of those.
4
I just can't believe this buffoon/crass caricature will get the nomination. After all, two-thirds of Republican votes so far have gone to other candidates. I cringe when I hear his two spokeswomen on CNN defending him NO MATTER WHAT. J. Lord's comparisons to bad behavior by politicians decades, even centuries ago, is even harder to stomach when he cheerfully defends Trump ever-worsening behaviors. I sincerely hope things change dramatically for worse for Trump on Tuesday. He long ago crossed over from being ridiculous, sometimes funny, to being scary and dangerous to me.
2
Unlike the GOP or its other candidates, Mr. Trump has no ideology. This allows him to shift with the winds on any political issue as his business methods show. Serves the GOP right for letting their bankrupt beliefs and selfish methods give Trump's valueless expediency a platform. It's entirely likely that he will eviscerate the GOP agenda if elected. That may be the ultimate GOP nightmare.
9
I agree with Donald Trump on precious little but on one thing I do agree. We have had enough debates.
I know his reason for wanting them stopped is strategic. As the number of men on stage narrows the focus returns to him more frequently and his shallowness becomes more and more evident.
My reason for wanting them stopped (until we have actual nominees) is that we have ceased to get anything new from them and I'm tired of the spectacle of an "arena" full of partisans trying to out hoot each other to create the illusion that their candidate is faring better that the other(s).
I know the debates will continue; they have become a massive source of income for the cable networks. But that does not justify their existence. They were supposed to inform us as voting citizens and we are about as informed as we will ever be. So turn out the lights until after the conventions. Let our nerves unjangle.
I know his reason for wanting them stopped is strategic. As the number of men on stage narrows the focus returns to him more frequently and his shallowness becomes more and more evident.
My reason for wanting them stopped (until we have actual nominees) is that we have ceased to get anything new from them and I'm tired of the spectacle of an "arena" full of partisans trying to out hoot each other to create the illusion that their candidate is faring better that the other(s).
I know the debates will continue; they have become a massive source of income for the cable networks. But that does not justify their existence. They were supposed to inform us as voting citizens and we are about as informed as we will ever be. So turn out the lights until after the conventions. Let our nerves unjangle.
8
Don't know who said it first, but it bears repeating 'The most addictive narcotic is the spotlight'
4
Regardless of what Trump may have intended his campaign to mean, it has grown to represent the crude and vulgar side of our political life. He attracts and encourages millions of disenfranchised Americans who are frustrated that they have to press a number 1 or 2 to get English messages when they call a doctor or insurance agent. They are frustrated because they were taught to believe in police and now see people challenging them in court and in the press. These are not arguments of the intellect but emotional responses to a world his supporters don't understand and is frighting to them. His encouragement of hatred and divisiveness has fueled this fear and its resulting angry responses. He is the poster child for mob rule mentality and we need to stop him with our votes and free speech.
10
Reality bites. Begging, cozying up, using him for his TV reality draw and wallet.
Just deserts for the Republicans, a disaster for the USA. I cannot think of a better example than Trump to epitomize what the Republican Party is about, it's me, me, me, all the way home with citizens footing the bill. But at last they have a cohesive message and consensus of opinion even if the winner of the cockfight is yet to be called.
Just deserts for the Republicans, a disaster for the USA. I cannot think of a better example than Trump to epitomize what the Republican Party is about, it's me, me, me, all the way home with citizens footing the bill. But at last they have a cohesive message and consensus of opinion even if the winner of the cockfight is yet to be called.
3
When he was humiliated by the president to the laughter of the crème de la crème, it was as if a peasant had been deliberately permitted into a 10th Century Royal court to be served up for the general mirth of the entire gathering of nobles, court jesters, and hangers on.
Suddenly, he realized that no matter whether he made more money, or stuck his name on even more buildings, or made more TV shows, or even more deals, he would never gain their respect and adulation.
So, he looked at his persecutor and decided he would take the president`s job itself.
(I am still slapping myself on the back because I recall thinking a version of the above back when I saw some TV footage from the annual press dinner. It's fun to be right).
Suddenly, he realized that no matter whether he made more money, or stuck his name on even more buildings, or made more TV shows, or even more deals, he would never gain their respect and adulation.
So, he looked at his persecutor and decided he would take the president`s job itself.
(I am still slapping myself on the back because I recall thinking a version of the above back when I saw some TV footage from the annual press dinner. It's fun to be right).
6
Did you ever stop to think why Trump would attend a dinner hosted by the president who's "not the legitimate president" because he was "born in Kenya"? Trump should have abstained and kept himself at Trump Tower, but he didn't.
He knows the president was born here, but he also knew that disgruntled white Americans would latch onto hateful rhetoric and voila, he's the next Republican presidential nominee!
He knows the president was born here, but he also knew that disgruntled white Americans would latch onto hateful rhetoric and voila, he's the next Republican presidential nominee!
4
A lot of big business people attend those dinners on much-sought invitations from a press member. So, on the way in, he thought he was one of them. On the way out, he was the butt of their jokes, and rendered so in front of a ruling class gathering of blue-blood donors, occasional leading academics, mandarins, and top entertainment figures, as well as other crass nouveaux riches.
Mr Trump's success in the election simply reflects on the long-standing rot in the Republican party. This party has become the party of ignorance-much of the so called Republican establishment are anti-science-do not believe in evolution- climate change for example. Large segments of American voters do not understand what has happened in the world-great changes-which has left many behind in their comfortable world. This is not going to change in spite of the attempt by Republican candidates to turn back the clock to some period-who knows where. Certainly, candidates have misled their Republican voters.
Political process is the glue that holds any democracy together. This process requires compromise to be effective. That process is not working due to Republican intransigence in congress and will worsen if any of the Republican candidates make it to the White House. Democracy in America is in deep trouble and may fail. We all know what follows after that.
Political process is the glue that holds any democracy together. This process requires compromise to be effective. That process is not working due to Republican intransigence in congress and will worsen if any of the Republican candidates make it to the White House. Democracy in America is in deep trouble and may fail. We all know what follows after that.
5
It is a shame that Mr. Trump has chosen this path -- a presidential campaign -- to assuage feelings of inadequacy by merging this solution to his insecurities with his love of the limelight. Throughout the campaign, he himself has been the story of the day, rather than his positions on any of the hundreds of issues that face a U.S. president. The result has been a "Trump vs. the world" reality TV show, with his rallies serving as episodes at which he can state supposedly bald truths others are afraid to utter, has appealed to an angry cohort of people who feel disenfranchised by "the system." Trump's daily outpouring of almost meaningless, vapid criticism plays into the conspiracy theories that circulate in society. Upon the blank slate of his vague pronouncements, his supporters can silently write in the personal specifics of their grievances, their feelings of being slighted, their rarely spoken biases, their prejudices, and their insecurities related to perceived limitations on their liberties. Trump has provided a channel for rivers of discontent to emerge into the open. However, he, like the Republican-led Congress for the past several years, has not managed to articulate even a single coherent or viable policy plan for any of the myriad problems that face our nation. His bigotry, refusal to condemn personal violence, misogyny, and bombastic, seemingly random personal attacks on others have brought the political process to a tragic nadir.
10
Barack Obama, the one man that rightfully put Donald Trump down. Right where he belongs/belonged.
6
mima - Pure double standard.
3
Are you actually defending Trump's baseless and flat-out insane claims about Obama? BTW, where's Trump's tax returns? Or his medical history and current state of health? Shouldn't all that have been made public a long time ago? (And I don't mean that fake doctors' report Trump produced.)
Bunch of Clinton supporters crash a Trump ralley spoiling for a fight and its Trump supporters who are in the wrong.
11
No wonder Trump has only spent $30 million of his own money so far: the Democrats' assaults on him GUARANTEE vast amounts of free media coverage for him, and worldwide. Smart boy, not to carry coals to Newcastle.
4
Please. I know I should read the article, and (too) much of this is news. But, seriously, and I mean this for the NYT as well as Doonesbury (whom/which I love) and the NYer with that Shouts & Murmurs not-ironic-enough joky piece on Trump-can't-believe-he-got-this-far-trying-to-get-fired--Much of this is news, but please stop giving Trump so much space. Talk about the disturbing psychology underlying/supporting his campaign, but PLEASE stop adding fuel to the fire. Thank you.
8
I fear Trump. not because he has racism and bigotry in his DNA...i don't think tat is the case... I fear him because he is doing this all in a calculated manner.. just to win. To his credit, he read the mood of the public very well... but his willingness to stoop to low levels to win is troublesome.
8
Please. Boring, and you'rer playing his game. Just let us have some other news.
For example, there is a lot of flooding around.
For example, there is a lot of flooding around.
9
@Susan Anderson:
Denying others the right of assembly and free speech, and interfering with them when they come to listen to their candidate, is realy news. It doesn't happen often. It becomes even more relevant when the press, which is free to say what they like, is blaming Trump for saying what he and his supporters like.
Some make up fantasies about Trump's campaign resembling fascist times. That is the poorly informed radical left, who don't know that fascism trhives only under large dictatorial government, and not the small one conservatives are advocsating.
Denying others the right of assembly and free speech, and interfering with them when they come to listen to their candidate, is realy news. It doesn't happen often. It becomes even more relevant when the press, which is free to say what they like, is blaming Trump for saying what he and his supporters like.
Some make up fantasies about Trump's campaign resembling fascist times. That is the poorly informed radical left, who don't know that fascism trhives only under large dictatorial government, and not the small one conservatives are advocsating.
3
I don't recall having denied anyone the right to free assembly. Trump and his goons are rough on people exercising their free speech and he encourages violence. Not a guy I'd like in charge of my money or defense, as he's a loser in both arenas, despite his exaggerations. Listen if you dare: a lot of facts in there. Ugly is as ugly does.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DnpO_RTSNmQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DnpO_RTSNmQ
5
@Susan Anderson: The people came peacefull to listen to their candidate and cheer. The disruptors prevented them from listening, thus denying them their right. People were prevented from listening to free speech. Can't you see that?
Are you callling Trump supporters goons? Is that best answer the liberals have? The disruptors were the goons, not the peaceful who came to listen and cheer. Just look who started the thuggery.
Are you callling Trump supporters goons? Is that best answer the liberals have? The disruptors were the goons, not the peaceful who came to listen and cheer. Just look who started the thuggery.
2
These are the people who ruin the country
With their uncivilized affrontry
Trump loves America and wants to make it great
While lowlife losers prefer to denigrate
Donald is the Prez. America now needs
To confront the low life breeds
Those who want it all for free
Really bad for you and me
It's last chance for the usa
For silent majority to have it's day
And the losers to finally stump
By supporting Donald Trump
With their uncivilized affrontry
Trump loves America and wants to make it great
While lowlife losers prefer to denigrate
Donald is the Prez. America now needs
To confront the low life breeds
Those who want it all for free
Really bad for you and me
It's last chance for the usa
For silent majority to have it's day
And the losers to finally stump
By supporting Donald Trump
2
Trump doen't deserve poetry. Try prose.
Sinclair Lewis, "It Can't Happen Here."
Sinclair Lewis, "It Can't Happen Here."
7
Facts confuse The Donald and turn him red as a beet
But Trumpsters don’t despair or have a care
The Klan does not require them in order to get your sheet
But Trumpsters don’t despair or have a care
The Klan does not require them in order to get your sheet
5
It is so odd to me that Trump has such cultic followers in this "information age" who have the opportunity to find out everything about him and yet refuse to. Despite a huge majority of the world speaking out against him, his supporters simply believe it's just a conspiracy.
7
Cult of the strong leader; now they're holding the GOP hostage. Interesting that the Republicans may have to vote for the Democrat to save the country.
There is NO WAY Trump could ever pass the Presidential vetting process. No Way.
5
And Obama did? Oh, that's because no one actually vetted him.
2
Obama was the most thoroughly-vetted presidential candidate of my lifetime. The process was extensive, and nothing Donald Trump claimed about Obama turned out to be true. What a surprise.
Why is such a successful man not taken seriously? Why is he underestimated? Is it wise to ridicule him? He is amassing power. He is not going away. He cannot be bought.
9
It's unwise NOT to ridicule him.
5
And you believe that a) he's a successful businessman, b) amassing power is what Presidents are for.
Well, my goodness.
Well, my goodness.
6
At this very frightening point, I do not for the life of me understand why serious leaders (not candidates or pseudo-candidates) from the Republican Party are not stepping in and ending this debacle.
6
Donald Trump, like Mitt Romney, is the .01%. Take a real good look at the problem, America. This is the donor class in all its glory.
13
Donald Trump is not the .01%. He's not even especially wealthy. And he's certainly not upper class--he's B-list at best. Perhaps he has some insecurities about this.
2
The Clinton Foundation has over $3 BILLION in assets, according to the NYT. And that's after just several years, not lifetime of work as Trump and Romney did. BILLARY, creatures of Wall Street and Hollywood and Big Labor and speech-making payola, are right in the .01%.
3
Clinton Foundation money is not Bill and/or Hillary's personal income. Sorry to burst your 1% balloon.
I just listened, as long as I could stand it, to Trump at his KC rally. The closest parallel that comes to mind is that of a tertiary syphilitic incoherently ranting on some street corner. His delivery is loud ,repetitive, angry and disjointed. If this man was running for the presidency of Kazakhstan I'd even be worried but ,my god; the USA ?.
33
Some commenters espouse their college degrees trying to prove that all trump supporters aren't ignorant and without high school diplomas. However, simply because one has a college diploma doesn't mean you're smart enough to recognize a racist demogogue. Ypu can have a college degree and still have hatred in your heart.
12
In fact it has become so awful that nearly every person has some group (or a few groups) that he hates passionately. Americans seem to have become extraordinary at hating their fellow citizens rather than accepting the differences of their fellow citizens. So much so that many believe that entire groups of people need to grin and bear their economic struggles rather than advocate for themselves, while others (usually others with far far more affluence) whine about those groups of people not "caring" enough about others. I'd say isn't that ironic. But it isn't really. It is just hypocrisy!
4
No one - including the NY Times - seems able to see that Trump's rallies are becoming more and more like gatherings of Hitler Youth.
21
Thanks to the Clinton supporters who crash the ralley.
4
Some of us see it.
It's terrifying. What are we going to do?
It's terrifying. What are we going to do?
2
They're not that youthful.
3
Where to begin. The formerly non-profit publicly owned and operated skating rink that now is a platform for his name at a profit (his own admission), the attention seeking behavior a la Hitler, Mussolini, and any number of tin horn dictators from third world countries. The end line of all of these characters has never been in a good place. Leadership in America has almost always been able to rise above these characteristics and support Americans in their disdain for such characteristics. The last character to talk like this was the likes of Spiro Agnew and we know where that ended up. It's a sad and troubling time.
2
While I do not disagree with the substance of your post, I am quite tickled that your list of Trump's disqualifying characteristics starts with his assault on fair access to skating rinks.
3
While I do not disagree with the substance of your post, I am quite tickled that your list of Trump's disqualifying characteristics starts with his assault on fair access to skating rinks.
1
A world-class coward. A real tough guy - surrounded by Secret Service agents - who taunts and challenges foes. A chicken hawk who welcomes the opportunity to put young American servicemen and women in harm's way. He'll take on ISIS. No he won't. Your neighbor's kid will take on ISIS. Put this guy on a street corner with one single protester - just one - and they'd be a pair of expensive pants in need of dry cleaning. And yet millions of Americans are lapping up his nativist buffoonery. My goodness, what does that say about this country? This isn't some secret society of several hundred; this is a following in the millions. Your fellow Americans, buying into the world according to Trump. I suspect his run for the White House will come up short. But if he is successful, the nation will have redefined itself. And its new face will be ugly and a source of great shame.
17
You are free to leave. No one's stopping you.
2
To Commenter "Liberty Apples" - Well said. I have the same grave concerns. Concerns about him and his followers.
It isn't surprising, the way professional politicians talk and behave as if they know everything and anyone but one of their own can't possibly know anything. It's a real insidious clique that could stand to be broken up - kind of like the big banks on Wall Street. And Trump's popularity proves that a lot of other people feel that way too and are sick of the arrogance epidemic in Washington DC. Incidentally, I seem to remember from sixth grade history that the founding fathers didn't believe in rule by professional politicians. What happened over the last 200 years to change that? Maybe Trump's candidacy will shed some light on how we got to where we are today.
2
May one suggest watching HBO's "John Adams," and acquiring a clue?
2
Neither Trump or Clinton. Out of work folks need help and neither political party caters to their needs. FDR was the last person who really helped these folks out. Lots of government help- jobs, school, TVA and so on. Since then both parties have kept away from this approach. After Roosevelt, the Cold War developed and money for social causes dried up, manufacturing was sent abroad and the economy became. "financialized." The right wing , pro military, pro intervention crowd has ruined our country. Sanders is on the right track, Clinton and Trump not.
4
yup, just take your toys and go home. That'll fix things good.
Stop relying on magic thinking and heroes and roll up your sleeves. Otherwise, no future for the planet.
Stop relying on magic thinking and heroes and roll up your sleeves. Otherwise, no future for the planet.
3
I'm taking pre-orders for the "Helped Take America Fascist," t-shirts.
Would you care to pre-order?
Would you care to pre-order?
4
Comparison of Trump's rise to a couple of classics - Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, and Frankenstein - I suppose is too easy to make. The conclusion of Jekyll and Hyde is being proven to be prescient one more time. I'm just hoping, like many others, that we as a nation will somehow survive.
2
The Penguin!!
We are in Deep trouble!
And the is should end in true Batman bravado.
We are in Deep trouble!
And the is should end in true Batman bravado.
1
And we're suppose to believe the media's interest in the ratings it received broadcasting this Trump circus didn't play any part in egging him on?
15
What's funny about being ridiculed by anyone, never mind by a President, publicly? I think it's cruel.
Trump's presidential aspirations are fair for him to have, as aren't we the nation who believes anyone can rise? Don't we point to Lincoln? This is not to compare Trump to Lincoln; that wouldn't work in any universe. It's to say Trump has as much a right to try as the next person. But what a lesson he must be learning right now, as his rallies light up in violence! The violence isn't Trump's creation; he is just the match to the pile of anger that has been smoldering for some time. I don't think he wants to be that match, actually. I think he expected people to go to the brink with him and stop. Welcome to dealing with the real public. On both sides.
My students are working on an argument paper so I went for the teachable moment. I wrote every candidates name across our really long board, asked for 2-3 of their top issues, asked the students to decide if they were using ethos, pathos, logos. We tallied it up, and my students decided that both Trump and Sanders were using pathos the most. No real jump needed, then, to see who is fighting at the rallies.
Trump's presidential aspirations are fair for him to have, as aren't we the nation who believes anyone can rise? Don't we point to Lincoln? This is not to compare Trump to Lincoln; that wouldn't work in any universe. It's to say Trump has as much a right to try as the next person. But what a lesson he must be learning right now, as his rallies light up in violence! The violence isn't Trump's creation; he is just the match to the pile of anger that has been smoldering for some time. I don't think he wants to be that match, actually. I think he expected people to go to the brink with him and stop. Welcome to dealing with the real public. On both sides.
My students are working on an argument paper so I went for the teachable moment. I wrote every candidates name across our really long board, asked for 2-3 of their top issues, asked the students to decide if they were using ethos, pathos, logos. We tallied it up, and my students decided that both Trump and Sanders were using pathos the most. No real jump needed, then, to see who is fighting at the rallies.
3
You underatand Aristotelian rhetoric roughly as well as you understand Aristotle's notion of democracy.
They rely mostly on ethos, dude. That's the problem.
They rely mostly on ethos, dude. That's the problem.
You think they really on ethical arguments? Hardly. It’s all emotion, packaged otherwise.
1
Btw, Robert, this isn’t a Trump rally. There is no need for you to attack me for what you think I do or do not know. These comments all contribute to an ongoing and often times highly informative discussion.
2
"Donald Trump’s Presidential Run Began in an Effort to Gain Stature" but when he opens his mouth people with brains know who and what he is, and always will be.
4
Anyone who can not ignore schoolyard taunts has no right to call himself an adult. Trump is an adult in a Republican schoolyard full of children. I would be proud to give him my vote.
A schoolyard taunt is a manifestation of immaturity but publicly mocking a disabled person as Trump did at a rally in South Carolina last November is the work of a sick and twisted mind. And laughing at that mockery, as Mr. Trump's supporters did, is evidence of moral depravity. These are the people who talk about "greatness". What a joke.
6
Sinclair Lewis wrote the story over 80 years ago--" It [Fascism in America] Can't Happen Here" about a populist demagogue by the name of Buzz Windrip. The book and the idea gathered dust.
But it is happening here and now.
But it is happening here and now.
9
Let's stop fooling ourselves here, shall we? If the Republicans had not been playing the racist card from day one after President Obama took office, there would not be such a fertile ground today for deranged, unacceptable claims by some billionaire sociopath. As for what is yet to come, I think that one sign waved by a Trump opponent in Missouri this week, sums up our dilemma. It read: "Make America stupid, again." If we, as a nation, believe that frustration or what-have-you is enough for a presidential platform, we are in for a yooge reckoning...
12
Let the reckoning come. It's long overdue.
He free associates. He has no boundaries. He disassembles. He calls this "telling it like it is." I call it borderline personality disorder.
13
It's been several months now, and this candidacy still has the official backing of the Republican Party of the United States of America. That is astonishing. Think about that. This candidacy is still being officially countenanced as acceptable by the Republican party, which is taking no coordinated action to reject it as something that is not within its overall mission statement. Each member of that party needs to search his conscience and re-read the Constitution. It is not a question of winning votes or primaries or the general election. Nor is it a question of honoring a premature and misguided "pledge to support the nominee." Other pledges far outrank that. Meaning the pledge of allegiance to the Republic, which ought not to be confused with a pledge of allegiance to the Republican party, its cohesion, its future, or the ambitions of its members. Its members can 'be smart: unify' as Mr Trump so ominously suggests. Or, they can be patriots, and request that this 'movement' form its own party and go elsewhere, taking those voters with them, thereby standing up to the implied blackmail. I would think that the members of the Republican party would then sleep better at night, even if they lose the election. They will need the sleep, because rethinking the whole platform and nomination process will be a lot of work.
9
It's too late for them to have that big of a change in rules.
Sayonara, suckers. Here comes Trump the hand grenade. Hope it blows up the entire political establishment.
Sayonara, suckers. Here comes Trump the hand grenade. Hope it blows up the entire political establishment.
Well the Krupps and other German Industrialists thought that they could control the Austrian house painter too. How wrong they were and how wrong the Republican establishment was. I fear for my country.
8
Ever wonder what it was like to be the older brother of Donald Trump? Think about it.
It is amazing to hear that the daughter of Katharine Graham, Lally Weymouth, was the host of Trump during the White House Correspondents' Dinner in 2011, at a time when he had already become the birther-in-chief of the nation.
Years ago I had the fortune of meeting Katharine Graham in person at small function abroad. I am sure that she would have read the riot act to her daughter of inviting Trump to the Washington Post table.
But then, Katharine Graham was never considered to be a 'socialite' either, contrary to her daughter, who seems to fit more into the bling, bling and nouveau riche circles than her mother ever did.
Years ago I had the fortune of meeting Katharine Graham in person at small function abroad. I am sure that she would have read the riot act to her daughter of inviting Trump to the Washington Post table.
But then, Katharine Graham was never considered to be a 'socialite' either, contrary to her daughter, who seems to fit more into the bling, bling and nouveau riche circles than her mother ever did.
5
Thankfully, other candidates have no wish to be taken seriously.
4
He's a megalomaniac, pure and simple. FOX TV and his inherited wealth gave birth to this. How do we claim that (American) birther status?
6
Rommy said it was for money that Trump would bring.
Bull, it was for the publicity. Rommy was so dumb.
And now Mr. Trump has trumped all of them. He is
like our Earl Long, who was crazy, as governor of
Louisiana some years ago. He did the same type\
of non sense. Do you really think the people of this
great country could in a clear way, elect a person of
this caliber?
Bull, it was for the publicity. Rommy was so dumb.
And now Mr. Trump has trumped all of them. He is
like our Earl Long, who was crazy, as governor of
Louisiana some years ago. He did the same type\
of non sense. Do you really think the people of this
great country could in a clear way, elect a person of
this caliber?
1
Trump knew exactly what he was doing when he engineered the 'demonstration' in Chicago. He is an expert in playing a crowd.
Meanwhile, the press is dutifully hanging on his every word. He's using us, guys.
Meanwhile, the press is dutifully hanging on his every word. He's using us, guys.
8
I have to remember that you’re the kind of people who laugh and clap while Trump ridicules a disabled person like he did at a rally last November so you yourselves are obviously too morally depraved to feel ashamed of yourselves, but you might want to consider for a moment how that future generation will feel about having a bigot for a grandparent.