Full disclosure- I am a political Junkie and take voting for our President very seriously. Without Google Search, I can name every contest in my lifetime beginning with Eisenhower/Stephenson in 1956. So now in 2016, we are faced with choosing between a wretched, venal, utterly corrupt, Serial Liar vs. a pompous, race bating, xenophobic, ridiculous Buffoon. The prospect of Clinton escaping being held accountable in light of her breath taking arrogance in ignoring every Security protocol, putting Classified communications at risk, having her top two Deputies in the State Department, Mills & Abernin, also working for the Clinton Money Laundering, Slush Fund, and then to have the Sexual Predator in Chief muscle the hapless Attorney General, is beyond nauseating. If Clinton, walks without being indicted, unscathed by the "Security Review", as her Enablers blather in Orwellian speak propaganda, any vestige of justice as it applies to those in Power is gone, simply does not apply, having become a casualty of the cesspool of corruption that permeates every facet of our government. Sadly, "Sources" are leaking that the Fix is in and this brazen Criminal is going to walk. And is anyone really surprised? As Dylan wrote, "You don't have to be a Weatherman to know which way the wind blows". Happy Independence Day...
3
Thanks, Mr. Blow, but Hillary has already taken her "due", from book publishers, Wall Street financiers, foreign governments and Russian companies. She doesn't need our "due".
85
At this point in the campaign year, I'd like some clarification as to the NYT's current definition of "flawed." It has been recently used to describe Bill Clinton and Obama. Now HRC.
Are you saying "flawed" as in bad judgement (visiting the Attorney General during an investigation involving your spouse) or strategy (somehow believing that a popular mandate could be augmented with GOP compromising)? Or some deep personal issue (i.e., "fatal flaw") that has so damaged HRC's candidacy that she (and her loyal minions including the NYT) can't understand that a little less parsing on issues (as the e-mails, the GS speeches, etc.) and a shade more forthrightness might move her a bit out of the "liar, liar pantsuit on fire" category and towards being a more "acceptable" candidate.
Are you saying "flawed" as in bad judgement (visiting the Attorney General during an investigation involving your spouse) or strategy (somehow believing that a popular mandate could be augmented with GOP compromising)? Or some deep personal issue (i.e., "fatal flaw") that has so damaged HRC's candidacy that she (and her loyal minions including the NYT) can't understand that a little less parsing on issues (as the e-mails, the GS speeches, etc.) and a shade more forthrightness might move her a bit out of the "liar, liar pantsuit on fire" category and towards being a more "acceptable" candidate.
34
I will vote for Hillary, but that doesn't mean I have to be happy about it. As a Massachusetts resident she reminds me too much of Martha Coakley. Competence will only get you so far in politics. You also have to inspire people.
As Bush showed, you can be elected even if you are incompetent as long as you are very likable. Normally I would say the reverse is impossible. An unlikable person cannot be elected even if they are incredibly qualified, but, this is a very strange year.
Before everyone jumps all over me for falling for the GOP ploy to smear Hillary, just think about how much time and effort they put into smearing Obama, and he is still quite liked by people who don't where confederate flag pajamas to bed. Hillary is just unlikable for some reason. She was unlikable in 2008, and she is unlikable now. Don't blame the messenger. Her only saving grace is that she is running against a literal clown.
As Bush showed, you can be elected even if you are incompetent as long as you are very likable. Normally I would say the reverse is impossible. An unlikable person cannot be elected even if they are incredibly qualified, but, this is a very strange year.
Before everyone jumps all over me for falling for the GOP ploy to smear Hillary, just think about how much time and effort they put into smearing Obama, and he is still quite liked by people who don't where confederate flag pajamas to bed. Hillary is just unlikable for some reason. She was unlikable in 2008, and she is unlikable now. Don't blame the messenger. Her only saving grace is that she is running against a literal clown.
33
Glad to see Mr. Blow is (kinda) defending Hillary. But, I felt a little mansplained while reading this column.
Clinton is not a "flawed and damaged" candidate like Trump is. Not even close. She's just a woman, which means in our society, that she must be super qualified, work extremely hard, and do it all before she'll even be taken seriously. And along the way she'll be called untrustworthy, a liar, flawed, demonic, evil, and the worst (fill-in-the-blank) ever.
To me, its kind of not noteworthy that Hillary did so well last month. Its what I would have expected from someone as smart and awesomely qualified as Hillary. And you should have expected it too, Mr. Blow.
Clinton is not a "flawed and damaged" candidate like Trump is. Not even close. She's just a woman, which means in our society, that she must be super qualified, work extremely hard, and do it all before she'll even be taken seriously. And along the way she'll be called untrustworthy, a liar, flawed, demonic, evil, and the worst (fill-in-the-blank) ever.
To me, its kind of not noteworthy that Hillary did so well last month. Its what I would have expected from someone as smart and awesomely qualified as Hillary. And you should have expected it too, Mr. Blow.
123
I don't know if it's wishful thinking or Charles simply parroting conventional wisdom about politics. In case Charles hasn't noticed, the conventional wisdom was imploded during Trumplestiltskin trampling all comers in the Republicant primary season.
The Times' Board of Ed followed with a wringing of the hands editorial about all the free publicity the mainstream media handed to Trumpty Dumpty, completely oblivious to its own wanton complicity in that effort.
Let's start with the Times' inexplicable decision to keep its extensive interviews of candidates with the Board of Ed on an off the record basis. (Tradition, they say) So the Times endorsement is based on what the candidates say, but we the readers can never know? And the Times, after its abysmal malpractice in political coverage, asks its readers to trust it? Sorry, no sale. This all spun out with the Times, and its roster of Hillary cheerleading columnists, unable to comprehend the reality. For myself, I will never trust the Times again, and Charles is whistling past the graveyard of a Trumplestiltskin presidency.
The Times' Board of Ed followed with a wringing of the hands editorial about all the free publicity the mainstream media handed to Trumpty Dumpty, completely oblivious to its own wanton complicity in that effort.
Let's start with the Times' inexplicable decision to keep its extensive interviews of candidates with the Board of Ed on an off the record basis. (Tradition, they say) So the Times endorsement is based on what the candidates say, but we the readers can never know? And the Times, after its abysmal malpractice in political coverage, asks its readers to trust it? Sorry, no sale. This all spun out with the Times, and its roster of Hillary cheerleading columnists, unable to comprehend the reality. For myself, I will never trust the Times again, and Charles is whistling past the graveyard of a Trumplestiltskin presidency.
24
So, now I have to worry about an attack from Mexico? There's no end to it all. Out classing some one in America is probably not a good thing.
4
Hillary Clinton is a pandering, money-hungry and corrupt individual.
There, that should cover it
There, that should cover it
59
What are the chances that Trump hotels and casinos have undocumented Mexican workers?
23
Compared to Trump, Hillary looks good.
Compared to Jill Stein, Hillary's burdens of promises to financiers leap up.
Compared to Jill Stein, Hillary's burdens of promises to financiers leap up.
25
Hillary Clinton was leading the US foreign policy for 4 crucial years. It would be more useful for NYT readers to read a detailed analysis of what was achieved, than a simple recounting of who said what about whom. Did USA achieve success against Islamic terrorism? Is the Middle East more peaceful? Did our policy of reset with Putin achieve our goals? Was European Union strengthened and reformed? Has change an joined the 21st century?
These are the questions to ask, right?
These are the questions to ask, right?
48
"He made everything about him."
"...,Trump replied 'that the market decline is good news--for him'..."
This is what Trump's supporters do not seem able to grasp: It really is all about him. When I say it, I mean everything. If Trump were asked to opine on a potential world-wide catastrophe, his response would cover the probable impact of the catastrophe-- on him.
Trump supporters should realize that they hold significance in Mr. Trump's
eyes only as it relates to him.
"...,Trump replied 'that the market decline is good news--for him'..."
This is what Trump's supporters do not seem able to grasp: It really is all about him. When I say it, I mean everything. If Trump were asked to opine on a potential world-wide catastrophe, his response would cover the probable impact of the catastrophe-- on him.
Trump supporters should realize that they hold significance in Mr. Trump's
eyes only as it relates to him.
39
I couldn't care less if I "like," Hillary Clnton or not. Never met the woman, am unlkely ever to meet the woman, do not care if the Prez is my buddy.
i am well aware of her shortcomings: the Iraq vote (which was to authorize force, not to go to war, and which was wrong), the defensive crouch, the silly private server, the ties to Wall Street.
I am voting for her first and foremost because unlike either Sanders or Trump, she's pretty specific about her policies, doesn't make promises that she cannot possibly deliver, and generally provides solid detail about what she wants to do.
Then I'm voting for her because Supreme Court. I don't want a Court packed one way or the other.
Then I am voting for her because she's not loudly nuts. She doesn't come out with a racist-quote-of-the-day, doesn't rant about them mezzicans and moozlims and chineese, and doesn't embarass the country every five minutes. Oh, and because typically, she gets her facts straight.
Then I am voting for her because she's the best chance to keep going in the direction Obama's mapped out.
So I get it, okay? Foreign policy a question, lots of the typical politician's ties to Wall Street, hubby's a considerable Bubba, email server not real smart, yadayada.
But on balance...oh, and one last thing. Unlike others, she appears to pay attention. And learns to do better.
So 'scuse me all to hell.
i am well aware of her shortcomings: the Iraq vote (which was to authorize force, not to go to war, and which was wrong), the defensive crouch, the silly private server, the ties to Wall Street.
I am voting for her first and foremost because unlike either Sanders or Trump, she's pretty specific about her policies, doesn't make promises that she cannot possibly deliver, and generally provides solid detail about what she wants to do.
Then I'm voting for her because Supreme Court. I don't want a Court packed one way or the other.
Then I am voting for her because she's not loudly nuts. She doesn't come out with a racist-quote-of-the-day, doesn't rant about them mezzicans and moozlims and chineese, and doesn't embarass the country every five minutes. Oh, and because typically, she gets her facts straight.
Then I am voting for her because she's the best chance to keep going in the direction Obama's mapped out.
So I get it, okay? Foreign policy a question, lots of the typical politician's ties to Wall Street, hubby's a considerable Bubba, email server not real smart, yadayada.
But on balance...oh, and one last thing. Unlike others, she appears to pay attention. And learns to do better.
So 'scuse me all to hell.
179
If the the NYT dedicated nearly as much print space to Clinton as they did to Trump, things would likely be reversed. Trump isn't worth a dime of ink, yet hardly a day goes by without his name in a prominent headline. Meanwhile, I can't name 5 positive things Clinton has done... ever. Mostly, the negative list just continues to grow. Seems that keeping Clinton out of the news is about the only strategy worth pursuing.
Our sorry state of affairs is a woeful condemnation of both our news media and our politics. I recommend voting third-party this November. Happy Independence Day independents...
Our sorry state of affairs is a woeful condemnation of both our news media and our politics. I recommend voting third-party this November. Happy Independence Day independents...
28
How and why is it possible to have written four comments on Mr. Blow's article, pointing out his weaknesses as a journalist and his lack of courage and creativity compared to other Times editorialists, and not see one of them published? Fair is fair.All were well thought out, and written in standard English.
20
Hillary had a wonderful June until good old clueless Bill screwed up again.
How clueless can he be? The sense of entitlement that all 3 Clintons (yes I include Chelsea) have is just totally off the charts.
I agree that Hillary is well qualified to be POTUS.....but just like Bill (before hiss 1992 election) she has a lot better resume than she has actual results and achievements. I did not vote for Bill in 1996 race because of Hillary's health care debacle. This still concerns me for 2016.
If the Libertarian Ticket was Weld-Johnson, and not Johnson-Weld, I would seriously consider voting for it especially if Hillary made a poor choice (IMO) for VP. Gov. Weld would make an excellent President.
Nobody Trump chooses will help him. and I mean that in several ways. The Newt and Porky the Governor are just as absurd a choice for VP as the Dumpster is for President.
If I was any of the "reasonable" candidates I would pass on this "honor" and save my resources for 2020 or 2024.
If HRC wins she could very well be a one term POTUS for many reasons.
My choice for the DEM nomination was Sen. Sherrod Brown(D-OH). He would be my choice for VP except for the fact he would be replaced in the Senate by a Republican. Of course, if Portman loses that would be a wash. Sort of. I really don't like Strickland.
How clueless can he be? The sense of entitlement that all 3 Clintons (yes I include Chelsea) have is just totally off the charts.
I agree that Hillary is well qualified to be POTUS.....but just like Bill (before hiss 1992 election) she has a lot better resume than she has actual results and achievements. I did not vote for Bill in 1996 race because of Hillary's health care debacle. This still concerns me for 2016.
If the Libertarian Ticket was Weld-Johnson, and not Johnson-Weld, I would seriously consider voting for it especially if Hillary made a poor choice (IMO) for VP. Gov. Weld would make an excellent President.
Nobody Trump chooses will help him. and I mean that in several ways. The Newt and Porky the Governor are just as absurd a choice for VP as the Dumpster is for President.
If I was any of the "reasonable" candidates I would pass on this "honor" and save my resources for 2020 or 2024.
If HRC wins she could very well be a one term POTUS for many reasons.
My choice for the DEM nomination was Sen. Sherrod Brown(D-OH). He would be my choice for VP except for the fact he would be replaced in the Senate by a Republican. Of course, if Portman loses that would be a wash. Sort of. I really don't like Strickland.
7
It's a shame that Mr. Blow perpetuates the Republican-generated myth that Hillary Clinton is a "flawed and damaged" candidate. Mr. Blow must be aware that most of Hillary Clinton's "flaws" have been manufactured by the Republican party over the past 25 years, and the "damage has been inflicted by her notoriously misogynistic opponents in the GOP. Her quiet competency has been twisted into some kind of sinister calculating persona.
Let's see this column for what it is--damning with faint praise.
Let's see this column for what it is--damning with faint praise.
67
The clarity that Hillary Clinton, and for that mater continuing supporters of Barack and Michelle Obama may be more flawed than the president or the cadidates. Oh yes Bill Clinton is running as hard or harder than Harridan Hilary.
But at least they have half an excuse, The New York Times columnists and newspaper that parses,lies and pretends to be objective on behalf of these overtself-serving slobs.
But at least they have half an excuse, The New York Times columnists and newspaper that parses,lies and pretends to be objective on behalf of these overtself-serving slobs.
21
Give Clinton her due: 5 to 7 years.
34
Erratum:
The contrast between Clinton and Trump cannot be more pronounced, yet her unfavorable score is 33 percent to his 42 percent ONLY. It is a sad commentary indeed on the American electorate.
The contrast between Clinton and Trump cannot be more pronounced, yet her unfavorable score is 33 percent to his 42 percent ONLY. It is a sad commentary indeed on the American electorate.
19
Mr. Blow's article dispenses the kind of information available on any pro Hillary website.She had a good week and DT did not take advantage of his opportunities. So, what else is new,and does Mr. Blow not have his priorities skewed? In a week that saw hundreds dead due to Caliphate's attacks. Is the peril posed by ISIS not the real story that Mr. Blow, not known for his zeal for investigative reporting, should be writing? Recall his article re New Orleans, murder city in the opinion of inhabitants because of high rate of criminal activity, which he wrote based on a conversation with Mayor Landrieu in his air conditioned offices in city center.Blow should have been using shank's pony to interview those living in the Hood, rather than carrying on a genteel conversation with city's top official. Have taken Nicolas Kristoff to task for his laziness in not learning even kitchen Arabic in order to fully research Saudi officials to acquire knowledge of the reasoning for subsidizing madrassas, as well as Wahabbi militant cells, but Mr. Kristoff has guts,and does not blink twice before going to out of the way places like south Sudan in order to bring us a story focusing on the humanitarian crisis there. Were Mr. Blow as courageous in chasing after a good story, rather than writing a propaganda piece for his favorite pol. candidate, HRC. It is an exercise in tedium, a bum show since we already knew he was going to say.TIMES should demand more creativity from its editorialists.
15
I see nothing flawed about Hillary Clinton. Just a smart savvy politician trying to get to the top and doing what needs to be done to get there. The lies and innuendos about her, from the right and left, been going on for decades. Bernie has done everything he can to poison the water around her. And it's worked with his politically naïve base. And of course Trump and his right wingers are just as hateful and even dumber should I say?
She's our next president so get used to it y'all.
She's our next president so get used to it y'all.
192
It's hard when even the Huffington Post only features repeated photos of Trump with occasional very bad photos of Hillary. Trump dominates their headline page. It's hard to know anything about the substance of Hillary's campaign
32
"Americans’ views of Hillary Clinton have remained significantly less negative than their views of Trump . . ."
And we are supposed to take some kind of satisfaction or inspiration in this? Running against Trump is like running against a fence post, most middle school students could shame him in a debate and even a cute Labrador pup could probably beat him in November. This doesn't make the other candidate more worthy by any means, and any candidate that has to struggle to win an election against a buffoon is hardly a strong one. A sad state of affairs indeed.
And we are supposed to take some kind of satisfaction or inspiration in this? Running against Trump is like running against a fence post, most middle school students could shame him in a debate and even a cute Labrador pup could probably beat him in November. This doesn't make the other candidate more worthy by any means, and any candidate that has to struggle to win an election against a buffoon is hardly a strong one. A sad state of affairs indeed.
32
Welp, the final paragraph reveals what this column is all about: a tentative eulogy. "In case she has to drop out for committing multiple felonies, let's not forget all the good things she did during her campaign."
27
Will someone please lay out for me the verifiable instances of Hillary's dishonest and lack of trustworthiness. Please give concrete examples and support with evidence. You won't because you can't.
This whole thing about her being dishonest is the result of 25 years of well-funded smear campaign by the republicans. Pure and simple. She behaves no differently than any other professional politician on the stage today.
And as for her "unlikablility" it's hard not to read sexism into those charges. In a man, that same affect that earns her "unlikable" would earn a man "serious."
Hillary is a professional politician and as such speaks the same way they all do. But when Paul Ryan speaks in exactly the same jargon, using similar metaphors, cadence and style and practiced evasiveness, he isn't accused of being hard and unlikable. He's accused of being a politician that you can't get a straight answer out of. Nothing more, nothing less.
Grow up America. Hillary is not your mom, she's not your Aunt Gussie, she's not your high school guidance counselor. Hillary is a tough, effective player in the very tough game of American politics and international geopolitics and if she had different plumbing, she would be so far ahead of Trump that she wouldn't be able to even see him in the rear view mirror.
We are being grossly unfair to her in the way we judge her and I think it is because of her gender, pure and simple. And I never thought I'd say that.
This whole thing about her being dishonest is the result of 25 years of well-funded smear campaign by the republicans. Pure and simple. She behaves no differently than any other professional politician on the stage today.
And as for her "unlikablility" it's hard not to read sexism into those charges. In a man, that same affect that earns her "unlikable" would earn a man "serious."
Hillary is a professional politician and as such speaks the same way they all do. But when Paul Ryan speaks in exactly the same jargon, using similar metaphors, cadence and style and practiced evasiveness, he isn't accused of being hard and unlikable. He's accused of being a politician that you can't get a straight answer out of. Nothing more, nothing less.
Grow up America. Hillary is not your mom, she's not your Aunt Gussie, she's not your high school guidance counselor. Hillary is a tough, effective player in the very tough game of American politics and international geopolitics and if she had different plumbing, she would be so far ahead of Trump that she wouldn't be able to even see him in the rear view mirror.
We are being grossly unfair to her in the way we judge her and I think it is because of her gender, pure and simple. And I never thought I'd say that.
287
Democrats and Independents alike need to get over "liking" Hilary Clinton. We don't have to "like" her, we just need to coalesce around her leadership in the understanding that she is strong, intelligent, and not indifferent to the needs of Americans at all levels. She is flawed, yes, but not in any way, or to any level, that makes her unfit to be president. We need to get behind her fully and without reservation because the alternative is intolerable.
81
Things may be going reasonably well for Hillary but it is still disturbing that her lead over Trump isn't bigger. The polls suggest that roughly 45% of all voters think Trump is fit to lead the country! They think his rhetoric actually makes sense! Meanwhile Hillary's negatives reflect the 25 year long smear campaign the GOP has waged against her. People have heard the smears for so long that many have accepted them as true. It's both amazing and alarming. Democrats are a long way from winning this thing, and they can't afford to assume otherwise. They need to go after Trump and the GOP as if the future of the world depends on it, because it does.
77
The real problem with Trump's presdential bid, one that Clinton does not remotely share, is the potential havoc that president Trump can wreak nationally and internationally. And, in view of the things that he has already said, such potential outcomes are not at all far fetched. "Entrusting a Ming vase to an ape" was how one of Boris Johnson's critics descrbed Johnson's candidacy. That expression is eerily accurate in describing Trump's.
63
All of this giving Hillary her "due" is fine. But for her to accumulate millions and millions, on top of her Clinton Foundation billions and billions, isn't it time for the Times to at least acknowledge there is a severe disconnect from those of us who are just common Americans, getting by on our savings and ever-shrinking Social Security?
49
Hillary Clinton voted for the war in Iraq without doing her homework -- she failed to read the National Intelligence Estimate. She thus blithely and without serious consideration condemned hundreds to thousands to death and serious, life changing injury, voted in favor of a trillion dollar disaster, and supported one of the worst foreign policy disasters of all time. And, she did it because she has neocon, hawkish tendencies and wanted to do the politically popular thing. Yes, yes, I know she said she is sorry. But, this single act wth such grave consequences reflected such poor judgment that as far as I am concerned she disqualified herself from ever holding high office. Thank you for reading.
51
On what basis do you think Hillary Clinton is a damaged and flawed candidate? Benghazi? The e-mail server? The numerous investigations that have turned up nothing from the 1990's? Benghazi was a fizzle. The e-mail server story hawked so tirelessly will end w/o any wrongdoing being done, in fact, if you dig deeper she never was in danger of being indicted for that. The press knew this, but clicks and bias are hard to pass up.
As you note, she has run a nearly flawless campaign. Fundraising, a campaign presence in all the right places, smart, targeted ads and spending, a terrific on-line voice, noteworthy tweets, refuting Trump w/truth. Best of all, she is clearly knowledgeable w/all the right experience for the job.
The press obsession with saying Clinton is... (fill in appropriate Right Wing Meme) at this point is sloppy journalism.
Hillary Clinton is clearly ready to be President. Her campaign is on-target. I look forward to the American people finally having the scales fall from their eyes as they watch this extraordinary woman in action, not only win the Presidency, but proceed to a very fruitful administration.
As you note, she has run a nearly flawless campaign. Fundraising, a campaign presence in all the right places, smart, targeted ads and spending, a terrific on-line voice, noteworthy tweets, refuting Trump w/truth. Best of all, she is clearly knowledgeable w/all the right experience for the job.
The press obsession with saying Clinton is... (fill in appropriate Right Wing Meme) at this point is sloppy journalism.
Hillary Clinton is clearly ready to be President. Her campaign is on-target. I look forward to the American people finally having the scales fall from their eyes as they watch this extraordinary woman in action, not only win the Presidency, but proceed to a very fruitful administration.
59
‘In fact,’ Mr. Trump said, pointing his finger toward the sky, ‘that could be a Mexican plane up there. They’re getting ready to attack.’”
Seriously, what is it going to take for people to realize that Trump isn't qualified to be mayor of a one person town? The 2016 election is guaranteed to be be a historic event. Either we'll elect the first woman President or the first Neanderthal.
Seriously, what is it going to take for people to realize that Trump isn't qualified to be mayor of a one person town? The 2016 election is guaranteed to be be a historic event. Either we'll elect the first woman President or the first Neanderthal.
43
I expected something more substantive from this article - based on its title - than a tepid paean of praise for Ms. Clinton's campaign organization and her public address techniques. Hillary Clinton has an impressive record from her 20 years of public service as First Lady, a Senator from NY and as Secretary of State... and yet we hardly ever hear of those accomplishments as "her due". For instance:
- As First Lady, she was the driving force behind the SCHIP program that brought health care to millions of disadvantaged children.
- As a NY Senator, she spearheaded much needed legislation to help 9/11 first responders get the health treatment they deserved, and led the charge to the Lilly Ledbetter Pay Equity Act, which is now the law of the land.
- As Secretary of State, she oversaw a 50% increase in EXports to China, spearheaded aggressive work on climate issues at Copenhagen, negotiated the cease-fire in Gaza, helped to secure the START treaty's ratification, pushed for and got much tougher sanctions on Iran that ultimately brought the Iranians to the table, and much more. Her China speech on women typified a continuing championing of women's rights worldwide.
She may be one of the most qualified Presidential candidates in history, and has the record to prove it. So let's stop talking about her "organization", and start highlighting her *accomplishments* in the public service arena - achieved while Trump was busy fashioning his "playboy/mogul" image in NY.
- As First Lady, she was the driving force behind the SCHIP program that brought health care to millions of disadvantaged children.
- As a NY Senator, she spearheaded much needed legislation to help 9/11 first responders get the health treatment they deserved, and led the charge to the Lilly Ledbetter Pay Equity Act, which is now the law of the land.
- As Secretary of State, she oversaw a 50% increase in EXports to China, spearheaded aggressive work on climate issues at Copenhagen, negotiated the cease-fire in Gaza, helped to secure the START treaty's ratification, pushed for and got much tougher sanctions on Iran that ultimately brought the Iranians to the table, and much more. Her China speech on women typified a continuing championing of women's rights worldwide.
She may be one of the most qualified Presidential candidates in history, and has the record to prove it. So let's stop talking about her "organization", and start highlighting her *accomplishments* in the public service arena - achieved while Trump was busy fashioning his "playboy/mogul" image in NY.
42
The last election was about experience and leadership - a leader vs an empty suit. The empty suit won because we didn't care that the the winner had none, because he was cool. The democrats told us it was hope and change that mattered, even when we had no idea what that meant. This time the democrats and this author are telling us it IS about experience and leadership, but their candidate is completely bankrupt in morale values, has zero empathy and finds it easy to lie and break laws and regulation when it pleases her. She identifies with ordinary people based on only one characteristic - her sex...and that is about it. Her opponent is experienced in leadership and identifies well with the tens of millions of Americans who are suffering because we elected an empty suit who devastated their lives by ignoring their cries for jobs and a fair break. The Democratic elite rejected the one man of the people in favor of a corrupt Queen. Pardon us all if we reject the Queen, this being America after all.
17
Donald Trump's remark about the pound devaluation being a windfall for the wealthy who can afford to travel to his Turnberry golf resort is exactly what you would expect from a person of his background of wealth and privilege. How the majority of his supporters, underemployed or unemployed white males, can be so tone deaf is beyond me.
On the other hand Hillary Clinton is portrayed as the wealthy elitist. I haven't heard any remarks of this caliber from her. I feel like we have fallen into the rabbit hole. Why aren't these discrepancies pointed out in the media?
On the other hand Hillary Clinton is portrayed as the wealthy elitist. I haven't heard any remarks of this caliber from her. I feel like we have fallen into the rabbit hole. Why aren't these discrepancies pointed out in the media?
32
Sander's unprofessional relentless demonization of Clinton is in part responsible for the perception of her as a "flawed" candidate. When Bernie Sanders claimed that HRC was the "lesser of two evils" he
should have been roundly chastised by the Democrats ( his supposed party) and challenged by the press. Hitler and company were evil. Trump 's racism,
xenophobia. mean-spirited insults and vindictive reactions to anything threatening his inflated image of himself border on evil, and all of that doesn't even speak to his dangerous ignorance. There is no comparison between his
conduct or qualifications and Clinton's . Let us hope that the country will not
pay the price for Sanders' irresponsible and self-serving depiction of Clinton
as "flawed."
should have been roundly chastised by the Democrats ( his supposed party) and challenged by the press. Hitler and company were evil. Trump 's racism,
xenophobia. mean-spirited insults and vindictive reactions to anything threatening his inflated image of himself border on evil, and all of that doesn't even speak to his dangerous ignorance. There is no comparison between his
conduct or qualifications and Clinton's . Let us hope that the country will not
pay the price for Sanders' irresponsible and self-serving depiction of Clinton
as "flawed."
48
It's gotten to the point where I just tune out the few (but very loud, and ever-decreasing) Sanders supporters who loudly proclaim they're not voting or voting 3rd party. The very fact that they have to make such a show about what is usually regarded as a very private and personal decision, however, only exposes their real motive: to demonstrate their (to their eyes) moral superiority.
You don't want to vote for Clinton, fine: Don't vote for her. But don't expect anyone to notice in November. Because the only votes that count are the votes that are counted. No one takes asks people who stayed home why; they're ignored, as they should be.
You don't want to vote for Clinton, fine: Don't vote for her. But don't expect anyone to notice in November. Because the only votes that count are the votes that are counted. No one takes asks people who stayed home why; they're ignored, as they should be.
31
My first choice was Bernie and I see Clinton's ties to Wall St. as just another politician.
Having said that, Clinton's negatives are way worse than they should be.
It is the result of over 20 years of the right wing media.
As an example, eight Benghazi investigations, really?
Anybody remember the George Bush White House private e-mail servers?
And I have neighbors who still swear the Clintons had Vince Fostered murdered.
But I will gladly both vote and campaign for Hillary. All I have to do is look at any Democratic budget and any Paul Ryan budget.
Not to mention all the Republican candidates to be president of the most powerful country on the planet are afraid to admit in public that they believe in evolution and that global warming is man made.
Having said that, Clinton's negatives are way worse than they should be.
It is the result of over 20 years of the right wing media.
As an example, eight Benghazi investigations, really?
Anybody remember the George Bush White House private e-mail servers?
And I have neighbors who still swear the Clintons had Vince Fostered murdered.
But I will gladly both vote and campaign for Hillary. All I have to do is look at any Democratic budget and any Paul Ryan budget.
Not to mention all the Republican candidates to be president of the most powerful country on the planet are afraid to admit in public that they believe in evolution and that global warming is man made.
47
Yet another piece of pro Clinton rhetoric based on the premise that she is not trump Quote: "Both Clinton and Trump are flawed and damaged candidates, but they aren’t equally flawed and damaged. And while Trump is digging his holes deeper, Clinton is remaining steady in some and climbing out of others." She is climbing out of nothing. Every grasp out spreads fresh controversy and fuels distrust and dislike among the electorate. We hold the belief that there is no excuse for excusing her lies, her corrupt pay tp play politics as evidenced in the Fernando appointment, her erasing emails and destroying of schedules, and other public information as evidenced in the recent Abedin interview, her playing obtuse when asked to answer direct questions and lying under oath, her selling of her vote on Iraq to Bush for 20 billion then gifting 9/11 funds to Goldman Sachs while telling them "I am your partner in Government" followed by one quarter of a million a pop in speech fees with no qualms about the mess Iraq brought and th countless lives lost, etc etc. Her political record is corrupt in these ways and more, and we feel there is no excuse for her warmongering, for her Wall street and private private prison connections et al. Clinton is not trump and trump is not Clinton., and we remain Never Clinton. Never trump. Only Bernie Sanders has the character required to lead this nation away from corruption and shame toward a future to believe in.
44
Hillary Clinton: I will not be voting for you unless you can show me that you are not a shill for the global banks that pay you millions. You must renounce the global billionaires that are not loyal to any country or people, and who have centralized control of the world economy. I must see you fight for the People.
Your plan to "reach across the isle" and find common ground with the Republicans is doomed to failure. The only mistake they admit to is "not being conservative enough."
There is only one way to move congress. Massive pressure from the People is the only way to convince risk adverse politicians that it is safer to follow the People's will than to try to change our minds with campaign ads.
Women did not get the vote by waiting for male politicians to think it was a good idea.
Fortunately you are not alone. The global movements to create environmental, economic, and social justice are growing and cooperating. They are filled with highly creative, intelligent, and well organized people that are hard at work to reverse the global corporate revolution that has taken over the economy and most governments, especially ours.
You can gain their trust and their support if you start right now to use your presumptive presidential bully pulpit to call for democracy for all people. Call on the People, black, white and brown, poor and middle class, to rise up and organize. Help the poor black people that voted for you to organize for real change. Be the revolution.
Your plan to "reach across the isle" and find common ground with the Republicans is doomed to failure. The only mistake they admit to is "not being conservative enough."
There is only one way to move congress. Massive pressure from the People is the only way to convince risk adverse politicians that it is safer to follow the People's will than to try to change our minds with campaign ads.
Women did not get the vote by waiting for male politicians to think it was a good idea.
Fortunately you are not alone. The global movements to create environmental, economic, and social justice are growing and cooperating. They are filled with highly creative, intelligent, and well organized people that are hard at work to reverse the global corporate revolution that has taken over the economy and most governments, especially ours.
You can gain their trust and their support if you start right now to use your presumptive presidential bully pulpit to call for democracy for all people. Call on the People, black, white and brown, poor and middle class, to rise up and organize. Help the poor black people that voted for you to organize for real change. Be the revolution.
28
Reading Blow's article and the readers' reaction I am in amazement. I can't understand how people believe that she has great experience, or that she is so smart?
Let's review the facts: HRC came on the front stage through her husband and didn't get prominence on her own. That is NOT an accomplishment.
When given the chance to work on social security under her husband's presidency she became so unpopular and made such a mess that she had to be stopped and leave the political scene.
She got elected as a Senator in NY largely because people wanted to give her a chance to make it on her own after the Lewinsky affair. But as a senator she voted in favor of the war, showing poor judgment. In her time as a senator she did not do anything remarkable.
As a candidate in 2008 she lost to a talented outsider who liked to make fun of her sense of entitlement and her almost comical pretension.
As a Secretary of state, she made two very serious mistakes: Benghazi and using a private email server for official communication. A really smart person would not make such basic mistakes.
SHE is under investigation by the FBI.
In addition, she was paid huge amounts of money for speeches she doesn't want to disclose by lobbies and foreign governments. It looks like some sort of legal bribes. She is hiding something.
HOW is that track record of unmitigated disaster made her experienced, wise and competent?
I wish the NYT addresses those points instead of being an agent of her propaganda.
Let's review the facts: HRC came on the front stage through her husband and didn't get prominence on her own. That is NOT an accomplishment.
When given the chance to work on social security under her husband's presidency she became so unpopular and made such a mess that she had to be stopped and leave the political scene.
She got elected as a Senator in NY largely because people wanted to give her a chance to make it on her own after the Lewinsky affair. But as a senator she voted in favor of the war, showing poor judgment. In her time as a senator she did not do anything remarkable.
As a candidate in 2008 she lost to a talented outsider who liked to make fun of her sense of entitlement and her almost comical pretension.
As a Secretary of state, she made two very serious mistakes: Benghazi and using a private email server for official communication. A really smart person would not make such basic mistakes.
SHE is under investigation by the FBI.
In addition, she was paid huge amounts of money for speeches she doesn't want to disclose by lobbies and foreign governments. It looks like some sort of legal bribes. She is hiding something.
HOW is that track record of unmitigated disaster made her experienced, wise and competent?
I wish the NYT addresses those points instead of being an agent of her propaganda.
60
Here's a point-by-point response to Clinton's critics, who remains the most misunderstood candidate of modern times: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/open-letter-sanders-supporters-scott-s-sm...
12
Mr. Blow:
What a delightful surprise from you this Independence Day: a column cheering on Hillary while bashing Trump. How creative! How new! And this trivia when we have heard about so many deaths from terrorism in the last few days alone. How about some columns on issues facing the country and the world? How about being less of a fan boy and more of an opinion writer? Please delve into issues and write some pieces about them before all of us are mourning someone lost in one of these heinous attacks.
What a delightful surprise from you this Independence Day: a column cheering on Hillary while bashing Trump. How creative! How new! And this trivia when we have heard about so many deaths from terrorism in the last few days alone. How about some columns on issues facing the country and the world? How about being less of a fan boy and more of an opinion writer? Please delve into issues and write some pieces about them before all of us are mourning someone lost in one of these heinous attacks.
23
In other words : it's Hillary's turn
27
I honestly believe that if Charles Blow had written one name--"Hillary Clinton"--and left the rest blank, the comments would be exactly the same.
1. For lo, Bernie would be the nominee come to save ua all but the fix was in because superdelegates or chemtrails in the voting machines or something.
2. HILLARY voted for Iraq even if she didn't and I refuse to check.
3. HILLARY says the middle class is doing perfectly even if she didn't and I refuse to check.
4. Donald Trump will save America though I don't really know how and anyway as long as he yells at mezzicans and moozlims I don't care. Anyway also his stuff would work because he'd stand up and yell at the furriners except Putin who we'd be better off if he ran this countrie not that black moozlim.
5. The Times and the lamestream media never say anything about my hero Bernie Trump except they do all the time and they're all biased against him and they never tell you the truth about Whitewater so I am going to at extended length and anyway I never read this lousy paper and I am cancelling the subscription I don't have so there.
1. For lo, Bernie would be the nominee come to save ua all but the fix was in because superdelegates or chemtrails in the voting machines or something.
2. HILLARY voted for Iraq even if she didn't and I refuse to check.
3. HILLARY says the middle class is doing perfectly even if she didn't and I refuse to check.
4. Donald Trump will save America though I don't really know how and anyway as long as he yells at mezzicans and moozlims I don't care. Anyway also his stuff would work because he'd stand up and yell at the furriners except Putin who we'd be better off if he ran this countrie not that black moozlim.
5. The Times and the lamestream media never say anything about my hero Bernie Trump except they do all the time and they're all biased against him and they never tell you the truth about Whitewater so I am going to at extended length and anyway I never read this lousy paper and I am cancelling the subscription I don't have so there.
42
What alternate universe are you reporting from, Mr. Blow? How can you praise the Clinton campaign when we have lately been treated to the spectacle of the candidate being grilled by the FBI about her potentially criminal wrongdoing? How about her cat's paw husband trying to strong-arm the Attorney General? Only the prospect of a comic opera buffoon as President could make the mendacious Hillary seem like a viable candidate.
32
Every news media repeats the same thing, the most disliked candidates in both parties. Please do not equate Hillary to Donald. Donald operates on lies nothing but lies. He crushed all other because none stood up to him. If a lie is repeated enough time about Mrs. Clinton, in Faux news and in GOP, it is accepted as the truth.
30
On one hand we have all these statements of how we should run in fear for Trump may do this and may do that. Ever notice how there is little to support claims made against Trump and how those fear mongering threats mirror those made against Reagan?
>
On the other hand you have Hillary. I had a security clearance for two decades. If I had tried to do a tiny fraction of what she did with her own server, I would be in jail. That is not hyperbole, that is fact for I have seen it happen many times with those where I worked.
>
Also, despite the outright lies being pushed, there is NO NEED TO PROVE INTENT with her criminal behavior. When she created her own server, she assumed all responsibility for the server, what was on it, the protections required, and so forth. If a secret document is on her server, then it does not matter who sent it or how it got there. She owns it, period!
>
Just about every person I work with who has a clearance is raging mad about this server issue. Yes there is the double standard that we would go to jail if we did what she did while she remains free, but that is not the main source of the rage. The main reason is that we all feel betrayed. We work hard to create things that need to be kept secret to protect lives and this country and yet she treats it like a silly game just to enhance her own fortunes. Worse still is how so many in the media defend her with ignorant and untruthful statements. How have we become so terribly corrupted?
>
On the other hand you have Hillary. I had a security clearance for two decades. If I had tried to do a tiny fraction of what she did with her own server, I would be in jail. That is not hyperbole, that is fact for I have seen it happen many times with those where I worked.
>
Also, despite the outright lies being pushed, there is NO NEED TO PROVE INTENT with her criminal behavior. When she created her own server, she assumed all responsibility for the server, what was on it, the protections required, and so forth. If a secret document is on her server, then it does not matter who sent it or how it got there. She owns it, period!
>
Just about every person I work with who has a clearance is raging mad about this server issue. Yes there is the double standard that we would go to jail if we did what she did while she remains free, but that is not the main source of the rage. The main reason is that we all feel betrayed. We work hard to create things that need to be kept secret to protect lives and this country and yet she treats it like a silly game just to enhance her own fortunes. Worse still is how so many in the media defend her with ignorant and untruthful statements. How have we become so terribly corrupted?
29
Wow, it must have almost KILLED Charles Blow to say anything remotely nice about Hillary when he spent most of this past year acting as Bernie Sanders lackey. The fact that she has taken more lies and innuendos for over 24 years than any human being in our country and still stands up and fights for women, children and the disenfranchised is amazing and shows how much of a tough and righteous president she would make. Donald Trump, on the other hand is a conman and does not deserve the time of day from Americans.
25
Mr. Blow, you have been giving clinton "her due" for almost two years now. It seems quite telling that you feel the need to tell us how well her campaign is doing. Gee, only 40% of the people don't like her or trust her. Maybe a few more of your fawning, pandering columns could bring her negatives down a whole percentage point. Wow she is less "disliked" than trump. That's a bar almost anyone could climb over.
22
Propaganda at it's best these days..
13
Clinton's is only seen as untrustworthy because FOX news has been repeating this for over a decade now (about email, for God's sake, not things like, oh, a $7 million investigation as to why Bush invaded Iraq). As Stalin said, repeat a lie often enough and it becomes the truth. And we have a control group to prove this: all the lies Trump rolls out daily. Why isn't FOX on the "untrustworthy Trump" beat?
23
i don't understand why she's not up 20 pts. trump is a disaster.
16
Mrs. Clinton is a flawed and damaged candidate? Mr. Blow writes this as a truism beyond dispute. Well I dispute it and have a problem with him and other self described media experts who just repeat lines from Fox news and TV channels. Once a lie is out there it is like releasing the feathers in a pillow. You can never take them all back.
18
Your "start with the obvious" comment about the dismal rankings of both candidates in public opinion polls left out the part about candidate Clinton being viewed as even less trustworthy than candidate Trump (and can you think of a lower bar? anyone?) and that she was just questioned for 3 hours by the FBI as part of an ongoing criminal investigation of her actions as Secretary of State.
You can't even use your own words for the rest of the column; just repeating the word-for-word script handed to you by the Democratic Party staff. As in, "major foreign policy speech." She didn't outline her foreign policies in that rare televised appearance; she was just bashing Trump in public for his. (I know all of this is a script, because other pro-Clinton "media" are reporting such arguments word for word.)
I know, I know, you're just following orders. Sigh.
And now it's time for the paid "Correct the Record" commenters on the payroll of Clinton's Super Pac to call me a Republican. Sigh.
You can't even use your own words for the rest of the column; just repeating the word-for-word script handed to you by the Democratic Party staff. As in, "major foreign policy speech." She didn't outline her foreign policies in that rare televised appearance; she was just bashing Trump in public for his. (I know all of this is a script, because other pro-Clinton "media" are reporting such arguments word for word.)
I know, I know, you're just following orders. Sigh.
And now it's time for the paid "Correct the Record" commenters on the payroll of Clinton's Super Pac to call me a Republican. Sigh.
16
Another Hi Piece that should never have been published in a oncr reputable newspapet.
9
Mr. Blow, you don't have to try so hard. You have that press secretary job cinched.
16
Below, you’ll find an updated graphic that shows how Sanders supporters compare with the other candidates. You’ll see that there was a difference between Clinton and Sanders’ supporters, with the pro-Sanders camp expressing fewer negative views on race than those backing Clinton.
http://blogs.reuters.com/talesfromthetrail/2016/07/01/belatedly-what-san...
Yet the writer of this op ed attempted to say the exact opposite to his readers. Charles, you can't be trusted anymore regarding your opinions
http://blogs.reuters.com/talesfromthetrail/2016/07/01/belatedly-what-san...
Yet the writer of this op ed attempted to say the exact opposite to his readers. Charles, you can't be trusted anymore regarding your opinions
14
So the Benghazi Report timeline proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that Hillary intentionally lied to the American people blaming a video, and she called the report nothing new. Agreed, she's always lied about it.
So Hillary meets with the FBI and still lies about it being a "security review" long after the entire world knows it's a criminal investigation.
Nothing new.
So Hillary meets with the FBI and still lies about it being a "security review" long after the entire world knows it's a criminal investigation.
Nothing new.
16
So ... your version of giving Hillary Clinton "her due" is to begin by talking about how flawed, damaged and disliked she is. The rest of the piece is more about Donald Trump than it is about Clinton. I get the distinct impression, Mr. Blow, that you don't believe she is due very much. Damning with faint praise!
13
Donald Trump is of course a clown. But so too is Leslie Moonves, who infamously said of Trump's campaign, “It may not be good for America, but it’s damn good for CBS. If Edward Murrow or Walter Cronkite came back, they would never stop throwing up.
12
You "give Clinton her due" by writing more about Trump than about her. What is more, you've quoted Gallup; you've quoted the NYTimes; but you haven't actually quoted HIllary at all (though you've quoted Trump several times). Perhaps it is just easier to quote him, even if what he says isn't newsworthy, or even new? Just saying she's been good, without providing any content, isn't saying much. You, too, have managed to "center the discussion" on him. A positive article about Hillary like this is almost as unbalanced as all the news coverage you have criticized.
11
Sorry, how is Hillary "flawed and damaged"? To speak of Secretary Clinton and Donald Trump in the same sentence as "both" "flawed and damaged" falls into the trap of treating them as equivalents...which is what you're trying to avoid in this column, right? Can we all just stop falling into the Republican propaganda trap of "distrusting" Hillary? She's trustworthy, and the damned email thing doesn't amount to a hill of beans - just another "manufactured scandal." She's the most qualified candidate for US President in generations, and she deserves our full support - especially considering the ignorant, racist con man she's running against.
21
Charles,
Did you really think a woman would ever be given credit?
Did you really think a woman would ever be given credit?
9
One has to wonder if Blow, or anyone at the NYT for that matter, is aware that Ms. Clinton was interrogated by the FBI in relation to a criminal investigation of her? Are you aware Mr. Blow that you are supporting a suspected criminal? Compared to Ms. Clinton Trump is an angel.
10
Wow! You're really reaching for it, Mr. Blow. Talk about damning with faint praise!
"At every point, she out-campaigned and out-classed Trump," you exclaim--the biggest buffoon ever to run for President. (And even THIS pathetic encomium qualified with, "There's no way to know if this will continue, in the light of the ongoing FBI investigation of her emails....") How ever did we manage to set the bar so low?
And earlier, you attempt to set her abysmal negative approval rating (exceeding her former hero Barry Goldwater's previous record by seven points) in context, by making the point that Trump's was even worse!
Good lord! Call in the comedians--you can't make this kind of stuff up!
"At every point, she out-campaigned and out-classed Trump," you exclaim--the biggest buffoon ever to run for President. (And even THIS pathetic encomium qualified with, "There's no way to know if this will continue, in the light of the ongoing FBI investigation of her emails....") How ever did we manage to set the bar so low?
And earlier, you attempt to set her abysmal negative approval rating (exceeding her former hero Barry Goldwater's previous record by seven points) in context, by making the point that Trump's was even worse!
Good lord! Call in the comedians--you can't make this kind of stuff up!
13
Since Trump loves conspiracy, did he fire Corey L. so he could be hired by CNN to get his message out? A mole by any other name is still a mole. If CNN had some integrity they would fact check him after every appearance.
7
Even or climbing up? Lets see, indictment looming, grifting of the Clinton foundation being exposed, more review of her horrendous foreign policy experiences, refusal to have a press conference, inside trading assistance to her son in law.............But boy, she is out-campaigning and outclassing Trump at every turn. Trump is her dream opponent and she is going down in flames.
21
I actually believe most of the Clinton pundits here are being paid
Clinton SuperPac Admits to Paying Internet Trolls - Daily Kos
www.dailykos.com/.../-Clinton-SuperPac-Admits-to-Paying-Int...
Daily Kos
Apr 21, 2016 - The Daily Beast reports that Clinton SuperPac “Correct the Record” is openly admitting to spending $1 million to hire fake online Hillary ...
under no other circumstances do their views seem to make sense to me
Clinton SuperPac Admits to Paying Internet Trolls - Daily Kos
www.dailykos.com/.../-Clinton-SuperPac-Admits-to-Paying-Int...
Daily Kos
Apr 21, 2016 - The Daily Beast reports that Clinton SuperPac “Correct the Record” is openly admitting to spending $1 million to hire fake online Hillary ...
under no other circumstances do their views seem to make sense to me
23
While true believers on both sides are blind to the deep flaws of their candidate, both are dreadful aspirants. We do know what we'll get with that Walmart board member and staunch supporter of the Military-Industrial-Security Complex, HRC.Trump, on the other hand,is a very loose cannon.
Which poison do you prefer to drink?
Which poison do you prefer to drink?
16
Trump so often reminds us that he repeatedly descends into TOTAL LUNACY.
My vote is for Mrs Clinton for being professional and mostly unflappable in ordeals. Surely we do NOT need a hysterical drama queen, out of control guy like Mr Trump in the office of president of US.
My vote is for Mrs Clinton for being professional and mostly unflappable in ordeals. Surely we do NOT need a hysterical drama queen, out of control guy like Mr Trump in the office of president of US.
10
Trump, bad as he may be, is not under investigation by the FBI. While Hillary was Secretary of State, she and Bill amassed over 230 million dollars selling favors in exchange for millions of dollars to the Clinton Foundation. This is the reason for her email secrecy: to hide their illegal activities.
No doubt Lynch, whose career was started by Bill , and who feels she owes him, is protecting her under pressure from Obama. Lynch and Bill's meeting was planned to be secret but for a leak to a local reporter, now a hero. She needs to resign.
Trump may not be the answer , but Hillary is a habitual sociopath with no remorse for her illegal actions, her reckless irresponsibility, her grandiosity and overbearing sense of entitlement. We cannot be expected to vote for her. We may be forced to vote for Trump, Jill Stein or Gary Johnson.
If the DNC wants to win the WH, they need another candidate. Sanders is the inevitable choice, whether the DNC likes it or not. The DNC and Wasserman -Schultz is being sued for fraud by Sanders' supporters in Miami by Beck & Lee law firm, something the NYT has failed to report.
No doubt Lynch, whose career was started by Bill , and who feels she owes him, is protecting her under pressure from Obama. Lynch and Bill's meeting was planned to be secret but for a leak to a local reporter, now a hero. She needs to resign.
Trump may not be the answer , but Hillary is a habitual sociopath with no remorse for her illegal actions, her reckless irresponsibility, her grandiosity and overbearing sense of entitlement. We cannot be expected to vote for her. We may be forced to vote for Trump, Jill Stein or Gary Johnson.
If the DNC wants to win the WH, they need another candidate. Sanders is the inevitable choice, whether the DNC likes it or not. The DNC and Wasserman -Schultz is being sued for fraud by Sanders' supporters in Miami by Beck & Lee law firm, something the NYT has failed to report.
18
The Clintons have been embroiled in one scandal after another for the last 30 years.Yet many people want to put both of them back in the White House.Bill and Hillary are interested in just two things;money and power.They could care less about you and me.Bill was impeached,lied under oath,and disbarred.Hillary was fired for lying from the Watergate investigation.Yet all I saw yesterday were Dem Senators saying she's telling the truth about her file server.Sure!!!
25
Sure, let's celebrate Hilary Clinton, who voted for the war in Iraq and then dismantled the security forces and allowed ISIS to grow, then dismissed ISIS and their violence, then screwed up relations with Russia so they are worse then ever, and then claims to be a victim while ignoring the people killed by her horrible foreign policy decisions.
I despise Trump, but I refuse to overlook that Hilary is a horrible politician and an even worse person.
I despise Trump, but I refuse to overlook that Hilary is a horrible politician and an even worse person.
17
I am a physician and was forced at one time into a living situation with a Classically defined DSM ( DSM is the book of psychiatric definitions ) Narcissist. Let me tell you from personal and professional experience, a Narcissist like Trump should be as far from the Presidency as possible. In fact, if a narcissist like Trump were to miraculously become POTUS, I will be moving to a new home, CANADA!
11
The primary reason HRC will likely be our next Prez is that she has the good fortune to be running against the worst candidate in history.
She's war hawk, a paid spokesperson for Wall Street, just another "old white guy" of the DC Establishment. She has shown--at best-- poor judgement re: the email server, her Iraq vote, Syria, and her Wall Street paid speeches. Her incrementalist approach ensures little progress for working people.
Why, oh, why couldn't Warren have run?! Though even she now seems to be playing the political game by supporting HRC while forgetting her own previous strong questions about HRC's stances. Still, I guess we have to vote for HRC because there's no legit alternative...pretty poor reason to cast a vote...sigh.
She's war hawk, a paid spokesperson for Wall Street, just another "old white guy" of the DC Establishment. She has shown--at best-- poor judgement re: the email server, her Iraq vote, Syria, and her Wall Street paid speeches. Her incrementalist approach ensures little progress for working people.
Why, oh, why couldn't Warren have run?! Though even she now seems to be playing the political game by supporting HRC while forgetting her own previous strong questions about HRC's stances. Still, I guess we have to vote for HRC because there's no legit alternative...pretty poor reason to cast a vote...sigh.
8
Why is Hillary "flawed and damaged"? Because idiots like you keep saying she is with no facts to back you up. Another example of a "fair and balanced" media with no sense.
12
Hillary turns over tens of thousands of emails as requested.
Hillary testifies in public before the Benghazi committee.
Hillary sits as requested for an interview with the FBI.
And yet she is deemed MORE untrustworthy each time she complies with requests for transparency.
Really, why bother with the truth when a lie serves you better?
Hillary testifies in public before the Benghazi committee.
Hillary sits as requested for an interview with the FBI.
And yet she is deemed MORE untrustworthy each time she complies with requests for transparency.
Really, why bother with the truth when a lie serves you better?
18
Trump tweeted: “Appreciate the congrats for being right on radical Islamic terrorism, I don’t want congrats, I want toughness & vigilance. We must be smart!”
Does DT believe he's running for "Clairvoyant-in chief"? The hard part isn't predicting future attacks will occur (duh); it's finding practical solutions to ADDRESS the problem.
Per DT, "We must be smart"?
So even setting aside the obvious unconstitutionality of such 'religious tests' (!), how exactly would DT implement his Muslim ban?
Would DT have State Dept use applications, where if the person checks 'Yes, I'm a Muslim", would it immediately be rejected?
How would relying on the 'honor system' be "smart", when jihadists are known to flaunt our laws (eg the CA couple who modified their weapons, in violation of CA laws, etc)?
Are officials to use truth-detectors?
Oh, wait: we still don't have that technology in 2016.
Then will DT resort to using old-school Medieval methods to determine what people actually believe, perhaps using a modern-day version of dunking all applicants to see if they float? Is that why DJT has no objection to water-boarding?
The idea remains just as half-baked as when Cruz suggested allowing only Xian (non-Muslim) Syrian refugees into the U.S.
Who knew DT would hijack the same stupid concept to use as the centerpiece of his campaign?
Answer: DT, of course.
Does DT believe he's running for "Clairvoyant-in chief"? The hard part isn't predicting future attacks will occur (duh); it's finding practical solutions to ADDRESS the problem.
Per DT, "We must be smart"?
So even setting aside the obvious unconstitutionality of such 'religious tests' (!), how exactly would DT implement his Muslim ban?
Would DT have State Dept use applications, where if the person checks 'Yes, I'm a Muslim", would it immediately be rejected?
How would relying on the 'honor system' be "smart", when jihadists are known to flaunt our laws (eg the CA couple who modified their weapons, in violation of CA laws, etc)?
Are officials to use truth-detectors?
Oh, wait: we still don't have that technology in 2016.
Then will DT resort to using old-school Medieval methods to determine what people actually believe, perhaps using a modern-day version of dunking all applicants to see if they float? Is that why DJT has no objection to water-boarding?
The idea remains just as half-baked as when Cruz suggested allowing only Xian (non-Muslim) Syrian refugees into the U.S.
Who knew DT would hijack the same stupid concept to use as the centerpiece of his campaign?
Answer: DT, of course.
2
...and large donations from foreign nations to the Clinton Foundation while she was SOS and the text of her $250k speeches to Wall Street and Big Pharma afterwards.
18
Given that he British opinion polls apparently weren't accurate in predicting about the Brexit referndum, our own HRC vs DJT election of course shouldn't simply rely upon opinion polls.
Harry Truman upset favored(?) Thomas Dewey in 1948, and FDR beat Alf Landon in 1936 despite LIBERTY DIGEST's poll which was infamously by telephones in the Depression when telephone consumers were "GOP-biased."
And one can't discount DJT: his fans are seemingly not really turned-off by traditional turn-offs.
Harry Truman upset favored(?) Thomas Dewey in 1948, and FDR beat Alf Landon in 1936 despite LIBERTY DIGEST's poll which was infamously by telephones in the Depression when telephone consumers were "GOP-biased."
And one can't discount DJT: his fans are seemingly not really turned-off by traditional turn-offs.
5
Readers look forward to seeing Messieurs Blow, Bruni and Egan, inter alios, go out, take some chances, and engage in solid investigative reporting.Nothing easier than to sit in the safety of one's den or faculty lounge and pontificate on a subject which has no existential importance compared to the tragic events of last week: HRC's standing in the polls. Caliphate has mounted 3 attentats in past week killing hundreds. Despite air strikes, its bombers and gunmen keep coming and r at the West's doorstep. In terms of priorities, is the threat from ISIS not more worthy of interest than whether HRC had a better week than her rival? Have been critical of Kristof for his lack of skills sets, not bothering to learn Arabic when he spends so much time in Islamic countries, but I will say this for him:HE's GOT GUTS!"True especially today when a Westerner can make no assumptions about his own safety when he goes to conflict areas like south Sudan.Kristof is out there, risking his "peau" to bring us a real news story.. Was an avid skydiver years ago--static line jumps--and a friend of mine would show up at the airport with a t-shirt that read, "No pain no gain." Same applies to investigative reporting.In his most recent piece, Mr. Blow has not told us anything we did not already know,:information available on any blog or website favorable to Hillary.His article is shallow and obvious, and a bum show for his readers who hoped he would chase a story more newsworthy.
8
His job is to hang like a sloth. He's not a reporter or he wouldn't have a regular column.
4
Due? Mountain Due? Yahoo!
2
Trump and the NRA are both working in the interests of ISIL, death, discrimination, and destruction.
The gun manufacturers don't control the gun industry, the NRA does. Evan Osnos in his incisive piece in the New Yorker last week describes this phenomenon lucidly as he maps out how the NRA was first hijacked by the fringe in 1977 and then targeted the CEO of Smith & Wesson, Ed Schultz, when he dared explore manufacturing 'smart guns' with the Clinton Administration. The message to other gun manufacturers from the outlaws at the NRA - ''we control our consumer base and will make you a hunted man if you cross us - you will lose your company and your family will receive death threats.'' Seriously, there is no reason the NRA should not be subject to the RICO ACT.
Clinton has been the bravest of all the candidates this year in taking on the NRA - this was decisive in my choosing her over Sanders along with her depth of experience and the very qualities of caution and prudence that poll so negatively with the prevailing public mood driven by irrational fears and desperation.
Trump has lived as a self-promoting fraud and sexist-racist trope his whole life. To New Yorkers who have had to deal with him close up, he is a repellent clown without power and a dangerous specter with any power over anyone - abusive, bullying, cruel, and pathologically narcissistic.
The gun manufacturers don't control the gun industry, the NRA does. Evan Osnos in his incisive piece in the New Yorker last week describes this phenomenon lucidly as he maps out how the NRA was first hijacked by the fringe in 1977 and then targeted the CEO of Smith & Wesson, Ed Schultz, when he dared explore manufacturing 'smart guns' with the Clinton Administration. The message to other gun manufacturers from the outlaws at the NRA - ''we control our consumer base and will make you a hunted man if you cross us - you will lose your company and your family will receive death threats.'' Seriously, there is no reason the NRA should not be subject to the RICO ACT.
Clinton has been the bravest of all the candidates this year in taking on the NRA - this was decisive in my choosing her over Sanders along with her depth of experience and the very qualities of caution and prudence that poll so negatively with the prevailing public mood driven by irrational fears and desperation.
Trump has lived as a self-promoting fraud and sexist-racist trope his whole life. To New Yorkers who have had to deal with him close up, he is a repellent clown without power and a dangerous specter with any power over anyone - abusive, bullying, cruel, and pathologically narcissistic.
20
It's now boiled down to simply L v. R.
H has been making her case in measured fashion.
T has no case to make, so he attempts to make a case against her. He fails daily at that and bit by bit,
slowly like an over inflated balloon, to high up in an unfamiliar atmosphere now slowly zig zags down back towards earth.. zig. Zag. Zig. Zag.. It is his slow dance to demise.
H has been making her case in measured fashion.
T has no case to make, so he attempts to make a case against her. He fails daily at that and bit by bit,
slowly like an over inflated balloon, to high up in an unfamiliar atmosphere now slowly zig zags down back towards earth.. zig. Zag. Zig. Zag.. It is his slow dance to demise.
8
Dear Charles,
Thank you. Women Matter, too.
Thank you. Women Matter, too.
12
"Clinton began the month with a major foreign policy speech that CNN called an “evisceration of Donald Trump,” and she never let up. "
Right.
A major foreign policy speech that had to do with 'That guy...his ideas...what I interpret his words to mean....'
Instead my successes as Secretary of State include:
Right.
A major foreign policy speech that had to do with 'That guy...his ideas...what I interpret his words to mean....'
Instead my successes as Secretary of State include:
25
On the ballot "NONE of the Above" is really the only vote .. yes ,it should be included never will because of the corrupt system.
20
>>>
I'm a Clinton supporter. She is a weak candidate. She is to blame for some of this but not most of it. She is a poor politician.
If the Dems do win, it is only because the GOP crapped the bed an went with Trump.
I'm a Clinton supporter. She is a weak candidate. She is to blame for some of this but not most of it. She is a poor politician.
If the Dems do win, it is only because the GOP crapped the bed an went with Trump.
7
Mr Blow: Are you on the payroll of the Clinton campaign?
26
The GOP recognized very early on, say 5 decades go, that she was a very SMART, and potentially FORMIDABLE WOMAN. Thus they began their smear campaign -- early and often -- so that the negatives had plenty of time to sink deep into the Amrican psyche before she actually became a Problem to the Republican Stench Machine.
The country was doing GREAT under Bubba -- until Wunder Blunder Boy came along.
The country was doing GREAT under Bubba -- until Wunder Blunder Boy came along.
16
If things were so great, wonder why the Nasdaq dropped 3000 points in the year before Wunder Blunder Boy took office?
7
Charles,
You left out the best news of all. Hillary's husband was able to talk the AG out of indicting her. Hurray for the Clintons!
You left out the best news of all. Hillary's husband was able to talk the AG out of indicting her. Hurray for the Clintons!
20
"....give her her DUE?" Really? Let's start by stating clearly that NO PERSON ON THIS PLANET isn't flawed. Let's continue by recognizing that the more a person puts themselves in the public eye (in Clinton's case her historic involvement in myriad social issues) the more likely that you produce fodder that can be criticized. Lastly I can't help but laugh each time I read articles such as this one. There exists in this country 2 ugly groups of people at the moment. One has an utterly illogical visceral dislike of Hillary Clinton with NO basis in facts whatsoever. The other group has the effrontery to claim to support Trump without the slightest hint of shame or embarrassment. THERE IS NO COMPARISON between these two individuals. One will always be the smartest person in any room she enters. The other is a charlatan and a racist who has disgraced the very concept of American democracy. Let's "give Hillary her due", shall we?
12
Readers look forward to seeing Messieurs Blow, Bruni and Egan, inter alios, go out, take some chances,and engage in solid, investigative reporting.Nothing easier than to sit in the safety of one's den or faculty lounge and pontificate on a subject w/o existential importance:HRC's standing in the polls.Compared to the sorrowful events of last week, when the CALIPHATE mounted 3 deadly attentats killing hundreds, whether HRC had a good or bad week is immaterial.Despite air strikes, the gunmen and bombers of the Islamic State just keep coming, and r at the West's doorstep.if not inside.Should this crisis not take precedence over Mr.Blow's partisan article on his favorite candidate?Have been critical of Kristof for his lack of skills sets, his laziness in not learning Arabic when he spends so much time in Islamic countries.Yet, he has guts. When one travels to out of the way places such as south Sudan, one's safety is at risk more than ever today, yet NK persists in order to bring us a good story, to focus our attention on a humanitarian crisis.We say in French,"il n'a pas froid aux yeux!"NK has backbone, fortitude. Would that Mr. Blow showed a similar zeal for investigative reporting.His piece is shallow and obvious, a bum show for his many readers who hoped that he would chase a real story,rather than dispense information available on any pro Hillary website.
2
i have a cartoon that depicts a cow pondering which way to go while standing before a slaughterhouse w a left entrance and a right entrance
sound familiar ?
mmmmmmmmmmoooooooooooooo....................
sound familiar ?
mmmmmmmmmmoooooooooooooo....................
10
Perhaps the most important point here is this: After terrorist attacks in Orlando and Turkey, and England's Brexit vote, "(Trump) made everything about him."
That's the key thing to know about Trump: He is a narcissistic egomaniac. EVERYTHING will ALWAYS be about him... and ONLY him. Want to fix climate change? "No thanks, I'm comfortable." Stock market tanking and wrecking our economy? "I'm good."
Not exactly what you want in a President.
That's the key thing to know about Trump: He is a narcissistic egomaniac. EVERYTHING will ALWAYS be about him... and ONLY him. Want to fix climate change? "No thanks, I'm comfortable." Stock market tanking and wrecking our economy? "I'm good."
Not exactly what you want in a President.
16
Amazingly the front page of the NYT Is devoid of a single article regarding the BIG STORY. The DNC's presumptive nominee was hauled in to FBI HDQTRS for a 3 1/2 hour grilling by eight individual interrogators regarding her role in security breaches of state secrets and public corruption related to raising billions of dollars for her private foundation while SOS. Just glossed over, forgotten, buried, minimalized and misreported. Will she get her due? I sure hope so. David Petraeus, Chelsea Manning, Edward Snowden, and a host of others who have done far less, all suffered major consequences including prison. But the Clintons are not judged by the same standards, are they?!
16
On the main page there is an article called "When the Media is biased and doesn't try to hide it". I thought the NYT was coming clean but no it was accusations about a different media.
I believe the NYT is actively trying to hide the criminal charges against Hillary. The NYT bias is so astounding, it appears they are on the Clinton campaign team.
I believe the NYT is actively trying to hide the criminal charges against Hillary. The NYT bias is so astounding, it appears they are on the Clinton campaign team.
12
I take it you mean this non-existent article, the one that wasn't in the "Times," three days ago, when the interview happened:
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/07/03/us/politics/hillary-clinton-fbi-emails...
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/07/03/us/politics/hillary-clinton-fbi-emails...
3
Forget "those two
Forget "those two" ....Clinton and Trump!!!
It's BERNIE who we need!!
Forget "those two" ....Clinton and Trump!!!
It's BERNIE who we need!!
11
'...out classed Trump...' ...but....thats just...oh never mind.
2
Yes, but what about Hillary Clinton's VIRTUES and not just that she is the lesser of two evils? I am afraid that Clinton will not win just because Trump is worse. She has to do more than out trump, Trump.
Now, today is... July 4, Declaration of Independence Day, Mr. Blow. Remember? "All MEN are created equal. What about the WOMEN? Hillary Clinton can make history by rewriting the Declaration of Independence. This, I think is huge.
I suggest that Hillary should push the idea that equality is not just about equal pay for equal work. It is also about the fact that women are different and they focus more on family, children, education and community. They are often more patient and diplomatic as Sec. Clinton has shown.
Viva L'Difference, Hillary Clinton!
=========================
Now, today is... July 4, Declaration of Independence Day, Mr. Blow. Remember? "All MEN are created equal. What about the WOMEN? Hillary Clinton can make history by rewriting the Declaration of Independence. This, I think is huge.
I suggest that Hillary should push the idea that equality is not just about equal pay for equal work. It is also about the fact that women are different and they focus more on family, children, education and community. They are often more patient and diplomatic as Sec. Clinton has shown.
Viva L'Difference, Hillary Clinton!
=========================
5
Trump tweeted: “Appreciate the congrats for being right on radical Islamic terrorism, I don’t want congrats, I want toughness & vigilance. We must be smart!”
Does DJT believe he's running for "Clairvoyant-in chief"? The hard part isn't predicting that a future attack will occur (duh); it's finding practical solutions to ADDRESS the problem.
So per Don, "We must be smart"?
Momentarily setting aside the obvious unconstitutional nature of such a 'religious test' (!), how exactly would DJT implement his Muslim ban?
Would he have State Dept officials use applications, where if the person marks, 'Yes, I'm a Muslim", it would immediately be 'rejected'?
How would relying on the 'honor system' be "smart", when jihadists are willing to break laws (eg the CA couple who modified their weapons in violation of CA laws, etc).
Are officials to use truth-detectors? Oh, wait: we still don't have reliable technology in 2016.
Perhaps DJT will resort to using old-school Medieval methods to determine what a person actually believes, a modern-day version of dunking all Muslims to see if they float? Is that why DJT has no objection to water-boarding?
The suggestion remains just as ill-conceived as when Cruz suggested allowing only Xian (non-Muslim) Syrian refugees into the U.S.: we lack an objective means of determining what someone believes.
Who knew DJT would hijack the same stupid concept to use as centerpiece of his campaign?
Answer: DJT, of course...
Does DJT believe he's running for "Clairvoyant-in chief"? The hard part isn't predicting that a future attack will occur (duh); it's finding practical solutions to ADDRESS the problem.
So per Don, "We must be smart"?
Momentarily setting aside the obvious unconstitutional nature of such a 'religious test' (!), how exactly would DJT implement his Muslim ban?
Would he have State Dept officials use applications, where if the person marks, 'Yes, I'm a Muslim", it would immediately be 'rejected'?
How would relying on the 'honor system' be "smart", when jihadists are willing to break laws (eg the CA couple who modified their weapons in violation of CA laws, etc).
Are officials to use truth-detectors? Oh, wait: we still don't have reliable technology in 2016.
Perhaps DJT will resort to using old-school Medieval methods to determine what a person actually believes, a modern-day version of dunking all Muslims to see if they float? Is that why DJT has no objection to water-boarding?
The suggestion remains just as ill-conceived as when Cruz suggested allowing only Xian (non-Muslim) Syrian refugees into the U.S.: we lack an objective means of determining what someone believes.
Who knew DJT would hijack the same stupid concept to use as centerpiece of his campaign?
Answer: DJT, of course...
2
Here's a difference worth pointing out: Trump University is the subject of an ACTUAL lawsuit because of ACTUAL people alleging that they were ACTUALLY defrauded. There has been and ACTUAL indictment with a candidate facing ACTUAL criminal charges. OK? So forget the maybes on the email already.
This is an important distinction between the two candidates that seems to have been completely lost on the media: one is already in court!
This is an important distinction between the two candidates that seems to have been completely lost on the media: one is already in court!
16
There is a journalistic tendency toward racetrack reporting...who's ahead in the polls...whichever polls? And Blow has fallen prey.
And at the far turn, it's Hillary by a nose.... or Trump by a hair.
um... perhaps a lot of hair.
One has to wonder why polls show Clinton as politically flawed. Careful review of her actions suggests only that she was a decent Senator, and carried out her Sec State duties as POTUS directed. GOP mudslinging about her emails is nothing but political noise. The FBI investigation will come up negative.
(just as did the Benghazi investigations) Otherwise, Colin Powell and Condi Rice will both come under the same scrutiny. Which raises the question...why haven't they? They did basically the same thing. And those emails with secret content? They were determined to be secret AFTER THE FACT... another politically tweaked event.
Final thought, in this period prior to the conventions.... when one has nothing to report on...nothing to say... saying nothing is perhaps the best policy. The only thing I'm tired of hearing about more than Hillary's emails is which poll reported what opinion, in our over-sampled society. The only poll that matters comes in November. The media circus, however, continues unabated.
And at the far turn, it's Hillary by a nose.... or Trump by a hair.
um... perhaps a lot of hair.
One has to wonder why polls show Clinton as politically flawed. Careful review of her actions suggests only that she was a decent Senator, and carried out her Sec State duties as POTUS directed. GOP mudslinging about her emails is nothing but political noise. The FBI investigation will come up negative.
(just as did the Benghazi investigations) Otherwise, Colin Powell and Condi Rice will both come under the same scrutiny. Which raises the question...why haven't they? They did basically the same thing. And those emails with secret content? They were determined to be secret AFTER THE FACT... another politically tweaked event.
Final thought, in this period prior to the conventions.... when one has nothing to report on...nothing to say... saying nothing is perhaps the best policy. The only thing I'm tired of hearing about more than Hillary's emails is which poll reported what opinion, in our over-sampled society. The only poll that matters comes in November. The media circus, however, continues unabated.
9
Rest assured HRC will get her due for all the lives she has tried to destroy.... who in there right mind would support someone who has broken the law multiple times over the years..... should someone want the facts on her.....drop me a line.... fiction is not what made this country great and you do a great job hiding behind a paper that at one time was a great one and at this point in time ,,,, the motto of the news that fit to print is a complete..... FARCE
12
On balance, a very fair article. There was another good article in the NYT yesterday about how HRC might be more successful working across the aisle.
But do any of us want Bubba roaming the rooms and halls of the WH again? Certainly not is you're a future and female WH intern. Talk about a fox in the henhouse.
But do any of us want Bubba roaming the rooms and halls of the WH again? Certainly not is you're a future and female WH intern. Talk about a fox in the henhouse.
8
All these unfair attacks on Trump have a probably unintended effect at least on me. They make me think better of Trump than he actually deserves.
Suppose Trump had used a four point star? Would he then be a two thirds Nazi? Is ANYONE who uses a six point star a Nazi? Crazy attacks on Trump miss their mark and decrease the value of a valid criticism.
I hope that Trump will choose a non-white woman for VP. Possibilities are Condi Rice, Nikki Haley and Mia Love. All have political experience although perhaps Love is too young.
Will he do that or will he pick a "white male"? Remains to be seen.
And if he does pick a white male, will that be HIS choice, or will it be the Republican party who made him choose a white male in return for their support? Let us see....
Suppose Trump had used a four point star? Would he then be a two thirds Nazi? Is ANYONE who uses a six point star a Nazi? Crazy attacks on Trump miss their mark and decrease the value of a valid criticism.
I hope that Trump will choose a non-white woman for VP. Possibilities are Condi Rice, Nikki Haley and Mia Love. All have political experience although perhaps Love is too young.
Will he do that or will he pick a "white male"? Remains to be seen.
And if he does pick a white male, will that be HIS choice, or will it be the Republican party who made him choose a white male in return for their support? Let us see....
8
I think the point of the Trump criticism about the star is simply why in the world is he paying any attention at all to extremist white supremacist sites in the first place???? ANYTHING he would retweet from such a site would be damaging -- he needs to tune them out. And we need to tune him out.
Here's an idea -- when he takes away the credentials of a new organization he doesn't like, they stop covering him completely.
Here's an idea -- when he takes away the credentials of a new organization he doesn't like, they stop covering him completely.
2
Unfairness is s bizarre way to characterize Trump's media coverage. He got a free pass and unlimited coverage during the primaries. Now as the nominee, he's getting some attention. Much of it is negative, which characterizes his own approach. Should the man not receive any criticism? Is he the perfect candidate?
1
Sigh ... Hillary has a good month; Trump has another bad one. Presenting Mrs. Clinton as the only alternative to a dreaded Trump presidency is a false choice; would one opt for Idi Amin over Pol Pot because he's not as bad as THAT guy? Would you pick Jefferson Parrish, LA (the nation's 'arrest capital') for your residence over Maricopa County, AZ (Joe Arpaio's beat) because the former doesn't have such a public face of bigotry?
Nobody has to vote for either one of the major party candidates. When the nation and world are at such critical junctures, the two-party system offers us ... this?
Nobody has to vote for either one of the major party candidates. When the nation and world are at such critical junctures, the two-party system offers us ... this?
18
Trump is a man whose success has obviously astonished him and probably has given him a sense of invincibility or perhaps he just lacks the ability to do anything else. Trump knows everything outrageous he says gets him free press and thrills his base. The hard core Trumps fans seem not to care what he says so long as he slams Hillary, Washington insiders and takes notice of the pain caused by globalization.
In this election polls may mean far less than turnout and Trump supporters appear very motivated to go out and vote. Remember how the reamain vote in Britain was supposed to be a shoe in?
In this election polls may mean far less than turnout and Trump supporters appear very motivated to go out and vote. Remember how the reamain vote in Britain was supposed to be a shoe in?
2
whats funny is his fans are so stupid they dont realize he has been a huuuuuuuuuuge beneficiary of globalisation
5
I'm very glad to see than many have moved on from the flawed quotation of Republican talking points about Hillary Clinton. She's a complicated woman, and no matter how much she resembles your least favorite female relative, pkease give her a chance. Look at her record, not the censored one but the whole thing. Money in elections: she was the *subject* of the movie Citizens United was about, and against it. But would you have all the money on the other side, with the Kochs, Rovians, etc.? Other public speakers get fees, but there is evidence those fees changed her votes. She was on the board when young at Wal-Mart, an opportunity to influence for women and working stiffs. The stories go on and on, and every time the balance and perspective go out the window. Hate is not a good censor.
There's much I don't like in Democratic weaknesses, and Bill has been an idiot recently, but I'm not thrilled with Cornel West either. Bernie hasn't been tested; he just says the same thing, and never allows any deviation from his party line.
Remember to vote in midterms next time, and don't blame the victims - Democrats - for what Republicans have done.
On those emails and privacy: Can you not imagine that the Secretary of State has to be confidential sometimes? Can you not imagine that she was busy and put up with a lot of garbage from foreign heads of state? Put yourself in other's shoes before you are so eager to judge them, please.
There's much I don't like in Democratic weaknesses, and Bill has been an idiot recently, but I'm not thrilled with Cornel West either. Bernie hasn't been tested; he just says the same thing, and never allows any deviation from his party line.
Remember to vote in midterms next time, and don't blame the victims - Democrats - for what Republicans have done.
On those emails and privacy: Can you not imagine that the Secretary of State has to be confidential sometimes? Can you not imagine that she was busy and put up with a lot of garbage from foreign heads of state? Put yourself in other's shoes before you are so eager to judge them, please.
28
that was "no evidence" it changed her vote.
4
What accomplishments and what meaningful legislation have been associated with Ms. Clinton's long list of jobs filled by her? Other than filling these positions of power what has she done with these? I would say very little.
10
You are indeed right, she is complicated. She has too many scandals to keep track of. And with respect to my least favorite relatives, while they are annoying and have many flaws, none is under threat of criminal indictment in violation of the espionage act. Sorry.
7
Anyone who wants to can run to be President of the United States. No credentials needed. No experience needed. This time around we got DT and Senator Sanders - two men with BIG voices, spewing whatever is popular at the moment, with no plans to accomplish what they spew. Interesting to note that the two "revolutionaries" who convinced British voters to leave the EU have both now resigned - they have no idea how it will work but say they have accomplished their goals, which were to break up the EU. I'm thanking my lucky stars that we can vote for Ms. Hillary Rodham Clinton, the most qualified candidate with the most national and international political capital to steer us through these chaotic global times. She has my vote.
36
That would be any natural born citizen of the United States.
9
...slouching toward libya...
8
Odd that you wouldn't note that the Prime Minister who fought for staying in the EU also resigned. I think Mr. Cameron is a wee bit more important than two "revolutionaries". Granted the Prime Minister knows what would happen if the Brits stayed in the EU but the people also know and the majority said no thanks.
Closer to home, the people also know what would happen if Hillary is elected (higher taxes, more government, inept foreign policy, weakened military, disastrous healthcare plans and anemic to non-existent economic growth).
Closer to home, the people also know what would happen if Hillary is elected (higher taxes, more government, inept foreign policy, weakened military, disastrous healthcare plans and anemic to non-existent economic growth).
4
"Vote for Hillary Clinton: She's Not the Worst."
21
HILLARY Is hands down one of the most, if not the most, experienced and qualified of presidential candidates. The press bears great responsibility as, since being the First Lady of Arkansas, Hillary has probably had more mud slung against her, our of sheer malice, just to see how much can stick, due to the vast right-wing extremist cabal and its minions. Fortunately for the US, Hillary realizes that it takes more than name-calling and Chicken Little The-Sky-Is-Falling scare tactics to be a leader, even of a small town. Hillary is strong, clear and prepared to take Trump on, though I must admit that I shudder at the prospect of listening to a debate with his yammerings, raving and caterwauling up against Hillary's logical, well-constructed debates focused on public policy. Trump can't get beyond describing his reflection in the mirror, as he is utterly blinded to any external reality whatever. Unless, of course, that reality reflect what the inside of his bubble looks like exclusively. Hillary is committed to working hard to improve the US and the lives of the over 320 million people who live here. Trump is more interested in convincing us that he is a one trick Donald, closer to a cartoon figure like, say, Donald Duck, than anyone else. Except for Adolf Hitler, whom he does NOT object to being compared with! Beware! All it takes for evil to triumph is for people of good will to stand by and say and do nothing. Beware Trump's head rearing up over Palin's Alaska!
57
Saying Hilary is better than trump is like saying Jack the ripper is better than John Wayne Gacy
10
I don't think the people in the rest of the country look at Hillary the same way that the well-heeled corporate lackeys at the Times. Even to longtime Dems like me she's looking like yesterday's news, nothing to say, nothing to offer. I'm going to go with Trump. No possible way he could be worse. Anyone who thinks that Trump is worse than people like Henry Kissinger is seriously delusional.
24
now that there is REASONING, that there is.
6
If you think Hillary and Trump are the same, I doubt that you were ever really a Democrat. Probably a Republican a Republican troll paid to post disparaging comments about Mrs. Clinton...
1
@mike
With all due respect, you are not in the position to speak for anyone but yourself.
Not all Democrats--even longtime ones-- necessarily think the way you do.
Most intelligent adults have the capacity to make up their own minds---let them.
Another thing.
Only seriously delusional racists think Trump will do anything positive for America and ALL Americans. He's the worst in every way.
With all due respect, you are not in the position to speak for anyone but yourself.
Not all Democrats--even longtime ones-- necessarily think the way you do.
Most intelligent adults have the capacity to make up their own minds---let them.
Another thing.
Only seriously delusional racists think Trump will do anything positive for America and ALL Americans. He's the worst in every way.
6
n many ways, then, the marketplace of ideas does not work as advertised: it is not efficient, there are frequent crashes and failures, and dangerous products often win out, to widespread surprise and dismay. It is important to rethink the notion that the best ideas reliably rise to the top: that itself is a zombie idea, which helps entrench powerful interests. https://www.theguardian.com/science/2016/jun/28/why-bad-ideas-refuse-die
2
As a democrat I will not vote for Clinton.. I will vote green. Her e-mail use is a crime and shows complete lack of judgment.
30
Of course, it is your right as an American to vote for who you want.
But if you think a Green vote is going to make much of a difference outside of a symbolic one -- you are basically voting for Donald Trump, who is about as far from "Green" as you can get.
But if you think a Green vote is going to make much of a difference outside of a symbolic one -- you are basically voting for Donald Trump, who is about as far from "Green" as you can get.
4
Having a better month than Trump in June --thats a pretty low bar.
13
Not so much "Giving Clinton her Due" as trashing Trump. Hardly a genuine endorsement of Clinton, though Blow has been her surrogate for some time now. I do not understand why!
20
OH, American humanity is going to give Mrs. Clinton what is due. Rest assured.
12
With most of the main stream media in the tank for Hillary it's no surprise someone as flawed as she is doing as well as she is. Charles why not one word about her interrogation with the FBI? Guess lapdogs don't raise unpleasant subjects.
22
Charles's rather pained allusion to her dealings with the FBI came in the final paragraph, like the shadow of truth creeping over the false, sunny landscape of the Hillary campaign, where no one commits crimes and it's perfectly open and transparent to not hold a press conference in over 200 days.
5
All I ever hear about Hillary is "She's not as bad as Trump" or "We have to stop Trump." So inspiring.
22
It's also true...
3
Then you're not listening hard enough. A lot of people — myself included — have been enthusiastic HRC supporters since '08.
5
Hillary Clinton has been feared and smeared by America's right wing for more than two decades because they know her Presidency will be hard-nosed and practical, thereby undercutting their relentless campaign to "take back the country." She will be as progressive as the alignment of forces in Congress allows, and in any case, she will make at least a good President -- and potentially one far better than that. Now you can be inspired!
7
Enough with the private server E-mails! Just who and what is the State Department? Faceless lifetime bureaucrats. If the State Department wants to ensure security of information just give all State Department "employees" including the Secretary of State approved and State Department installed equipment. End of Discussion. If the State Department CHANGES the security level of information from classified to HYPER classified after the fact That's on THEM. If you go after Hillary then go after Colin Powell who did the same thing. One has to ask who is dishonest/disfunctional here. The Republican lead witch hunt should be discussed for what it is. It covers up the fact that their candidate is seriously flawed and unqualified they hope.
41
No, Elizabeth, it is not "enough" of her "private email servers." Not when you look at Hillary's seriously flawed judgement that allowed our enemies out there to see some of the most inner workings of top secret United States communications. Not when she denied and lied, and then lied and denied, over and over again. With this massive character flaw and this massive judgement flaw, it is not really "enough" of her pattern of performance to keep in mind when visiting the voting booth later this year.
12
The did give Hillary State Department equipment but she refused to use it because she couldn't keep her communications secret. That's why she set up an illegal server and absconded with federal records after her term was up. It only came out because of a Romanian hacker.
11
It's not clear to me which is less acceptable to the great American public: a woman as POTUS or a black man ditto. Clearly Obama overcame the flow of negative lies and insults, but HRC has been subjected to this brand of American electioneering, i.e., Fair and Balanced, for decades. Some people who can vote now have never known anything but the "Hate Hillary" era. They shovel out accusations and innuendo without a shred of evidence. God help America! For Trump won't and the GOP certainly hasn't!
45
4
Although it has gone beyond the merely "odd coincidence" stage that the U.S. has failed to elect a woman as head of government, I think Clinton's sex has become pretty much a non-starter. Maybe I'm being too rosy in my outlook, but Ferraro broke the sex barrier for a national race. And, whatever else you can say about Sarah Palin (and there's plenty, I know), her sex was never an issue, for her supporters or her many detractors.
6
If a Black man is unacceptable to the "great American public," how did one of them get elected twice? And if a female is equally unacceptable, how did she get the Democrat nomination?
What is it about liberals and facts?
What is it about liberals and facts?
3
Since the death of Norman Thomas I have never voted FOR a candidate but voted AGAINST one, That is going to happen again this year. I see both Presidential candidates as poorly representing what I believe in - only that Trump is more dangerous that Hillary. He has no policy that makes sense, only what will appeal to his ego. Hillary can at least bring about a defeat in Congress for the do nothing Republicans and I can hope that her pro - military,big business, semi-Republican policies will be gone or ,at least, diminished.
I had hoped that finally, at my real old age (93), I could vote FOR someone - but Bernie's drive is now only to influence the party that he stayed away from all these years and make the Dems more representative of what I and so many others believe in.
I had hoped that finally, at my real old age (93), I could vote FOR someone - but Bernie's drive is now only to influence the party that he stayed away from all these years and make the Dems more representative of what I and so many others believe in.
14
earljag, write in Bernie Sanders for president. You'll sleep better than if you vote for one of the joke choices offered by the Republicans and Democrats. That is what I am going to do.
Remember, voting for the lesser of two evils is still evil! And the publicly available evidence indicates HRC is a crook many times over (racketeering, obstruction of justice, mishandling sensitive government information, violation of FOIA, and more), so she is hardly a better choice than Trump.
P.S. Bernie Sanders may yet end up being the Democratic presidential nominee, provided the FBI refers Clinton for indictments before the upcoming Democratic convention.
Remember, voting for the lesser of two evils is still evil! And the publicly available evidence indicates HRC is a crook many times over (racketeering, obstruction of justice, mishandling sensitive government information, violation of FOIA, and more), so she is hardly a better choice than Trump.
P.S. Bernie Sanders may yet end up being the Democratic presidential nominee, provided the FBI refers Clinton for indictments before the upcoming Democratic convention.
9
Let me sum up this opinion piece, Clinton is disliked, but not as much as Trump.
In another Times article about Clinton's first 100 days in office, it says she will work with Republicans, over lots of drinks, to find common ground with them on immigration and infrastructure spending.
Their base just voted for a guy who wants to build a wall around the entire country and they have been calling infrastructure spending "payoffs to big labor" for 8 years, but that's common ground.
Republicans will want to negotiate, the thinking goes, because the party is divided and the Trump debacle will make them want to play nice. Really?
After Bush made what, even the Republican's own nominee calls "one of the worse decisions in the history of the country," turning Iraq into "Harvard for Terrorists," and, eight years of Republican rule having created the Great Recession, their response was not to play nice. Their response was to announce that they would put destroying Obama over the good of the country, and do everything they could to wreck "Obama's" economy.
Obama meanwhile, tried to play nice and compromise for six years while they called him names.
The Republicans always respond to their own failures with more of the same. More tax cuts, More trickle down propaganda, more hate and lies.
So Clinton's "experience" in the oval office has taught her that if only Obama had been more friendly and gotten them drunk a few times that they would fold under her amazing ability to "listen."
ROTFL
In another Times article about Clinton's first 100 days in office, it says she will work with Republicans, over lots of drinks, to find common ground with them on immigration and infrastructure spending.
Their base just voted for a guy who wants to build a wall around the entire country and they have been calling infrastructure spending "payoffs to big labor" for 8 years, but that's common ground.
Republicans will want to negotiate, the thinking goes, because the party is divided and the Trump debacle will make them want to play nice. Really?
After Bush made what, even the Republican's own nominee calls "one of the worse decisions in the history of the country," turning Iraq into "Harvard for Terrorists," and, eight years of Republican rule having created the Great Recession, their response was not to play nice. Their response was to announce that they would put destroying Obama over the good of the country, and do everything they could to wreck "Obama's" economy.
Obama meanwhile, tried to play nice and compromise for six years while they called him names.
The Republicans always respond to their own failures with more of the same. More tax cuts, More trickle down propaganda, more hate and lies.
So Clinton's "experience" in the oval office has taught her that if only Obama had been more friendly and gotten them drunk a few times that they would fold under her amazing ability to "listen."
ROTFL
10
As a committed Clinton supporter and liberal-left Democrat, I am driven to distraction by comments like these. I can't stand the GOP either, but we are a nation dominated by two political parties, which have roughly equal power in Congress. Successful presidents are ones that try to reach across the aisle and cultivate relationships with the opposition's leaders, no matter how much one may detest their policies.
Reagan showed how it was done when he worked with Tip O'Neill to get his agenda moving through Congress. We need to be more like our enemies sometimes to overcome them.
Reagan showed how it was done when he worked with Tip O'Neill to get his agenda moving through Congress. We need to be more like our enemies sometimes to overcome them.
3
"Their base just voted for a guy who wants to build a wall around the entire country and they have been calling infrastructure spending "payoffs to big labor" for 8 years, but that's common ground."
Trump only wants a wall on the Mexican border, not on the Canadian border. The democrats continue to demand that all infrastructure work be restricted to union members, who cost at least 25% more than their non-union counterparts, but kickback most of their union dues to the democrats. The GOP would be foolish to agree to any scheme that gives kickback money to the democrats.
Trump only wants a wall on the Mexican border, not on the Canadian border. The democrats continue to demand that all infrastructure work be restricted to union members, who cost at least 25% more than their non-union counterparts, but kickback most of their union dues to the democrats. The GOP would be foolish to agree to any scheme that gives kickback money to the democrats.
1
“Trump and Clinton are currently among the worst-rated presidential candidates of the last seven decades.”
Unfair observation without factoring in causes and effects of 21st century social media revolution creating a new paradigm for political communication and shifting the very foundation of the political process.
Before the advent of social media, Television and newspapers, were traditionally the sole gatekeeper, to limit or govern information exchanges. Politicians with huge resources could control directly or otherwise manipulate political process..
Writing "Tweeting to Power: The Social Media Revolution in American Politics" Gainous and Wagner propose that the opportunity for a new information flow that is no longer being structured and limited by the popular media.
" Online social media are changing the face of politics in the United States. Beginning with a strong theoretical foundation grounded in political, communications and psychology literature. Television and newspapers, traditionally the sole gatekeeper, can no longer limit or govern what information is exchanged. By lowering the cost of both supplying the information and obtaining it, social networking applications have recreated how, when and where people are informed".
Unfair observation without factoring in causes and effects of 21st century social media revolution creating a new paradigm for political communication and shifting the very foundation of the political process.
Before the advent of social media, Television and newspapers, were traditionally the sole gatekeeper, to limit or govern information exchanges. Politicians with huge resources could control directly or otherwise manipulate political process..
Writing "Tweeting to Power: The Social Media Revolution in American Politics" Gainous and Wagner propose that the opportunity for a new information flow that is no longer being structured and limited by the popular media.
" Online social media are changing the face of politics in the United States. Beginning with a strong theoretical foundation grounded in political, communications and psychology literature. Television and newspapers, traditionally the sole gatekeeper, can no longer limit or govern what information is exchanged. By lowering the cost of both supplying the information and obtaining it, social networking applications have recreated how, when and where people are informed".
2
Never mind about the "damned emails". What about the fraud case re Trump "University" and the plagiarism case re trumps real estate courses, where the plagiarizer was someone the company recruited from Craigslist?
Where are the Trump tax records?
Trump is a real and actual crook. He is more Bernie Madoff than presidential contender.
Why has he not been vetted properly? Why is the press always bringing up Hillary's flaws?
Could it be the vast right wing conspiracy that Hillary often talks about? You know, the one led and fed by Charles and David Koch, among others, that has been attacking everyone left of Atilla the Hun for the last several decades?
Where are the Trump tax records?
Trump is a real and actual crook. He is more Bernie Madoff than presidential contender.
Why has he not been vetted properly? Why is the press always bringing up Hillary's flaws?
Could it be the vast right wing conspiracy that Hillary often talks about? You know, the one led and fed by Charles and David Koch, among others, that has been attacking everyone left of Atilla the Hun for the last several decades?
33
So this has what two-party politics has come down to: partisan pundits bragging how their candidate isn't as atrocious as the other candidate? I've been voting for the lesser of two evils for as long as I can remember, but this time it's far worse.
One candidate is a corporate-raider with a hooligan's mouth and the other candidate is a shape-shifting poster child for "Washington-insider" who, unlike past Democratic contenders, doesn't even promise change.
This election year I'll be voting for the Green Party's Jill Stein. She doesn't have a chance, but at least I can say that abstained from participation in the devolution of two-party politics. The two parties are a hoax being perpetrated on the public
One candidate is a corporate-raider with a hooligan's mouth and the other candidate is a shape-shifting poster child for "Washington-insider" who, unlike past Democratic contenders, doesn't even promise change.
This election year I'll be voting for the Green Party's Jill Stein. She doesn't have a chance, but at least I can say that abstained from participation in the devolution of two-party politics. The two parties are a hoax being perpetrated on the public
20
Much of the negative aura around Hillary goes back to the decade or so the NY Times spent savaging the Clintons. I believe there was some earlier stuff, but the Times' abuse of its power really begins with the Whitewater stories that put the delusions of a mentally ill man on the front page and called it reporting. Most of what followed were attempts to show that somehow the Clintons were actually corrupt. By failing to find any wrong doing beyond Bill's personal misbehavior, Ken Starr effectively proved them innocent. I've been waiting for the Times to fess up for over two decades.
17
Oh, please... Democrats continue to delude themselves. If by some remote chance Clinton should be allowed to run, she will receive far less than fifty percent of total votes cast, carry few Democrats into Congress, and will be nearly powerless as our next President. It would be disastrous for our nation, as our enemies will surely work even harder to take advantage of such a profound weakness, yet no one seems prepared for such a frightening scenario. My only hope is that Bernie, rather than 2008's also-ran Clinton, finally is recognized at the Convention as the rightful candidate of the Democratic Party. However, due to the historical heavy handedness of the Democratic Party (Chicago 1968, anyone?) the chance that Party regulars will throw off their purple cloak of royalty must be pretty darn close to "slim to none."
11
Yeah, give Clinton her due. A recent poll revealed that many voters would rather have earth struck by a giant meteor than have either Trump or Clinton as president. Clinton would best be served by not speaking, nor allowing Bill or the Allbrights in her machine to speak until after the election. By the way, evidently the NYT has some inside knowledge they are not sharing as a news article published yesterday was centered around Clinton and her propensity to sit around and make important decisions while under an alcoholic fog. Sounds good to me. Better install a breathalyzer on that nuclear football.
17
Oh, now that's a new piece of slime -- Hillary-haters are always coming up with another pretense for their misogyny. You apparently have not been watching her extremely articulate and un-fogged speeches, debates, and interviews.
3
Every time I watch Hillary in an interview, debate, speech or town hall, I find her to be brilliant, compassionate, savvy, strong, resilient, and a very good listener. Then I read and hear that she is "flawed," "damaged," "has high negative ratings," "is untrustworthy" to the point that I begin to doubt myself. So I watch and listen again, and again feel what a wonderful president she would make... until I read and hear... and so it goes. If the constant outpouring of vitriol affects me in this way, and makes me doubt my own perceptions, I can only imagine the effect it has on those who are paying less attention.
57
Do you also feel this way when you examine the fruits of her foreign policy in Libya, Iraq, Syria, Russia and Europe?
16
Might I suggest that you remember just who, and what is behind all of these vitriolic attacks?? -- The Republican attack machine, and the likes of Karl Rove have been at this for years...just look at the G.O.P nominee they're all behind.
That is what you should be paying attention to.
That is what you should be paying attention to.
4
Judy, has it occurred to you that your basic perceptions are flawed?
9
Trump is a con artist and is is running the biggest con ever.
He does not want to be President. Much too much work and exposure and political correctness.. he has the bully pulpit with no do downside,
Lose, and blame it on the GOP elite.
And then reap the benefits of his new found legitimacy by the GOP.
He does not want to be President. Much too much work and exposure and political correctness.. he has the bully pulpit with no do downside,
Lose, and blame it on the GOP elite.
And then reap the benefits of his new found legitimacy by the GOP.
14
That, plus the launching of his cable network, promotion of his vacation properties and upping the fee to license his name to buildings, clothing and whatever else he can fob off on the public.
2
“Both Clinton and Trump are flawed and damaged candidates, but they aren’t equally flawed and damaged.”
Charles Blow has written a good column about Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton, but Mr. Blow has made a huge mistake by writing the above-quoted sentence and, then, using it as the theme of his column.
Hillary Clinton is not a “flawed” or a “damaged” candidate. Donald Trump is very much a “flawed and damaged” person who has had the audacity to run for the presidency.
Mrs. Clinton has a few weaknesses as a candidate. For example, she is not an exciting public speaker like Donald Trump or Elizabeth Warren. She’s getting better. People can get better at giving speeches, as all of us know who watched Bill Clinton give one of the all-time most boring speeches in nominating Michael Dukakis at the 1988 convention.
Comparing Hillary Clinton to Donald Trump, however, as though their respective faults are different only by a matter of degree, is like comparing Clinton’s slightly tart apple to Trump’s rotten and moldy orange.
Yeah, one’s an apple and one’s an orange, but there is a lot more going on. Trump is dangerously ill.
Charles Blow has written a good column about Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton, but Mr. Blow has made a huge mistake by writing the above-quoted sentence and, then, using it as the theme of his column.
Hillary Clinton is not a “flawed” or a “damaged” candidate. Donald Trump is very much a “flawed and damaged” person who has had the audacity to run for the presidency.
Mrs. Clinton has a few weaknesses as a candidate. For example, she is not an exciting public speaker like Donald Trump or Elizabeth Warren. She’s getting better. People can get better at giving speeches, as all of us know who watched Bill Clinton give one of the all-time most boring speeches in nominating Michael Dukakis at the 1988 convention.
Comparing Hillary Clinton to Donald Trump, however, as though their respective faults are different only by a matter of degree, is like comparing Clinton’s slightly tart apple to Trump’s rotten and moldy orange.
Yeah, one’s an apple and one’s an orange, but there is a lot more going on. Trump is dangerously ill.
35
I'm a health care professional and Clinton has the worse disorder although both have them (in my opinion). I have never sat down with either long enough to make an official diagnosis. Clinton is a sociopath trump is a narcissist. Pick which you want in the White house knowing that.
11
We should all trust in Hillary, Santa Claus and the tooth fairy.
Clintonites keep saying that the distrust of HRC comes from right-wing smears and from having been in public life so long.
It is true that the far right-wing in its hatred of Hillary Clinton has smeared her. And some of it very likely does come from misogyny.
But being a public figure for a long time does not have to make for such widespread mistrust or even hate. How about FDR, Eleanor Roosevelt, Truman, John Kennedy, and Jimmy Carter? And what about even establishment figures like John Kerry and Al Gore? Why is it that Clinton is lumped with Nixon and Trump, two of the worst political leaders in modern times?
Perhaps it is because of all those speaking fees, the flip-flopping, including as to the TPP after being its architect and its champion for 5 years, the lies about Bernie’s record and so on. And now, how much will her arrogant refusal to respectfully accommodate the views of at least 45% of Democratic voters earn her even more the intense dislike of so many people, including Independent voters?
But then we should all trust Hillary, Santa Claus and the tooth fairy.
Clintonites keep saying that the distrust of HRC comes from right-wing smears and from having been in public life so long.
It is true that the far right-wing in its hatred of Hillary Clinton has smeared her. And some of it very likely does come from misogyny.
But being a public figure for a long time does not have to make for such widespread mistrust or even hate. How about FDR, Eleanor Roosevelt, Truman, John Kennedy, and Jimmy Carter? And what about even establishment figures like John Kerry and Al Gore? Why is it that Clinton is lumped with Nixon and Trump, two of the worst political leaders in modern times?
Perhaps it is because of all those speaking fees, the flip-flopping, including as to the TPP after being its architect and its champion for 5 years, the lies about Bernie’s record and so on. And now, how much will her arrogant refusal to respectfully accommodate the views of at least 45% of Democratic voters earn her even more the intense dislike of so many people, including Independent voters?
But then we should all trust Hillary, Santa Claus and the tooth fairy.
30
Better Hillary, Santa Claus and the tooth fairy -- than the Republicans and the Ku Klux Klan.
5
Hillary Clinton has successfully married a guy who became president, bullied Nita Lowey out of running for Senate in 2000, lucked into Giuliani dropping out of that same Senate race due to a cancer diagnosis, voted for the Patriot Act, voted for the Iraq War, lost a primary to a Senator with four years of experience, served as Secretary of State as payment for a deal with Obama to support him in the 2008 general election, done nothing worth trumpeting as Secretary of State, and narrowly defeated an avowed socialist who nobody had heard of a year ago. She's also succeeded in staying ahead of a buffoon in general election polling.
Giving Hillary her due is voting for a third party in November.
Giving Hillary her due is voting for a third party in November.
48
Just for the record. People usually aren't voted into Senate seats (twice) because they're bullies, or incompetent.
Another thing. Giulliani was on his way out anyway. The only thing that "saved" him was a terrorist attack on 9/11.
Short memory on the Iraq War??? -- here's a hint.
It was George W. Bush and his clan who STARTED it.
A third-party vote is a symbolic vote -- and ultimately one for Trump.
Good Luck with that.
Another thing. Giulliani was on his way out anyway. The only thing that "saved" him was a terrorist attack on 9/11.
Short memory on the Iraq War??? -- here's a hint.
It was George W. Bush and his clan who STARTED it.
A third-party vote is a symbolic vote -- and ultimately one for Trump.
Good Luck with that.
2
Mike don't lie you're voting for Trump.
3
She was also named one of America's top 100 lawyers, twice. She helped start the legal aid clinic at the University of Arkansas Law School and a lot more than just "married a guy who became President." Giuliani dropped out because he saw the poll numbers, and losing to Barack Obama was not really all that bad. She cleaned her primary opponents clock with over three million more popular votes and a huge margin of win when the delegates vote this month.
"You are entitled to your own opinion but not your own facts."-Daniel Patrick Moynihan
"You are entitled to your own opinion but not your own facts."-Daniel Patrick Moynihan
5
When Barack Obama won his first term, my email filled with racist jokes, innuendo and when I questioned a cousin in Texas on something he sent that was blatantly about African Americans and not in a good way, his response was, "Well, I would have said the same thing about Bush."
Uh, no you wouldn't have. Bush is white.
After Clinton is elected, I expect the same thing to happen re female/women propaganda, disguised as jokes. I'm waiting though for my cousin to say, after sending some awful female-related slam, "I would have said the same thing about Obama!"
Uh, no you wouldn't have. Bush is white.
After Clinton is elected, I expect the same thing to happen re female/women propaganda, disguised as jokes. I'm waiting though for my cousin to say, after sending some awful female-related slam, "I would have said the same thing about Obama!"
8
On this July 4th - the birthday of this great country -- let us pause a moment and give thanks that despite the stupidity and lack of sophistication of the average voter -- Trump is neck and neck with Hillary in the latest Quinnipiac poll -- our oligarchic system is still the best because, thank god, your vote doesn't matter.
4
There is nothing "classy" about Hillary Clinton from her temper to putting up her husband, Bill, to meet with Loretta Lynch and call if accidental. She is up to her lying.
17
So what Charles Blow is saying, he prefers Hillary Clinton's soft-spoken lies to Donald Trump's shouted lies. Neither Trump nor Clinton is Presidential material, but there are many millions of ignorant people who prefer to be lied to in a kind way, and that's what the liar, fake and fraud Clinton has going for her.
15
What is this man’s issue with Mexico, anyway?
My guess is that he has nothing against Mexico.
No doubt he'd like to sell stuff there, steaks or wine or classes on whining. Why does he come back to Mexico? Because it is a winning line with his supporters and he can't think of anything new to tell them. Are his supporters really interested in the ins and outs of what might actually turn into economic policy? They themselves repeatedly admit in interviews they don't care what he actually supports, or they often disagree with what he seems to support. They just like his personality and think he'll do for the USA what he has done for himself. Why they would imagine that a man who abandons his workers, investors and creditors to fill his pockets with dough would not abandon his political supporters in order to effect the same result is inexplicable, except that they are really, really, really frustrated and really, really, really want to believe someone will come along in a white limousine to dispatch to oblivion everything they imagine is making their lives more difficult. Even if it were a practical and valid way for the United States to succeed as a nation in the future, Donald Trump is surely not the white knight, or if he is, he is doing a remarkably good job of hiding his identity and his true intentions.
My guess is that he has nothing against Mexico.
No doubt he'd like to sell stuff there, steaks or wine or classes on whining. Why does he come back to Mexico? Because it is a winning line with his supporters and he can't think of anything new to tell them. Are his supporters really interested in the ins and outs of what might actually turn into economic policy? They themselves repeatedly admit in interviews they don't care what he actually supports, or they often disagree with what he seems to support. They just like his personality and think he'll do for the USA what he has done for himself. Why they would imagine that a man who abandons his workers, investors and creditors to fill his pockets with dough would not abandon his political supporters in order to effect the same result is inexplicable, except that they are really, really, really frustrated and really, really, really want to believe someone will come along in a white limousine to dispatch to oblivion everything they imagine is making their lives more difficult. Even if it were a practical and valid way for the United States to succeed as a nation in the future, Donald Trump is surely not the white knight, or if he is, he is doing a remarkably good job of hiding his identity and his true intentions.
7
If Hillary was a man, much of the commentariat's assumptions here this morning about her various sins wouldn't even be under discussion.
12
What complete and absolute nonsense. You (and she) lose all credibility when you meet legitimate criticism with accusations of sexist behavior. I am a woman, a feminist, and nearly the same age as Clinton and I resent your comment. I am fully aware of sexism and have experienced it, professionally as well as in the private realm. But I have never set up a secret unauthorized server to avoid legitimate access to public documents under FOIA.
6
It's insulting to Mrs. Clinton to file her under "flawed and damaged" with That Other Fellow, who seems determined to display his own unsuitablity for the presidential role at every turn. I don't think she's flawed any more than the rest of us. Which is to say she's just a human being. But the GOP has been running against her for 25 years and a lot of folks have swallowed the iffy mushroom of that campaign without a backward glance.
15
We must vote for Hillary Clinton holding our noses. Trump is clearly worse.
Then we must organize to achieve the policies we really need. No politician will "give" them to us. Our founding fathers knew we have to work - fight - for what's important. Others along the way have reminded us. It's time to do it.
Then we must organize to achieve the policies we really need. No politician will "give" them to us. Our founding fathers knew we have to work - fight - for what's important. Others along the way have reminded us. It's time to do it.
2
There is one thing republicans have been able to do much more efficiently and effectively than democrats. They have built a propaganda machine that would turn Joseph Goebbels green with envy.
It is amazing how many democrats and so called progressives have fallen for their lies and distortions.
I, for one, am waiting for the republicans on the Benghazi committee to issue a full throated apology to Ms. Clinton, and then to admit they admire her steel and her nerve. She did herself and her reputation proud while being grilled by those bozos.
I say all this as a Bernie Sanders' supporter.
It is amazing how many democrats and so called progressives have fallen for their lies and distortions.
I, for one, am waiting for the republicans on the Benghazi committee to issue a full throated apology to Ms. Clinton, and then to admit they admire her steel and her nerve. She did herself and her reputation proud while being grilled by those bozos.
I say all this as a Bernie Sanders' supporter.
16
No matter what the right wing media hope for, there will be no indictment.
Fox and its friends have smeared Ms. Clinton for years. Turns out lying repeatedly over time changes perception.
I agree with what you say. Hillary had a good month, Donald seemed bent on self destruction. Astonishing watching political shows where the discussion is about Hillary's trustworthiness.
Donald opens his mouth and out pours lies, exaggerations, things made up on the fly, racist blather, promotion of war crimes, etc.
And the conversation is about Hillary's honesty?? It's good to hear a different take on the state of the race.
Fox and its friends have smeared Ms. Clinton for years. Turns out lying repeatedly over time changes perception.
I agree with what you say. Hillary had a good month, Donald seemed bent on self destruction. Astonishing watching political shows where the discussion is about Hillary's trustworthiness.
Donald opens his mouth and out pours lies, exaggerations, things made up on the fly, racist blather, promotion of war crimes, etc.
And the conversation is about Hillary's honesty?? It's good to hear a different take on the state of the race.
10
Hillary Clinton has been held to a higher standard by the press than Trump. As for her flaws, they do not nearly rise to the level of George W. Bush who was re-elected despite the fact that he led this country into a war based on lies that has devastated the Middle East and helped create the rise of ISIS and other radical Islamist groups as well as creating one of the worst refugee crisis in history.
Right now the country has a choice in November of electing an intelligent politically experienced woman well versed in foreign policy and has the respect of world leaders, or Donald Trump who is a vulgarian and clueless when it comes to foreign policy or how the government functions. Which person would you prefer to have access to the nuclear codes? I know who I am voting for in November and it is not Donald Trump.
Right now the country has a choice in November of electing an intelligent politically experienced woman well versed in foreign policy and has the respect of world leaders, or Donald Trump who is a vulgarian and clueless when it comes to foreign policy or how the government functions. Which person would you prefer to have access to the nuclear codes? I know who I am voting for in November and it is not Donald Trump.
15
I am so grateful to see comments herein speaking the truth about Hillary R. Clinton. She is a remarkable candidate and will serve our country and the world well as President. She has done nothing less the entirety of her adult life.
I will never forget when years ago the New York Times published letters written by Hillary Clinton from Wellesley College to her father. I was awed by the level of servant leadership and civic engagement she displayed at such a young age. Never was there a mention of a party or focus on dating, rather her concern was for helping people and working to make our country a better place to live. Oh that my college days had been filled with such noble pursuits.
I will never forget when years ago the New York Times published letters written by Hillary Clinton from Wellesley College to her father. I was awed by the level of servant leadership and civic engagement she displayed at such a young age. Never was there a mention of a party or focus on dating, rather her concern was for helping people and working to make our country a better place to live. Oh that my college days had been filled with such noble pursuits.
19
Nihilism is often associated with extreme pessimism and a radical skepticism.
It was the doctrine of an extreme Russian revolutionary party circa 1900, which found nothing to approve of in the established social order. Their belief was that their czarist society's political and social institutions are so bad that they should be destroyed.
Nihilism is getting a new lease on life with this election.
If this is the established order, only these two choices, then the majority opinion polls as, "No.
It was the doctrine of an extreme Russian revolutionary party circa 1900, which found nothing to approve of in the established social order. Their belief was that their czarist society's political and social institutions are so bad that they should be destroyed.
Nihilism is getting a new lease on life with this election.
If this is the established order, only these two choices, then the majority opinion polls as, "No.
9
A short history of how Hillary came to be so disliked.
https://thepolicy.us/thinking-about-hillary-a-plea-for-reason-308fce6d18...
https://thepolicy.us/thinking-about-hillary-a-plea-for-reason-308fce6d18...
7
It is ridiculous to imagine that Sec. Clinton will be allowed to run against the Trumpster. The GOP is working hard on a Statue of Liberty play in which Trump goes back to pass, becomes disenchanted with his polling numbers, withdraws from the race to enjoy the free marketing he has received and hands the political ball to Paul Ryan. Then it is a real horse race with just as much at stake, but even polls.
It is not simply Trump's shortcomings that need to be highlighted. Brexit, climate, ISIS all are challenging the Chief Executive directly. And the GOP's reflexes lead to worsening outcomes if not catastrophe in each area. The economy of the white middle class with its growing suicide and addiction rates is an area where the GOP is incompetent and unconcerned.
Trump's utter lack of redeeming graces looks appealing next to the amazingly appalling Gowdy, Cotton and Inhofe. These men reflect the morally bankrupt climate and social catastrophes that the GOP has in mind for us. Coal burning and ethnic cleansing top the menu. Even after Trump evaporates we are left with the monstrosity that today's normal republicanism represents. Ah, where is Gipper when we really need him?
So do not concentrate your fire on the man with the amazing hair. The jingoist, climate denying, Supreme Court hijacking GOP is the real, persistent threat.
It is not simply Trump's shortcomings that need to be highlighted. Brexit, climate, ISIS all are challenging the Chief Executive directly. And the GOP's reflexes lead to worsening outcomes if not catastrophe in each area. The economy of the white middle class with its growing suicide and addiction rates is an area where the GOP is incompetent and unconcerned.
Trump's utter lack of redeeming graces looks appealing next to the amazingly appalling Gowdy, Cotton and Inhofe. These men reflect the morally bankrupt climate and social catastrophes that the GOP has in mind for us. Coal burning and ethnic cleansing top the menu. Even after Trump evaporates we are left with the monstrosity that today's normal republicanism represents. Ah, where is Gipper when we really need him?
So do not concentrate your fire on the man with the amazing hair. The jingoist, climate denying, Supreme Court hijacking GOP is the real, persistent threat.
11
When one considers that over 1/3 of Americans are neither Republican or Democrat, the decision of who wins, will fall to independents. We, independents, do not like we see. Two people who should not be this close to be nominated fro President of the United States. This article is not all that convincing to choose Clinton over Trump. It effectively says Clinton is the better of two evils. We, the electorate, deserve better than this choice.
Right now, Clinton is one point better, than trump in favorbility. There is a graphic, in today's New York Times, which accompany this article:
Clinton 55%
Trump 56%
Goldwater 43%
McGovern 41%
And highly unfavorable, Clinton is 22%; Trump 16%
Clinton also trails McGovern and Goldwater (21% and 17% respectively).
McGovern lost every state, except DC and MA to Nixon in 1972.
Goldwater lost every state except AZ, LA, MS, AL, GA, and SC to Johnson, in 1964.
These are by far the two largest EV defeats in my life time.
This is the scale of what people are voting between. It is very difficult voting for people with ratings worse than McGovern and Goldwater. It is even worse to be told to unite behind Clinton, to defeat Trump and some how it is good for the country.
If nothing else, Mr. Blow makes a compelling argument that neither Clinton or Trump should be candidates. The above numbers indicate how poor choices these two people are.
Let's hope saner minds undo this travesty at their respective conventions.
We deserve better.
Right now, Clinton is one point better, than trump in favorbility. There is a graphic, in today's New York Times, which accompany this article:
Clinton 55%
Trump 56%
Goldwater 43%
McGovern 41%
And highly unfavorable, Clinton is 22%; Trump 16%
Clinton also trails McGovern and Goldwater (21% and 17% respectively).
McGovern lost every state, except DC and MA to Nixon in 1972.
Goldwater lost every state except AZ, LA, MS, AL, GA, and SC to Johnson, in 1964.
These are by far the two largest EV defeats in my life time.
This is the scale of what people are voting between. It is very difficult voting for people with ratings worse than McGovern and Goldwater. It is even worse to be told to unite behind Clinton, to defeat Trump and some how it is good for the country.
If nothing else, Mr. Blow makes a compelling argument that neither Clinton or Trump should be candidates. The above numbers indicate how poor choices these two people are.
Let's hope saner minds undo this travesty at their respective conventions.
We deserve better.
23
I have considered Hillary Clinton to be a strange new version of a political Carpetbagger for some time now. It's interesting how her accent also changes depending on what demographic audience she is speaking to. Her personal ratings are low because most people do not like her or trust her. She is the candidate who was poised to run against Jeb! She represents the "Yuppified" values of the past. She and her husband Bill are both out of touch with today, 30 years have passed since their heyday....times have changed.
23
I'd say you better get use to hearing, "Madam President."
In the mean time, brush up on the history of the personal attacks, objectively unfounded, Hillary Clinton has had to endure from the Right, the Republican Party from the moment she set foot on the public stage. Especially when it became obvious she intended on staying, and not as an observer.
Hillary Clinton may not have hit a home run every time she came to the plate, but realize, in her heart was always the betterment of our country- no matter what her enemies attempted to conjure up, spin, or portray.
She will take the baton from President Obama and hit the ground running. I can only hope her coattails from the election give her the House and Senate so she can deliver this country back to us, to the majority of Americans, after the wrongs it has had to endure after the likes of Ronald Reagan, Lee Atwater, Karl Rove, Newt Gingrich, and Poppy and Sonny Boy, George W. Bush. And let's not leave out Dick Cheney and his cabal of Neocons, who to this day continue to impart a residual stain of destruction so foul throughout the world.
In the mean time, brush up on the history of the personal attacks, objectively unfounded, Hillary Clinton has had to endure from the Right, the Republican Party from the moment she set foot on the public stage. Especially when it became obvious she intended on staying, and not as an observer.
Hillary Clinton may not have hit a home run every time she came to the plate, but realize, in her heart was always the betterment of our country- no matter what her enemies attempted to conjure up, spin, or portray.
She will take the baton from President Obama and hit the ground running. I can only hope her coattails from the election give her the House and Senate so she can deliver this country back to us, to the majority of Americans, after the wrongs it has had to endure after the likes of Ronald Reagan, Lee Atwater, Karl Rove, Newt Gingrich, and Poppy and Sonny Boy, George W. Bush. And let's not leave out Dick Cheney and his cabal of Neocons, who to this day continue to impart a residual stain of destruction so foul throughout the world.
5
Clinton is a weak candidate not flawed. There is a difference.
2
Both. Weak because flawed.
Even Blow admits her flaws. To deny flaws of Hillary is to be in total denial.
Even Blow admits her flaws. To deny flaws of Hillary is to be in total denial.
9
Weak? Probably one of the most politically experienced (First Lady, Senator, SoS) and smartest candidates we've ever had. Eisenhower had none of the former. Truman was a puppet hack for the KC politicos.
Her flaws are opinions of others, not objective criteria.
Her flaws are opinions of others, not objective criteria.
6
Bill Clinton was more flawed but a strong candidate two times.
The only flaw in this summary is that not being prepared, knowledgeable, measured, etc. is exactly the reason Trump has as many supporters as he does. In particular the men supporting him by a fair margin were likely the wise guys smirking in the back of the class while mocking the smart girl up front who always had her hand up first.
27
You're certainly right about Trump, but you sell Hillary Clinton far short by comparing her flaws with those of Trump. Simply put, there is no comparison.
The simple fact is, that if Hillary Clinton was male and slightly more conservative, her flaws would be downplayed and/or recast mostly as strengths. No, the ongoing hatred of her isn't chiefly about her record. It's about the fact that she's a strong woman leader who doesn't back down and the fact that she is actually less conservative than her detractors would like.
There's about as much rationality in the visceral hatred of Hillary as there is in Trump's egotistical narcissism, but that about where any comparison starts and ends.
The simple fact is, that if Hillary Clinton was male and slightly more conservative, her flaws would be downplayed and/or recast mostly as strengths. No, the ongoing hatred of her isn't chiefly about her record. It's about the fact that she's a strong woman leader who doesn't back down and the fact that she is actually less conservative than her detractors would like.
There's about as much rationality in the visceral hatred of Hillary as there is in Trump's egotistical narcissism, but that about where any comparison starts and ends.
55
if Hillary were "male and slightly more conservative" she'd be Richard Nixon.
13
Hillary Clinton is viewed negatively because the Republicans have set out to make sure the word investigation and scandal appear next to her name at every turn. As with Saadam Hussein and 911 the connection doesn't need to be true it just needs to be repeated often enough so that people conflate two separate issues. Once there was a conscientious press that would delineate fact from fiction (not belittling Politifact but they are small potatoes next to Rupert Murdoch's organization) but now the press is compliant with the lies and will go along with any headline that promises conflict. You need look no further then the Bengahzi hearings to see this theory in action. Only after 11 investigations into the "scandalous" allegations came up empty did the news, collectively, stop using the trigger words that followed Clinton around for 3 years. Hillary's negatives are a result of sloppy reporting, lazy readers and the Republican slander/propaganda machine. Giving Clinton her due would be easier if the press didn't give so much weight to such weightless accusations.
72
"Hillary Clinton is viewed negatively because the Republicans have set out to make sure the word investigation and scandal appear next to her name at every turn."
Hillary is doing a pretty good job on that front herself, with a generous assist from her husband.
Hillary is doing a pretty good job on that front herself, with a generous assist from her husband.
16
Too many unforced errors by the Clintons. I was a Dem for thirty years.
15
Bravo!
2
Thanks for the nice, balanced piece on Hillary. I just wish she could get rid of Bill.
7
If she had gotten rid of Bill, she would not be a candidate. Sorry but true.
14
Thank you, Mr. Blow, for saying what NEEDS to be said - Mrs. Clinton is made of presidential material and deserves our vote.
Those who cry about Mrs. Clinton being given a little love from the press should be reminded of the twenty-five years of non-stop negative comments from republicans and haters directed towards a woman who is tough, smart and not a quitter. Oh, and there has never been a shred of evidence, let alone truth, to support their lies and gnashing of teeth.
She deserves every compliment that comes her way, though precious few do. And if that bothers you then you must be one of the haters.
Those who cry about Mrs. Clinton being given a little love from the press should be reminded of the twenty-five years of non-stop negative comments from republicans and haters directed towards a woman who is tough, smart and not a quitter. Oh, and there has never been a shred of evidence, let alone truth, to support their lies and gnashing of teeth.
She deserves every compliment that comes her way, though precious few do. And if that bothers you then you must be one of the haters.
37
It is surprising that Hillary Clinton's negatives are not actually higher, since the GOP's smear machine has used the mainstream media to do their dirty work day in and day out. But in the process, the GOP efforts gave an opening to Donald Trump, the quintessential problematic candidate, who by his very nature gives voters pause just contemplating about his links to Trump University, Trump Institute, RICO violations, defrauding seniors of their savings, and the latest, his white nationalist appeals to anti-Semitism. It would seem that Trump's negatives will go, according to a popular tune, higher and higher.
16
You're so right-".........to do their dirty work day in and day out." And going on three decades.
5
Yes, Trump is incompetent and has high negatives, but that is also true for the GOP-led Congress. The problem is that our politics has become toxic for the parties, for the public and for the nation. Politicians are ruining government.
a case in point: two lawyers meet socially on a tarmac. In any other situation, that would be unremarkable. But to politicians, it's scandalous, shameful, an unforced error, a stupid mistake. A excuse for distrusting the FBI and the Justice Department.
Whoever would have thought we'd settle on a class lower than lawyers?
a case in point: two lawyers meet socially on a tarmac. In any other situation, that would be unremarkable. But to politicians, it's scandalous, shameful, an unforced error, a stupid mistake. A excuse for distrusting the FBI and the Justice Department.
Whoever would have thought we'd settle on a class lower than lawyers?
7
For and editorial about giving Clinton her due, it turned out to be all about Trump again, perhaps through the perspective of how she addressed him. To give Clinton her due, you should talk about the strengths of some of her policies.
16
It's not an editorial, it's an opinion piece.
1
That the major charge against Clinton continues to be about her using her private email account for business back in the day when email was something new seems to indicate there is nothing of substance to charge her with. When the charge was first made I remember Colin Powell said he too used his personal email for government business when email was first introduced. I've paid some attention to the long and varied career of this remarkable politician Hilary Clinton and have always assumed there was a smoking gun somewhere along that road. Apparently I was wrong. There isn't.
20
July 4, 1776 + 240
Dear Concerned Americans,
Hillary Clinton's revisionist tome notwithstanding, 'living history' begets a certain symmetry. It is in that light that I make this not-so-modest proposal on this day, 240 years since our declaration of independence.
The context of our concern today—regardless of political affiliation—is the radical-Islamist terrorist war, but the larger fear is that our democracy may not survive.
We have the requisite machines, power and know-how to defeat the enemy, but do we have the will?
In particular, do we have the will to identify and defeat the enemy in our midst?
Answerable to no one, heir apparent in her own mind, self-serving in the extreme, protected by her corrupt political machine, Hillary Clinton incarnates this insidious threat to our survival.
What we decide to do about Mrs. Clinton will tell us much about what awaits us in these perilous times.
This is about more than an election. Our democracy hangs by one frayed thread…that we are all equal before the law.
One day in the not too distant future, when our children and grandchildren are suffering the consequences of Obama and the Clintons, they will ask us why we put these unfit people in office in the first place, and why, when their existential threat to us and the world became clear, we did not immediately remove them for unfitness, our constitutional right...and our duty.
Dear Concerned Americans,
Hillary Clinton's revisionist tome notwithstanding, 'living history' begets a certain symmetry. It is in that light that I make this not-so-modest proposal on this day, 240 years since our declaration of independence.
The context of our concern today—regardless of political affiliation—is the radical-Islamist terrorist war, but the larger fear is that our democracy may not survive.
We have the requisite machines, power and know-how to defeat the enemy, but do we have the will?
In particular, do we have the will to identify and defeat the enemy in our midst?
Answerable to no one, heir apparent in her own mind, self-serving in the extreme, protected by her corrupt political machine, Hillary Clinton incarnates this insidious threat to our survival.
What we decide to do about Mrs. Clinton will tell us much about what awaits us in these perilous times.
This is about more than an election. Our democracy hangs by one frayed thread…that we are all equal before the law.
One day in the not too distant future, when our children and grandchildren are suffering the consequences of Obama and the Clintons, they will ask us why we put these unfit people in office in the first place, and why, when their existential threat to us and the world became clear, we did not immediately remove them for unfitness, our constitutional right...and our duty.
9
You always use the first-person plural in your harangues against Hillary. Why not say "I" instead of "we" and "me" instead of "us"?
4
Golly. You must have found that list of the 242 Commies right in the State Department.
2
What a terrible statement about US politics that an entire column supporting Hillary Clinton's boils down to the fact that her disapproval rating isn't as bad as Donald Trump's.
19
The contrast between Clinton and Trump cannot be more pronounced, yet her unfavorable score is ONLY 33 percent to his 42 percent. It is a sad commentary indeed on the American electorate.
9
It is a sad commentary. It is not about the voters, it is about the candidates.
11
Apparently, according to Mr Blow, Clinton's "due" is that she's less awful than Trump.
This is not a ringing endorsement. It's like saying Pol Pot was a better man than Joe Stalin because he killed fewer people.
And it omits the rest of her "due," that she belongs in federal prison.
This is not a ringing endorsement. It's like saying Pol Pot was a better man than Joe Stalin because he killed fewer people.
And it omits the rest of her "due," that she belongs in federal prison.
15
I'd rather have a white collar criminal than a murderer in the White House, if both are what they appear to be--so HillBilly does NOT get my vote
7
"HillBilly" is outright genius. Way better than "Crooked Hillary" and way more accurate.
Does anyone really want Bubba roaming the rooms and halls of the WH again? Certainly not any future female interns.
Does anyone really want Bubba roaming the rooms and halls of the WH again? Certainly not any future female interns.
2
Every single day Hillary Clinton is proving to be poised to be the President of this Nation.
First the Benghazi ritual then after spending millions of dollars for this useless Javert like pursuit by the Republicans which is still continuing but shifted to another venue .
Donald Trump with his 24 hour tweets and then there is Bernie Sanders who is waiting behind the curtain and his wife urging the FBI to go on with their probe but never released their prior to 2015 tax returns.
That`s not all.
Hillary`s husband Bill Clinton is adding more to Hillary`s share of grief proving once a betrayer still is. It is becoming more and more apparent the President is threatened by his wife`s rise to power and does not want her to win the Presidency.
To defy all Hillary Clinton shall prevail.
First the Benghazi ritual then after spending millions of dollars for this useless Javert like pursuit by the Republicans which is still continuing but shifted to another venue .
Donald Trump with his 24 hour tweets and then there is Bernie Sanders who is waiting behind the curtain and his wife urging the FBI to go on with their probe but never released their prior to 2015 tax returns.
That`s not all.
Hillary`s husband Bill Clinton is adding more to Hillary`s share of grief proving once a betrayer still is. It is becoming more and more apparent the President is threatened by his wife`s rise to power and does not want her to win the Presidency.
To defy all Hillary Clinton shall prevail.
6
The New Silent Majority and dynasty building is in vogue.
Let's ignore WJC's discarding of all ethics as he crossed the tarmac ignoring his Yale Law education on ethics. Let's ignore the appearance of total privilege that accompanied his approach entering the AG's personal space.
The canned headline this weekend says HRC supporters assure us we can "trust" her.
At what point shall she have met the needs of Exxon, Monsanto, and our patriotic arms industry, that she shall be able to turn her attention to our gaping wealth disparity and the poverty that grew 25% from 2007 to 2014?
I've heard comparisons made with Golda Meir & Indira Gandhi.
In four years it shall be more a mix of Imelda Marcos & Maggie Thatcher.
BTW: No carbon tax means I shall not be voting for her this November.
Let's ignore WJC's discarding of all ethics as he crossed the tarmac ignoring his Yale Law education on ethics. Let's ignore the appearance of total privilege that accompanied his approach entering the AG's personal space.
The canned headline this weekend says HRC supporters assure us we can "trust" her.
At what point shall she have met the needs of Exxon, Monsanto, and our patriotic arms industry, that she shall be able to turn her attention to our gaping wealth disparity and the poverty that grew 25% from 2007 to 2014?
I've heard comparisons made with Golda Meir & Indira Gandhi.
In four years it shall be more a mix of Imelda Marcos & Maggie Thatcher.
BTW: No carbon tax means I shall not be voting for her this November.
16
My problem with Hillary Clinton has to do with the greed both Bill and she have demonstrated over the years. That she is a friend to the people who nearly brought about a second Great Depression is on my mind whenever she is mentioned. That she has no vision beyond getting herself elected president is disturbing to a maximum degree.
That said, she's STILL lightyears better than Donald Trump by any measure you would care to use.
That said, she's STILL lightyears better than Donald Trump by any measure you would care to use.
4
This article purporting to give Clinton her due does anything but. It's a Trump-centric piece: Clinton deserves her due because she "outclassed Trump at every turn"? Mighty low threshold. Mighty low "due" for such an intelligent and incredibly accomplished woman. Clinton deserves her due because she "out-campaigned Trump ... at every turn"? I've seen middle school student council campaigns that outshine Trump's. Clinton deserves her due for myriad reasons. I hope some day to find a NYT editorial piece that lauds HRC for reasons other than the fact that she's not Trump.
20
Could not have said it better myself. Thank you, Ellen.
2
According to a recent ABC/Washington Post poll most people find Trump more trustworthy than Hillary. You have to let fact sink in for a moment Charles do get a sense of what is currently going on in the real world.
15
Name a single accomplishment of Hillary's as a senator. As first lady. Better yet as Secretary of State - Libya, Syria, Iraq, Yemen a disaster. Iran nuclear deal a disaster. The Russian reset a disaster. I dare you doc to name a sngle accomplishment. Let's hear it. She is a complete failure - the only thing she and Bill have been good at is their blatant corruption, greed and arrogance. It is staggering to me how ignorant Americans have become
8
The fact that people think Donald Trump is more trustworthy than Hillary Clinton speaks volumes about how unengaged the American public is and proves the effectiveness of the right-wing smear machine (Fox News, Rush Limbaugh, et.al.). Politifacts analysis shows that over 70% of Donald Trump's statements are outright lies; Trump will not release his taxes; his dishonest dealings with vendors and business partners is well-documented; he has lied consistently about his wealth and his donations to charity, yet Clinton is considered to be less trustworthy. It boggles the mind!
4
Mrs. Clinton is capable and knowledgeable. Her opponent is not. Whatever dreams one entertains about him, surely this fact is not debatable.
30
Mrs. Clinton is not capable and knowledgeable. She has proven it time after time after time.
13
taking the generality "capable and knowledgeable" or the lack thereof, as "fact" wouldn't pass muster in a high school debating team practice.
11
American voters have a very "short term" memory- if they have any brain activity at all. The campaign will hit a major reset button prior to the first Presidential debate- everything that has transpired [the server, Benghazi, Trump's big mouth] will be moot points. Americans want to watch these people slug it out for all the marbles. Whomever fares best- will be the next Commander In Chief.
Call me crazy, but I think this will be the first Presidential debate that can only be watched on Pay Per View!
Call me crazy, but I think this will be the first Presidential debate that can only be watched on Pay Per View!
2
Ah, come November it will be the Devil's own choice. I'm for HC.
5
It is hard not to swallow the Koolaid- for 20 years we have been reminded, ad nauseam, that HC is not likeable and not trustworthy. Thanks media, for nothing!
Let us stick to the issues.
Let us stick to the issues.
21
Clinton is a hawk who will just drag us into more wars. She absolutely terrifies me. She will try to get a big amnesty for illegal aliens. In short she is out to remake the country. She has no real feeling for America and lives only for money and power. SHe is a confirmed liar and you cannot believe a word she says.She will say anything if she thinks it will help get her elected.
There is not enough money in the world to pay me to vote for this lying, dishonest woman.
There is not enough money in the world to pay me to vote for this lying, dishonest woman.
7
Apparently, "Giving Clinton Her Due" begins with never mentioning the fact Secretary Clinton's disbarred from legal practice husband met confidentially with the Attorney General of the United States a few days before Secretary Clinton was interrogated under oath by the FBI (and only mentioning the investigation itself as briefly as possible) as part of a year long criminal investigation into the likelihood that she was involved in violation of Federal law.
The appearance of impropriety, up to and including the possibility of criminal conspiracy, couldn't have been worse. Could the Democratic Attorney General have slipped the impeached former Democratic President, who once appointed Loretta Lynch US Attorney, say, a thumb drive with the list of questions, and documents that the FBI were going to confront his wife with a few days later? Wink wink, nudge nudge? But never mind all that. Donald Trump! Donald Trump! Donald Trump!
The appearance of impropriety, up to and including the possibility of criminal conspiracy, couldn't have been worse. Could the Democratic Attorney General have slipped the impeached former Democratic President, who once appointed Loretta Lynch US Attorney, say, a thumb drive with the list of questions, and documents that the FBI were going to confront his wife with a few days later? Wink wink, nudge nudge? But never mind all that. Donald Trump! Donald Trump! Donald Trump!
4
all candidates for office are schizos, and when elected step into their rubber room and seal the door, except for the night owl batting his wings in the ovum
office tonight earning his salary.
office tonight earning his salary.
Charles, you haven't begun to give Clinton her due...try not equating her policy reports and truth-telling with his fantasies and lies as both being "campaigning", for starters. Try not bringing up the fizzling scandal-bomb of emails in your final paragraph. Try focusing more on the destruction Trump promises to cause and the bridges Clinton promises to build.
18
Clinton's promises she'll build bridges, is actually code for "divide the people, then conquer and oppress".
8
I am proud to support Hillary Clinton and I know that she will be an exemplary President. She tells the hardest truths, that simple answers aren't always the right answers and that we all need to work together to change the world. We cannot afford to retreat to our corners, whether at the level of political affiliations or international isolationism.
Those who vilify Hillary Clinton, from both the right and the left, rely on distortions and circular logic that cannot be argued with because it has no factual basis. Millions of dollars of tax payer money (literally) have been spent by Republicans to discredit Hillary Clinton and damage her reputation, but she persists with grace and humility.
In honor of Independence Day, perhaps we could take a break from tearing each other apart and look at everything that brings us together. I am proud of a nation that elected President Obama and that provides opportunity and hope for so many. We have work to do, though, and we cannot afford to waste any more time. Hillary Clinton for President!
Those who vilify Hillary Clinton, from both the right and the left, rely on distortions and circular logic that cannot be argued with because it has no factual basis. Millions of dollars of tax payer money (literally) have been spent by Republicans to discredit Hillary Clinton and damage her reputation, but she persists with grace and humility.
In honor of Independence Day, perhaps we could take a break from tearing each other apart and look at everything that brings us together. I am proud of a nation that elected President Obama and that provides opportunity and hope for so many. We have work to do, though, and we cannot afford to waste any more time. Hillary Clinton for President!
29
Having just returned from the UK, I'm inclined to say that you underestimate the irrational moment that we live in. The more Trump lies, misspeaks, and missteps, the more he appeals to that portion of the electorate ready to stick it to the political class. My fear is that we don't know how big this group is because traditional polling methods can't plumb the depths. We can sense the anger but we can't measure the motivation to act on it. Every time a Clinton does something boneheaded (like the tarmac meeting with the Attorney General) the two of them confirm what a large number of people already think. Equally clumsy behaviors by Trump are classified as genuine or authentic. Beware, beware.
25
The Republicans, have seeded the ground with hatred and general distrust of Mrs. Clinton, now have to live with the result, a nominee who is by any measure the most unqualified candidate for president in American history, Donald "Bankruptcy" Trump. Had presidential dreamers known that hosting a "reality teevee show" was a qualification for the presidency, they would have abandoned the hard work of actual government long ago.
6
Trump is not merely "a flawed candidate". Trump is a screaming alarm signal that something, many things, have gone wrong in America and we need to be paying attention and acting. He is so utterly unqualified by experience, business practices, organizational and planning failures, personal demeanor and lack of intellectual depth as to be off the charts unqualified. That a significant segment of America is apparently so desperate for a change in direction that they would put their faith in such a person is itself a cause for alarm.
The political professionals, the campaign consultants, the candidates, the political party leadership and the hangers on, all have been busy playing their increasingly cynical game while this looming disaster was building. Seeking ever radical positions and edging into full blown nihilism, the Republican party lost control of its message, eagerly handing it over to talk radio, slanted news coverage, rumor mongering blogs and, to make it all more explosive, mixed in religious/political imperatives with raw, stinking politics. Then, giving financial and professional campaigner assistance, they lit the fuse with the tea party effort.
We have had a thoughtful, intellectual and cautious president at a time, perhaps, when we needed boldness, both to surge the country out of recession and to forcefully confront Republicans bent on taking him down and destroying his election mandate. Well, here we are. Not quite doomed but waiting for the apocalypse.
The political professionals, the campaign consultants, the candidates, the political party leadership and the hangers on, all have been busy playing their increasingly cynical game while this looming disaster was building. Seeking ever radical positions and edging into full blown nihilism, the Republican party lost control of its message, eagerly handing it over to talk radio, slanted news coverage, rumor mongering blogs and, to make it all more explosive, mixed in religious/political imperatives with raw, stinking politics. Then, giving financial and professional campaigner assistance, they lit the fuse with the tea party effort.
We have had a thoughtful, intellectual and cautious president at a time, perhaps, when we needed boldness, both to surge the country out of recession and to forcefully confront Republicans bent on taking him down and destroying his election mandate. Well, here we are. Not quite doomed but waiting for the apocalypse.
16
Journalism needs to back up and consider how overtly biased it has become. Of course, Mr. Blow, can hide behind the title of Opinion Columnist to defend his overly individual and personal view. However, even personal opinion has to contain something new and of value to the general public to move the dialogue forward. This is exceptionally stale writing.
9
Give Clinton her due? She has taken whatever was due and more. How can she not be "winning"? Only a dead person could be losing at this point with all the backing she has had. Money (lots and lots), DNC, media, justice dept., super delegates, election fraud, you name it- if she can't win with all that, it must be a people's revolution.
11
No one has ever accused Mr. Blow of being an objective writer. But to consider Clinton as having any (positive) class defies imagination
10
Mr. Blow is given a lot of latitude in these always pro Clinton articles. He writes liberal drivel for a liberal audience. Talk about an echo chamber; how about writing some deeper analysis instead of phoning it in to people who share the same sentiments as he does.
8
Too bad that she lied to us about her server and her deletion of emails linking her actions to benefits for contributors to the Clinton Foundation. Too bad that she took all that money from Wall Street. And too bad that her husband probably corruptly offered Loretta Lynch a Supreme Court vacancy.
But, hey, she''ll keep the Dems in power, and that's what it's all about.
But, hey, she''ll keep the Dems in power, and that's what it's all about.
9
If Hillary's crimes are whitewashed, it could be the beginning of civil war in this country. Recent events suggest that may have been the elitist plan all along.
3
Days after Saudi Arabia donated millions to the Clinton Foundation, HRC approved an arms deal with Saudi Arabia, in fact they are the best customer, for the US Military complex. We don't get to see the emails for 27 months to her private server, concerning the Clinton Foundation?
No, I am not a Republican troll, I have never watched Fox, I am a life long Democrat. What happened to our party ? I would never vote for Trump. I always vote Democrat. I just don't think I can do it this year. I cannot support such a War Hawk. Her main supporters are the Big Corporations, the Military Complex, and Wall St. Not to mention repressive governments like Saudi Arabia.
No, I am not a Republican troll, I have never watched Fox, I am a life long Democrat. What happened to our party ? I would never vote for Trump. I always vote Democrat. I just don't think I can do it this year. I cannot support such a War Hawk. Her main supporters are the Big Corporations, the Military Complex, and Wall St. Not to mention repressive governments like Saudi Arabia.
16
Why must the NYT race to the bottom with pandering editorials telling us that Clinton is flawed, but not nearly as much as Trump? It dismissed Bernie from the beginning and has yet to even mention Johnson/Weld who poll in low double digits despite little funding and zero press coverage.
I very much like Mr. Blow's commentary most of the time, but this piece is just off his usual perspective and is insulting to anyone who has listened to Clinton and observed her over many years. Oh, and does anyone in the electorate think that the FBI investigation into her clear security transgressions with emails will not be swept under the rug, whether AG Lynch is supposedly recusing herself or not? Does anyone truly think that the Justice Dept/FBI would give us three months to consider whether to hand over our servers while we deleted 30,000 emails? Whether Clinton is deemed to have violated security laws on confidential information or not, she has clearly been well above the law that the rest of us must obey and that is appalling.
I very much like Mr. Blow's commentary most of the time, but this piece is just off his usual perspective and is insulting to anyone who has listened to Clinton and observed her over many years. Oh, and does anyone in the electorate think that the FBI investigation into her clear security transgressions with emails will not be swept under the rug, whether AG Lynch is supposedly recusing herself or not? Does anyone truly think that the Justice Dept/FBI would give us three months to consider whether to hand over our servers while we deleted 30,000 emails? Whether Clinton is deemed to have violated security laws on confidential information or not, she has clearly been well above the law that the rest of us must obey and that is appalling.
10
The new talking point from the Clinton Campaign is that she is the victim (here we go again) of 25 years of slander, etc. Hillary Clinton has been playing the victim for decades. It is exhausting.
17
I'm sure it is exhausting. Her stamina is incredible. And she has indeed been the victim of 25 years of slander, make no mistake, while refusing to be victimized by it. She's an amazing woman. That you call the obvious fact of the republican vendetta against her a "talking point" and purport yourself to be a victim of hearing it is absurd in the extreme.
3
Wait a minute Charles...does Trump really want to win this thing? Are struggling Whites unable to disect the insults and history of disdain Trump has towards "po White Folks?" "I like the under-educated," Trump says during a campaign swing. He see's them as so stupid, so full of hatred and so quick to look for a scapcoat to their despair - that they will do anything to vent their disdain against the Brown bogeyman Trump holds up as the root cause of joblessness for people who are unemployable in the new world order and industries that will never come back. Trump's history shows nothing in it of compasion for the working poor. He imports workers from Mexico to work at his Palm Beach compound and hotels, manufactures Trump products everywhere but in the U.S. and on top of that has a track record of stifing American workers at his failed New Jersey Casinos.' Finally, Trump appears to have even out-Trumped himself, wondering 'how did I get this far for a job I don't even want.' So far that I can insult anybody and say anything to a group of Whites so desparate - they'd even vote for me. I guess Trump is now thinking, "I didn't see that one coming - I could actually win this thing."
2
Mr. Blow makes a few supportable observations but the elephant in the room is the FBI. Think of that, a candidate of a major political party, the presumptive democrat nominee if you will, is under the very real threat of being indicted by a District of Columbia, Federal grand jury. Is Hillary a criminal? Does she belong behind bars or behind the desk in the oval office? These are the questions of the day. Viewed through this lense, Mr. Trumps tweets although seemingly important to Mr. Blow, take on less importance. Sure Hillary is more deliberate, more disciplined but she is also likely to be incarcerated now that Ms.Lynch has recused herself. Stay tuned.
8
"It is easy in an election cycle that has seen the improbable rise of the preposterous presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump to center all discussion about the race on him."
nice try, but in this column you did just that...
giving hillary credit for an "incredibly strong campaign" for "remainig steady" (parse that in reviewing her speeches therein, my recent favorite is her call for strengthened "resolve" after the the isis slaughter in turkey)..."Her cautious delivery, which can sometimes feel a bit guarded and robotic, (i guess that depends on just what "guarded and robotic" is), began to sound steady, reassuring and presidential." (right, certainly not as wimpy as, say, roosevelt
after pearl harbor, look it up), other than that, she has jumped into the septic tank with trump (convincing elizabeth warren to leave the high ground for a most unflattering dive into the muck)...some "remarkable story."
nice try, but in this column you did just that...
giving hillary credit for an "incredibly strong campaign" for "remainig steady" (parse that in reviewing her speeches therein, my recent favorite is her call for strengthened "resolve" after the the isis slaughter in turkey)..."Her cautious delivery, which can sometimes feel a bit guarded and robotic, (i guess that depends on just what "guarded and robotic" is), began to sound steady, reassuring and presidential." (right, certainly not as wimpy as, say, roosevelt
after pearl harbor, look it up), other than that, she has jumped into the septic tank with trump (convincing elizabeth warren to leave the high ground for a most unflattering dive into the muck)...some "remarkable story."
2
In a race among pigs, I always vote for the fastest pig. In this instance, I cannot vote for Hillary as she refuses to say the words "radical Islamic terrorist" for fear of offending someone (not sure who would be offended by this term). Every week that goes by, and with every new attack by radical Islamic terrorists, I am being pushed away from Hillary and towards the Donald.
4
Actually I fear Hillary would get us into another middle East war faster than Donald.
9
Dear mr reason:
You seem unaware that after the Orlando Terrorist Attack Hillary actually uttered those magical words which you deem all-important in assessing her abilities to be president.
She did so, I must state, in a sarcastic manner, to point out that no matter what words one wishes to use the threat remains and must be fought full force. Much the same way Hillary's quote, "What does it matter how four people were murdered?" was parsed, taken out of context, and broadcast incessantly over FOX "News" and Right Wing radio, so it is with Hillary's haters who wish to distort her views, downplay her allegiance to this country, and outright lie about her personal and political aganda.
This is old news. There has never been a time in Hillary's public life when she has not been under attack. Only during a brief time when she left State did her approval ratings rise. She was no longer a threat. Only when Hillary started exploring another presidential run did the anti-Clinton Republican machine start up its motor again. Thus began the "scandals" of Benghazi, her e-mails, and the Clinton Foundation. There are many more yet to be unleashed as we approach the convention in Philly and the election in November. They will proceed non-stop. Get used to it.
The Clintons have long been accustomed to the onslaught. It is why Hillary always appears so guarded and cautious. She knows from previous experiences she has every right to be.
DD
Manhattan
You seem unaware that after the Orlando Terrorist Attack Hillary actually uttered those magical words which you deem all-important in assessing her abilities to be president.
She did so, I must state, in a sarcastic manner, to point out that no matter what words one wishes to use the threat remains and must be fought full force. Much the same way Hillary's quote, "What does it matter how four people were murdered?" was parsed, taken out of context, and broadcast incessantly over FOX "News" and Right Wing radio, so it is with Hillary's haters who wish to distort her views, downplay her allegiance to this country, and outright lie about her personal and political aganda.
This is old news. There has never been a time in Hillary's public life when she has not been under attack. Only during a brief time when she left State did her approval ratings rise. She was no longer a threat. Only when Hillary started exploring another presidential run did the anti-Clinton Republican machine start up its motor again. Thus began the "scandals" of Benghazi, her e-mails, and the Clinton Foundation. There are many more yet to be unleashed as we approach the convention in Philly and the election in November. They will proceed non-stop. Get used to it.
The Clintons have long been accustomed to the onslaught. It is why Hillary always appears so guarded and cautious. She knows from previous experiences she has every right to be.
DD
Manhattan
5
I think you're confusing HRC with her boss, BO, who's famously said that avoiding offense and collateral damage is part of the strategy of not alienating and offending our potential allies within the Muslim faith, such as might result from tying the word "radical" to "Islam".
I'm pretty sure she's used the term "radical Islamist", as HRC doesn't share BO's concern.
DT similarly shows even less concern for collateral damage: he's said he agreed with Cruz's statement that carpet-bombing the Middle East is the way to go.
I'm pretty sure she's used the term "radical Islamist", as HRC doesn't share BO's concern.
DT similarly shows even less concern for collateral damage: he's said he agreed with Cruz's statement that carpet-bombing the Middle East is the way to go.
1
Clinton has been around forever. In some persona or another she has been on public view in a variety of official and nonofficial capacities. After all these many years her likability/trustworthiness ratings with people continues to grow more negative. You would think people like Mr. Blow would finally understand that Ms. Clinton isn't the solution to Washington's problems. She, and other politicians like her, Democrats and Republicans, are the problem.
14
Both are "flawed and damaged candidates"? That's not really worthy of you Mr. Blow---that is merely the media commonplace. Just how is Hillary flawed and damaged? This is a woman who has been the object of a bizarre vendetta by the far Right (I don't even pretend to understand it: misogyny? fear of liberal pragmatists?) and has had every molecule of her life under the microscope, yet each attempt to smear her or charge her with some alleged 'crime' has failed. How can she be anything but the most vetted and most 'innocent' presidential candidate of all time? Can you think of anyone else that has been this microscopically (tempted to write 'gynecologically' since misogyny is certainly part of it) examined? Not even President Obama, the object of sustained, outrageous racist attacks (Donald Trump prime among the racist birthers), has been under the microscope this long. And yet, and yet: not a single thing has she been found guilty of. She may be 'damaged' to the extent that she has been smeared and the media has been complicit in treating these smears as worth attention instead of what they have been proven to be time and time again: partisan attacks made by a well-funded Right wing campaign. She was mocked for "the vast Right-wing conspiracy" comment but just exactly how is this not the truth? To compare these two people at all is insulting to Hillary Clinton: she is an intelligent, hardworking, patriotic, humane, persevering woman. He is a…Donald Trump.
8
Agreed. That journos keep putting Hillary Clinton and Trump into the same "flawed candidates" context--as if we are comparing apples to apples--is lazy journalism. More importantly, it is inaccurate. The "unlikeable" issues for each candidate stem from completely different origins and reside in different contexts. One's is from highly funded, strategic smear campaigns. The other's is a result of the candidate being himself.
6
Perfectly put!
2
Mrs. Clinton has a likability problem if you will. She is an open book because has been in public life for over 30 years and the reviews are in. She is almost universally despised except by the most partison democrats like Mr. Blow et al. Her problem is that she can not cure 30 years of scandal with a flowery speech or a slogan. We are over the vast right wing conspiracy unless Loretta Lynch and Jim Comey are now honorary members. My mother taught me you shall no them by their deeds. Mrs. Clinton's nefarious deeds are too long to chronicle, to vast to document. It is all out there. And that is the sad essence of her problem, as it were.
7
Nefarious deeds? What nefarious deeds?
3
One paragraph in this piece is very telling: about a recent Clinton foreign policy speech. The paragraph focuses strictly on how the speech was described by the pro Hillary media, CNN and NYT. It says nothing about how voters reacted. It's entirely circular, we should give Clinton credit because the pro-Clinton media have told us she gave a good speech. I will vote for her but please don't insult my intelligence.
7
It's about time. The press is so intent on the sensationalist Trump that it has become a source of free advertisement for him. Let's hear more about Hilary and her sound policies and less about DT's antics.
12
Renember what Hillary has accomplished.
Community activist
A Lawyer
A First Lady of a state
A Firat Lady of the United States
A Secretary of State
A mother and grandmother
How much does she need to prove to us she's could be good President of the United States. Just compare her to her rival.
Community activist
A Lawyer
A First Lady of a state
A Firat Lady of the United States
A Secretary of State
A mother and grandmother
How much does she need to prove to us she's could be good President of the United States. Just compare her to her rival.
15
Most of these "accomplishments," except Secretary of State, derive from her being married to Bill. And she would not have been Sec of State had she not been First Lady. This is to say nothing of the fact that, with the possible exception of John Kerry, she may have been one of the worst Secs of State in United States history. I wish she had some real accomplishments of her own which could persuade me to vote for her. I cannot imagine voting for Donald Trump, but she is not a good alternative.
9
Out of the seven "accomplishments" you've listed, three are passive non-accomplishments. First lady status isn't something you do, it's visited upon you by virtue of marriage. Becoming a grandmother is again a status visited upon you by the actions of others. It's not a personal achievement, regardless of how wonderful it feels. I have no idea what you mean by "community activist" and have never seen anyone claim that for her before. She was a lousy lawyer, given the problems at the Rose Law firm associated with her. She made big promises for jobs as NY senator (you missed that one), but failed to deliver. What little she got done at Sec of State was bad (see the Libya coverage in this paper). She's promoted fracking, the TPP, NAFTA, marriage between men and women only (repeatedly), the Keystone pipeline, etc., etc.
The bottom line is, Hillary R. Clinton is not a leader, she's a second-stringer, and there's nothing "classy" about her. She'd be a terrible president. Full stop.
The bottom line is, Hillary R. Clinton is not a leader, she's a second-stringer, and there's nothing "classy" about her. She'd be a terrible president. Full stop.
9
You forgot U.S. Senator
2
I don't see Clinton as any more flawed than any other recent president. And I think the server thing is blown way out of proportion. I wish people would quit repeating the right-wing sound bites against her.
17
Trump doesn't have an issue with Mexico. His only issue is power, control, and getting approval from his base; from those peas in his fanciful short on critical thought pod. Bringing up Mexico (translated xenophobia) accomplishes that every time. It gets the highest number on his applause meter. And for Trump, applause, power, and control are basic needs like oxygen.
And the main difference between Trump and Hillary--substance.
And the main difference between Trump and Hillary--substance.
6
Something that I wish were more considered in this, and many other, elections:
The lesser of two evils is still evil.
The lesser of two evils is still evil.
10
The Clinton's have made many mistakes, Bill's meeting with Loretta Lyunch being the most recent, but one can hardly ignore the sustained three decades long attack from the right on Hillary.
What is amazing is that her poll numbers are as good as they are given the smear campaign.
The most recent salvo in the campaign is Breitbart editor Peter Schweizer's book, Clinton's Cash, which was criticized by David Gergen on CNN as being long on accusation and short on proof.
Immediately, everybody on the right from Rush Limbaugh to The National Review Online jumped to defend Schweizer and to castigate Gergen.
Hillary once commented about a "vast right wing conspiracy." Conspiracy? No, it is all out there in plain sight.
What is amazing is that her poll numbers are as good as they are given the smear campaign.
The most recent salvo in the campaign is Breitbart editor Peter Schweizer's book, Clinton's Cash, which was criticized by David Gergen on CNN as being long on accusation and short on proof.
Immediately, everybody on the right from Rush Limbaugh to The National Review Online jumped to defend Schweizer and to castigate Gergen.
Hillary once commented about a "vast right wing conspiracy." Conspiracy? No, it is all out there in plain sight.
5
So, let's see. HRC was interviewed by the FBI on Saturday for 3 hours as part of their investigation to see if there was criminal wrong doing in her setting up her own server. Oh wait, that was in July so I suppose that doesn't count.
Once again CB is unabashedly pro HRC and anti-Trump regardless of the facts on the ground. Yes, Trump may say some outlandish things, but HRC has committed outrageous acts as a public figure and public servant over almost the entire span of her career. She may escape indictment, but that won't negate the facts: she set up her own personal server going against government rules, she received and sent classified documents, then she lied to the public about it. And that's just the e-mail scandal. We haven't really yet delved into the Clinton foundation which should be synonymous with pay for play. And we have not yet had believable explanations for many of her past scandals such as how she made a 100x her initial investment as a novice cattle futures trader.
Trump has his faults -- but HRC has set a new (low) standard for corrupt behavior by a politicians.
Once again CB is unabashedly pro HRC and anti-Trump regardless of the facts on the ground. Yes, Trump may say some outlandish things, but HRC has committed outrageous acts as a public figure and public servant over almost the entire span of her career. She may escape indictment, but that won't negate the facts: she set up her own personal server going against government rules, she received and sent classified documents, then she lied to the public about it. And that's just the e-mail scandal. We haven't really yet delved into the Clinton foundation which should be synonymous with pay for play. And we have not yet had believable explanations for many of her past scandals such as how she made a 100x her initial investment as a novice cattle futures trader.
Trump has his faults -- but HRC has set a new (low) standard for corrupt behavior by a politicians.
6
What exactly has Clinton done to earn her "untrustworthy" status? Or is it more likely that her political enemies have adopted the propaganda theory of "tell a lie long enough and loud enough that people will believe it." Until her enemies provide proof that she's a crook, habitual liar and worse, I will belive she's a victim of Hitler-style image manipulation. Donald Trump calls her "crooked Hillary." Compared to him, she's a saint.
And isn't it time the media demand that candidates provide proof when they call opponents criminals?
And isn't it time the media demand that candidates provide proof when they call opponents criminals?
14
As I say to jck, it is amazing how many so called progressives have drunk the right wing kool aid. They have bought into Limbaugh's bulls*$# while pretending they are above all that.
5
But thee lead Clinton enjoys in the polls is still disheartening. Have Americans actually become this stupid as to still support the nominee of their party even though he is so repugnant and unqualified? In 1984 Ronald Reagan won 49 states against Walter Mondale, a thoroughly decent and wise man even if you disagreed with his politics. Yet today a third of the polling map is still solid, solid red and likely will be in November. Are Americans devolving?
7
The Republicans won the war against education, and it shows. That's Reagan's legacy.
There's also the sexism that explains much of the viciousness toward Hillary.
There's also the sexism that explains much of the viciousness toward Hillary.
8
The answer to the questions you pose is apparently, "yes." We are not immune to stupidity and nations of great wealth and importance in history are no more for reasons that vary but often come down to hubris and stupidity.
2
Clinton is "due" our distrust if not contempt.
She has been blessed with intelligence,fine education,wealth, and immense political power fueled by her husband's Presidency.
She has squandered these gifts with her ethical lapses and dishonesty driven by her obsessive thirst for power.
She has been blessed with intelligence,fine education,wealth, and immense political power fueled by her husband's Presidency.
She has squandered these gifts with her ethical lapses and dishonesty driven by her obsessive thirst for power.
11
It seems that you, too, have swallowed the republican right wing kool aid. Name one "ethical lapses and dishonesty driven by her obsessive thirst for power."
Republicans have been so afraid of the power of women, and in particular this woman, that they have demonized her for the better part of 3 decades.
If there was anything to find they would have found it.
Is she the perfect model for the progressive we progressives really want? Probably not, but she will turn out to be a better democrat and a better president than her husband. And he wasn't that bad. For a centrists.
I'm gonna guess that you didn't vote in 2010, giving Obama a recalcitrant congress unwilling to work with him.
Republicans have been so afraid of the power of women, and in particular this woman, that they have demonized her for the better part of 3 decades.
If there was anything to find they would have found it.
Is she the perfect model for the progressive we progressives really want? Probably not, but she will turn out to be a better democrat and a better president than her husband. And he wasn't that bad. For a centrists.
I'm gonna guess that you didn't vote in 2010, giving Obama a recalcitrant congress unwilling to work with him.
6
So this possibly less than perfect human being should be rejected in favor of a lying, self-serving con artist who know little history and doesn't understand what he does know? Yah, makes perfect sense ---- not.
3
I don't know why this is hard for people. We are a country that possesses an abundance of nuclear weapons in a world where other countries also possess nuclear weapons. Donald Trump likes to gratuitously insult and pick fights with other nations. What more do we need to know?
13
Why there is so much obsession with 'likability' about a candidate? After all, we are electing a president, not choosing a partner for the prom! Or who would you like to have beer with! Mr Churchill former PM of UK was not as m much liked, and yer he did great job for his country(albeit, with great damage and disdain to countries like India) At the nd of the day, we must choose, who is capable of leading the country, who hs best interest of the people and also, being the world leader, is aware of responsibility of the world at large. Mt Trump and some of his followers of the republic party, simply cannot fill that bill with big mouthed hollow proclamations of bigotry and carelessness.
2
Ten, twenty years ago, a person of interest, with a husband and son in law of interest, to the DoJ and FBI would not be the nominee. All the Clinton sycophants picking each other's comments will not change the fact that this is the lowest low for a presidential race in 30 years.
10
I thought on seeing the heading, "Giving Clinton Her Due" was going to be about her due an indictment for violation of security policy.
5
I read this column expecting it to be about Clinton's achievements and strengths, but it turned out to be another column mostly about Trump's lies and weaknesses. How about a column actually about Clinton? One that discusses her proposed policies and strong points, that looks more deeply into what she might bring to the office of president? One that doesn't mention her opponent?
I'm disappointed today. Yes, she has been running a strong campaign. It would be nice to hear more about her speeches than simply that she blasted Trump. I'm sure there was other content in them.
I'm disappointed today. Yes, she has been running a strong campaign. It would be nice to hear more about her speeches than simply that she blasted Trump. I'm sure there was other content in them.
7
Though I'm not sure what exactly, it says something that a column that sets out to give Clinton her due ends up being predominantly about Trump. Perhaps what it says is that failing to nominate Sanders is a missed opportunity at best and a disaster at worst if we end up with President Trump.
7
Unusual election year suggests the possibility of a very unexpected result. One event can change the course of the election:
A stock market crash
A terrorist attack inside the USA on the scale of, 9-11
Putin feeling his oats, (or drinking too, much vodka)
Brazil collapsing along with Venezuela and a surge of economic refugees
from SA
Et al.
A stock market crash
A terrorist attack inside the USA on the scale of, 9-11
Putin feeling his oats, (or drinking too, much vodka)
Brazil collapsing along with Venezuela and a surge of economic refugees
from SA
Et al.
4
can we just tell the truth. Donald Trump is not qualified to be President of the United States, and everyone knows it.
I disagree with many of clinton's positions, but Donald trump has no positions. Hillary is clearly qualified. Lets just tell it like it is.
Trumps is a racist, running a racist campaign. The last tweet was the final straw.
I disagree with many of clinton's positions, but Donald trump has no positions. Hillary is clearly qualified. Lets just tell it like it is.
Trumps is a racist, running a racist campaign. The last tweet was the final straw.
2
Reading these supporters comments of these flawed candidates reminds me of sports rivalries. The top player is arrested for a crime such as domestic violence, drugs ,etc and some fans comes to the defense of the player because he feels obligated to support a team member despite the major flaws in character.
We have come to that point in politics and willing to accept inferior candidates just to beat the other side. Americans simply deserve better choices.
We have come to that point in politics and willing to accept inferior candidates just to beat the other side. Americans simply deserve better choices.
2
I don't understand how anyone can support Clinton after her total disregard for national security. The server and the 2100 classified docs were open to hacking by our enemies. Hillary first said there were no classified docs on the server, then that she neither sent nor received docs marked as classified -- another Clintonian expression. Docs are classified by content, marked or unmarked. And Hillary knew that from the day she got her clearance.
She still calls the FBI criminal investigation a "security review." She broke the law, she lied about it from Day 1, and she's lying today.
You want to give Hillary her due? Give her 10 years in prison. Just like the other people who were so stupid, reckless, or cavalier about national security.
She still calls the FBI criminal investigation a "security review." She broke the law, she lied about it from Day 1, and she's lying today.
You want to give Hillary her due? Give her 10 years in prison. Just like the other people who were so stupid, reckless, or cavalier about national security.
4
At a minimum, she should never again have a security clearance. Imagine, a POTUS without access to classified information. How would that work?
Well, that would sure be another "first" for her...
Well, that would sure be another "first" for her...
4
Given her due for what? Not being Donald Trump?
I'll give Hillary her due. She is unashamed of building a career on the coattails of her charismatic husband, whose morals give Bill Cosby a run for his money. She is happy to lie nearly as often as she exhales, and to do so in spectacular ways to the families of those whose deaths came on her watch, and in response to her policies. She finds it irksome that anyone would worry why she has put over 2000 classified documents on a server that any teen hacker could access. She's happily reported her opinions to be whatever the moment calls for: Homosexual unions? Both for and against. Iraq? For and against. Crime bill? For and against. Trade agreements? For and against.
Let's face it, part of Trumps success comes from Republicans' realization that Democrats will elect anyone. An ill-prepared community organizer with a tendancy towrads meglomania looked like the bottom of the barrel. I'll give Hillary her due and note that it's a deeper barell than any of us thought.
I'll give Hillary her due. She is unashamed of building a career on the coattails of her charismatic husband, whose morals give Bill Cosby a run for his money. She is happy to lie nearly as often as she exhales, and to do so in spectacular ways to the families of those whose deaths came on her watch, and in response to her policies. She finds it irksome that anyone would worry why she has put over 2000 classified documents on a server that any teen hacker could access. She's happily reported her opinions to be whatever the moment calls for: Homosexual unions? Both for and against. Iraq? For and against. Crime bill? For and against. Trade agreements? For and against.
Let's face it, part of Trumps success comes from Republicans' realization that Democrats will elect anyone. An ill-prepared community organizer with a tendancy towrads meglomania looked like the bottom of the barrel. I'll give Hillary her due and note that it's a deeper barell than any of us thought.
2
This praise of Hillary is a refreshing change from the constant attacks on Trump.
Not that Hillary is actually a very good candidate. But she "ran an incredibly strong campaign last month."
That is something and the truth is that we do not elect people who are best suited to govern the nation but those who run the best campaign, and have more deep pockets to dip into.
Otherwise neither Hillary nor Donald could be our next president.
Not that Hillary is actually a very good candidate. But she "ran an incredibly strong campaign last month."
That is something and the truth is that we do not elect people who are best suited to govern the nation but those who run the best campaign, and have more deep pockets to dip into.
Otherwise neither Hillary nor Donald could be our next president.
2
By the title of this op-ed "Giving Clinton Her Due" a reader would anticipate reading about the achievements and positive accomplishments of Hillary Clinton to possibly persuade a voter to select her on the ballot come November. However to the contrary and meeting all expectations, Charles Blow provides the reader with little, if any reasons to give Hillary Clinton her due, and exactly what is his intentions by using "her due"? Does this mean becoming POTUS is her rightful passage?
Clinton's facial and body language on the campaign trail ( or perhaps trial) often suggests this is her rightful passage, and the campaign is more of an annoyance in quest of her Holy Grail.
Sadly though when journalists, political, social critics and other talking heads can only build whatever little positives Hillary Clinton may have by only criticizing her opponent the majority of the time, the unpersuaded reader / voter should be provided more in-depth and positive attributes, if only the exist....
Clinton's facial and body language on the campaign trail ( or perhaps trial) often suggests this is her rightful passage, and the campaign is more of an annoyance in quest of her Holy Grail.
Sadly though when journalists, political, social critics and other talking heads can only build whatever little positives Hillary Clinton may have by only criticizing her opponent the majority of the time, the unpersuaded reader / voter should be provided more in-depth and positive attributes, if only the exist....
1
The only thing Clinton has to run on is fear of Trump or fear of republicans, she lucked out and ended up with the ONLY person worse than she is to run against.
In the last 40 years we have only had bad choices when it came to presidential elections and we were told to hold our noses and vote for one of the 2 corporate stooges that were on offer.
And what has that gotten us? The rich getting richer and the poor getting poorer until we have the worst income inequality of any first world country and even worse than some third world countries.
The Clintons were a huge part of that and now we are being told that we must vote for more of the same because of fear of Trump...when will it end? When a full 99% of Americans are living below the poverty line? When the 500 richest people in the country have picked the bones of the rest of the country clean?
Both choices are just too horrible to contemplate and the rigged election process is just getting more and more rigged for these corporate parasites.
And who did much of the rigging... this very paper with its pro-Clinton lies and manipulations and never ending free coverage for Trump.
Enough is enough!
In the last 40 years we have only had bad choices when it came to presidential elections and we were told to hold our noses and vote for one of the 2 corporate stooges that were on offer.
And what has that gotten us? The rich getting richer and the poor getting poorer until we have the worst income inequality of any first world country and even worse than some third world countries.
The Clintons were a huge part of that and now we are being told that we must vote for more of the same because of fear of Trump...when will it end? When a full 99% of Americans are living below the poverty line? When the 500 richest people in the country have picked the bones of the rest of the country clean?
Both choices are just too horrible to contemplate and the rigged election process is just getting more and more rigged for these corporate parasites.
And who did much of the rigging... this very paper with its pro-Clinton lies and manipulations and never ending free coverage for Trump.
Enough is enough!
5
Hilary is under criminal investigation for allegedly jeopardizing national security by using a private server for her official e-mails. Trump is facing a civil case for duping some people to join Trump university. So, which is more serious, criminal or civil case? That is the dilemma.
3
Giving Hillary her due would be about 25 years to life in prison. She is the poster-child of greed, corruption, arrogance, incompetence and bold-faced lies. Only those so warped by partisanship, so ignorant of facts, so pitifully immoral themselves or those living off the government plantation of handouts could support her.
5
Clinton has had the most unfair media coverage of any candidate in memory, although "Wooden Al Who Said He Invented the Internet" came close. As for Trump, I see no sign he's capable of conducting even a mediocre general election campaign.
3
I'm still having a hard time believing that we're being forced to treat DT like a serious candidate. It's mind boggling. The more that comes out of his mouth, the more I'm convinced that he suffers from some form of mental illness, and at the very least a serious character disorder. How can anyone possibly consider entrusting this nation to such a lunatic. And instead of discussing this as a horse race, i.e., who's ahead in the polls and what he/she said, let's talk about actual qualifications and accomplishments. HRC has been maligned by the right since the moment she appeared in the public sphere. The smearing over decades has tarnished her, and the bulk of it is unfounded. Once again, the news media needs to do its job.
3
I think there's a good reason why media types are so conciliatory to Trump, so afraid of annoying him. They're terrified of him. They're real people who write under their real names. With ten billion dollars (?) there's no limit to the damage Trump could do to them.
Intimidation is his most powerful weapon. E.g., he intimidated the President into showing his birth certificate. (I love Obama, but I wish he had told Trump to stuff it.) Trump destroyed his 16 "debate" opponents with epithets: low energy, lyin', little, etc., etc., etc.
Intimidation is his most powerful weapon. E.g., he intimidated the President into showing his birth certificate. (I love Obama, but I wish he had told Trump to stuff it.) Trump destroyed his 16 "debate" opponents with epithets: low energy, lyin', little, etc., etc., etc.
6
Mr. Blow, I am taking you up on your quote "First, let’s start with the obvious." What is obvious, to those of us who are paying attention to the details of the latest of many Clinton scandals, is this: Ms. Clinton committed numerous felonies and misdemeanors when she went to extraordinary lengths to hide many of her emails from the American people, the U.S. government, and her political enemies.
Furthermore, Ms. Clinton hid those emails from public view in an attempt to prevent law enforcement and the American public from seeing that she and her family's use of the Clinton Foundation is a massive racket, pedaling political decisions in exchange for money. And racketeering is another massive violation of the law.
Just from what is available in the public record, the FBI has more than enough evidence of wrongdoing to refer Ms. Clinton for multiple indictments. And the Department of Justice will have more than enough evidence to convict Ms. Clinton of numerous crimes. Only a political intervention by Attorney General Lynch (slow walk or do not prosecute) or President Obama (a pardon) will stop Ms. Clinton from going to jail.
Ms. Clinton is a public menace who does not belong in the Oval Office!
Furthermore, Ms. Clinton hid those emails from public view in an attempt to prevent law enforcement and the American public from seeing that she and her family's use of the Clinton Foundation is a massive racket, pedaling political decisions in exchange for money. And racketeering is another massive violation of the law.
Just from what is available in the public record, the FBI has more than enough evidence of wrongdoing to refer Ms. Clinton for multiple indictments. And the Department of Justice will have more than enough evidence to convict Ms. Clinton of numerous crimes. Only a political intervention by Attorney General Lynch (slow walk or do not prosecute) or President Obama (a pardon) will stop Ms. Clinton from going to jail.
Ms. Clinton is a public menace who does not belong in the Oval Office!
8
If Blow thinks there's some sort of groundswell excitement for Hillary, he's mistaken. She may not have the same level of negatives that Trump has, but her numbers are hardly a ringing endorsement of excitement for her candidacy. That fact underscores how weak she really is. She'll get all the Democratic votes, but has no momentum with Independents. Trump has made plenty of mistakes along the trail and the race is still fairly close - Hillary is just one bad event away from having the bottom drop out of her campaign. The sooner the better.
9
Plus this primary season has probably made more independents out of former partisans.
1
Fine, give Clinton her due.
Also give establishment Democrats their deserved condemnation for abject incompetence and complete cowardice.
Against the Republican equivalent of Kayne West, they have lined up in mindless lockstep behind the Democratic equivalent of Dick Cheney.
Also give establishment Democrats their deserved condemnation for abject incompetence and complete cowardice.
Against the Republican equivalent of Kayne West, they have lined up in mindless lockstep behind the Democratic equivalent of Dick Cheney.
13
brillant
2
Let's open a telephone directory, close our eyes and point to two names. We would have two infinitely more qualified Presidential candidates.
If one were to open telephone directory, randomly pick a listing or two, odds are we'd have m for President, the US would be better served.
If one were to open telephone directory, randomly pick a listing or two, odds are we'd have m for President, the US would be better served.
4
Hillary Clinton is the victim of the GOP smear machine's "long game." From the day she refused to "sit home and bake cookies" as First Lady to today, they have engaged in a non-stop program of propaganda intended to create the subliminal message that she is "untrustworthy." That people believe this, yet cannot actually identify any verifiable "lies, cheating and corruption" is, sadly, evidence that their efforts have not been in vain.
Fake scandal after fake scandal - each disproven, but by the time they are shown untrue, the GOP and the media are on to the next story and don't bother to exonerate her. Millennials, who have grown up with the negative drumbeat, have no idea of her progressive achievements, just that feeling in their gut that she is bad - exactly as the GOP intended. Add Benghazi, where the very House men who discounted her warnings and refused requested funds for embassy security ("not a priority" per Chaffetz) were empowered to blame her, instead of themselves being held responsible, or Bernie, who impugns her for taking donations from Goldman Sachs, while accepting them himself.
The GOP and its media arm, Fox, push the lies daily, aimed at their sexist, misogynistic base - pre-primed to hate her. Bernie, to "punish" her for mentioning his gun votes (per his manager), distorts her record. The MSM uses long-discredited innuendos and slime as click-bait.
A more complete review of Hillary does exist. http://www.dailykos.com/story/2016/6/11/1537582/
Fake scandal after fake scandal - each disproven, but by the time they are shown untrue, the GOP and the media are on to the next story and don't bother to exonerate her. Millennials, who have grown up with the negative drumbeat, have no idea of her progressive achievements, just that feeling in their gut that she is bad - exactly as the GOP intended. Add Benghazi, where the very House men who discounted her warnings and refused requested funds for embassy security ("not a priority" per Chaffetz) were empowered to blame her, instead of themselves being held responsible, or Bernie, who impugns her for taking donations from Goldman Sachs, while accepting them himself.
The GOP and its media arm, Fox, push the lies daily, aimed at their sexist, misogynistic base - pre-primed to hate her. Bernie, to "punish" her for mentioning his gun votes (per his manager), distorts her record. The MSM uses long-discredited innuendos and slime as click-bait.
A more complete review of Hillary does exist. http://www.dailykos.com/story/2016/6/11/1537582/
15
The week that Clinton gave her impressive speech on the economy, I was taking care of my mother in Delta, Colorado. A 91-year-old Republican, she watches Fox News at least four hours a day. After Clinton's speech, Fox did not credit anything she said. Instead, they sat around like a bunch of teenage band fans and read the comments Donald Trump had tweeted during the speech.
If Clinton has a 33 percent unfavorable rating, I'm pretty sure I know what those folks are tuning their dials to all day. It's not The New York Times, I can guarantee that. As long as Fox exists, we can expect Clinton's disapproval rating to remain at 33 percent. Maybe we should start considering that the new zero.
If Clinton has a 33 percent unfavorable rating, I'm pretty sure I know what those folks are tuning their dials to all day. It's not The New York Times, I can guarantee that. As long as Fox exists, we can expect Clinton's disapproval rating to remain at 33 percent. Maybe we should start considering that the new zero.
4
I never watch Fox News and I can't stand Hillary. It's her, not what anyone says about her.
5
Yes, Trump is a dangerous idiot. Yes, Clinton is less than perfect. In fact, she has some major flaws. However, the followers of Trump will not just go away when the election is over (assuming Clinton wins). We will still have gridlock in Congress and the same inability to actually get anything done. It probably has to get worse before it gets better. And what better time to get worse than during the term of the first female president. Trump will be still be demagoging throughout. What a sad hot mess!
3
"Vote for Hillary because Trump," does not work for me. There are 324 mill people in America. We can do better than either of these bozos. So what, Hillary is qualified. In about one hour, we can find another 500 equally qualified women. Why are we so stuck on Hillary? Hillary destroyed evidence and obstructed justice. Whether she is charged with that crime or not does not change the fact that she admitted that she destroyed documents to prevent anyone for looking at them. I am not okay with her actions. I am not settling for Hillary. Sorry, not doing it.
11
As we celebrate this 240th anniversary of our great democracy, it's a sad realization that the two frontrunners in our upcoming election are widely viewed as "deeply flawed and damaged."
One, a questionable businessman and xenophobe, is lionized by a frustrated and angry constituency; while the other, a seasoned stateswoman and senator, desperately tries to nullify the DIS-trust of even her own followers.
One wonders, how can these be the best we have to offer?
One, a questionable businessman and xenophobe, is lionized by a frustrated and angry constituency; while the other, a seasoned stateswoman and senator, desperately tries to nullify the DIS-trust of even her own followers.
One wonders, how can these be the best we have to offer?
2
How much of Hillary's unfavorable rating is driven by unrelenting attacks from those who dislike her policies for average Americans? for the country? When confronted by superior talent the less talented often resort to sensationalism, no substance remarks, rather than appear ill qualified. They operate by deflection to mask their true intentions.
10
It's a national - perhaps a human - pastime to critique prominent people, to caricature their weaknesses and, oddly, their strengths. It's fun for some but fuels destructive passions in others. Few have the requisite humility to realize that they simply cannot do what most prominent people have done. "Giving Clinton her due" translates for most to "Despite her missteps, I could not have done what she's done." Given his privileged background, less than sterling accomplishments, and obvious personality flaws I'm not sure the same can be said of Trump. Clinton and Trump are both prominent but very different people, are perceived differently, and have markedly different standards, histories, and abilities. Judge them both honestly on established facts, not on innuendo, campaign rhetoric and propaganda.
The premise of this piece is that both Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump are, statistically speaking, the two most unpopular candidates to fun for president in modern US history.
Yet Blow, as he has done so often in the past as a propagandist for Hillary, seems determined to sell us the lesser of the two evils by pointing out that Trump is quite possibly the only person in the country running for office that could be even more unpopular than Hillary.
This is somehow supposed to be a reverse psychological endorsement for Clinton whose only consistent campaign motto is "vote for me or the worse guy wins". Sorry Mr. Blow, if Hillary Clinton, the allegedly most qualified person to run for President in a generation (so her pundits in politics and the media keep trying to pass as empirical fact) is effectively less unpopular than someone with a persona, character, and ego of an immature 15 year old Internet troll, then one really needs to lower the bar in order to get people to back the sick horse the establishment has already put its money behind.
Thanks for effectively telling me that while Hillary may be unpopular, she deserves credit when compared to a raging lunatic. But I'll stick with my alternative vote in November and keep my dignity.
Yet Blow, as he has done so often in the past as a propagandist for Hillary, seems determined to sell us the lesser of the two evils by pointing out that Trump is quite possibly the only person in the country running for office that could be even more unpopular than Hillary.
This is somehow supposed to be a reverse psychological endorsement for Clinton whose only consistent campaign motto is "vote for me or the worse guy wins". Sorry Mr. Blow, if Hillary Clinton, the allegedly most qualified person to run for President in a generation (so her pundits in politics and the media keep trying to pass as empirical fact) is effectively less unpopular than someone with a persona, character, and ego of an immature 15 year old Internet troll, then one really needs to lower the bar in order to get people to back the sick horse the establishment has already put its money behind.
Thanks for effectively telling me that while Hillary may be unpopular, she deserves credit when compared to a raging lunatic. But I'll stick with my alternative vote in November and keep my dignity.
4
It seems to me that Democrats have erred in their choice of presumptive candidate. Given that the competition is an unbelievably brash, racist, xenophobic, misogynistic, narcissistic, disorganized, loud-mouthed buffoon, their candidate should have had this in the bag weeks ago. Given that their candidate has put together strong organizations on the ground in several states, has raised millions of dollars in the last month alone, and has delivered some strong policy statements, there should be no contest. Yet, depending upon which poll one is reading, their candidate still commands only a small to statistically insignificant lead over Trump. Clinton brings too much baggage with her, including her clueless husband. Who wants 4-8 more years of Bill? Clinton is the quintessential establishment candidate in a race where establishment is the enemy.
4
As a Democrat, I want to vote for Hillary, but using a private email server was unconscionable.
What happens if:
a. there is no indictment? Was the "fix" in?
b. there is just a misdemeanor indictment under 18 US 1924?
c. they throw the book at her: multiple indictments under 1924 and felony indictments under 18 US 793(f)(1)?
The Petreaus indictment would argue for at least "b."
But we now know that the FBI, in Petraeus, want felony indictments that Holder knocked down to one misdemeanor count. Lynch can't do that now that Bill, once again, acted with total arrogance.
I think Hillary might survive "b." I think she's toast if it's "c."
I don't think anyone who has ever had a security clearance (including me) buys her argument that her e-mails weren't "marked classified." First, Petraeus' notebooks weren't marked. Second, anyone who's ever been in a SCIF knows you can't take out notes from the meeting because your own notes contain classified information, no markings needed. Third, Hillary, as secretary, was a "classification authority" and was responsible for marking materials. So she can't use her breach of duty in not marking to justify her breach in using a private server.
And she can't say she didn't know some e-mails were classified. As secretary of state, the natural presumption is that almost all her emails contain sensitive government information.
Bernie is waiting in the wings to see if he will be nominated in the wake of a disaster for Hillary.
What happens if:
a. there is no indictment? Was the "fix" in?
b. there is just a misdemeanor indictment under 18 US 1924?
c. they throw the book at her: multiple indictments under 1924 and felony indictments under 18 US 793(f)(1)?
The Petreaus indictment would argue for at least "b."
But we now know that the FBI, in Petraeus, want felony indictments that Holder knocked down to one misdemeanor count. Lynch can't do that now that Bill, once again, acted with total arrogance.
I think Hillary might survive "b." I think she's toast if it's "c."
I don't think anyone who has ever had a security clearance (including me) buys her argument that her e-mails weren't "marked classified." First, Petraeus' notebooks weren't marked. Second, anyone who's ever been in a SCIF knows you can't take out notes from the meeting because your own notes contain classified information, no markings needed. Third, Hillary, as secretary, was a "classification authority" and was responsible for marking materials. So she can't use her breach of duty in not marking to justify her breach in using a private server.
And she can't say she didn't know some e-mails were classified. As secretary of state, the natural presumption is that almost all her emails contain sensitive government information.
Bernie is waiting in the wings to see if he will be nominated in the wake of a disaster for Hillary.
8
It's a commonplace here to describe Hillary as the lesser of two evils, and to emphasize the "evil" point, to point out that that still makes her evil - not just flawed, like all human beings with the exception (in their eyes) of Bernie, but evil. I wonder how the commentators making this point grade themselves on the good/evil spectrum. My presumption is that they see themselves as positioned way to the good side, and I wonder how much all this "Hillary as evil" stuff reflects their innate sense that their own lives truly represent a lesson in nobility for those of us who don't hate Hillary.
1
Trump isn't being blown away in the polls due to the hard floor of around forty percent of Americans who will always refuse to consider a democrat. What remains to be seen how many republican leaning voters will actually bother to show up in November. Are more saying they'll vote than actually will? Are more saying they don't support Trump than secretly want to give him a shot? Are these stealth Trump lovers just too embarrassed to admit it? The same holds true for surveyed republicans that might secretly vote for Hillary. This whole election effectively hinges on how gullible American voters are, on multiple levels. We may finally learn the true, real-world limits of right-wing propaganda. Even well educated, republican leaning voters still seem mysteriously duped by wholly fabricated distractions like Benghazi-mania. They can't articulate anything Hillary did or didn't do when pressed, all they know is that it's bad. As conservative social ideas fade to dust in our modern society, right-wing media's last gasp attempts at deflection through deception still seem to have a magical, pied-piper effect. Trump's style of non-stop conspiracy spinning really just doubles down on what republicans have already been doing for going on thirty years. Can a national political party continue to win through direct and blatant lying on a such a massive and sustained scale? Unfortunately, maybe.
4
It's important to differentiate between the scurrilous lies that right-wingers have been telling about Hillary Clinton for decades, and the legitimate, left-of-center concerns that even some of her ardent supporters have about her.
These concerns revolve around militarism and connections with the rich and powerful.
Hillary Clinton has many wonderful qualities, and she'll make a fine President. Those of us who will gladly vote for her will do so because of those qualities and because we believe that she will serve our country well. But many of us will do so expecting to be disappointed (but not surprised) by actions and policies that will confirm our concerns.
We've learned the hard way from Bill Clinton and Barak Obama that "all that glitters is not gold." We loved them too, yet both of them disappointed us in some ways. We'll probably end up feeling the same way about Hillary. But even while thinking that, we'll gladly vote for her.
Much has been said about false equivalences between right and left. But there are also false equivalences between the right-wing and Democratic critiques of Hillary Clinton. And this includes the concerns of people who would have preferred to vote for Bernie Sanders but who will gladly elect Hillary Clinton instead. Many of her supporters have valid concerns, whereas the right-wing propaganda that has been used to attack her is made almost entirely out of nonsense and lies.
These concerns revolve around militarism and connections with the rich and powerful.
Hillary Clinton has many wonderful qualities, and she'll make a fine President. Those of us who will gladly vote for her will do so because of those qualities and because we believe that she will serve our country well. But many of us will do so expecting to be disappointed (but not surprised) by actions and policies that will confirm our concerns.
We've learned the hard way from Bill Clinton and Barak Obama that "all that glitters is not gold." We loved them too, yet both of them disappointed us in some ways. We'll probably end up feeling the same way about Hillary. But even while thinking that, we'll gladly vote for her.
Much has been said about false equivalences between right and left. But there are also false equivalences between the right-wing and Democratic critiques of Hillary Clinton. And this includes the concerns of people who would have preferred to vote for Bernie Sanders but who will gladly elect Hillary Clinton instead. Many of her supporters have valid concerns, whereas the right-wing propaganda that has been used to attack her is made almost entirely out of nonsense and lies.
2
Given the rancor that permeates the populace and government officials, unfavorable skepticism is sure to greet all candidates for high office from their first ballyhooed declarations. It's hard to think of any candidate who could buck the negative trend stoked by uneasy times and partisan propaganda. To compound the problem, fewer of those with the best potential to lead will chose to "take arms against a sea of troubles."
The "flaws" of Hillary Clinton don't belong in an analogy with Trump's. As we mourn the passing of Elie Wiesel, we must be vigilant to identify and fight evil. How to see evil? Evil begins with diminishing the inherent human worth of another human being. How to fight it? Call it for what it is and keep it from power. Trump readily relies on evil to boost himself, consequences to others be damned.
Hillary Clinton is a politician - and one with an inclusive, progressive agenda at that. Trump is evil incarnate and must not be allowed to rise at the expense of lowering humanity.
Hillary Clinton is a politician - and one with an inclusive, progressive agenda at that. Trump is evil incarnate and must not be allowed to rise at the expense of lowering humanity.
2
Hillary Clinton, and most Democrats as well at this time, failing to support their traditional base of low and middle income voters by passing Wall St. friendly, "free-trade" policies, social engineering and placing importance on social policies that don't have relevance to most people (transgender rights) have only one option left: divide and conquer.
They divide and sometimes conquer by playing identity politics. Hillary is playing identity politics on steroids, desperately trying to appeal to tribal instincts, that force people apart, when she has no real policies of value to low and middle income voters. And she's not believable either. She's said anything to anybody, depending on the audience. I'm surprised she hasn't charged for her speeches in front of voters.
That's her due, Mr. Blow. More fracturing of race relations, more animosity on illegal immigration, and more of the "same ol' same ol'" when it comes to meeting with the big money or big influence (and when she can't do it she trots out Bill in her place like in Phoenix).
So the voters are left with Hillary's identity politics in place of policies, and Trump's over-the-top presentation of very reasonable and very relevant policies for a majority of American citizen voters.
I know who I'm giving their good due to. Trump.
They divide and sometimes conquer by playing identity politics. Hillary is playing identity politics on steroids, desperately trying to appeal to tribal instincts, that force people apart, when she has no real policies of value to low and middle income voters. And she's not believable either. She's said anything to anybody, depending on the audience. I'm surprised she hasn't charged for her speeches in front of voters.
That's her due, Mr. Blow. More fracturing of race relations, more animosity on illegal immigration, and more of the "same ol' same ol'" when it comes to meeting with the big money or big influence (and when she can't do it she trots out Bill in her place like in Phoenix).
So the voters are left with Hillary's identity politics in place of policies, and Trump's over-the-top presentation of very reasonable and very relevant policies for a majority of American citizen voters.
I know who I'm giving their good due to. Trump.
3
"Crooked Hillary". If there is any other person in the History of the U.S. that has been "investigated" as thoroughly over as long a period of time I can't imagine who it might be. And still not a single legally sufficient charge. Hmmmmm???
I have almost 40 years in law enforcement and "pretext" comes to mind. If any jurisdiction in the country investigated another citizen to the same degree with the same results, we would be sued to within an inch of our collective lives, and summarily fired. It is clear that tyne Republican Congress, and the party for that matter, have forgotten the definition of "plausible" [as in denial…if they ever knew the definition in the first place].
I don't find Ms. Clinton at all personally inspiring….. However there is no objective argument that she is not the most completely qualified person to ever run for the presidency…. and that's plenty for me.
I have almost 40 years in law enforcement and "pretext" comes to mind. If any jurisdiction in the country investigated another citizen to the same degree with the same results, we would be sued to within an inch of our collective lives, and summarily fired. It is clear that tyne Republican Congress, and the party for that matter, have forgotten the definition of "plausible" [as in denial…if they ever knew the definition in the first place].
I don't find Ms. Clinton at all personally inspiring….. However there is no objective argument that she is not the most completely qualified person to ever run for the presidency…. and that's plenty for me.
2
The big difference between Trump and Hillary as being the worst-rated presidential candidates is Trump has earned is position by his outrageous conduct while Hillary has largely been given that title by decades of endless Rightwing made up scandals and lies layered on top of the America's gender bias. Its not that Hillary is perfect, but compared to Trump and virtually every other Republican presidential candidate of the last seventy years she is practically a saint.
3
Yes, we follow the polls and watch the incessant coverage of Trump. We hear daily from the pundits that he has said this or that inanity which pairs neatly with his insanity. Today, it's a star of David plastered over 100-dollar bills in blatantly anti-semitic, white-supremacist garbage. Come on, whatever happened to dog whistles? It used to be mildly interesting in bygone days of political correctness before Trump to spot the dog whistles in GOP propaganda.
But recently polls haven't been all that accurate, as in the results of Brexit or the California democratic primary. And the amount of media coverage of the Trump over Clinton isn't a measure of either candidate's real standing among voters.
So, here is pundit, Mr. Blow repeating from some source the unfounded statement that Clinton is a "flawed" candidate, as if handed down from on high. Without bothering to say what the flaws are. Let's see: marriage to Bill comes to mind, but maybe that's just love and there is no accounting for that; Hammered by the GOP and the vast right-wing conspiracy for three decades has no doubt caused some erosion, but actual self-inflicted flaws? Benghazi was a bust for the GOP. Whitewater, whatever that was, didn't stick. Her email mess is an indication of imperfect judgment to be sure, but it isn't corruption, grand theft, high crime or even a Petraeus misdemeanor.
In the flawed and damaged department Trump wins by any poll and here's fervently hoping that's all he wins.
But recently polls haven't been all that accurate, as in the results of Brexit or the California democratic primary. And the amount of media coverage of the Trump over Clinton isn't a measure of either candidate's real standing among voters.
So, here is pundit, Mr. Blow repeating from some source the unfounded statement that Clinton is a "flawed" candidate, as if handed down from on high. Without bothering to say what the flaws are. Let's see: marriage to Bill comes to mind, but maybe that's just love and there is no accounting for that; Hammered by the GOP and the vast right-wing conspiracy for three decades has no doubt caused some erosion, but actual self-inflicted flaws? Benghazi was a bust for the GOP. Whitewater, whatever that was, didn't stick. Her email mess is an indication of imperfect judgment to be sure, but it isn't corruption, grand theft, high crime or even a Petraeus misdemeanor.
In the flawed and damaged department Trump wins by any poll and here's fervently hoping that's all he wins.
1
Obviously, the NYT is a liberal Democrats oasis, as most comments reflect. But I differ from most views below. I think she is a deeply flawed candidate and I view her as an archetypal establishment figure. She has tweaked and turned every knob in many administrations and played the system to maximum effect. having her husband at the helm also playing games has helped her cause. I view the email scandal as another example of her playing by different rules. Further, I would grade her performance as Secretary of State as D or lower. She is the prime reason (of course, with Mr. Obama's blessings) why the Syrian conflict became a full-blown disaster. I am pretty sure if we were to obtain all emails and correspondence, how this war mushroomed - Julian Assange may send out more leaks, but govt will simply ignore it. I dare say that the curses of hundreds of Syrians must be on her and Obama for having destroyed their lives. The Syrian war is my main reason I cannot vote for her. Of course, voting for Trump is plain idiocy - he just does not even make coherent arguments... So for me, it will be write-in candidate.
6
Does content (Clinton) matter anymore to an America, which through the destruction of K-12 in the last decades, has created an electorate that simply cannot think for itself. I voted for Obama rather than Clinton, but see her much more favorably now after actually listening to what she has to say. Then, I have a Ph.D. and taught anthropology at UC, Berkeley - one of the elite (thinkers) that the Trump supporters hate so much. I get that the white former Middle Class is angry. My parents would be classified as part of that group, but had a good life, a life much more difficult to achieve now as elucidated by Sanders and increasingly Clinton. Supporting Trump is again voting for the enemy, but they cannot see it. Sad.
2
To defeat Donald Trump Ms. Clinton will have to successfully accomplish three tasks. First, she must hold Mr. Trump up to ridicule, inspiring the American people, particularly the swing voters, to laugh at him. Second, she must demonstrate that Mr. Trump will betray his supporters, particularly white working class males and their families. And third, she must trust herself to be herself and allow her grace, maturity, experience, likability and experience to organically surface. It is not enough to promote Ms. Clinton's qualifications to be President. One never knows who is "qualified" to hold our enormously powerful office until the person elected starts making decisions, confronts crises, faces challenges etc. I think Ms Clinton knows, that in the art of statecraft, one never graduates but rather is judged by the fickle muse of history: a history littered with those who were deemed qualified and in the end failed. The UK's Anthony Eden and the US' Herbert Hoover are two that come to mind. I would strongly suggest that Ms. Clinton read the history of US military interventions and their consequences while examining the proposition that the high art of politics is not solving problems but rather managing forces. Finally, it takes a lifetime to understand one country, one ethnicity, one religion and one race. If Ms. Clinton knows what she does not know she can walk into the Oval Office representing herself with her constituency having full confidence in her.
Mr. Blow, I believe you've captured the most striking difference between Hillary and Trump in a nutshell. One is extremely disciplined, the other is a loose cannon. Because the contrast is so glaring there is no need to identify to whom each description applies.
Discipline and resiliency are the keys to unlocking the mysteries of Hillary. Even compared to her husband, there is no doubt where those traits are in abundance. Bill has the staying power but it is Hillary who remains the stalwart, the bulwark against all incoming. How in heavens name she does it is beyond words. Where Trump flounders, gets flustered at the slightest affront to his masculinity and goes on a tweeting rampage, Hillary remains cool, calm and collected, the way President Obama acts. The way anyone aspiring to command the highest office in the land should comport themselves.
DD
Manhattan
Discipline and resiliency are the keys to unlocking the mysteries of Hillary. Even compared to her husband, there is no doubt where those traits are in abundance. Bill has the staying power but it is Hillary who remains the stalwart, the bulwark against all incoming. How in heavens name she does it is beyond words. Where Trump flounders, gets flustered at the slightest affront to his masculinity and goes on a tweeting rampage, Hillary remains cool, calm and collected, the way President Obama acts. The way anyone aspiring to command the highest office in the land should comport themselves.
DD
Manhattan
3
Charles Blow is correct that, "Both Clinton and Trump are flawed and damaged candidates, but they aren’t equally flawed and damaged."
In fact, Hillary is so disliked across the country, that she's even more unpopular than Barry Goldwater was back in 1964. But Charles then avoids explaining why Hillary is so unpopular, instead comparing her "campaign" favorably with Trump's.
I don't care how she manages her campaign. I care that she spent six years as a director for Wal-Mart, the nation's biggest abuser of minimum-wage workers, yet never brought herself to protest, or campaign for those working poor. I care that her foreign policy instincts are horrible, and that she has made egregiously poor judgements on foreign policy for over a decade. I care that her supposedly "bold" plan on energy stops short of the one policy that would make a change: a carbon tax. And I care about so much more.
She's not as bad as Trump. But that is not saying much. At all. Charles Blow could have endorsed Bernie Sanders; had he done so, he wouldn't have had to public evasive columns like this one congratulating Hillary for running a better "campaign" than Trump's.
In fact, Hillary is so disliked across the country, that she's even more unpopular than Barry Goldwater was back in 1964. But Charles then avoids explaining why Hillary is so unpopular, instead comparing her "campaign" favorably with Trump's.
I don't care how she manages her campaign. I care that she spent six years as a director for Wal-Mart, the nation's biggest abuser of minimum-wage workers, yet never brought herself to protest, or campaign for those working poor. I care that her foreign policy instincts are horrible, and that she has made egregiously poor judgements on foreign policy for over a decade. I care that her supposedly "bold" plan on energy stops short of the one policy that would make a change: a carbon tax. And I care about so much more.
She's not as bad as Trump. But that is not saying much. At all. Charles Blow could have endorsed Bernie Sanders; had he done so, he wouldn't have had to public evasive columns like this one congratulating Hillary for running a better "campaign" than Trump's.
5
In a world and Presidential campaigns that are so largely built on, and around intense negativity, it is sometimes hard to keep in mind just how simple the choice really is.
That said. There is NO way that I, in all good faith and consciousness could ever cast a vote for a candidate who so freely espouses racial bigotry, while being endorsed a former Grand Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan. Case closed.
This is not to say that Clinton is a bed of roses.
But in terms of knowledge, experience, temperment, and political know-how, she is quite simply, worlds beyond Donald Trump.
The pundits and pollsters got it all wrong by underestimating just how far the Republican Party would go to prop up a candidate they'd rather not be associated with...in public.
But most everyone knows by now, that Trump is the obvious choice of a party built on the same hateful tenets he represents -- and while that is frightening, it pales in comparison to just how willing Americans have been buying into it.
At this point, whether Clinton is "likeable" or not, doesn't concern me as much as the damage that would be done to the political balance of this country were there to be a Republican President, Congress, and Supreme Court.
And of course, there's the fearful aspect of Donald Trump having the Nuclear Codes.
Good Luck, America.
That said. There is NO way that I, in all good faith and consciousness could ever cast a vote for a candidate who so freely espouses racial bigotry, while being endorsed a former Grand Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan. Case closed.
This is not to say that Clinton is a bed of roses.
But in terms of knowledge, experience, temperment, and political know-how, she is quite simply, worlds beyond Donald Trump.
The pundits and pollsters got it all wrong by underestimating just how far the Republican Party would go to prop up a candidate they'd rather not be associated with...in public.
But most everyone knows by now, that Trump is the obvious choice of a party built on the same hateful tenets he represents -- and while that is frightening, it pales in comparison to just how willing Americans have been buying into it.
At this point, whether Clinton is "likeable" or not, doesn't concern me as much as the damage that would be done to the political balance of this country were there to be a Republican President, Congress, and Supreme Court.
And of course, there's the fearful aspect of Donald Trump having the Nuclear Codes.
Good Luck, America.
5
It is really not hard to outclass Il Trumpolini. Every teenager with manners can do that.
When it comes to policies, both foreign and domestic, we have only one candidate that is extraordinary well versed in both, while the other has absolutely no clue of what is going on in the world at large. The latter is far too busy counting his ill-begotten money, made through bankrupting many others, while stuffing the pockets of his expensive and ill fitting suits with it.
As to the constant opposition by some moaning about the so-called establishment, what exactly is the meaning of it?
There are many different establishments, e.g. in the arts, sciences, philosophy - you name it -. They have deserved that rank by being better than others in their field of knowledge.
So, yes, I am glad that Hillary Clinton is an establishment candidate, and not a man who constantly plays a clownish, no-nothing emperor without cloth.
When it comes to policies, both foreign and domestic, we have only one candidate that is extraordinary well versed in both, while the other has absolutely no clue of what is going on in the world at large. The latter is far too busy counting his ill-begotten money, made through bankrupting many others, while stuffing the pockets of his expensive and ill fitting suits with it.
As to the constant opposition by some moaning about the so-called establishment, what exactly is the meaning of it?
There are many different establishments, e.g. in the arts, sciences, philosophy - you name it -. They have deserved that rank by being better than others in their field of knowledge.
So, yes, I am glad that Hillary Clinton is an establishment candidate, and not a man who constantly plays a clownish, no-nothing emperor without cloth.
4
The big concern for Hillary going forward to November is that she will be given the same media treatment that Al Gore got in 2000. As her lead in the polls increases, she will be given ever more negative coverage by the media, in a desperate attempt to "equalize" the race.
The news media, especially the cable networks and the local network affiliates who depend on political advertising to balance their budgets, have a vested financial interest in a close, contested presidential race, in order to generate higher audience ratings and advertising revenue.
Thus, we can expect to see Trump's more extreme statements downplayed and sanitized, while Hillary's weaknesses will be amplified and exaggerated in order to produce a close race ("Look, the race is tightening!").
It's so hard to look at the presidential race today and not end up as a media cynic.
The news media, especially the cable networks and the local network affiliates who depend on political advertising to balance their budgets, have a vested financial interest in a close, contested presidential race, in order to generate higher audience ratings and advertising revenue.
Thus, we can expect to see Trump's more extreme statements downplayed and sanitized, while Hillary's weaknesses will be amplified and exaggerated in order to produce a close race ("Look, the race is tightening!").
It's so hard to look at the presidential race today and not end up as a media cynic.
3
DT is a crazy maniac. He hasn't got a coherent idea in his head. Intelligent people simply cannot understand why the media is giving him so much free advertising and attention. No wonder the general public cannot separate life from fiction. Thanks fox so-called news, hate radio hosts across America and major "news" outlets for spreading the no-brain richie-rich hot air.
41
Clinton is the only one being investigated by the FBI for national security violations. That Trumps Trump who can be controlled by Congress.the Democrats have hit a new low with Clinton, the corrupt.
3
As I said in a letter last week to NYT, the elitist(seattle-Elitist-oxymoron) in GB and the US don't get normal people.
I play tennis on public courts with 14 men. They are white, Hispanic and Muslim. They are young, middle aged and all solidly middle class. 75% are college educated.
Last week while discussing Brexit they all said the same thing- "trump is a imperfect messenger, but we agree with his basic message". To a man, all 14 "hate Hillary" , don't love Trump, but will vote for him!
I next talked to 3 female nurses, one young and white, one from the Phillipines and one older and white from LA. All three said I don't trust Hillary and are voting for Trump.
Weird from Seattle 17/17.
The people that I know who are for Hillary are the heavy duty Liberal Democrats, the rest won't vote(the young) or are for Trump because they dislike her lack of morality and long corrupt history and enabling a abusive serial misogynist!
I play tennis on public courts with 14 men. They are white, Hispanic and Muslim. They are young, middle aged and all solidly middle class. 75% are college educated.
Last week while discussing Brexit they all said the same thing- "trump is a imperfect messenger, but we agree with his basic message". To a man, all 14 "hate Hillary" , don't love Trump, but will vote for him!
I next talked to 3 female nurses, one young and white, one from the Phillipines and one older and white from LA. All three said I don't trust Hillary and are voting for Trump.
Weird from Seattle 17/17.
The people that I know who are for Hillary are the heavy duty Liberal Democrats, the rest won't vote(the young) or are for Trump because they dislike her lack of morality and long corrupt history and enabling a abusive serial misogynist!
5
njglea,
Give me your take on HRC"s scuttling of the Carbon Tax.
Do the Exxon and Monsanto campaign contributions have anything to do with it?
Give me your take on HRC"s scuttling of the Carbon Tax.
Do the Exxon and Monsanto campaign contributions have anything to do with it?
7
“In the race to the bottom, however, Trump’s 42 percent highly unfavorable score easily outpaces Clinton’s 33 percent".
33% of people polled dislike Mrs. Clinton, while 42% dislike Mr. Trump.
Is this comparison an example of "the lesser of 2 evils?".
33% of people polled dislike Mrs. Clinton, while 42% dislike Mr. Trump.
Is this comparison an example of "the lesser of 2 evils?".
10
The critical "flaw" that has been having an important role in this campaign is in the economic system that has resulted in increasing inequality, stagnant wages and decreasing hopes for working people in the country. Voters in both parties are desperately looking for candidates who promise some improvement, even if the promises are transparently insincere as Trump's are. They are aware that establishment politicians have not really been working for their interests. And like Jeb Bush and Marco Rubio, Hillary Clinton is perceived as an establishment politician. Will her campaign from now on reinforce that reputation, or take a different direction?
14
I believe Hillary despite establishment credentials, sincerely wants to improve the lives of working or want-to-be-working Americans. I think Trump just says what he thinks will snooker people into voting for him since most of what he says is pure fantasy. Hillary has a plan of action. Trump has a big mouth.
3
Are transparently false promises better than the unpleasant truth?
2
The NYT, and Mr. Blow in particular, have consistently given Hillary all possible credit. Failing to give her due credit is not a problem here.
However, "nearly as awful as" really isn't credit to the minds of independents. That just says, "two really bad candidates" and she is one of them.
Likewise, "Trump is even worse" really is not "credit." It might be reason not to vote for Trump, but it is not reason to support her.
Even before Conventions, we are being told of lack of alternatives, and faced with two awful alternatives, and told that is "credit."
There is something very wrong with this. There is also something very wrong with not seeing the problem. Most of all, there is something very wrong with just accepting it as inevitable, rallying to it.
However, "nearly as awful as" really isn't credit to the minds of independents. That just says, "two really bad candidates" and she is one of them.
Likewise, "Trump is even worse" really is not "credit." It might be reason not to vote for Trump, but it is not reason to support her.
Even before Conventions, we are being told of lack of alternatives, and faced with two awful alternatives, and told that is "credit."
There is something very wrong with this. There is also something very wrong with not seeing the problem. Most of all, there is something very wrong with just accepting it as inevitable, rallying to it.
46
Thomason, you give the average person with a vote too much credit. It's a pity, but the best of the worst kind of negative advertising will win the day. And who really understands the complexities of the Middle East, or bank stress tests, or whither the EU, just as examples? Many NYT readers think that they do, but it's mostly an echo chamber, and maybe potentiated by Ben Rhodes, who thinks that we are all dummies waiting for his slop to be served by the youthful and clueless media.
So sad.
So sad.
1
Is it as messed up as being unable to get through a post without attacking the media, or unable occasionally give credit where credit's due?
4
Most excellent points. Thank you for saying it.
1
Blow says that Clinton is "outcampaigning" Trump but if so it is having little effect on voters. Her favorability ratings have scarcely budged. If these were due to Republican propaganda, why isn't the barrage of pro-Clinton propaganda turning this around? Trump's ratings have worsened slightly, but this could be ascribed to more inherently anti-Trump voters taking notice of his ridiculous statements as the coverage switches to the general election. Considering the debacle of the Republican primary campaign, the percentage of people intending to vote Republican is pretty close to that of previous contests.
Media pundits have misjudged the appeal of Trump from the beginning, and they continue to do so. They also do not credit the objections that the majority of voters have to Clinton. On economic matters there continues to be a major disconnect between what the main-stream media and its pundits perceive and what the majority of people in the country perceive.
Media pundits have misjudged the appeal of Trump from the beginning, and they continue to do so. They also do not credit the objections that the majority of voters have to Clinton. On economic matters there continues to be a major disconnect between what the main-stream media and its pundits perceive and what the majority of people in the country perceive.
25
"On economic matters there continues to be a major disconnect between what the main-stream media and its pundits perceive and what the majority of people in the country perceive."
Democrats might well have more to offer the middle class that did not get a recovery.
They can't sell that idea by telling those suffering that everything is great, and claiming credit for making it so great. It is one or the other, things are great, or we can help fix this.
Trump has no such problem. He can both blame and promise to fix. Democrats can't. It isn't so simple.
Democrats waffle between these two, and so lose both ways. Waffling excites fears, in both those who did not recover, and those who fear losing the recovery they got. That is bad campaigning at the very top.
Democrats might well have more to offer the middle class that did not get a recovery.
They can't sell that idea by telling those suffering that everything is great, and claiming credit for making it so great. It is one or the other, things are great, or we can help fix this.
Trump has no such problem. He can both blame and promise to fix. Democrats can't. It isn't so simple.
Democrats waffle between these two, and so lose both ways. Waffling excites fears, in both those who did not recover, and those who fear losing the recovery they got. That is bad campaigning at the very top.
11
Who, pray tell, has told the middle class that "everything's great?"
1
I don't recall any NYT columnist call for giving Bernie Sanders his due at any time during the ups and downs of the primary campaign. It was all negative, all the time.
92
And when the news wasn't negative against Mr. Sanders, he wasn't even in the news. It was as if he simply didn't exist!
25
No, it wasn't. Coverage of Bernie was obsequious. There seemed to be a need to be nice to the angry old man because of his advanced age. Many unfavorable stories about Old Bernie and "Doctor" Jane were ignored, downplayed, diluted.
E.g., the theft of Hillary's computer data by Bernie's little helpers; the destruction of Burlington College by the 10 million dollar loan Jane (with Bernie's senatorial office's help?) finagled out of a bank; the big LIE Bernie told about Hillary after the WaPo headline saying he wasn't qualified to be president (duh); Bernie's long strange history; Bernie's putting the blame on his wife for failing to release the tax returns; his constant cawing about super delegates, rigged elections, open primaries; etc., etc., etc.
E.g., the theft of Hillary's computer data by Bernie's little helpers; the destruction of Burlington College by the 10 million dollar loan Jane (with Bernie's senatorial office's help?) finagled out of a bank; the big LIE Bernie told about Hillary after the WaPo headline saying he wasn't qualified to be president (duh); Bernie's long strange history; Bernie's putting the blame on his wife for failing to release the tax returns; his constant cawing about super delegates, rigged elections, open primaries; etc., etc., etc.
5
c'mon. time to get over it and move on
2
"Giving Clinton Her Due"?
Exactly right. It has been assumed her whole career that she is "Due."
What qualified her to gain her first elective office in New York, where she had never lived?
She was "Due" because of Monica.
What qualified her to be Secretary of State, with no foreign policy expetrise?
She was "Due" because she lost in 2008.
What qualified her to be paid $ 250,000 per "speech?"
Good question.
What qualifies her to be president of the US?
She's not more unfavorable than Trump?
Perhaps Mr. Comey will give her her "Due."
Exactly right. It has been assumed her whole career that she is "Due."
What qualified her to gain her first elective office in New York, where she had never lived?
She was "Due" because of Monica.
What qualified her to be Secretary of State, with no foreign policy expetrise?
She was "Due" because she lost in 2008.
What qualified her to be paid $ 250,000 per "speech?"
Good question.
What qualifies her to be president of the US?
She's not more unfavorable than Trump?
Perhaps Mr. Comey will give her her "Due."
44
Yes, but Trump is an idiot that can't locate Syria on an unlabeled map of the world. He is a business man. That's just a little different than being president of the most powerful nation on Earth. He builds golf courses and buildings for a career. President? Come on, what planet do you come from?
4
I think she'll look great in orange.
2
Priceless.
Trump's membership in the republican slander machine was evident when he ran his birther campaign against the President several years ago. He continues to distract attention from his many shortcomings by slandering Mrs. Clinton at every opportunity.
48
Hillary doesn't need anyone to slander her. She does a good job of it on herself.
3
It will be interesting to see what the debates bring. I predict that she will clean his clock. He makes GW Bush look like a policy wonk.
Of course, Mr Bush deserves credit for putting country before party by refusing to back this circus barker.
Of course, Mr Bush deserves credit for putting country before party by refusing to back this circus barker.
28
W was uninvited to "help" either McCain or Romney.
It is not at all a comment on Trump that he too has distance from W.
It is not at all a comment on Trump that he too has distance from W.
2
Not wanting help from a politician with an astonishingly-low favorability rating is not the same thing as said politician telling the country he wants nothing to do with you, what with you being a dangerous, lying idiot.
2
"Times are tough but so are we". Hillary projects this in her own way, perfected by time and experience. Donald Trump is full of bluff and bluster and projects, well, that. Bluff and bluster.
Hillary has the money to beat him soundly if she keeps her current shtick going. Reserved, measured, calculated, intelligent responses to various situations and issues.
The only problem Hillary has immediately is containing Bill. His antics wore thing 20 years ago and his legacy is still up in the air. Going forward, He needs to stay in the background and keep his mouth shut...and measure what he says, and who he says it to very carefully.
Hillary has the money to beat him soundly if she keeps her current shtick going. Reserved, measured, calculated, intelligent responses to various situations and issues.
The only problem Hillary has immediately is containing Bill. His antics wore thing 20 years ago and his legacy is still up in the air. Going forward, He needs to stay in the background and keep his mouth shut...and measure what he says, and who he says it to very carefully.
36
"Hillary has the money" but where and how she got it counts against her. That is an issue in this campaign, it has been all along with both Trump and Sanders. Every time she spends it, she also draws attention to that. It is a mixed blessing, the negative emphasized by the tone deaf refusal to see that.
10
"He needs to stay in the background and keep his mouth shut...and measure what he says, and who he says it to very carefully."
Your post expresses precisely the problem that many of us indie voters have with BOTH Clintons. It's interesting to me that they have a NEED to measure what they say. If either of the Clintons had honesty and integrity it would afford them the ability to say whatever they wanted- no need to obfuscate or measure anything. Let them talk- let's hear their authenticity loud and clear. Mark Twain said, "If you tell the truth you don't need to remember anything." Hillary can start with those transcripts.
Your post expresses precisely the problem that many of us indie voters have with BOTH Clintons. It's interesting to me that they have a NEED to measure what they say. If either of the Clintons had honesty and integrity it would afford them the ability to say whatever they wanted- no need to obfuscate or measure anything. Let them talk- let's hear their authenticity loud and clear. Mark Twain said, "If you tell the truth you don't need to remember anything." Hillary can start with those transcripts.
5
Yes, it's important that Hillary Clinton be given her due. It is equally, if not more, important that campaign coverage achieve at least a modicum of balance between the two campaigns.
Recently in the "Politics" section of the Boston Globe, all five headline entries carried the name "Donald Trump," as though the entire contest were about him and only him.
"We must be smart!” proclaims Trump. Smart like him? Maybe. After all he's still getting the lion's share of free media coverage. Thank you, Mr. Blow, for devoting today's column to the other candidate. Her name is Hillary Clinton.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
Recently in the "Politics" section of the Boston Globe, all five headline entries carried the name "Donald Trump," as though the entire contest were about him and only him.
"We must be smart!” proclaims Trump. Smart like him? Maybe. After all he's still getting the lion's share of free media coverage. Thank you, Mr. Blow, for devoting today's column to the other candidate. Her name is Hillary Clinton.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
57
If she was "...given her due...", she'd be wearing orange already.
2
Thanks, Charles Blow. It's about time someone noticed all the things Hillary has done right, not only as a candidate, but as a human being. The media would so much rather focus in on any mistake, large or small, that she makes and obsess about it than acknowledge the many good things she does. Not to mention their almost totally ignoring the fact that if Hillary's elected, she will be the first woman president in US history. Isn't that newsworthy enough for them?
93
"almost totally ignoring the fact that if Hillary's elected, she will be the first woman president in US history"
That is mentioned every single day. It could not possibly be hammered in more completely. For many, it seems to be all that matters.
That is mentioned every single day. It could not possibly be hammered in more completely. For many, it seems to be all that matters.
15
I guess you may be correct that that the media is ignoring the "fact if Hiliary's elected, she will be the first woman president in US history", however I'd bet that more than 20 % of potential voters do not even know this, and even worse, people may vote for her on that reason alone...
No- for this indie voter it is NOT enough. Give voters an actual choice- not just "Bad and Badder." And, frankly, I tire of the "first woman president" meme; a bone thrown to older feminists who haven't a clue how to find -and read- genuine, independent journalism.
7
With the NYT and all the other news outlets that support "Crooked" Hillary writing hundreds of articles every week that attempt to smear Donald Trump one has to wonder how Trump has come within range of Hillary Clinton in the national public opinion polls. Today the Real Clear Politics average is Hillary ahead by 4.5 points. The margin of error is about 3.5. It is very close. When the FBI comes out with it's criminal investigation results Hillary should suffer regardless of which way it goes. I think we all know that the FBI will not recommend that Hillary be charged because the proverbial "fix" is in and has been from the start. Remember it was the FBI that warned Bill Clinton that he had better stop lying about Monica Lewinsky because they told him they had his DNA on her dress. As soon as they told Clinton that fact he went on National TV that same night and told the truth. On August 17, 1998, the FBI DNA report date, the FBI stain analysis found Clinton's DNA on Monica Lewinsky's dress. It was not made public on that date.( Aug. 17, 1998 ) -- Breaking seven months of near silence, President Bill Clinton admitted Monday night that he did, in fact, have an inappropriate and "wrong" relationship with ex-White House intern Monica Lewinsky, but insisted he did nothing illegal. That was no coincidence, that is the Clintons.
31
We know the Clintons to be flawed. This is not new news. There isn't a single flaw we don't know about. We also know Donald Trump to be flawed in countless ways. In November we will learn which flawed individual we will have in the Oval Office. I will choose the one that I want to fill Supreme Court vacancies, the one I want to work on health care, the one I want to be our international representative to be seen around the world, the one I want to work on immigration, the one I want to further reproductive rights for women, the one I believe will grasp complex world issues and guide the United States safely as we move forward. To say these two candidates are the same is narrow minded at best and ignorant at worst. I will not choose the lesser of two evils. I will choose the candidate with a brain, a heart, and with courage. The other candidate possesses none of these. The flaws are not equal flaws they are different flaws.
1
What in the world does Bill Clinton and his inability to keep his pants zipped up have to do with Hillary Clinton? She is married to a man who has a lot of faults as do many women. She had/has a choice; continue her marriage or get a divorce. She has chosen to stay in her marriage. Its her own business that she made this decision as many other women have. In any event, it was not Hillary that was having affairs, it was Bill. Mr. Trump does not have his hands clean in this arena. Stick to the issues that we need to talk about not an old story that was passe at the time it happened.
2
Clinton was impeached for lying about a blow job.
George Bush's lies led us into a unnecessary war, hundreds of thousands of lives lost, our county goes back into budget deficit (after it was handed to him with a surplus), the middle east is upended leaded to the mess it's in now.
How do you compare a lie about a 15 second blow job to the catastrophic mess that's still unfolding. Get a grip.
George Bush's lies led us into a unnecessary war, hundreds of thousands of lives lost, our county goes back into budget deficit (after it was handed to him with a surplus), the middle east is upended leaded to the mess it's in now.
How do you compare a lie about a 15 second blow job to the catastrophic mess that's still unfolding. Get a grip.
4
The Psychology of Why Hillary Clinton Supporters are Still So Angry at Bernie Sanders
It’s a pretty impressive act of self-delusion. This is how certain progressives, faced with a real chance to change the country, have betrayed their own politics—and in many cases, their own generation—and handed the presidential election to neoliberals that will inevitably disappoint them. The only way to avoid looking in the mirror, it turns out, is to remain in a state of vigilant anger against anyone who threatens your feeble, contradictory belief system. In this way, they have more in common with Trump’s supporters than they’d ever like to admit.
https://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2016/06/the-psychology-of-why-hil...
It’s a pretty impressive act of self-delusion. This is how certain progressives, faced with a real chance to change the country, have betrayed their own politics—and in many cases, their own generation—and handed the presidential election to neoliberals that will inevitably disappoint them. The only way to avoid looking in the mirror, it turns out, is to remain in a state of vigilant anger against anyone who threatens your feeble, contradictory belief system. In this way, they have more in common with Trump’s supporters than they’d ever like to admit.
https://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2016/06/the-psychology-of-why-hil...
19
From the article this links: "pretty heartbreaking. What it means is that if you support the party establishment, you also support fracking, carbon emissions, free trade, an aggressive Israeli state, and limited health care"
8
The berners/basement dwellers/amateur psychologists who have infected this election cycle from the start with their asinine theories, ignorant diagnoses, and virulent threats DO have much in common with Trump's supporters, just as Bernie himself has much in common with Trump himself.
The two would be powerful running mates. Misogyny, dishonesty, red/orange faces, finger pointing/jabbing, refusing to release tax records, dubious/illegal behavior with Trump University/Burlington College, etc., etc.
4
Looking at the comments here and the comments in the paste magazine article you link to, it seems pretty obvious to me that far more anger is being expressed by Sanders supporters.
As a Clinton supporter, I can tell you that my anger is purely reactive. I'm sick and tired of the non-stop scolding of Clinton and all her supporters. You've accused supporters like me of betraying progressive politics and demeaned us with pop psychological diagnoses ("feeble, contradictory belief system"). Continuing, the Paste article states, "What it means is that if you support the party establishment, you also support fracking, carbon emissions, free trade, an aggressive Israeli state, and limited health care." In my case and for many other Clinton supporters, this is an outright lie.
But what Sanders supporters call us pales in comparison with the bile they direct at Clinton. Paste commenters call Clinton "neo-fascist", "totalitarianist", "crook and a liar", "crooked, lying, political whore", "witch", "war mongering whore", "traitor", "corporate whore", "Shllary", and many more derogatory terms.
Another Paste comment: "I am sure I am older than you and Hillary Clinton is a whore... She was a whore when she was first lady of Arkansas, and she is still a whore now. I have been a Democrat for more than 40 years, I am a retired attorney who defended many criminals, and I can recognize a WHORE when I see one."
Now that's real out of control anger, down to the capitalized "WHORE".
As a Clinton supporter, I can tell you that my anger is purely reactive. I'm sick and tired of the non-stop scolding of Clinton and all her supporters. You've accused supporters like me of betraying progressive politics and demeaned us with pop psychological diagnoses ("feeble, contradictory belief system"). Continuing, the Paste article states, "What it means is that if you support the party establishment, you also support fracking, carbon emissions, free trade, an aggressive Israeli state, and limited health care." In my case and for many other Clinton supporters, this is an outright lie.
But what Sanders supporters call us pales in comparison with the bile they direct at Clinton. Paste commenters call Clinton "neo-fascist", "totalitarianist", "crook and a liar", "crooked, lying, political whore", "witch", "war mongering whore", "traitor", "corporate whore", "Shllary", and many more derogatory terms.
Another Paste comment: "I am sure I am older than you and Hillary Clinton is a whore... She was a whore when she was first lady of Arkansas, and she is still a whore now. I have been a Democrat for more than 40 years, I am a retired attorney who defended many criminals, and I can recognize a WHORE when I see one."
Now that's real out of control anger, down to the capitalized "WHORE".
4
This is what is so wrong with the American media, the first imperative to fill the space or the time slot no matter how vapid or useless the story or commentary.
Reminds me of the drivel laden running narrative of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade.
Trump verses Clinton in the 2016 race to the bottom. American politics teetering on the precarious edge of a giant cesspool.
Please spare me the part about how much more presidential Hillary’s negatives look compared to the Donald’s.
“America! America!
God shed his grace on thee
Till selfish gain no longer stain
The banner of the free!”
Reminds me of the drivel laden running narrative of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade.
Trump verses Clinton in the 2016 race to the bottom. American politics teetering on the precarious edge of a giant cesspool.
Please spare me the part about how much more presidential Hillary’s negatives look compared to the Donald’s.
“America! America!
God shed his grace on thee
Till selfish gain no longer stain
The banner of the free!”
17
I never see Blow as being "believable". He is so over the top in being in the tank, 100%, for Clinton. Here we have Clinton, only last week being "interviewed" by the FBI for criminal acts and Blow finds a way to totally obfuscate that. I'd say if a nominative national candidate could go to prison that might be worthy of a more substantive and thoughtful analysis but Blow never seems to get it. How the NYT gives Blow any space at all flummoxes me continually. He is a talking head with no brain.
36
Mr. Blow seems to nothing to write about except Hillary. It's almost a pleasant break from his constant complaints about perceived racial bias where there is none.
1
Americans, look in the mirror. Too many of you put snake-oil salesmen into government with your misguided, emotional votes. Being proud of your know-nothingness is making the US a fool's paradise. You have a problem? Fix it by voting for competent people, not rally behind a moronic demagogue who parrots your own foolishness.
So much is being dumped on Mrs. Clinton, yet she is the only adult in the room.
So much is being dumped on Mrs. Clinton, yet she is the only adult in the room.
93
Too many Americans admire snake oil salesmen exactly because they are snake oil salesmen. Taking money from suckers is as American as apple pie.
4
Your attitude is the fuel that keeps Trump going.
1
It is more important that Clinton give the voters their due.
She is intransigent in her hawkish and illiberal views. No wonder she is viewed so negatively.
She is intransigent in her hawkish and illiberal views. No wonder she is viewed so negatively.
45
Hillary has been subjected to a Swift-boating far more intense that Kerry's and over a longer period of time. That she is still standing and soldiering on is remarkable, a sign that she has the fortitude that makes a leader. Those that hate her will never acknowledge this but it smacks of profound intellectual dishonesty to look at Trump as the vehicle that will satisfy their hatred. He is beyond embarassing, the caricature of the ugly American that anti-Americans in the rest of the world have imprinted in their brains. Obama had shown that image to be nonsensical. Trump revives it with a vengeance.
139
So true. She has taken more hits than her male colleagues combined, which in my opinion suggests more than a hint of sexism. I admire the women. She's tough, smart, resilient, and incredibly capable. To suggest that she hasn't accomplished anything or done so on her own is complete hogwash. I would be proud to have her as commander in chief and feel confident she'd do an excellent job.
3
An article that justifies bad, over awful; how nice. One that follows the DNC line, vote for Clinton, because she is better than Trump. Never the mind, both, yes both, are negative ratings worse, than Barry Goldwater in 1964. Never the mind that Clinton is under an FBI investigation. Never mind her ex-president is disbarred lawyer and MAY have influenced said investigation of his wife. Newer mind Ms. Clinton looks more "electable" now because she panders to the crowds looking to have policies of Mr. Sanders, but actually will do those of George W. Bush. And, never the mind, like her husband, is a compulsive liar. But, she is the best choice; huh?
First, Joe Biden, should be the Democratic nominee; hands down. He earned it. He has a wealth of experience, as both Senator and Vice President. But, he was forced out by the powers that be of the DNC. Next, comes the surprise, Bernie Sanders. He also has a wealth of experience. He was chosen to make the primaries look legitimate, to allow for Ms. Clinton to march to the nomination. But, he did too well, for the DNC, and has been torn apart by the DNC, the media and Clinton supporters. And still is.
Yes, Mr. Trump is flawed. But, he is resonating more than Clinton is. Whatever comes of the FBI investigation, her being cleared will be interpreted as a fix was in because of Mr. Clinton. If she is indicted, the DNC goes into panic mode; if not, spin mode. And the voter? Looking for alternatives.
The Clintons did it to themselves.
First, Joe Biden, should be the Democratic nominee; hands down. He earned it. He has a wealth of experience, as both Senator and Vice President. But, he was forced out by the powers that be of the DNC. Next, comes the surprise, Bernie Sanders. He also has a wealth of experience. He was chosen to make the primaries look legitimate, to allow for Ms. Clinton to march to the nomination. But, he did too well, for the DNC, and has been torn apart by the DNC, the media and Clinton supporters. And still is.
Yes, Mr. Trump is flawed. But, he is resonating more than Clinton is. Whatever comes of the FBI investigation, her being cleared will be interpreted as a fix was in because of Mr. Clinton. If she is indicted, the DNC goes into panic mode; if not, spin mode. And the voter? Looking for alternatives.
The Clintons did it to themselves.
48
Nick, Biden won't be the democratic nominee. He explained why he wouldn't run if you recall. If Trump is "resonating" with you, that's sad. Yes, Clinton is flawed. Everyone is. We don't get to pick between the ideal dream candidates and human ones, or even those that aren't running over those that are. Voters looking for alternatives (and they are always around) can write in or choose a third or fourth party candidates. Most voters will pick either Clinton or Trump. As you point out, as far as the FBI investigation, Clinton will be tarred and feathered either way: it will be called a fix or a smoking gun. No one will focus on actual facts because facts are so passé in 2016.
37
Barbara,
First, I did not say Trump was resonating with me; get your facts straight. I said he was resonating with voters. A big difference. And, Clinton is not resonating.
I am by no means a Trump supporter. I am one of the millions of people who see both Clinton and Trump, as unelectable. Justifying Clinton is less flawed than Trump, is a very weak argument to convince people to voter for her. It is ridiculous that my choice could be two very bad people both inexperienced and quality wise.
As fro Biden, he was forced out. One do not deny a dying wish to one's son, unless he was pressured to do so. The DNC wanted Clinton, they planned it from the start it would be Clinton, since she lost in 2008 to Obama. The "coronation" process started after the 2012 election.
At least Trump is not under an FBI criminal investigation for potential mishandling of classified material. And if she is cleared, of this, a cloud will hang over her campaign. If elected, her administration. While she may get the White House, she will face even a more hostile Congress, than Obama did. Remember more than 50% of the US electorate reviles the Clintons.
First, I did not say Trump was resonating with me; get your facts straight. I said he was resonating with voters. A big difference. And, Clinton is not resonating.
I am by no means a Trump supporter. I am one of the millions of people who see both Clinton and Trump, as unelectable. Justifying Clinton is less flawed than Trump, is a very weak argument to convince people to voter for her. It is ridiculous that my choice could be two very bad people both inexperienced and quality wise.
As fro Biden, he was forced out. One do not deny a dying wish to one's son, unless he was pressured to do so. The DNC wanted Clinton, they planned it from the start it would be Clinton, since she lost in 2008 to Obama. The "coronation" process started after the 2012 election.
At least Trump is not under an FBI criminal investigation for potential mishandling of classified material. And if she is cleared, of this, a cloud will hang over her campaign. If elected, her administration. While she may get the White House, she will face even a more hostile Congress, than Obama did. Remember more than 50% of the US electorate reviles the Clintons.
9
Yes, Mr. Trump is flawed! That is the best you can do while attacking the Democratic establishment. Far from being torn apart by the DNC and the Clinton campaign, Sen. Sanders has been treated extremely well and now has been granted tremendous sway in regard to the Democratic platform. Quite frankly Nick, no one candidate gets all the presents on their list of demands, nor should they. This is called compromise which use to be the way politics functioned, but has fallen out of favor with Tea Party absolutists and some Sander's backers. Donald Trump is way more than flawed, he will wreak havoc should he be elected, every day will be a drama, he is no more a populist than Paul Ryan has a plan to fight poverty. So enjoy your hissy fit as the Supreme Court falls to corporate and religious interests, the ACA is cancelled along with healthcare for millions, etc. if you want to see the real life failure of total G.O.P. governance, take a little time to google what has happended to the state of Kansas. Your choice, the policies that have brought Kansas to it's knees for the whole nation or Hillary Clinton.
5
Reading the comments here, I think a healthy dose of Jonathan Rauch's "How American politics went insane" might help.
http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2016/07/how-american-politic...
Quote: "Neurotic hatred of the political class is the country’s last universally acceptable form of bigotry."
Quote: "You haven’t heard anyone say this, but it’s time someone did: Our most pressing political problem today is that the country abandoned the establishment, not the other way around."
http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2016/07/how-american-politic...
Quote: "Neurotic hatred of the political class is the country’s last universally acceptable form of bigotry."
Quote: "You haven’t heard anyone say this, but it’s time someone did: Our most pressing political problem today is that the country abandoned the establishment, not the other way around."
25
To get through that piece, one must wholly embrace the fundamental belief that big brother is the end all, that bureaucrats know best and that free thinking and more importantly action is messy and undesirable.
1
You've got to be kidding. The political elite deserve every bit of our contempt.
4
That's a nonsense article. Keep this in mind Study: US is an oligarchy, not a democracy - BBC News - BBC.com
www.bbc.com/news/blogs-echochambers-27074746
BBC
Apr 17, 2014 - But we believe that if policymaking is dominated by powerful business organisations and a small number of affluent Americans, then America's
If the establishment hadn't allowed and encouraged the oligarchy the very abandonment you describe would never have happened.
www.bbc.com/news/blogs-echochambers-27074746
BBC
Apr 17, 2014 - But we believe that if policymaking is dominated by powerful business organisations and a small number of affluent Americans, then America's
If the establishment hadn't allowed and encouraged the oligarchy the very abandonment you describe would never have happened.
This election has shown us some disturbing facts about voters, especially Trump supporters. It's hard to find a Trump supporter who has done their do diligence learning even simple details of a Trump comment. I asked a neighbor who was speaking politics to a friend why she hated Clinton, she replied Benghazi! I thought ask my usual question, just where is Benghazi, no answer.
I think this follows the disturbing issue as in the British vote, people are so tired of divisive modern media politics, they just follow the most repetitive story as fact.
I understand there are many reasons such as demographics to explain peoples political leanings, but this shear laziness is inexcusable
I think this follows the disturbing issue as in the British vote, people are so tired of divisive modern media politics, they just follow the most repetitive story as fact.
I understand there are many reasons such as demographics to explain peoples political leanings, but this shear laziness is inexcusable
26
The simple truth is that Trump has earned his disdain, while Clinton's is largely manufactured. Trump is, very simply, a self-aggrandizing opportunist with no real core convictions of any kind - save for finding ways to promote himself. Clinton, on the other hand, while she does make mistakes, has a solid record and real accomplishments that demonstrate an interest in people's welfare as well as being a capable leadership.
So, the obvious question is why is Clinton so reviled by so many people? The answer is actually pretty simple. Republicans have feared the Clinton's for decades. They feared what they stood for and their ability to accomplish their agenda. The attacks and anti-Clinton propaganda has been relentless. It ranged from Safire's hit-piece on Hillary Clinton to accusations of murder. All provable lies to anyone not partisan or gullible enough to believe them. But, advertising works.
Consider this. About 30% of the country still maintained that Bush the Younger had done a good job in 2008. That is after he started and bungled two of this country's longest wars, drove our nation's reputation into the ground, tortured POWs, and crashed the world economy - 30%. That tells me that 30% of this country is beyond stupid and has been conditioned to hate anyone that is a Democrat. That 30% will follow a fascist racist. Hopefully, a majority is a bit smarter.
So, the obvious question is why is Clinton so reviled by so many people? The answer is actually pretty simple. Republicans have feared the Clinton's for decades. They feared what they stood for and their ability to accomplish their agenda. The attacks and anti-Clinton propaganda has been relentless. It ranged from Safire's hit-piece on Hillary Clinton to accusations of murder. All provable lies to anyone not partisan or gullible enough to believe them. But, advertising works.
Consider this. About 30% of the country still maintained that Bush the Younger had done a good job in 2008. That is after he started and bungled two of this country's longest wars, drove our nation's reputation into the ground, tortured POWs, and crashed the world economy - 30%. That tells me that 30% of this country is beyond stupid and has been conditioned to hate anyone that is a Democrat. That 30% will follow a fascist racist. Hopefully, a majority is a bit smarter.
44
"The simple truth is that Trump has earned his disdain, while Clinton's is largely manufactured."
Oh no, they have both earned this vast disdain.
Oh no, they have both earned this vast disdain.
4
Which specific Bush policy caused the housing crash?
Was it Janet Reno publicly calling out, and reminding lenders who didn't loan enough to minorities, of the Federal penalties for not lending enough?
Was it Barney Frank shouting down regulators every time a housing bubble was mentioned?
Was it the Democrats who ran Fannie Mae and caused this: December 18, 2006, U.S. regulators filed 101 civil charges against chief executive Franklin Raines; chief financial officer J. Timothy Howard; and the former controller Leanne G. Spencer. The three were accused of manipulating Fannie Mae earnings to maximize their bonuses. The lawsuit sought to recoup more than $115 million in bonus payments, collectively accrued by the trio from 1998 to 2004, and about $100 million in penalties for their involvement in the accounting scandal. After 8 years of litigation, in 2012, a summary judgment was issued clearing the trio, indicating the government had insufficient evidence that would enable any jury to find the defendants guilty.[75]
Conflict of interest Edit
Further information: Countrywide financial political loan scandal
Further information: Friends of Angelo program
In June 2008, the Wall Street Journal reported that two former CEOs of Fannie Mae, James A. Johnson and Franklin Raines had received loans below market rate from Countrywide Financial. Fannie Mae was the biggest buyer of Countrywide's mortgages.[76]
Was it Janet Reno publicly calling out, and reminding lenders who didn't loan enough to minorities, of the Federal penalties for not lending enough?
Was it Barney Frank shouting down regulators every time a housing bubble was mentioned?
Was it the Democrats who ran Fannie Mae and caused this: December 18, 2006, U.S. regulators filed 101 civil charges against chief executive Franklin Raines; chief financial officer J. Timothy Howard; and the former controller Leanne G. Spencer. The three were accused of manipulating Fannie Mae earnings to maximize their bonuses. The lawsuit sought to recoup more than $115 million in bonus payments, collectively accrued by the trio from 1998 to 2004, and about $100 million in penalties for their involvement in the accounting scandal. After 8 years of litigation, in 2012, a summary judgment was issued clearing the trio, indicating the government had insufficient evidence that would enable any jury to find the defendants guilty.[75]
Conflict of interest Edit
Further information: Countrywide financial political loan scandal
Further information: Friends of Angelo program
In June 2008, the Wall Street Journal reported that two former CEOs of Fannie Mae, James A. Johnson and Franklin Raines had received loans below market rate from Countrywide Financial. Fannie Mae was the biggest buyer of Countrywide's mortgages.[76]
1
Hillary Clinton will be elected the first female president of the USA. As senator Warren would say: You bet!
Hillary's opponent, Donald Trump --a millionaire businessman turned politician -- has no chance of defeating the financial and economic establishment elite.
The question is: Can Hillary stop the decline of America's middle class? Can she make America great again?
Hillary's opponent, Donald Trump --a millionaire businessman turned politician -- has no chance of defeating the financial and economic establishment elite.
The question is: Can Hillary stop the decline of America's middle class? Can she make America great again?
3
Trump had no chance of defeating the Republican financial and economic establishment elite. He did anyway.
As with Brexit, voters may not be calmly rational, but they make up for it by being really angry. They get the final say. It has not turned out well so far, in either party really.
As with Brexit, voters may not be calmly rational, but they make up for it by being really angry. They get the final say. It has not turned out well so far, in either party really.
3
No. And won't try. Don't vote; it only encourages them.
2
The answer Uzi to your question is no.
2
How does Trump even have any favorable opinions? Clinton is facing a challenge on the email issue, but how many people have misused email? Millions? Trump has said some of the worst things a candidate in the modern era has ever said. How does this guy not a a 95% unfavorable rating?
18
Why isn't the FBI questioning Trump about his University or his Casino rip-offs? The main email servers of our government and many in the private sector have been hacked over and over and Mrs. Clinton's private one was not hacked. So?
12
We do not know--even at this point--whether her server was or was not hacked. Even the Huffington Post acknowledged this.
2
This negative driven campaign with two candidates that the majority of Americans simply do not like points to one obvious conclusion. Let's move the election up to, say, early next week. Why not vote now and spare ourselves from the worst presidential election campaign ever. The American public is tired of it all.
9
We must never stop mentioning the reason for the hole we are in. It's due to a poor statesman, Mitch McConnell -- the former chairman of the RNC, who for 25 years has worked to design and build the conservative right-wing propaganda system. He has continued in his role as strategist even as his role of majority leader of the Senate demands that he negotiate and legislate. He meets the definition of a political sociopath. He has no empathy for his victims and the damage he has inflicted on progress in our country. He wraps the flag around his incompetence.
His fingerprints are on Citizen's United, CPAC, ALEC, the Federalist Society, the Tea Party, the Heritage Foundation, the NRA, and Roger Ailes.
There's more. FOX News continues to be the right-wing broadcast network of record that feeds its fog of information to the GOP network of policy shops, talk radio, and right wing minions who daily feed at the GOP trough. It is at the heart of one of the most powerful propaganda systems in modern times.
The rise of Donald Trump is testimony to how bad the GOP has screwed up our legislative system. The simple men and women at the typical Trump rally, who adulate him, have no idea what this system is, how it’s funded, and the danger it poses to Democracy. These live in the alternate universe of the GOP fog.
The core reason for this is the fact that “the mind tends to an organized universe." A good propaganda system does this and FOX and McConnell get the Emmy.
His fingerprints are on Citizen's United, CPAC, ALEC, the Federalist Society, the Tea Party, the Heritage Foundation, the NRA, and Roger Ailes.
There's more. FOX News continues to be the right-wing broadcast network of record that feeds its fog of information to the GOP network of policy shops, talk radio, and right wing minions who daily feed at the GOP trough. It is at the heart of one of the most powerful propaganda systems in modern times.
The rise of Donald Trump is testimony to how bad the GOP has screwed up our legislative system. The simple men and women at the typical Trump rally, who adulate him, have no idea what this system is, how it’s funded, and the danger it poses to Democracy. These live in the alternate universe of the GOP fog.
The core reason for this is the fact that “the mind tends to an organized universe." A good propaganda system does this and FOX and McConnell get the Emmy.
56
Absolutely, Ken. Mitch McConnell is a truly evil man. He has blocked nearly all positive progress for our nation, by obstructing nearly everything. When his goal, from day 1 was to deny President Obama a second term over the needs of the struggling middle class and poor, I believe he became treasonous. This is the United States of America, not the republican (or democratic) party. There are children in his state of KY that don't eat much during the summer, so poor they rely on school food programs. How McConnell sleeps at night must be due to his lack of conscience. History will judge him harshly.
3
What a shame you confuse fair and balanced with propaganda. How long did it take CBS et al to realized the server and emails were even a potential problem? You spend too much time in The Times.
1
Where this article misses the point is its point of origin. With all due respect, it was written by an educated and presumably affluent writer, and published by a left-leaning newspaper in the most cosmopolitan city in the country. Many of Trump's core supporters live outside this realm -- the realm of cold, hard fact and rational responses to crises and the fundamental belief that government, however flawed, is preferable to anarchy. The negative poll numbers, the criticism of his speeches, the revelations about his past only seem to increase Trump's allure for this constituency. So the real question is whether this allure will spread beyond the so-called red states. Unfortunately, I find myself unable to rule out that possibility.
7
Charles. is it that we are supposed to be so impressed by the Clinton's ability to campaign that we should overlook the fact that she has placed the nation's security at risk on multiple occasions?
26
When and how. Specifics please, GI remote.
17
Could you please support your comment with facts. Do you have the inside scoop on the results of the investigation? As far as the American public knows, there has been no conclusion as yet.
3
well, just to start, by voting for Bush's Iraq War...then there's her urging that we send more troops into the Middle East while SOS, her "reset" with Putin, which let Russia off the hook for invading Georgia...
While SOS, HRC was also a supporter of those overthrowing governments friendly to the United States (i.e. Egypt). These governments ended up being replaced with the Muslim Brotherhood. The Arab uprisings, combined with the withdrawal from Iraq, led to the formation of ISIS, which took over much of Iraq and Syria.
While SOS, HRC was also a supporter of those overthrowing governments friendly to the United States (i.e. Egypt). These governments ended up being replaced with the Muslim Brotherhood. The Arab uprisings, combined with the withdrawal from Iraq, led to the formation of ISIS, which took over much of Iraq and Syria.
3
The daily travesty that is ISIL is a hallmark of established American foreign policy. Ms. Clinton is beholden to that policy, that culture.
Mr. Trump is a charlatan and buffoon and mentally unstable.
The world will pay dearly over the next 4-8 years for the election of either hopeful.
Mr. Trump is a charlatan and buffoon and mentally unstable.
The world will pay dearly over the next 4-8 years for the election of either hopeful.
17
Yeah, Clinton is doing great, sounding presidential. The only problem is, her bombastic opponent still has a chance of winning, largely thanks to Clinton and that private email server. She should have put him away by now.
20
Thanks, Mr. Blow, for devoting an entire column to pointing out that Hillary Clinton is not Donald Trump.
The problem remains, she is Hillary Clinton. We still don't know where the Democrats under her will stand on the TPP; she brags that she get foreign policy advice from Henry Kissinger; she's still under investigation by the FBI; she still hasn't released the transcripts of her speeches to Wall Street firms.
But no doubt about it, she isn't Trump.
The problem remains, she is Hillary Clinton. We still don't know where the Democrats under her will stand on the TPP; she brags that she get foreign policy advice from Henry Kissinger; she's still under investigation by the FBI; she still hasn't released the transcripts of her speeches to Wall Street firms.
But no doubt about it, she isn't Trump.
35
We don't know where Trump stands on anything. He may say he is for something or against it (with vague language), and the next day or week the flips. He doesn't have any idea what he will do about anything if elected. He goes with the wind and says whatever pops into his head, which isn't much. He is, however, a natural master manipulator. Just ask all the people he has scammed out of money over the years. If he wins, it will be the biggest scam of all and our country will be much the worse for it.
24
Forrest Trump is so overwhelmingly outclassed in every metric by HRC that it borders on profound sadness. At a time where this nation needs solid debate over policy and direction, this presidential election has been reduced to a street brawl, wrapped in 7th grade insults inside a deeply disturbed Republican Party.
Most people get it. HRC is a lightening rod for most low information voters because of her experience and intelligence. It goes without saying that she is probably the best prepared candidate in the last 50 years. This doesn't stop the reactionary and xenophobic GOP base from trying to destroy her.
However the biggest problem, far bigger than dealing with neanderthals is the media. Repeatedly you have have chosen ratings and access over pointing out how sub par and dangerous Trump really is. He is a fluke who has no business
attempting to become president save massaging his massive narcissistic ego.
Not only should the GOP be ashamed but so should the media.
Most people get it. HRC is a lightening rod for most low information voters because of her experience and intelligence. It goes without saying that she is probably the best prepared candidate in the last 50 years. This doesn't stop the reactionary and xenophobic GOP base from trying to destroy her.
However the biggest problem, far bigger than dealing with neanderthals is the media. Repeatedly you have have chosen ratings and access over pointing out how sub par and dangerous Trump really is. He is a fluke who has no business
attempting to become president save massaging his massive narcissistic ego.
Not only should the GOP be ashamed but so should the media.
107
Totally agree. The media helped create trump with their obsessive attention, and failed to focus on the strengths and brilliance and temperament of what I hope is our first and highly qualified woman president. Comparing "negatives" is unenlightening and gives on info on issues.
3
HRC is a lightening rod for low information voters? Boy, thats rich. You take ice with your Kool Aid?
1
Trump also went off script Friday.During a news conference a reporter from Turkey wanted to ask a question.Instead Trump asked " Are you friend or foe ?"That was about as far from Presidential as he could be.Hillary most likely would expressed her condolences to the reporter.She certainly has her flaws but I predict when she and Trump debate each other the first it will become apparent the big extent by which Trump doesn't belong in the same room with her.
58
Lies work. Look at what happened in Britain. The leave campaign flat-out lied and the media pointed out those lies. However, the people believed the lies and voted to leave.
"Truth will out" is not the case anymore and Trump's lies and xenophobia may win in November.
"Truth will out" is not the case anymore and Trump's lies and xenophobia may win in November.
24
"... the media pointed out those lies." Unfortunately, that is not true for the media that engaged most English voters. The most newspapers, for example, duly reported the absurd claims and lies about Brussels/EU. The execrable Boris Johnson's employer, The Telegraph, is an outstanding example.
1
It is one of the grave failures of "balanced" journalism that allows such things as "flaws" to be treated equally when some "flaws" are disastrous and others are simply expected results of a decent person battling a brutal process. If a man were the democratic nominee, any man, the republican nominee would be devastatingly humiliated in his treasured polls and would have been absolved long ago is the email sideshow. The idea of "balanced" journalism has become a meaningless marketing concept. One example...the incredible amount of free press Donald Trump has received and continues to receive has helped creat the impression that anything about him approaches the ideal of "balanced" journalism. "Balanced" can, when employed uncritically is an enemy of rational and critical thought.
68
One could debate endlessly which candidate is the lesser of two evils, but I would hardly agree that the media favors Trump. They give him more coverage because he's box-office. It's a combination of his being media-savvy, a born entertainer, and an outsider who ruffles the feathers of the establishment of both parties, which is something no other candidate is doing. He is also going against the grain in the type of campaign he is waging which may be short on advertising and short on money, but has an appeal which Hillary with her army of staffers and tons of money could only hope to overcome. The media doesn't cover her campaign as much as Trump's because she's canned and boring, but Trump is the greatest gift any news operation could hope for.
1
What a country we live in. Trump of course started this whole think on a lark figuring somewhere along the line he would get knocked off. But when somehow he won, it scares him that he might be President so he's trying to make sure he doesn't win.
Then we have crooked Hilary. Whatever will make her money she is in favor of. She has done nothing for anybody but herself ever and when convenient plays the woman card.
There was only one candidate all along who stood for what people need. We need a single payer health system more than anything else. But this candiate, the only honest person in the race, is ridiculed with the ridiculous "socialist" tags like that is a dirty word.
Just sickening the thought that Hillary Clinton will soon be occupying an office that once upon a time was inhabited by great, smart people. Once again, our country will be the laughing stock of the world.
Then we have crooked Hilary. Whatever will make her money she is in favor of. She has done nothing for anybody but herself ever and when convenient plays the woman card.
There was only one candidate all along who stood for what people need. We need a single payer health system more than anything else. But this candiate, the only honest person in the race, is ridiculed with the ridiculous "socialist" tags like that is a dirty word.
Just sickening the thought that Hillary Clinton will soon be occupying an office that once upon a time was inhabited by great, smart people. Once again, our country will be the laughing stock of the world.
16
Your comment is light on facts. That is so very up-to-the moment in political opinion.
5
This person sounds like Trump, noise and thunder unrelated to any facts. I suspect that he wouldn't recognize a single payer system if he stepped on it. Poor fellow.
3
Where are "honest Bernie's" tax returns?
3
'After the Orlando massacre, Trump tweeted: “Appreciate the congrats for being right on radical Islamic terrorism, I don’t want congrats, I want toughness & vigilance. We must be smart!”'
And yet Trump out polls Clinton on who would be better dealing with terrorists. A segment of the population actually likes the toughness talk, likes the idea of bombing the hell out of the Middle East including "the families of terrorists" and likes blocking Muslims from entering the US (a subset wants to deport all Muslims). They seem to not know that if Trump starts wars it will not be his sons or son-in-law or the sons of his friends who will come back in a box or with PTSD or maimed. It will be their sons who fight and die. It seems clear, though, that Trump will consider their dead or wounded sons "losers" when the time comes.
And yet Trump out polls Clinton on who would be better dealing with terrorists. A segment of the population actually likes the toughness talk, likes the idea of bombing the hell out of the Middle East including "the families of terrorists" and likes blocking Muslims from entering the US (a subset wants to deport all Muslims). They seem to not know that if Trump starts wars it will not be his sons or son-in-law or the sons of his friends who will come back in a box or with PTSD or maimed. It will be their sons who fight and die. It seems clear, though, that Trump will consider their dead or wounded sons "losers" when the time comes.
113
"They seem to not know that if Trump starts wars it will not be his sons or son-in-law or the sons of his friends who will come back in a box or with PTSD or maimed."
True. But you don't acknowledge that the Hillary Wars will do the same. She promoted every war so far, and advocated to make them larger. That is why she lost to Obama, and she never changed. She now pushes for new wars in Syria, going back to Libya, promised AIPAC to attack Iran, and advocates our military intervention in Ukraine. She backs what the EU openly calls warmongering of Gen. Breedlove against Russia.
Donald Trump would start trouble. Hillary ahs promised trouble, even more and more specifically than The Donald. There is not peace candidate, and Hillary's warmongering is shocking. "They seem not to know" applies to this too.
True. But you don't acknowledge that the Hillary Wars will do the same. She promoted every war so far, and advocated to make them larger. That is why she lost to Obama, and she never changed. She now pushes for new wars in Syria, going back to Libya, promised AIPAC to attack Iran, and advocates our military intervention in Ukraine. She backs what the EU openly calls warmongering of Gen. Breedlove against Russia.
Donald Trump would start trouble. Hillary ahs promised trouble, even more and more specifically than The Donald. There is not peace candidate, and Hillary's warmongering is shocking. "They seem not to know" applies to this too.
3
"Clinton better dealing with terrorist?" Pure conjecture.
1
Anne-Marie-"It seems clear, though, that Trump will consider their dead or wounded sons "losers" when the time comes."
And more so if they are POWS!!!
And more so if they are POWS!!!
1
The Convention hasn't started yet and Bill and Hillary are showing their arrogance and Donald belongs in an insane asylum. Sorry Charles that is the way I see it.
39
Admittedly, I was looking forward to your article shining light on Clinton's accomplishments, as Hillary, without the contrasting, dark, gloomy buffoonery of Trump. More Hillary, less Trump. It really is NO contest. How do we make that case (other than keeping Bill off airport tarmacs where the attorney general might be traveling)?
20
It will be reality time, soon enough.
The "Great Debates" will be starting soon, and Clinton will have to speak for herself.
The fawning left Media, will not be able to tell us what she is "really" saying, and "how amazingly well" she is saying it.
She's responsible for “evisceration of Donald Trump,”
She's "so outmatched Trump that the competition wasn’t even close"
And, "last month Clinton out-campaigned and outclassed Trump at every turn".
Hard to believe that Trump is 4 points ahead in the latest poll :) :)
The "Great Debates" will be starting soon, and Clinton will have to speak for herself.
The fawning left Media, will not be able to tell us what she is "really" saying, and "how amazingly well" she is saying it.
She's responsible for “evisceration of Donald Trump,”
She's "so outmatched Trump that the competition wasn’t even close"
And, "last month Clinton out-campaigned and outclassed Trump at every turn".
Hard to believe that Trump is 4 points ahead in the latest poll :) :)
16
The latest poll I can find was a Reuters/Ipsos poll that was released on Friday by Reuters. The poll was conducted from June 27–July 1 and included 1,080 registered voters. Results: “Among likely voters, 43.9 percent now support Clinton, compared with 34.5 percent for Trump. Another 21.7 percent of likely voters wouldn’t support either candidate.”
Do you know of another poll? Or did you make that up? Sorry for perhaps jumping too soon to an uncharitable conclusion, but so much of what Trump and his supporters say is flat out wrong. Give us a citation to back up your assertion.
Do you know of another poll? Or did you make that up? Sorry for perhaps jumping too soon to an uncharitable conclusion, but so much of what Trump and his supporters say is flat out wrong. Give us a citation to back up your assertion.
19
Right, Peter. When Trump is losing he just says he's winning and his followers choose to believe him. Amazing.
5
Trump is not ahead.
Any decent Democratic candidate ought to be so far ahead it would be to laugh. That is a clue to a serious problem.
Any decent Democratic candidate ought to be so far ahead it would be to laugh. That is a clue to a serious problem.
2
The American voter is stuck with two awful choices... a crooked Democrat and a buffon Republican. No matter who gets elected, the US will be subject to the mockery of the world. Are these two the best that America can offer?
32
As I live in "the world", I can assure you that the US will not be "subject to the mockery of the world" if Sec. Clinton gets elected. In fact, "the world" will breath a collective sigh of relief to be spared an incompetent egotistical warmonger with neo-fascist tendencies. Please elect the candidate with a world wide reputation for seriousness, reliability, and competence. The world will thank you for doing the right thing, even more so than in 2008.
18
Buriri-"The American voter is stuck with two awful choices... a crooked Democrat and a buffoon Republican. No matter who gets elected, the US will be subject to the mockery of the world."
Google "Hillary Clinton admiration world" and you'll see a far different picture. She was voted the most admired woman in the world in a 2015 Gallup poll as was President Obama. She was voted the most admired woman in America by Gallup poll, Dec 28, 2015, for the 20th time in a row. Yet some of the people of the USA are willfully obstinate and dismiss any facts that interfere with their perceptions and refuse to acknowledge the accomplishments Obama has achieved. They refuse to acknowledge Clinton's many dedicated years as a champion for underprivileged woman and children throughout the world. Sure Obama has some faults and many disagree with some of his policies but he will go down in history of one of the greatest presidents our nation has ever seen. Clinton has had some errors in judgement as well but who among us is perfect?
Hillary Clinton is the most admired woman on the world stage. No countries are looking on horrified that we might elect Clinton president. What horrifies and astounds them is that we might elect TRUMP!!!
Google "Hillary Clinton admiration world" and you'll see a far different picture. She was voted the most admired woman in the world in a 2015 Gallup poll as was President Obama. She was voted the most admired woman in America by Gallup poll, Dec 28, 2015, for the 20th time in a row. Yet some of the people of the USA are willfully obstinate and dismiss any facts that interfere with their perceptions and refuse to acknowledge the accomplishments Obama has achieved. They refuse to acknowledge Clinton's many dedicated years as a champion for underprivileged woman and children throughout the world. Sure Obama has some faults and many disagree with some of his policies but he will go down in history of one of the greatest presidents our nation has ever seen. Clinton has had some errors in judgement as well but who among us is perfect?
Hillary Clinton is the most admired woman on the world stage. No countries are looking on horrified that we might elect Clinton president. What horrifies and astounds them is that we might elect TRUMP!!!
4
Sorry Buriri, only misinformed Faux News addicts see it that way. HRC has very high favorable in foreign Capitols, tRump not so.
4
Every independent analysis of press coverage of the current candidates indicates that Hillary Clinton has been covered in a negative way nearly 85% of the time, far, far more than Donald Trump.
If you tell a Big Lie often enough people will begin to believe it.
If you tell a Big Lie often enough people will begin to believe it.
211
Jefflz,
I'd like you to cite where you got this information.
Mrs. Clinton, buy far has been given larger positive coverage than either Mr. Trump and especially Mr. Sanders.
There was even a long timeframe where Mr. Sanders was barely covered and was even omitted by the NYTimes and other newspapers. And if he wash;t removed from coverage he certain was vilified by the NYTimes and other newspapers.
I'd like you to cite where you got this information.
Mrs. Clinton, buy far has been given larger positive coverage than either Mr. Trump and especially Mr. Sanders.
There was even a long timeframe where Mr. Sanders was barely covered and was even omitted by the NYTimes and other newspapers. And if he wash;t removed from coverage he certain was vilified by the NYTimes and other newspapers.
4
Hillary may get a lot of negative coverage, but Trump gets ONLY negative coverage.
Trump wallows in it, happy as a pig in mess that drives off anyone else.
Trump wallows in it, happy as a pig in mess that drives off anyone else.
1
For reference, see the report of Harvard Kennedy School’s Shorenstein Center on Media, which concluded that Trump received the most media coverage of any candidate and that the majority of it was positive. Sanders was initially ignored but later, when he began to get attention, coverage "was the most favorable of any of the top candidates, Republican or Democratic." By contrast, "Hillary Clinton had by far the most negative coverage of any candidate." This analysis was widely reported in the media. See: http://shorensteincenter.org/pre-primary-news-coverage-2016-trump-clinto...
4
Charles the cheerleader.
Hillary's June was stupendous. And the polls are now essentially tied.
Hillary started July off well though, reinforcing her trustful persona by assisting the FBI in their "survey". She is so ever helpful.
Hillary's June was stupendous. And the polls are now essentially tied.
Hillary started July off well though, reinforcing her trustful persona by assisting the FBI in their "survey". She is so ever helpful.
31
Not so fast on the essentially tied business.
http://www.realclearpolitics.com/epolls/latest_polls/president/
http://www.realclearpolitics.com/epolls/latest_polls/president/
3
Wrong, the polls are not even close to tied. Do even a modicum of research, and you will see that HRC has a fairly commanding lead at this point. Facts are facts.
2
Let us put the obvious truth in plain sight. Right wing white males hate Obama because he is an African American in a leadership role. These same small minded people hate Hillary because she is a woman in a leadership role.
112
No doubt. If that was the only problem, Hillary would be so far ahead we would be laughing. She's not. Why is that?
3
Jefflz
Do you know any right wing white males?
Do you know any right wing white males?
3
Some of us aren't taking part in the vote fraud, rigged, undemocratic coronation of Mrs. Clinton, Mr. Blow. There are vote fraud and DNC fraud lawsuits initiated, as well as FBI criminal investigations for mishandling secret information and public fraud still to be completed. The
Clinton's first 100 days" article is more than a little premature, and try as it might, the NY Times, with all it's power to deceive, cannot unilaterally proclaim Clinton to be president.
Clinton's first 100 days" article is more than a little premature, and try as it might, the NY Times, with all it's power to deceive, cannot unilaterally proclaim Clinton to be president.
42
Thanks for opting out of the burdensome duties of citizenship. In a crunch it's good to know who has the stomach to be an ally.
3
agreed, feeling seriously let down by NYT for not questioning and fully covering the above.
1
And I bless the 40 % of the country that is Independent and is not buying into all this relentless shilling.
1
It is hardly commendable that the Clinton Slime is praiseworthy. She has absolutely no moral fiber and will lie and change her positions at the first hint of the winds blowing in another direction. Recognize her for what she is... The candidate of minority and female pandering... Nothing more!
28
I am neither female nor minority, but will happily vote for the most qualified candidate in our lifetime.
2
Absolutely well said. The country has fallen into the trap of being politically correct. Anything against the current establishment is "racist, anti-minority or anti-women".
1
Thank you, Charles Blow, for giving Hillary Rodham Clinton her due. Yes, we recognize that she has run a strong and valiant campaign. We the people on this 240th anniversary of our Declaration of Independence Day (our BREXIT) recognize that electing Hillary Clinton will be the only way to defeat the preposterous fear-mongering Republican candidacy of Donald Trump, the most unqualified "pants on fire" candidate ever to run for our Presidency. Trump's brazen lies, braggardry and bullying have been swallowed whole by his legions of red golf-capped supporters, his ignorant followers who are thrilled with his attack-tweets on radical Islamic terrorism and his rank demagoguery and bloviating. Mrs. Clinton's speeches in the wake of the ISIS attacks in Florida, Turkey and now Bangladesh have been presidential. We could not ask for a more positive, optimistic leader. And only a strong tide of voter registrations and subsequent voting throughout America will win her her well-deserved Presidency.
62
HRC apparently has no problem with bombing women and children and noncombatants overseas as long as it furthers the neolib agenda and gives every indication her presidency will continue letting global capital run roughshod over humanity and environment. much of the attack on her is utterly debased but there are very real reasons not to be enthused about her as president.
14
Give Hillary her due?? What is this, the election of "the lesser of evil"? This is not the first Presidential election I have refused to vote for the lesser evil; but it is definitely the worse!
10
Do we vote for the greater evil? Simply opt out, preserving our self-regard and righteousness? Allow the decision of misguided others to be imposed upon us? Please explain.
2
Is anyone really surprised that Clinton and her campaign would take the measure of Mr. Trump and utterly demolish him? I'm surprised that there could have been any doubt. Perhaps because the Republican primaries subjected voters to such a lowbrow spectacle of incompetence and childish behavior we forgot what competent leadership and discipline looks like. But, as in most things, you know it when you see it. Expect Trump's ship to continue to founder, and more and more rats to jump overboard.
22
As a life long Republican, the choice for me will be do I vote for Ms. Clinton, or Mr. Johnson, the Libertarian candidate. My vote will not be guided by the media's portrayal of Ms. Clinton. It will be guided as to which candidate most closely adheres to my policy views, because both are highly qualified to serve as President.
13
Clinton may have had a good month, but by many accounts she is still distrusted but more Americans than Donald Trump. I'll restate that - HRC is less trusted by Americans than Donald Trump! The word most associated with Hillary Clinton is LIAR. It's not just Republicans that feel this way. Yet somehow she is ahead of Trump in polls. I'm sure Romney is looking pretty good to the GOP right now.
With all due respect to Clinton apologists in these comments - Benghazi was a witch hunt, but her FBI criminal investigation is not. Her use of the State Department to gain leverage and favor for the Clinton Foundation is not a fabrication. Her lying about many issues to the public is not fiction. No wonder she refuses to hold a press conference.
Many politicians have had a great deal of experience prior to running for office, but that has not always resulted in positive outcomes (see: Nixon & Cheney). For better or worse, voters are drawn to honesty and candor. Trump has her beat in both categories. If she wins the general, she will do so limping down the stretch with the DNC wind to her back. How inspirational!
With all due respect to Clinton apologists in these comments - Benghazi was a witch hunt, but her FBI criminal investigation is not. Her use of the State Department to gain leverage and favor for the Clinton Foundation is not a fabrication. Her lying about many issues to the public is not fiction. No wonder she refuses to hold a press conference.
Many politicians have had a great deal of experience prior to running for office, but that has not always resulted in positive outcomes (see: Nixon & Cheney). For better or worse, voters are drawn to honesty and candor. Trump has her beat in both categories. If she wins the general, she will do so limping down the stretch with the DNC wind to her back. How inspirational!
30
Anyone who thinks Trump is superior in the categories of honesty and candor needs to have his head examined. I'm not a Clinton supporter, but I will vote for her to avoid the complete catastrophe that would result from a Trump presidency.
11
"Her lying about many issues to the public is not fiction." Look at the facts. PolitiFact says that Trump makes false or "pants on fire" statements 60% of the time, with 19% "pants on fire." Clinton: 12% false, of which 1% is "pants on fire."
Clinton = "liar" IS a fiction. Trump = "liar" is verifiably true. The Fox Noise Machine really has succeeded in fooling lots of the people lots of the time.
Clinton = "liar" IS a fiction. Trump = "liar" is verifiably true. The Fox Noise Machine really has succeeded in fooling lots of the people lots of the time.
14
Funny. She "out-campaigned and outclassed" Trump last month. I'd add spent millions of dollars more as well. And yet nationally, the polls show her lead has dropped into the single digits, and Trump has pulled within the margin of error in several swing states. Somehow, with as awful a candidate as Trump is, Charles sees this as a positive for the second worst candidate ever, Hillary Clinton. Nice spin, Charles. Poor try.
30
Considering how the unbiased media is all in for HC, and bashes Trump at every turn, I'd say this piece is" preposterous".
Are you kidding Charles? Bubba, a potential witness takes a meet with the AG, who for some reason went completely brain-dead in Phoenix, and the month ends with the candidate being grilled by the FBI?
I'd say it's not looking real great for Mrs. H. Besides, she is still fighting off a back water, 75 year old socialist from Vermont. I still see signs firmly planted in the ground. And I don't think those people are going to flip over and vote for Hillary.
Then there's the obvious problem of more and more terrorist attacks. Yes, it has been a very difficult month. From Orlando, to Istanbul, and Dakar, and now Baghdad. Hundred of innocents slaughtered
More of the same, is just not very appealing to the American voters right now.
Are you kidding Charles? Bubba, a potential witness takes a meet with the AG, who for some reason went completely brain-dead in Phoenix, and the month ends with the candidate being grilled by the FBI?
I'd say it's not looking real great for Mrs. H. Besides, she is still fighting off a back water, 75 year old socialist from Vermont. I still see signs firmly planted in the ground. And I don't think those people are going to flip over and vote for Hillary.
Then there's the obvious problem of more and more terrorist attacks. Yes, it has been a very difficult month. From Orlando, to Istanbul, and Dakar, and now Baghdad. Hundred of innocents slaughtered
More of the same, is just not very appealing to the American voters right now.
17
Yes, Clinton is being given her due; and that is because she is rising on her own merits....and not on the basis of Trump's irrelevancy; but, his being an ever present danger for the country's health, he is mentioned for comparison, to alert those still misinformed and not closed to reality nor the truth.
9
And yet she doesn't top 50% in any poll. Sorry, scaring people about Trump is not going to make them stand in lines to vote for her.
We know how the Clinton presidency will turn out - partisan gamesmanship. At least a Trump presidency could unite Congress.
We had a great chance with Bernie who could have united us all.
We know how the Clinton presidency will turn out - partisan gamesmanship. At least a Trump presidency could unite Congress.
We had a great chance with Bernie who could have united us all.
15
I liked much about the Sanders' candidacy, but you've got to be suffering from confirmation bias to believe that "he could have united us all."
4
Bernie is as rigid as the obstructionist republicans. Compromise is NOT a dirty word - the way it should be done in legislation.
3
Just about everyone seems to agree that the two major party candidates are flawed. There is another candidate that rarely gets mentioned, and is now polling ten percent, or so. Take a look. You do not have to vote for the carnival barker or the shady, entitled one.
8
Hillary is a phenomenal candidate. If she loses, it will be because Senator Bernie Sanders forgot that "the perfect is the enemy of the good." Bernie -- don't be the enemy of the good. You still have time, but it's running out.
42
If she's so phenomenal, how could Bernie cause her to lose? I don't get it.
9
If Clinton is such a fragile little flower that a 74 year old socialist could be her undoing then she is even more flawed than originally thought.
3
I don't care what Sanders says. I am waiting for the FBI to complete. Their report is way past due.
1
The answer to "crooked Hillary" is so simple: just list the huge outrageous lies of the right and add the lies about her to that list. Lies like, "he has weapons of mass destruction (a lie that cost a million lives and counting), "he was born in Kenya", "the worst president ever" and on and on and on. The right wouldn't recognize a truth if it tripped over it.
47
When one sees statements like one in this report, "She out-campaigned, and out-classed", Dónal Trump, we know that the United States has most definitely lost its moral compass.
Trump and Hillary are equally atrocious, self-serving, narcissistic, hideous in their inhumanity, avaricious beyond compare, inherently blind to the fact their own demise is being wrought by themselves.
Trump and Hillary are equally atrocious, self-serving, narcissistic, hideous in their inhumanity, avaricious beyond compare, inherently blind to the fact their own demise is being wrought by themselves.
22
The political system is rigged, making sure the status quo prevails. Donald is unexpected gift providing cover as the Democratic candidate moves further right.
Who would have ever thought a "Hawk" would be the Democratic nominee? That is what this very newspaper called Hillary in an April 2016 profile of her foreign policy. Cheney calls her Obama's best cabinet appointee and mutual admiration with Kissinger is well documented. The neocons--authors of our failed Middle East debacle--are strongly behind her. On deck--confrontations with Russia as Victoria Nuland and Robert Kagan gain a stronger voice.
On the economic front--single payer is dead. Hillary was truthful--it will "never, ever" happen on her watch. Is it because she is supported by big pharma, insurance, big medical lobbyist money? Of course it is. Hillary was for free trade before she politically moved away. She is much less offensive than Donald, but make no mistake about to whom her allegiance lies and it ain't the tens of millions who are going to vote for her. Follow the money.
In the end, Donald has allowed the Dems to become the party of special interest money, neocon foreign policy and neoliberal economics. Any criticism of Hillary is prohibited as it merely bolsters Donald. Bipartisan support for the conservative agenda is complete.
Hillary supporters protest at this characterization choosing to overlook the facts. That is why you will never read an Op-Ed discussing her specific policies.
Who would have ever thought a "Hawk" would be the Democratic nominee? That is what this very newspaper called Hillary in an April 2016 profile of her foreign policy. Cheney calls her Obama's best cabinet appointee and mutual admiration with Kissinger is well documented. The neocons--authors of our failed Middle East debacle--are strongly behind her. On deck--confrontations with Russia as Victoria Nuland and Robert Kagan gain a stronger voice.
On the economic front--single payer is dead. Hillary was truthful--it will "never, ever" happen on her watch. Is it because she is supported by big pharma, insurance, big medical lobbyist money? Of course it is. Hillary was for free trade before she politically moved away. She is much less offensive than Donald, but make no mistake about to whom her allegiance lies and it ain't the tens of millions who are going to vote for her. Follow the money.
In the end, Donald has allowed the Dems to become the party of special interest money, neocon foreign policy and neoliberal economics. Any criticism of Hillary is prohibited as it merely bolsters Donald. Bipartisan support for the conservative agenda is complete.
Hillary supporters protest at this characterization choosing to overlook the facts. That is why you will never read an Op-Ed discussing her specific policies.
29
Trump vs. the global elite
In a series of economic speeches, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee has railed against the forces of globalization, arguing that changes in the economy have betrayed workers and wiped out the middle class.
ADVERTISEMENT
At the center of the "rigged economy," Trump argues, are "powerful corporations, media elites and political dynasties" and his likely general election opponent, Hillary Clinton.
"Hillary Clinton and her friends in global finance want to scare America into thinking small — and they want to scare the American people out of voting for a better future," Trump said Tuesday in a speech near Pittsburgh.
“I want you to imagine how much better our future can be if we declare independence from the elites who've led us to one financial and foreign policy disaster after another.”
Trump’s rhetoric is unusual for a presumptive Republican nominee for president, placing him in direct conflict with Washington business groups who have traditionally been allies of the GOP.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, which doesn’t endorse presidential candidates, unloaded on Trump during the jobs speech, rebutting him point by point on his criticism of trade deals like the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP).
http://thehill.com/policy/finance/286334-trump-vs-the-global-elite
it really upsets me that I know I won't get the coverage I need in this paper to actually get a true view of what trump is saying to allow me to make the best choice I can .
In a series of economic speeches, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee has railed against the forces of globalization, arguing that changes in the economy have betrayed workers and wiped out the middle class.
ADVERTISEMENT
At the center of the "rigged economy," Trump argues, are "powerful corporations, media elites and political dynasties" and his likely general election opponent, Hillary Clinton.
"Hillary Clinton and her friends in global finance want to scare America into thinking small — and they want to scare the American people out of voting for a better future," Trump said Tuesday in a speech near Pittsburgh.
“I want you to imagine how much better our future can be if we declare independence from the elites who've led us to one financial and foreign policy disaster after another.”
Trump’s rhetoric is unusual for a presumptive Republican nominee for president, placing him in direct conflict with Washington business groups who have traditionally been allies of the GOP.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, which doesn’t endorse presidential candidates, unloaded on Trump during the jobs speech, rebutting him point by point on his criticism of trade deals like the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP).
http://thehill.com/policy/finance/286334-trump-vs-the-global-elite
it really upsets me that I know I won't get the coverage I need in this paper to actually get a true view of what trump is saying to allow me to make the best choice I can .
3
Yes, Mrs. Clinton appears to be out campaigning Mr. Trump. However, how one campaigns has little to do with how a candidate will govern. Mrs. Clinton is a liar and dangerous with classified information. She will continue what appears to be failed policies.
The US electorate seems to have poorer and poorer choices as years go bye.
The US electorate seems to have poorer and poorer choices as years go bye.
8
Have you any proof of these otherwise slanderous statements?
3
When I compare the two I really do not see Clinton as flawed. She has a plan to run the government and govern the US. The article in the Times today describing her first 100 days describes a very competent president doing things I applaud.
Trump just talks in circles and has no plans that make sense to me.
Trump just talks in circles and has no plans that make sense to me.
15
Why the Mexican bias? Given that everything is personal and phony for the Donald one might consider the failed Baja development he lent his name to, getting burned by some greenmail playas from the 70s in the process. They went on to further Deals, he had to settle.
2
As far back as the Nineties with William Safire's baseless brutal propaganda attacks on Hillary, the right wing has attempted to create Clinton scandals out of nothing. The most recent effort, the Benghazi Political Assassination Committee, is proof of the two-faced Republican smear campaign. When did the GOP ever consider investigating Bush's illegal War in Iraq based on lies and deception which the entire world is still paying for with blood and treasure? How does abusing rules about email servers compare to that horror?
Hating Hillary is a knee-jerk response of the right. The absurd comparisons of Hillary's personal flaws with Trump's entire life of fraud and deceit is an insult to our intelligence. Unfortunately the Bernie crowd has helped to propagate this same groundless mistrust of and dislike for the Clinton's. The price of this misplaced anger may be the election of Donald Trump. If that is the case, there will be no coming back ever from the black hole of racism and fascism that Trump will create.
Hating Hillary is a knee-jerk response of the right. The absurd comparisons of Hillary's personal flaws with Trump's entire life of fraud and deceit is an insult to our intelligence. Unfortunately the Bernie crowd has helped to propagate this same groundless mistrust of and dislike for the Clinton's. The price of this misplaced anger may be the election of Donald Trump. If that is the case, there will be no coming back ever from the black hole of racism and fascism that Trump will create.
22
Hillary Clinton is an interesting contradiction. On paper her credentials are impressive. In person she presents a less cogent persona but her advantage is borne less out of her as a candidate than the conspicuous flaws of an opponent who is an embarrassment to a party that cannot bring itself to endorsing him.
1
If Mr. Blow feels compelled to make a case that Secretary Clinton is really OK, this bespeaks a weak candidate, and perhaps a poor administrator. Even though she mostly worked in the back lines of progress, or bungled her assignments, she is being given credit by Mr. Blow for overcoming a disappearance act. Her greatest forte is politics nothing more, nothing less. Yeah I'll vote for her to protect the Federal Court System, but I'm holding my breath on everything else.
If Hillary is flawed, it's mainly because she has been around forever and voters are looking for something new. On the other hand, Trump has always been an idiot and will no doubt continue in that vein.
5
How anyone can glory in being given her due in outclassing the likes of Trump is truly beyond me.
Trump is a non-factor, so any other candidate who is 9 percentage points better than nothing is equally politically impotent.
Hillary's "discipline" is an equivalent sham. Discipline in misdirection is useless. Giving her her "due" amounts to a negative asset. You where right the first time, Charles. Neither is fit for office.
Folks, do our Republic a favor on this its 240th birthday. Promise that, in November, you will write in the name of a fellow American who has the vision, leadership, and ability to work across party lines. If the Party Bosses see that write-in candidates get more votes than the losers they have selected, it will be a major step forward in reclaiming what our Foounders bravely signed their names for: A truly democratic republic.
Trump is a non-factor, so any other candidate who is 9 percentage points better than nothing is equally politically impotent.
Hillary's "discipline" is an equivalent sham. Discipline in misdirection is useless. Giving her her "due" amounts to a negative asset. You where right the first time, Charles. Neither is fit for office.
Folks, do our Republic a favor on this its 240th birthday. Promise that, in November, you will write in the name of a fellow American who has the vision, leadership, and ability to work across party lines. If the Party Bosses see that write-in candidates get more votes than the losers they have selected, it will be a major step forward in reclaiming what our Foounders bravely signed their names for: A truly democratic republic.
4
Hillary may be a flawed politician, but Trump is a world class chump, not even a politician; he's a narcissistic bloviating blowhard seeking attention with simplistic xenophobic, racist dog whistles. He will not be our next president! Hillary is serious, informed, experienced and ready to lead.
17
Blow is mesmerized by Clinon's speeches but actions speak louder than words.
Clinton is the premier American oligarch who has amassed a personal fortune and a powerful political machine by trading the political influence while Secretary of State and the presumptive next President.
Her untrustworthiness and character flaws are legendary.
Words,alone, are cheap.
Clinton is the premier American oligarch who has amassed a personal fortune and a powerful political machine by trading the political influence while Secretary of State and the presumptive next President.
Her untrustworthiness and character flaws are legendary.
Words,alone, are cheap.
14
My theory about Trump and Clinton is still plausible.
If I were to ask you to name three national political figures that are more conniving than Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump you would be hard pressed to do do so. The three of them off the national stage are good friends. Bill and Hillary I believe attended Trump's wedding. Trump has been a big contributor to the Clinton Foundation. Hillary Clinton has said very little about Donald Trump's quest to become the GOP Presidential candidate. I find that odd. There is no one on the national scene who has coveted the presidency more than Hillary Clinton.
I have an image of the three of them sitting in a cocktail lounge somewhere in Dubai, Saudi Arabia, drinking some fine scotch scheming as to how to get Hillary elected President of the United States. What better way than to somehow make a mockery of the GOP. It would be hard to dispute that the GOP debates have substantially lowered the bar for running for President of this country.
I know some of you are thinking I also have been drinking too much scotch, but a much less expensive brand, and also at an abandoned hotel somewhere in Flint rather than Dubai, Saudi Arabia. At the same time, you have to agree that anything is possible in this election cycle and all three of them, Hillary, Bill and Donald have the gonads to try it.
If I were to ask you to name three national political figures that are more conniving than Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump you would be hard pressed to do do so. The three of them off the national stage are good friends. Bill and Hillary I believe attended Trump's wedding. Trump has been a big contributor to the Clinton Foundation. Hillary Clinton has said very little about Donald Trump's quest to become the GOP Presidential candidate. I find that odd. There is no one on the national scene who has coveted the presidency more than Hillary Clinton.
I have an image of the three of them sitting in a cocktail lounge somewhere in Dubai, Saudi Arabia, drinking some fine scotch scheming as to how to get Hillary elected President of the United States. What better way than to somehow make a mockery of the GOP. It would be hard to dispute that the GOP debates have substantially lowered the bar for running for President of this country.
I know some of you are thinking I also have been drinking too much scotch, but a much less expensive brand, and also at an abandoned hotel somewhere in Flint rather than Dubai, Saudi Arabia. At the same time, you have to agree that anything is possible in this election cycle and all three of them, Hillary, Bill and Donald have the gonads to try it.
2
Dubai is only geographically part of Saudi Arabia, located on the Arabian Peninsula. It is an independent nation with no ties to Saudi Arabia.
3
Dubai isn't in Saudi Arabia. I won't even comment about the rest of your ludicrous conspiracy theory.
5
There's nothing in that scenario for Donald Trump, who's only interested in himself.
In addition, his run isn't about Hillary Clinton. According to "Double Down," he seriously considered running against Obama in 2012 and stayed out because of Mike Huckabee. That had no benefit to Bill and Hillary.
In addition, his run isn't about Hillary Clinton. According to "Double Down," he seriously considered running against Obama in 2012 and stayed out because of Mike Huckabee. That had no benefit to Bill and Hillary.
4
Charles
The thing that is most striking about this article is according to the Gallup poll "Trump and Clinton are currently among the worst rated presidential candidates of the last seven Decades". Lets hear the cries for mediocrity. Our shouts of joy over the best of the worst two candidates in 70 years will join our mantra of We are number 26 in health care we are number 56 in math and science, we are the worst western democracy when it comes to caring for our people. Yea!!!
Chuck From Ohio
The thing that is most striking about this article is according to the Gallup poll "Trump and Clinton are currently among the worst rated presidential candidates of the last seven Decades". Lets hear the cries for mediocrity. Our shouts of joy over the best of the worst two candidates in 70 years will join our mantra of We are number 26 in health care we are number 56 in math and science, we are the worst western democracy when it comes to caring for our people. Yea!!!
Chuck From Ohio
4
Sad. This column reeks of the capitulation to the lesser-of-two-evils, "hold-your-nose-and-vote" mentality that we're expected to resign to. Worse, many have accepted this. When someone comes along who is actually more of, by, and for the people, he or she is ruthlessly disparaged or marginalized by a bloated, hypocritical establishment that pretends to care about the average American but serves only the international plutocracy, whom they worship as gods.
10
Foremost, I want strength in my president. For the past 25 years, Hillary Clinton has taken a pounding from the right and the (not always right wing) press and still stands.
That she's the best choice is a no-brainer.
That she's the best choice is a no-brainer.
26
I am so tired of Secretary Clinton being lumped in the same category of negativity as Mr. Trump. Mrs. Clinton polls so badly because of the decades-long screeching smear campaign manufactured by the far right. The 40 percent of our population who gets their news and views solely from those sources cannot help but hate her. Their reasons are almost entirely false, their disdain unhinged from reality. Opposition to Mr. Trump is entirely different.
But a media focused on the horse race reports both candidates as toxic, legitimizing the fallacy that Mrs. Clinton is the left's mirror of Trump.
But a media focused on the horse race reports both candidates as toxic, legitimizing the fallacy that Mrs. Clinton is the left's mirror of Trump.
25
Of the last 20 primary contests between Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders, Hillary won 14. And the blowout in California was so convincing, Sanders, and especially his supporters, was left staggered. They really believed they'd won and it was on to the convention and time to start twisting the arms of the Super-delegates. Not!
And what a sore loser Sanders turned out to be. Never conceding nor endorsing the convincing winner and continually trying to steal Clinton's thunder. Well, you need more than a generation drowning in Student Loan Debt and several small states with 50% gun-owners to win an election.
And all that mocking and goading Sanders tried during the debates may have appealed to his impressionable Millennial audience, but it was a turn-off to the adults in the room.
And what a sore loser Sanders turned out to be. Never conceding nor endorsing the convincing winner and continually trying to steal Clinton's thunder. Well, you need more than a generation drowning in Student Loan Debt and several small states with 50% gun-owners to win an election.
And all that mocking and goading Sanders tried during the debates may have appealed to his impressionable Millennial audience, but it was a turn-off to the adults in the room.
17
How is this at all relevant to the column?
We need a better choice than Clinton or Trump.
Hillary Clinton personally, and through her foundation, has immense wealth, privileges and power. And while the MSM give her a certain prestige, she obviously lacks the real thing, because she is the one of the most disliked political figures in history.
She wants to be elected President because it would increase her wealth, power and privilege, and give her more of a certain kind of superficial prestige. People do not matter to her.
People can readily see that HRC would never really want to help anyone less fortunate than herself unless they are a means of her getting something. Only a person who likes people feels they are getting rewarded in taking care of people less powerful, less wealthy, and so on.
This is why there is all of this propaganda about Hillary Clinton having a heart or, in private, really being a warm person. But she is not really fooling anyone. Many Clintonites only buy into this myth of her care for people because they are not very well-informed, or, in order to keep their comfortable income, position or privileges, delude themselves into believing she is a good person. HRC is a brutally cold and should not be trusted by anyone.
Trump in comparison looks honest. But his denial of climate change and so much more make him an even more dangerous choice and his birther nonsense shows he is an idiot.
We need to have another choice! It is not too late for Democrats.
Hillary Clinton personally, and through her foundation, has immense wealth, privileges and power. And while the MSM give her a certain prestige, she obviously lacks the real thing, because she is the one of the most disliked political figures in history.
She wants to be elected President because it would increase her wealth, power and privilege, and give her more of a certain kind of superficial prestige. People do not matter to her.
People can readily see that HRC would never really want to help anyone less fortunate than herself unless they are a means of her getting something. Only a person who likes people feels they are getting rewarded in taking care of people less powerful, less wealthy, and so on.
This is why there is all of this propaganda about Hillary Clinton having a heart or, in private, really being a warm person. But she is not really fooling anyone. Many Clintonites only buy into this myth of her care for people because they are not very well-informed, or, in order to keep their comfortable income, position or privileges, delude themselves into believing she is a good person. HRC is a brutally cold and should not be trusted by anyone.
Trump in comparison looks honest. But his denial of climate change and so much more make him an even more dangerous choice and his birther nonsense shows he is an idiot.
We need to have another choice! It is not too late for Democrats.
18
Excellent! Again, surprised they posted it, as the NYT is so clearly in-the-bag of Clinton and plutocracy. How her working-class supporters refuse to acknowledge that the Clintons epitomize the hypocritical, self-indulgent narcissism and materialism of the worst of the Boomer-generation is beyond me. It has been borne-out in most of their decisions while in public service, which never really benefited the public. Yes, Republicans smear and lie about her, but that's political theater. At root, the Clintons are the most rightwing Democrats in modern times, and helped to pave the way for the corportization of all people, places and things. Most of the Republican party-establishment, if not the voters, actually prefer Clinton over Trump.
8
It is amazing that people are so passionate about governmental e-mail protocols. Our country faces so many significant challenges. As a Hillary supporter, I reject accusations hurled against her. Hillary is dignified and clearly a progressive who recognizes that as president she will have to deal with Republicans, lots of them. I, like Mr. Blow found her response to be measured and, importantly, reassuring. Hillary is not just going to fly off the handle and do something crazy in response to the latest provocation.
22
Friends expect a sign of life on my part for Independence Day. It is the first time I hedged when it came to sending greeting cards to All and Sundry, somewhat ironic, a slap in the face with Lady Liberty covered in flowers in 'America the Beautiful'.
From Sea to Shining Sea, some of them are from Jamaica, West Africa, South America, Puerto Rico. Their children were born here, all went to college on scholarship, they know American history far better than I, who join the many Descendants of Richard Bennett, the first Governor of Maryland.
Trump ruined it for me by tarnishing America with his stupid and irresponsible notions. A moral blight and emotional bankruptcy are the first gifts he has offered to us. I refuse. I accuse.
Mrs. Clinton to hold the torch now with the support of the President because at the end of the day they are true Americans, right and bright, while Trump is taking some of us away from our Country into the heart of darkness.
From Sea to Shining Sea, some of them are from Jamaica, West Africa, South America, Puerto Rico. Their children were born here, all went to college on scholarship, they know American history far better than I, who join the many Descendants of Richard Bennett, the first Governor of Maryland.
Trump ruined it for me by tarnishing America with his stupid and irresponsible notions. A moral blight and emotional bankruptcy are the first gifts he has offered to us. I refuse. I accuse.
Mrs. Clinton to hold the torch now with the support of the President because at the end of the day they are true Americans, right and bright, while Trump is taking some of us away from our Country into the heart of darkness.
8
When I see Trump with his tan and cotton candy coif, I think that all that glitters is not gold. I can't imagine the indelible harm Trump would cause the country but it would be deep and unrepairable and probably involve a nuclear war.
5
Bernie Sanders said early on in the campaign, on her worst day Hillary Clinton is still head and shoulders above all the Republican contenders. He was right.
I don't see Hillary Clinton as "flawed and damaged" except in public perceptions. She broke some email rules so she could use her beloved Blackberry. To which it was Bernie again who alluded in the first debate; no big deal.
History only moves in one direction. Manufacturing jobs are not coming back. Don't blame Clinton, either one, for that. The evolution of information and transportation technology make the migration of jobs, and agreements like NAFTA and TPP, inevitable, no matter who is president. (Soon, self-driving cars will put cab drivers and chaufers out of work. Shall we pre-blame the Clintons on that one, you know, to beat the crowds?)
Money from Wall Street fat cats puts her in their pockets? It indicates to me that reality is the other way around. The same goes for foreign donations to the Clinton Foundation.
In my 65 year lifetime, only LBJ, maybe, had more presidential talent than Hillary Rodham Clinton.
I don't see Hillary Clinton as "flawed and damaged" except in public perceptions. She broke some email rules so she could use her beloved Blackberry. To which it was Bernie again who alluded in the first debate; no big deal.
History only moves in one direction. Manufacturing jobs are not coming back. Don't blame Clinton, either one, for that. The evolution of information and transportation technology make the migration of jobs, and agreements like NAFTA and TPP, inevitable, no matter who is president. (Soon, self-driving cars will put cab drivers and chaufers out of work. Shall we pre-blame the Clintons on that one, you know, to beat the crowds?)
Money from Wall Street fat cats puts her in their pockets? It indicates to me that reality is the other way around. The same goes for foreign donations to the Clinton Foundation.
In my 65 year lifetime, only LBJ, maybe, had more presidential talent than Hillary Rodham Clinton.
7
Ralph, to compare Clinton to LBJ is bizarre. But to do so after acknowledging she is owned by Wall Street fat cats and saying that's the way of the world? Are you kidding? LBJ saw the world and pushed through the Voting Rights Act and created the War on Poverty. If you are looking for a candidate with the power of an LBJ, or an FDR, find a way to get Bernie Sanders on the ballot. He at least has a vision for the future.
2
Jack, read my post again. I think it is the fat cats who are in her pocket. And, it is impossible to compare LBJ's administration with an imaginary HRC administration that hasn't happened yet.
4
Give Hillary her due. Yes, and do not forget that her negative rating is 90 percent Republican character assassination. All people have flaws, Hillary's have been under a 1000X power Republican magnifier and a billion dollar Republican mudslinging machine.
In November America will vote on Sanexit (exit from sanity). Let us not make the same mistake of our British friends; the stark difference between Democratic sanity and Republican anarchy could not be more clear. Choose wisely my America.
In November America will vote on Sanexit (exit from sanity). Let us not make the same mistake of our British friends; the stark difference between Democratic sanity and Republican anarchy could not be more clear. Choose wisely my America.
7
At some point, and we may already be there, people will begin to see that Donald Trump’s ridicule of the processes of government and his boyish vulgarity when he drifts into attack mode are not really attractive, much less endearing.
The people will see Trump’s routine as evidence of a pathology he cannot control. They will see Trump as dangerously unfit for becoming, and incapable of being, our president.
At some point, and it is now happening, people will see that Hillary Clinton is not just another boring politician. She is a well-informed, well-intentioned candidate who is fully qualified to lead us.
Clinton also possesses another quality which, until Trump burst onto the scene, no one thought was worth mentioning. She is an adult.
The people will see Trump’s routine as evidence of a pathology he cannot control. They will see Trump as dangerously unfit for becoming, and incapable of being, our president.
At some point, and it is now happening, people will see that Hillary Clinton is not just another boring politician. She is a well-informed, well-intentioned candidate who is fully qualified to lead us.
Clinton also possesses another quality which, until Trump burst onto the scene, no one thought was worth mentioning. She is an adult.
6
Destroying the chances of Hiliary Clinton to win the presidency has been a long sought goal of the GOP. Destroy her credibility, insult her accomplishments, dismiss her intelligence, ridicule her gender, ignore her service to our country, instead they have nominated a joke. Not a day goes by without a ridiculous tweet, a hateful comment and an out and out lie coming from Trump and his surrogates. The media is complaisant in allowing this to happen. On this 4th of July we need to remember what this country stands for. Donald Trump is most assuredly not that thing.
11
As Bernie Sanders stated is a past debate with Hillary Clinton, "I'm sick and tired of hearing about those dammed e-mails". The negative aspects of Mrs. Clinton character in comparison to her life's achievements are severely overstated and exaggerated. No one ever running for this countries highest office can claim a stellar character bordering on sainthood.
Mrs. Clinton does have her negatives as we all do, but if a voter is searching for intelligence, competence, experience and knowledge of government, Hillary Clinton is most qualified. Only time in office will indicate whether Clinton can be an effective women president. History will be the judge on that.
What choices are left to the American voter, Donald Trump?
Mrs. Clinton does have her negatives as we all do, but if a voter is searching for intelligence, competence, experience and knowledge of government, Hillary Clinton is most qualified. Only time in office will indicate whether Clinton can be an effective women president. History will be the judge on that.
What choices are left to the American voter, Donald Trump?
6
Running for President in 2016 takes incredible courage, stamina and resolve. Clinton, in running against Trump, must walk a careful line so as to be honorable and steady: she has to make sense, be plausible and controlled. More to the point is the need for her arguments to be phrased is such a way as to possibly be both comprehensible and acceptable to the Trump supporters. Plausible and appealing reasoning is hard to find and present.
The relative popularity of the candidates is not terribly vital anymore. The battle lines have been drawn and the candidates are left with the necessity of presenting to two opposing mentalities. If Trump continues to fly off the handle and make remarks that qualify as offensive, so be it. Clinton's challenge will be to keep her wits about her and avoid insulting a large swath of voters.
It's a very difficult position to maintain and still run for office. I happily give Hillary her due!
The relative popularity of the candidates is not terribly vital anymore. The battle lines have been drawn and the candidates are left with the necessity of presenting to two opposing mentalities. If Trump continues to fly off the handle and make remarks that qualify as offensive, so be it. Clinton's challenge will be to keep her wits about her and avoid insulting a large swath of voters.
It's a very difficult position to maintain and still run for office. I happily give Hillary her due!
8
Clinton may have "eviscerated" Trump last month, but I would still be wary. I think he keeps an extra set of viscera--or two--around for just such an occasion.
And with the attention span of the public at an all-time low, the only stories that have any power are those that are repeated verbatim on a daily basis. It worked for Bernie Sanders.
I think Clinton would do well now not to outsmart herself or the public. It's close to the homestretch now and people don't want to be distracted by complex reasoning or elaborate verbal takedowns of one's opponent.
She should pick the best summative statement about the benefits of her version of government--the best and most widely appealing vision of what she can provide as President--and repeat it in public every day between now and November 8.
Now is the time to be robotic. (But not seem that way)
And with the attention span of the public at an all-time low, the only stories that have any power are those that are repeated verbatim on a daily basis. It worked for Bernie Sanders.
I think Clinton would do well now not to outsmart herself or the public. It's close to the homestretch now and people don't want to be distracted by complex reasoning or elaborate verbal takedowns of one's opponent.
She should pick the best summative statement about the benefits of her version of government--the best and most widely appealing vision of what she can provide as President--and repeat it in public every day between now and November 8.
Now is the time to be robotic. (But not seem that way)
4
‘In fact,’ Mr. Trump said, pointing his finger toward the sky, ‘that could be a Mexican plane up there. They’re getting ready to attack.’” This is so off the wall as to be out right frightening.
Is it only me, or is the Donald sounding more and more unhinged. Was at a party yesterday where someone made the case that this man could be entering into early stages of dementia. Pointed out his incoherence especially when reviewed against videos of him from years earlier, his constant repetition of words, his never initiating thought but always reacting rather than creating thought, his thinned skinned anger. and on and on. I had thought the man might have a personality disorder. But maybe it is more than that. Maybe we need a psych eval for the man that is running for the office of leader of our land.
Is it only me, or is the Donald sounding more and more unhinged. Was at a party yesterday where someone made the case that this man could be entering into early stages of dementia. Pointed out his incoherence especially when reviewed against videos of him from years earlier, his constant repetition of words, his never initiating thought but always reacting rather than creating thought, his thinned skinned anger. and on and on. I had thought the man might have a personality disorder. But maybe it is more than that. Maybe we need a psych eval for the man that is running for the office of leader of our land.
9
Charles, our views tend to align on most subjects most of the time. However, on the subject of Mrs Clinton we part company.
What strikes me is the moral shift in our country over the past quarter century that has allowed an individual with her record of deception, misleading accusations and outright lies to find herself on the brink of becoming the president of the United States.
She has been allowed to achieve this position because of a total lack of shame or sense of personal integrity. Previous candidates for the office would no doubt have had to withdraw after revelations such as the illegal email server were brought to light. Not so Mrs C.
The devolution of American politics is mirrored in the low regard most of the voting public has for Congress and the Executive branches of our state government. It would seem that in 2016 no personal conduct is too venal to exclude one from public office.
A nation gets the leaders it deserves.
What strikes me is the moral shift in our country over the past quarter century that has allowed an individual with her record of deception, misleading accusations and outright lies to find herself on the brink of becoming the president of the United States.
She has been allowed to achieve this position because of a total lack of shame or sense of personal integrity. Previous candidates for the office would no doubt have had to withdraw after revelations such as the illegal email server were brought to light. Not so Mrs C.
The devolution of American politics is mirrored in the low regard most of the voting public has for Congress and the Executive branches of our state government. It would seem that in 2016 no personal conduct is too venal to exclude one from public office.
A nation gets the leaders it deserves.
7
Why bad ideas refuse to die
And what happens when the world of ideas really does operate as a marketplace? It happens to be the case that many prominent climate sceptics have been secretly funded by oil companies. The idea that there is some scientific controversy over whether burning fossil fuels has contributed in large part to the present global warming (there isn’t) is an idea that has been literally bought and sold, and remains extraordinarily successful. That, of course, is just a particularly dramatic example of the way all western democracies have been captured by industry lobbying and party donations, in which friendly consideration of ideas that increase the profits of business is simply purchased, like any other commodity. If the marketplace of ideas worked as advertised, not only would this kind of corruption be absent, it would be impossible in general for ideas to stay rejected for hundreds or thousands of years before eventually being revived. Yet that too has repeatedly happened. https://www.theguardian.com/science/2016/jun/28/why-bad-ideas-refuse-die
And what happens when the world of ideas really does operate as a marketplace? It happens to be the case that many prominent climate sceptics have been secretly funded by oil companies. The idea that there is some scientific controversy over whether burning fossil fuels has contributed in large part to the present global warming (there isn’t) is an idea that has been literally bought and sold, and remains extraordinarily successful. That, of course, is just a particularly dramatic example of the way all western democracies have been captured by industry lobbying and party donations, in which friendly consideration of ideas that increase the profits of business is simply purchased, like any other commodity. If the marketplace of ideas worked as advertised, not only would this kind of corruption be absent, it would be impossible in general for ideas to stay rejected for hundreds or thousands of years before eventually being revived. Yet that too has repeatedly happened. https://www.theguardian.com/science/2016/jun/28/why-bad-ideas-refuse-die
1
Another NYT story about a family ruined by student loan debt - after the borrower died.
Neither Trump or Hillary will address this. Hillary & Bill favor student loan debt (despite her dishonest vow to "make college more affordable"). Bill: "Hillary & I believe those who can pay for college should pay." Consumer Reports currently features people ruined beyond resolution by crushing student loan debt - worsened by huge interest payments, scarce jobs.
The solution is make student loans dischargeable in bankruptcy again - which they were before Bill Clinton signed the 1998 Bankruptcy Act ending student loan discharge - a gift to the Clinton's Wall Street buddies who have lined their pockets.
The other solution: free public college. This once worked for generations at the University of California.
25% of student loan debtors are behind in their payments. 7% have defaulted.
Future reform is fine.
But a solution is needed for millions already holding student loan debt in a punishing, predatory system offering no resolution. Bankruptcy & settlement should both be options.
It's inhumane some permanently forgo marriage or children over student loan debt when every other kind of consumer debt is dischargeable: medical debt, credit card debt, gambling debt, failed business debt - all, like student loan debt, the result of poor judgement, illness or life catastrophe.
The media & candidates focus on the horse race while important economic issues are ignored.
Neither Trump or Hillary will address this. Hillary & Bill favor student loan debt (despite her dishonest vow to "make college more affordable"). Bill: "Hillary & I believe those who can pay for college should pay." Consumer Reports currently features people ruined beyond resolution by crushing student loan debt - worsened by huge interest payments, scarce jobs.
The solution is make student loans dischargeable in bankruptcy again - which they were before Bill Clinton signed the 1998 Bankruptcy Act ending student loan discharge - a gift to the Clinton's Wall Street buddies who have lined their pockets.
The other solution: free public college. This once worked for generations at the University of California.
25% of student loan debtors are behind in their payments. 7% have defaulted.
Future reform is fine.
But a solution is needed for millions already holding student loan debt in a punishing, predatory system offering no resolution. Bankruptcy & settlement should both be options.
It's inhumane some permanently forgo marriage or children over student loan debt when every other kind of consumer debt is dischargeable: medical debt, credit card debt, gambling debt, failed business debt - all, like student loan debt, the result of poor judgement, illness or life catastrophe.
The media & candidates focus on the horse race while important economic issues are ignored.
11
Right, Trump is an dangerous idiot and Clinton is not flawed. I am convinced but there are far too many people who are not and indignant, accusatory letters will change nothing. Each of the candidates has had ample time to develop a public persona which is more palatable to the general public and has failed to do so. The fault is definitely not in the stars.
2
I love Hillary Clinton, and I know her "unfavorables" are only due to a 20-year smear campaign from the billionaires on the right. She's smart, dedicated to liberal values, fights for children and people who work for a living (like moi), is most comfortable in a group that is racially and culturally diverse, and will be a reliable environmentalist (her LCV scores are excellent). I voted for her in the primary, and can't wait to vote for her in the general election in November.
Think I'll wear my Hillary shirt to the gym today. I am definitely with her!
Think I'll wear my Hillary shirt to the gym today. I am definitely with her!
20
A reliable environmentalist? What about fracking?
I am disappointed that the entire press corps continues to buy into the "Hillary is a flawed candidate" narrative that the Republican Party has pushed on them non-stop for the past quarter century. Proof of her flaws? Pretty much the manufactured Benghazi and email scandals. I am incredulous that these keep getting mentioned in the same breadth as the epic grotesqueness of Trump's behavior. I am disappointed that so many millions of average Americans who, by virtue of Trump's candidacy, pay so little attention to politics so that they can believe the myths about Clinton's flaws so wholeheartedly. The press never used the word "flawed" to describe Romney, who was incapable of telling the truth, or Gingrich, Santorum, Perry, who else? There are so many candidates on the other side who are not the smartest, most experienced, most knowledgable, most connected with world leadership, who spent their lives fighting for average Americans, and who has held her head high while constantly battling the fast-shrinking minds of Republican lawmakers.
The press needs a narrative, and "Hillary is flawed" is it. Copyrighted by the Republican Party. Bill met with Loretta and now, a brand new scandal! How quickly "scandal" was attached to the meeting. They can't wait! This is why we have a baby monster one step from our king.
The press needs a narrative, and "Hillary is flawed" is it. Copyrighted by the Republican Party. Bill met with Loretta and now, a brand new scandal! How quickly "scandal" was attached to the meeting. They can't wait! This is why we have a baby monster one step from our king.
23
Absolutely. Mr. Blow. For me, it is all about the person who has the strength to face all the complexities and nuances and challenges that the job requires. I find brilliance exciting, but more to the point, I find a will toward progress essential. There is no contest here for honest thinking people. Hillary Clinton just keeps going and succeeding and accomplishing and assessing and learning and leading.
I am not sure what there is left to say about the other person, whose fame seems to rest in mindless social media use not unlike underaged kids at recess.
This other person may be the GOP's best, but that isn't saying much considering the likes of Gowdy and Palin, a comedy duo for the suicidal. Young people saw what happened in the UK when they stayed home. They won't stay home here in the USA, and that happily bodes ill for the GOP. I have full confidence in my country. We are looking forward, not back, as is our nature. Happy 4th of July!
I am not sure what there is left to say about the other person, whose fame seems to rest in mindless social media use not unlike underaged kids at recess.
This other person may be the GOP's best, but that isn't saying much considering the likes of Gowdy and Palin, a comedy duo for the suicidal. Young people saw what happened in the UK when they stayed home. They won't stay home here in the USA, and that happily bodes ill for the GOP. I have full confidence in my country. We are looking forward, not back, as is our nature. Happy 4th of July!
8
Hillary Clinton, a flawed candidate? I don't think so, but the answer depends upon what you mean by "flawed", one of those amorphous labels that arouses passion rather than critical thought.
"Flawed" could describe a candidate who is (a) clearly unqualified, (b) clearly deficient in character, (c) unable to direct a national campaign, or (d) so personally repugnant as to be unelectable. And I suppose others might add to the definition.
Hillary Clinton is as qualified, by education and experience, as any candidate who has run for president. She has survived a lifetime of smear campaigns and emerged with her character and integrity intact. Mrs. Clinton has assembled a highly professional campaign staff and directed it admirably. While Donald Trump may find her personally repugnant because she is not a supermodel, real people see her as a well-groomed woman.
Where's the flaw?
"Flawed" could describe a candidate who is (a) clearly unqualified, (b) clearly deficient in character, (c) unable to direct a national campaign, or (d) so personally repugnant as to be unelectable. And I suppose others might add to the definition.
Hillary Clinton is as qualified, by education and experience, as any candidate who has run for president. She has survived a lifetime of smear campaigns and emerged with her character and integrity intact. Mrs. Clinton has assembled a highly professional campaign staff and directed it admirably. While Donald Trump may find her personally repugnant because she is not a supermodel, real people see her as a well-groomed woman.
Where's the flaw?
12
I guess it also depends on what you mean by "qualified"- if that entails supporting perpetual warfare, corporate greed, austerity for working people, materialism, public-image over public-service, then yes, she's qualified. But if you look a little harder at the ramifications of Clintonism over the last 25 years, I'd say no, she is hardly qualified to turn the government into an entity that supports and defends it's citizenship, rather than allow a voracious international private sector of sociopathic business-people and lawyers to exploit them.
We have to get a little deeper this year, pal. No more buying-and-selling our souls and sacrificing our lives for the Almighty Dollar. Enough is enough.
We have to get a little deeper this year, pal. No more buying-and-selling our souls and sacrificing our lives for the Almighty Dollar. Enough is enough.
1
In a nation of over 300 million people, these two extremely flawed candidates are the best that we can do?
The only thing that Hillary is due an exit strategy so the the Democratic party can provide us with a decent candidate. The evidence so far demonstrates that Mrs Clinton is nothing more than a very conniving and self serving politician, not a public servant. Why do we even have a candidate who is under criminal investigation by the FBI? That in itself should be a disclaimer.
The honorable thing for her to do is to withdraw from the race, which would earn her back some respect. But we all know that the Clinton's are not about "the right thing to do".
The only thing that Hillary is due an exit strategy so the the Democratic party can provide us with a decent candidate. The evidence so far demonstrates that Mrs Clinton is nothing more than a very conniving and self serving politician, not a public servant. Why do we even have a candidate who is under criminal investigation by the FBI? That in itself should be a disclaimer.
The honorable thing for her to do is to withdraw from the race, which would earn her back some respect. But we all know that the Clinton's are not about "the right thing to do".
12
I keep thinking about Gary Hart. He got a much worse time for his lapse in judgment than either of the Clintons have for servers and foundation business, and yet we hear how much the press is out to get Clinton. Bush pere got a hard time for taking synthroid, and we hear nothing about Clinton's health. The press is letting us down. Both candidates would never cut it running even eight years ago. We can do better than either.
1
Take all the rubbish thrown at Obama by the GOP and the Murdoch media; add the fact that Clinton has been in the public eye thrice as long as Obama; and subtract that off your "impression" of Clinton. What emerges is the Clinton that you should love or hate or criticize or admire.
5
Remind me when Barack Obama took big payouts from Wall Street - anybody else - a few months before he announced he was running for president. Hillary is no Barack Obama.
1
Charles
You have been a main stay for me for years I have quietly read your opinions and usually shake my head in approval. If I look at the meat of this article I guess I have to agree with it. However what you are advocating is giving Clinton her due for being mediocre. She has a less negative rating than Trump. What has concerned me the most about this year is the obvious favoritism given to Clinton over anyone running against her. For the first time in my life time I will not be on the street working for the Democratic candidate nor will I vote for her. It is her obvious lack of honesty. The back room deals that have made her the nominee,
both in your paper, and the Democratic party. When you compare Clinton to
Trump she wins. When you add in the two independent candidates she is tied with Trump. Candidate Trump will probably take Pennsylvania, Ohio, North Carolina, New Jersey, Maine, New Hampshire, and the list goes on. I personally think she will crush him and be elected. But I felt that Jeb Bush would too. No matter, I will support Jill Stein. I have a 15 year old boy and I am tired of political corruption and lies. I do not think she will be any better than Trump and feel may get us into a war, do more harm to the environment and give unconditional support to Israel. The fall out is when this quarter is up I will cancel my NY times subscription. I will miss you but I gave the paper a pass on the Iraq war. Not this time.
Chuck From Ohio
You have been a main stay for me for years I have quietly read your opinions and usually shake my head in approval. If I look at the meat of this article I guess I have to agree with it. However what you are advocating is giving Clinton her due for being mediocre. She has a less negative rating than Trump. What has concerned me the most about this year is the obvious favoritism given to Clinton over anyone running against her. For the first time in my life time I will not be on the street working for the Democratic candidate nor will I vote for her. It is her obvious lack of honesty. The back room deals that have made her the nominee,
both in your paper, and the Democratic party. When you compare Clinton to
Trump she wins. When you add in the two independent candidates she is tied with Trump. Candidate Trump will probably take Pennsylvania, Ohio, North Carolina, New Jersey, Maine, New Hampshire, and the list goes on. I personally think she will crush him and be elected. But I felt that Jeb Bush would too. No matter, I will support Jill Stein. I have a 15 year old boy and I am tired of political corruption and lies. I do not think she will be any better than Trump and feel may get us into a war, do more harm to the environment and give unconditional support to Israel. The fall out is when this quarter is up I will cancel my NY times subscription. I will miss you but I gave the paper a pass on the Iraq war. Not this time.
Chuck From Ohio
4
One doesn't have to read Blow to know what he thinks, so he could spare us the trouble.
6
The only reason Hillary is considered a "flawed" candidate is because people believe the narrative about her created by the GOP.
Hillary's an incredibly accomplished, smart, and empathetic person. That combination is whatAmerica needs to lead it.
Hillary's an incredibly accomplished, smart, and empathetic person. That combination is whatAmerica needs to lead it.
26
What amazed me on the Sunday talk shows was the universal condemnation of the tarmac chat. I just kind of laughed at it. Bill Clinton loves talking to people. Whatever little piece of junk the pundits can pick on, gets magnified.
If and when the FBI clears this great lady, she will be just fine. There are more of us who love her than you think.
If and when the FBI clears this great lady, she will be just fine. There are more of us who love her than you think.
16
If you're content with being taken for a complete and total idiot by your candidate and party, that's your prerogative. No one else is under the same obligation.
Just as the media helped to make Donald Trump the sensational story that keeps on giving, they too helped make Clinton worse than she deserved. Newspapers need villains, and investigations, and pundits saying that candidates are flawed in order to sell more advertising. If all that Clinton is truly guilty of is a personal email server that was not illegal, and the poor judgment about its security and propriety, that alone is not enough to justify her historically low ratings. No, Clinton has been attacked and public perception consciously impaled for years specifically to reduce that chances she would ascend to the Presidency. It is a testament to her strength that she has withstood it all, and although unintended, it shows that she is well equipped to handle the onslaught that will come when she does become President.
16
Hillary Clinton`s flaw in the eyes of American is she never dumped her husband Bill Clinton who now has become the albatross around her neck.
Her second major flaw is she happens to be a Woman who dares to be the leader of this Country , the good old US of A.
Her second major flaw is she happens to be a Woman who dares to be the leader of this Country , the good old US of A.
9
Wait. According to the Real Clear Politics Poll Average through June 29, Clinton's "unfavorable" is at 55.6. Only 39.6 percent of those sampled were favorable toward her. In the Gallup, which is cited here, for 6/13-6/19, according to Real Clear, her total unfavorable is at 54 percent. In each of the polls through June 29th, her total unfavorable is above 50 percent. In at least two, the CBS poll and the NBC/WSJ polls, her favorables are at only 33 percent. That means basically that only 33 percent of the people like her. In the NBC poll 55 percent of those polled don't. Here, Mr. Blow cites one poll and only the highly unfavorable, not the whole unfavorable category. The fact is in polling on average over 50 percent of the US population really don't like her. That is pretty bad. That we are asked to choose between someone who is REALLY REALLY disliked and someone REALLY REALLY disliked more as opposed to someone who people generally like, is pretty shocking. I would be interested to see if the heating up FBI investigation of Clinton's unauthorized email arrangements at State which unlike Sanders I am not sick of hearing about, pulls her down even more. Imagine a candidate, a multi millionaire Washington power player, with the highest unfavorables of a presidential candidate in modern history, turns out to be all we Dems have left when there was so much hope for change. Well, at least let's be honest and not cherry pick our statistics.
7
It is absurd that the Times is now using the argument that Hillary is less repulsive than Trump so she deserves our vote. You can also make the argument that an Atom Bomb is less harmful than a Hydrogen bomb. But that doesn't mean I would want either.
7
But you do have to pick one. You can't bury your head in the sand and hope that when you look up again someone better will be in front of you. The ideal democratic government has escaped us. We have only the choices the power players gave us. If you don't pick one, the power players will be picking one for you.
2
There is an assumption going around that everyone in the U.S. wants "a revolution." But the fact is, a lot of people crave stability. A lot of people hear "revolution" and feel very uneasy. They don't know what the means or what to expect or how that will upend their lives. I believe Hillary won the primaries because more people out there like steadiness than insecurity. Yes, revolution is warranted sometimes, but it's not an empty word, and shouldn't be tossed around lightly. It's a big deal that not everyone wants to sign up for.
14
I don't disagree, but considering the changes he actually had in mind, Sanders use of the word "revolution" was uncalled for and therefore foolish and to me a good way toward disqualifying. If Sec. Clinton becomes President with a cooperative Congress we will get most of what Sanders says he wants. I keep wondering which right wing operative (maybe way back in Arkansas) spotted her and realized her potential and tipped the Koch bros. and Scaife that she needed to be stopped.
2
Mexico is planning to attack? Per Trump?
Time to get the white coats and straight jacket.
Time to get the white coats and straight jacket.
8
Any real life got sucked out of the campaign with the decline of Bernie.
8
Both Trump and Clinton are flawed candidates. Clinton, though flawed, has actually been acting and making decisions in the role of governing. She has a track record as a U.S. Senator and Secretary of State. While not perfect, she has shown that she can lead. Trumps flaws on the other hand, include a dubious business record, and a history of comments that leaves many questioning his leadership skills and his ability to govern.
16
This column reminds me of the old adage: "I don't have to outrun the bear. I only have to outrun you."
There is nothing to celebrate here. Both Clinton and Trump are the worst Presidential candidates in the last 70 years. No matter who wins, their tenure in the White House will be extremely partisan and will likely plunge our nation into a more turbulent period. To sit back and claim that Hillary smells a little less bad than Trump misses the point.
There is nothing to celebrate here. Both Clinton and Trump are the worst Presidential candidates in the last 70 years. No matter who wins, their tenure in the White House will be extremely partisan and will likely plunge our nation into a more turbulent period. To sit back and claim that Hillary smells a little less bad than Trump misses the point.
8
Sorry to read this and deduce that you have been successfully bamboozled by the $50M or so spent to trash Sec. Clinton over the last 25 years.
3
I think Hillary is a better candidate than George W. Bush.
1
I am as far away from being a Trump supporter as it is possible to be, but the remark about the decline of the pound sterling being a good thing has been poorly reported as just another example of Trump's egocentrism. It is, of course, but it's also true. A cheaper pound helps British exporters and attracts more tourists, which benefits the British economy. If he had phrased it in those terms, and not in his usual what's-in-it-for-me way, he might have sounded . . . smart!
43
So why don't all nations drive the value of their currencies to zero?
4
It's not true a cheaper pound helps Trump: he's an American owning assets denominated in pounds, so when the pound drops 9% against the dollar, the assets he owns lose 9% of the value to him.
So not only did Trump make the drop of the pound all about him, he felt compelled to claim falsely that he was the winner of the day. It was egocentrism and a need to claim victory and superiority over all the losers facilitated with lies. E.g., it was Trump at his Trumpiest.
So not only did Trump make the drop of the pound all about him, he felt compelled to claim falsely that he was the winner of the day. It was egocentrism and a need to claim victory and superiority over all the losers facilitated with lies. E.g., it was Trump at his Trumpiest.
6
I am very disappointed that you describe Hillary as a "flawed and damaged" candidate. Yes, she is damaged by the years of relentless attacks by the right wing in this country. However, how precisely is she "flawed?" Male politicians routinely command high speaking fees - with no comment. Male Republican politicians, including Colin Powell, have used private emails for official business - with no comment. She is accused of speaking too loudly while male politicians bellow with no comment. Benghazi? Millions of dollars in taxpayer money and multiple Republican-led investigations have found only that there is blame to spread around due to communication and bureaucratic issues, mostly within the military chain of command, and not due to malfeasance on her part.
It seems to me that, much like Barack Obama whose greatest sin to some is being President while being black, Hillary is threatening to many because she is an unapologetically strong, competent and assertive woman. Anyone who takes the time to read her resume and actual history of accomplishments, which began well before she knew Bill Clinton (and not just depend on news summaries that reflexively pick up the "flawed" narrative) will find an outstanding American, whom I enthusiastically support.
It seems to me that, much like Barack Obama whose greatest sin to some is being President while being black, Hillary is threatening to many because she is an unapologetically strong, competent and assertive woman. Anyone who takes the time to read her resume and actual history of accomplishments, which began well before she knew Bill Clinton (and not just depend on news summaries that reflexively pick up the "flawed" narrative) will find an outstanding American, whom I enthusiastically support.
130
" However, how precisely is she "flawed?" It's her gender. Misogyny has been a constituent of the nations blood and bones from the beginning, just like racism. These two diseases can't be evicted from the body after the causal virus has entered it, just like chicken pox. The virus can unpredictably erupt and do damage worse than the original illness. (I've had shingles twice.)
Shingles can kill depending on where it erupts. And, alas, the worst is if it erupts in the brain of the victim, which seems to be happening now (so to speak.)
Shingles can kill depending on where it erupts. And, alas, the worst is if it erupts in the brain of the victim, which seems to be happening now (so to speak.)
2
Absolutely, J. I am so sick and tired of the false analogies! Hillary is brilliant, knowledgeable, and caring. She has been repeatedly demonized with NO legal ramifications, yet the repetitions are believed by so many. Since when has any male candidate been expected to be perfect? Never. This country has been seduced into lazy thinking, outright lies by the do nothing republicans and their toxic media support. The result is anti Black, anti women, and anti other than the white men who have held control. Trump does not deserve to be in the same sentence as Hillary. When will the "news" media turn to issues instead of meaningless comparisons on 'trustworthiness" and irrelevant polls? Shame on the fourth estate and cable news. Hillary Clinton is NOT a flawed candidate, and Blow should know better.
2
Uh, I'm voting for HRC, but you just answered your own question. Compare Obama to HRC -- the Republicans hated him at least as much if not more than HRC, and their continual assault against Obama came up empty.
Politics is a take-no-prisoners game these days, particularly as the Republicans play it. The Clintons have known this since they were in their 20s, surely.
HRC has made herself vulnerable by doing things she could have avoided doing. The speeches to Wall Street, at least the money could have been donated to charity. The email server -- an obvious risk of getting in trouble.
Benghazi on the other hand -- nothing there, except the emails -- pointing out something every grownup knows, a broken tail-light on your car leads to a lot more trouble if your license or registration or safety inspection isn't in order.
And then of course, there's Bill. He's become her cross to bear. "Stand by your man" isn't in fashion anymore.
In terms of winning elections -- HRC has had the peculiar luck of drawing the most disastrous and incompetent "Republican" ( I don't consider Trump a Republican) candidates in history.
From Ohio, you may not appreciate the debacle that was Rick Lazio, whom Clinton defeated to become senator ... or how Lazio got the nomination when Giuliani abruptly withdrew ... over a too-public new woman in his life.
And now Clinton faces Trump. Surely she can beat Trump? i would like to think that any decent human being could beat Trump?
Politics is a take-no-prisoners game these days, particularly as the Republicans play it. The Clintons have known this since they were in their 20s, surely.
HRC has made herself vulnerable by doing things she could have avoided doing. The speeches to Wall Street, at least the money could have been donated to charity. The email server -- an obvious risk of getting in trouble.
Benghazi on the other hand -- nothing there, except the emails -- pointing out something every grownup knows, a broken tail-light on your car leads to a lot more trouble if your license or registration or safety inspection isn't in order.
And then of course, there's Bill. He's become her cross to bear. "Stand by your man" isn't in fashion anymore.
In terms of winning elections -- HRC has had the peculiar luck of drawing the most disastrous and incompetent "Republican" ( I don't consider Trump a Republican) candidates in history.
From Ohio, you may not appreciate the debacle that was Rick Lazio, whom Clinton defeated to become senator ... or how Lazio got the nomination when Giuliani abruptly withdrew ... over a too-public new woman in his life.
And now Clinton faces Trump. Surely she can beat Trump? i would like to think that any decent human being could beat Trump?
1
I don't care if Hillary runs up big library fines, has a secret drinking habit or is discovered to be a Scientologist. Compared to Trump, she is a day at the beach and a walk in the park.
296
And of course ,most important to you Mr. Stanton ,is completely owned by AIPAC.
1
The real difference between Hillary and Donald is that Donald's "sins" are public, proven, and bragged about by the candidate himself; Hillary's are drummed up by a relentless decades long campaign of lies and slurs, either invented by, or encouraged by, the Republican Party and its partners in the right wing media.
451
In all fairness, Reader Rapp's absolutely correct single sentence comment must be emphasized and elaborated upon over and over. The anti-Clinton campaign is and always has been based on nothing at all. She did nothing wrong in Whitewater, nothing wrong on Iraq, nothing wrong on Benghazi, nothing wrong on the emails. There neither is now nor ever was any "there" there! At the very least, half of the anti-Clinton campaign is simon-pure misogyny of the oldest and crassest variety. The balance is sheer fudge resulting from nothing more than plain American political opposition which can't find any real basis for itself. Mrs. Clinton would be a fine and deserving candidate in any election cycle. In 2016, she's obviously the sole and only qualified candidate. All savvy voters can easily deconstruct as it comes every anti-Clinton meme floated by either the Sanders camp or Republicans of any stripe. All lies, all fluff, all garbage.
3
No they come straight out of her mouth...all of you brainwashed corporate democrats seem to forget that those of us old enough to have been around all the years that Clinton has been in the public eye remember all of the wretched things she has said and done. The ones not old enough can see and hear her telling all the lies and flip flops and making horrible decisions on thousands of hours of video and audio.
You expect us to believe you instead of our own eyes and ears...that only works on republicans and not on the approximately 47% of us who do not belong to either party.
She could not even give a straight answer when asked directly about her nonstop lying... all she could say was she 'tried' not to lie...but she never tried too hard. She will say or do anything to get elected but she turns right around and stabs the working and middle class right in the back every time the trust her.
Remember when Liz Warren told about how she changed her votes to help single mothers with credit issues the second that she got a bunch of money from the banks? Apparently, Warren forgot too as soon as the horror of Donald Trump became a reality.
Clinton is horrible and no one in their right mind would ever support her if it weren't for the fear of Trump.
You expect us to believe you instead of our own eyes and ears...that only works on republicans and not on the approximately 47% of us who do not belong to either party.
She could not even give a straight answer when asked directly about her nonstop lying... all she could say was she 'tried' not to lie...but she never tried too hard. She will say or do anything to get elected but she turns right around and stabs the working and middle class right in the back every time the trust her.
Remember when Liz Warren told about how she changed her votes to help single mothers with credit issues the second that she got a bunch of money from the banks? Apparently, Warren forgot too as soon as the horror of Donald Trump became a reality.
Clinton is horrible and no one in their right mind would ever support her if it weren't for the fear of Trump.
2
NYT`s N. Kristof Apr.25/16: “ Clinton’s big challenge is the trust issue: The share of voters who have negative feelings toward her has soared from 25 percent in early 2013 to 56 percent today, and a reason for that is that they distrust her. Only a bit more than one-third of American voters regard Clinton as “honest and trustworthy.”
Indeed, when Gallup asks Americans to say the first word that comes to mind when they hear “Hillary Clinton,” the most common response can be summed up as “dishonest/liar/don’t trust her/poor character.” Another common category is “criminal/crooked/thief/belongs in jail.”
In the Indiana primary (May3) only slightly more than half of DEMOCRATS voting Tuesday called Mrs. Clinton honest and trustworthy, according to early exit polls, a remarkably shaky assessment for the party’s likely nominee.
The Huffington Post had it right: "there is a moderate republican running and she's running as a democrat”
The wrong person "won" the Dem primary via Debbie (AIPAC) Wasserman Shultz. FYI ; AIPAC along with the Banksters are Hillary`s co-owners.
Indeed, when Gallup asks Americans to say the first word that comes to mind when they hear “Hillary Clinton,” the most common response can be summed up as “dishonest/liar/don’t trust her/poor character.” Another common category is “criminal/crooked/thief/belongs in jail.”
In the Indiana primary (May3) only slightly more than half of DEMOCRATS voting Tuesday called Mrs. Clinton honest and trustworthy, according to early exit polls, a remarkably shaky assessment for the party’s likely nominee.
The Huffington Post had it right: "there is a moderate republican running and she's running as a democrat”
The wrong person "won" the Dem primary via Debbie (AIPAC) Wasserman Shultz. FYI ; AIPAC along with the Banksters are Hillary`s co-owners.
2
Any reliance on unvarnished net favorability ratings is misplaced. We live in a highly partisan environment and so we ought to expect that net ratings of candidates will get tanked by the uniformly negative ratings supplied by opposing partisans. If you filter out Republican ratings of Clinton, her gross rating is about 60% and her net rating is about 20%. I've based this estimate on data generated before Bernie Sanders said he would vote for Hillary Clinton. We should expect her scores to improve as Sanders supporters come back into the Democratic fold.
http://thetragiccommons.blogspot.com/
http://thetragiccommons.blogspot.com/
13
Hillary's always been given more than her due.
The GOP's reaping the legacy of lies, racism & ridiculously unqualified/stupid/destructive/bigoted candidates (Palin? Cruz? Walker? Carson?) Trump's a racist, chronic liar, failed businessman, con artist, possible sociopath.
That Hillary has such high unfavorables against Trump is significant & can't be explained away with "sexism!" or "the poor Clintons are picked on!"
There's reason for concern about Hillary's flaws: chronic lying, lack of ethics, poor judgment, greed, entitlement. Bill's jump-out at Attorney General Lynch was shocking yet more of the same.
Hillary's zealots claim she's the most qualified person ever to run for president but she isn't. Richard Nixon, Dick Cheney (Chief of Staff/Congressman/Secretary of Defense/CEO Halliburton/Veep) & Donald Rumsfeld (Navy aviator/Congressman/Director OEO/Counselor to the President/NATO Ambassador/Chief of Staff/Chairman 3 international corporations/Secretary of Defense) all had strong resumes like Hillary. Many miserable, sketchy, misguided people build impressive resumes & credentials.
Hillary's smart, works hard, isn't insane. But if the Clinton machine hadn't roadblocked a generation of Democrats, we might have a better 2016 nominee. Obama only beat her & their machine because he was a once-in-a-lifetime great candidate who'll be remembered as one of our greatest presidents. Hillary's not in his league, not even close.
Yeah she's a better candidate than Trump.
The GOP's reaping the legacy of lies, racism & ridiculously unqualified/stupid/destructive/bigoted candidates (Palin? Cruz? Walker? Carson?) Trump's a racist, chronic liar, failed businessman, con artist, possible sociopath.
That Hillary has such high unfavorables against Trump is significant & can't be explained away with "sexism!" or "the poor Clintons are picked on!"
There's reason for concern about Hillary's flaws: chronic lying, lack of ethics, poor judgment, greed, entitlement. Bill's jump-out at Attorney General Lynch was shocking yet more of the same.
Hillary's zealots claim she's the most qualified person ever to run for president but she isn't. Richard Nixon, Dick Cheney (Chief of Staff/Congressman/Secretary of Defense/CEO Halliburton/Veep) & Donald Rumsfeld (Navy aviator/Congressman/Director OEO/Counselor to the President/NATO Ambassador/Chief of Staff/Chairman 3 international corporations/Secretary of Defense) all had strong resumes like Hillary. Many miserable, sketchy, misguided people build impressive resumes & credentials.
Hillary's smart, works hard, isn't insane. But if the Clinton machine hadn't roadblocked a generation of Democrats, we might have a better 2016 nominee. Obama only beat her & their machine because he was a once-in-a-lifetime great candidate who'll be remembered as one of our greatest presidents. Hillary's not in his league, not even close.
Yeah she's a better candidate than Trump.
27
Yes but two wrongs don't make a right, or even a half nearly right. There is still time for each party to reconsider these presumptive nominees at its convention, and our only hope is that they do. If they don't, we are in for a rocky ride on either score. Really rocky. Leopards don't change their spots in Hillary's case; do we really want more of this Clinton mess for the next four years (and possibly beyond)? In Trump's case, ditto plus he is the one even more likely to get into office since the media simply won't stop covering him 24/7. Do we really want the world to see any more of all this disgraceful behavior of either the Clintons or Trump? Each is under enough scrutiny by legal proceedings, FBI, Justice Dept., and on and on for at least fifty bad candidates, as Nero fiddles, Rome burns, and surrogates on either side continue to make excuses, turn a deaf ear, or sing the praises of these people. It's simply unbelievable. It's we who should be asking ourselves, What are we thinking at this very moment while there is still time, or we'll be asking it later to a much sadder tune.
2
" chronic lying, lack of ethics, poor judgment, greed, entitlement"
Can you document these accusations or are they actually slander?
Please do document them, but with facts, not with casuistry or innuendo. Otherwise you, yourself, are just like Trump (though admittedly with better language skills.)
Can you document these accusations or are they actually slander?
Please do document them, but with facts, not with casuistry or innuendo. Otherwise you, yourself, are just like Trump (though admittedly with better language skills.)
5
Sounds like the Trumpian conspiracy theories about Hillary are pervasive.
5
"...the discipline that is Clinton's trademark." Yes, Trump is far more erratic and unfiltered. Hillary's " discipline" enables her to lie, distort and obfuscate with precision and persistency. Nixon was disciplined.
26
The 24 year old smear campaign against Clinton, framing her as an unprincipled liar, has never been supported by facts. The closer people study her, the more they see her authentic honesty and exceptional qualifications.
4
Trump's pants on fire false rate is 19x's greater than Clinton's according to Politico.
6
pretty honest according to politifact. maybe remove your personal blinders and gather some 3rd party facts.
6
Hillary is not a "flawed and damaged" candidate. That she continues to shine despite the negative media coverage and the many millions of dollars that the Republicans spent from our hard-earned tax dollars trying to bring her down is a testament to her strength as a candidate and a world leader. As president, she will lead with her steadiness and strength of character that has never faltered.
415
Like the blind leading the blind. It must be nice to be able to overlook the sociopathic tendencies and destructive policies of those who seek power. There is no "perfect candidate", of course, but there are indeed more qualified, less corruptible people who could, and should, be president.
3
she has been out in the spotlight and feared by the gop longer than any politician. so the attacks have been endless. i guess they had something to fear. looks like she will be potus
4
The more Hillary Clinton stays on her message and that message isn't that she's a better person than Donald Trump, but that her policies will be better for the country than Donald Trump's policiies, the more she'll continue to separate herself from his candidacy. Sometimes, it is very simple, but very subtle. Instead of, "I disagree with Donald Trump," the message needs to be, "I disagree when Donald Trump said . . . because . . . ." Donald Trump is a clownish lout whose main rhetorical tool is name-calling. If that's going to win the Presidency, then who wants to lead that country anyway?
84
The way I see it, Donald Trump and Bernie Samders are the two flawed candidates. Neither one knows much about international politics (see Trump's ignorant and careless responses to Brexit),
neither one attends to the details that would have to be understood and the compromises forged by a President in order to get any legislation passed, and neither one has real talent and patience in negotiation (Trump is a dishonest bully ringed
by armies of lawyers, Bernie a preacher).
Hillary Clinton is the adult in the room.
neither one attends to the details that would have to be understood and the compromises forged by a President in order to get any legislation passed, and neither one has real talent and patience in negotiation (Trump is a dishonest bully ringed
by armies of lawyers, Bernie a preacher).
Hillary Clinton is the adult in the room.
489
I know several renowned, infamous adults, world leaders, one and all, many directly and indirectly, responsible for the murder of, and mayhem inflicted on, hundreds of millions of innocents since World War I.
Hillary, on her own, is currently engaged in fomenting division across the planet, the kind of division that will surely bring all the glowing embers together, and ignite a worldwide conflagration.
Hillary, on her own, is currently engaged in fomenting division across the planet, the kind of division that will surely bring all the glowing embers together, and ignite a worldwide conflagration.
3
She's also the adult in the room owned by Wall Street.
2
Isn't it time for you Hilary sisters to graciously admit victory? Isn't it time to stop bashing Sanders? He led the revitalization of Burlington VT. He is an experienced politician both in congress and the senate.
He has given Clinton the space and the prod to move left on some very important progressive issues.
"Can't we all just get along?"
He has given Clinton the space and the prod to move left on some very important progressive issues.
"Can't we all just get along?"
1
How much of Hilary Clinton's negatives are the actions of Republican and far right operatives using opinions, non facts and out right lies? PT Barnum said 'you can fool all sometime and fool some all the time'. During her decades in public life Hilary Clinton has been under a microscope. She has enemies that she has never met.
165
There is no doubt that Ms. Clinton is more prepared to be President than Mr. Trump. But for this voter, there is no doubt that Ms. Clinton's party is unwilling to change the direction this country is headed. They are not supporting progressive candidates for the House, they are not supporting the kinds of actions needed to slow global climate change, they are not supporting taxes on the wealthiest in our nation, they are not supporting the kinds of housing and education reforms needed to improve opportunities for all children in this country, and they are not supporting changes to neoliberal agenda that leads to the notion that we need austerity measures more than higher taxes. Furthermore, there is no doubt that Ms. Clinton is guiding her party's direction. I am deeply troubled that her party is not endorsing at least SOME of the ideas her opponent Bernie Sanders advocated and is sticking with the her tired ideas from the early 1990s because if the choice is between the status quo and "something different" I fear that our country--- like Britain just did--- will opt for "something different".
26
Just about everything you say,"they are not supporting" they are in fact supporting.
Take a look at this
https://www.hillaryclinton.com/issues/
Take a look at this
https://www.hillaryclinton.com/issues/
34
Written by a person who hasn't spent a second at Hillary's website.
8
@Lynn: right now, it's only lip-service. Do you have faith that once in office Hillary would actually work to implement these policies, even though she is backed by some of the interests who are constantly blocking such policy? Do you not see the conflict-of-interests here?
3
If you turned this into me as a homework in 9th grade I'd give you an F. It's not analysis, it's propaganda. the irony of you writing about bias, when this seems to be written by the clinton campaign. Now, I'm an over 50 professional democrat and it's editorals like this that gets trump my vote. If the nytimes (which I grew up reading) makes fox news look good there is a real problem at the paper. In fact I don't even bother reading the nytimes anymore but only post in response to the poor quality of the paper. How can a proper analysis of the poll numbers not include certain facts?
Bloomberg L.P.
3 days ago - Clinton Spending Roughly $500,000 a Day on TV Ads, Trump Zero.
You ignore the entire campaign apparatus as a factor here. You ignore republican neoliberals denouncing Trump to join up with Clinton (See Robert Kagan). I hate to tell you but I watched a 50 minute Trump speech on you tube and he sounds nothing like he is characterized here in the paper. But I was a bernie supporter and you pulled the same editorial nonsense. People may believe this editoral, but in fact it depends on the electorate being poorly informed and not actually looking at less biased sources. You are in fact avoiding (on purpose) giving me the information I need to make a valid vote for president, which tells me how week clinton really is if you can't do that. When you destroy your credibility to push your candidate I know she isn't worth my vote. You can't trust PK's honesty either
Bloomberg L.P.
3 days ago - Clinton Spending Roughly $500,000 a Day on TV Ads, Trump Zero.
You ignore the entire campaign apparatus as a factor here. You ignore republican neoliberals denouncing Trump to join up with Clinton (See Robert Kagan). I hate to tell you but I watched a 50 minute Trump speech on you tube and he sounds nothing like he is characterized here in the paper. But I was a bernie supporter and you pulled the same editorial nonsense. People may believe this editoral, but in fact it depends on the electorate being poorly informed and not actually looking at less biased sources. You are in fact avoiding (on purpose) giving me the information I need to make a valid vote for president, which tells me how week clinton really is if you can't do that. When you destroy your credibility to push your candidate I know she isn't worth my vote. You can't trust PK's honesty either
31
Excuse me but this is an editorial Opinion piece, not analysis or reporting. Charles Blow has every right to call things as he sees them.
For every anti Clinton and pro-Trump statement you make, I can well argue the opposite. If you are a Sander's supporter who plans to vote for Trump, I can't understand your position at all. Your planned vote for a truly ugly candidate with ideas so diametrically opposed to those of Sander's may make you feel good and assuage your anger but it makes your sanctimony against Charles Blow all the more hollow.
For every anti Clinton and pro-Trump statement you make, I can well argue the opposite. If you are a Sander's supporter who plans to vote for Trump, I can't understand your position at all. Your planned vote for a truly ugly candidate with ideas so diametrically opposed to those of Sander's may make you feel good and assuage your anger but it makes your sanctimony against Charles Blow all the more hollow.
16
Your comments are bizarre, and if you have sincerely gone from supporting Bernie Sanders to Donald Trump, you are entirely uninformed.
You question the "entire campaign apparatus." What does that mean? Running a national campaign takes organization, discipline, and planning. There is a reason that political analysts have for decades said that the running the gauntlet of a national campaign tests whether the candidate is ready for the presidency. That Clinton is running a highly professional campaign, as Trump continues to slur the Mexicans in off-the-cuff remarks during a highly publicized campaign speech speaks volumes about his ability to assume the presidency. Trumps feuds with leaders of his own party, who must repeatedly disavow his bigoted statements are yet another strong indication that Trump should not be president.
This isn't propaganda, it is the conclusion of an easy analysis, whereas your comment is the product of muddled thinking.
You question the "entire campaign apparatus." What does that mean? Running a national campaign takes organization, discipline, and planning. There is a reason that political analysts have for decades said that the running the gauntlet of a national campaign tests whether the candidate is ready for the presidency. That Clinton is running a highly professional campaign, as Trump continues to slur the Mexicans in off-the-cuff remarks during a highly publicized campaign speech speaks volumes about his ability to assume the presidency. Trumps feuds with leaders of his own party, who must repeatedly disavow his bigoted statements are yet another strong indication that Trump should not be president.
This isn't propaganda, it is the conclusion of an easy analysis, whereas your comment is the product of muddled thinking.
9
Excellent point. I'm surprised they posted it! They won't post any of mine that go too deep into the root-causes of certain problems with the status quo...
2
Both candidates are indeed significantly flawed. That's why I'm still for Bernie Sanders. Clinton was interviewed, i.e., interrogated by the FBI Saturday for 3 and 1/2 hours. That gives me pause. This is a criminal investigation, not a social visit. Sanders is still within striking distance of the nomination, even with the now well documented election fraud law suits across the country, with the fraud always benefitting Clinton. People are angry. There are 43 percent independents according to the latest Gallop poll. Think about it. Only 26% are a Democrat or a Republican. People are tired of the oligarchs running everything, making themselves rich at the expense of everyone else. It's really that simple.
57
Because Sanders is not flawed? The guy who won't release his tax returns- just like Trump? The guy who promises big give-aways using flawed math? The guy who promises to break up the banks but when questioned had no idea how to do it? The guy who couldn't bring himself to make a solid apology to the Democrats in Nevada after death threats from his supporters? The white man with a college education in the 60s and 70s who failed to hold down a decently paying job when he had a young son to raise? The socialist - and most Americans say they won't vote for a socialist?
http://www.gallup.com/poll/183713/socialist-presidential-candidates-leas...
Let's face it - the Right and the Far Left are full of misogynists who would not vote for a woman for any reason.
http://www.gallup.com/poll/183713/socialist-presidential-candidates-leas...
Let's face it - the Right and the Far Left are full of misogynists who would not vote for a woman for any reason.
5
So Saint Bernie's 633 complaints by the FEC, 13 of which have been referred to the DOJ, keep him striking distance? Striking distance of what? Leavenworth?
4
Carolyn -- if you are waiting for the second coming of Jesus, good luck. And Mr Sanders is "not within striking distance of the nomination" -- he lost it unless Mrs. Clinton withdraws.
And Bernie is not Jesus, and he's tell you so. I'll do you the favor of not enumerating Mr. Sander's flaws as a candidate as I see them, because it doesn't matter, now.
Nor will your vote really, you can cast it in Md as a vote of conscience freely -- Mr. Trump will not take Md.
And Bernie is not Jesus, and he's tell you so. I'll do you the favor of not enumerating Mr. Sander's flaws as a candidate as I see them, because it doesn't matter, now.
Nor will your vote really, you can cast it in Md as a vote of conscience freely -- Mr. Trump will not take Md.
4
A third campaign is being conducted: the expanded smear that America is damaged goods, incapable because its leaders are incompetent, with the full weight of blame on the President without a mention of the greater truth; this campaign omits facts, rewrites history, exaggerates events, revels in conspiracies unproven, and pretends its madness is sensible. Seven million and 800 pages later, they are still yelling, "Benghazi." Now it's compared to Watergate; not the incidents in Somalia, where American bodies were dragged through the streets on the Republican watch. Not the 13 attacks against embassies under Bush that lost 4 American lives--and 95 others! [http://bit.ly/29jc75U].
The drumbeat of misimagination is a shame that many in media bear--along with Republicans who see death as a grief to exploit for political gain. They cast aside honor for power.
The drumbeat of misimagination is a shame that many in media bear--along with Republicans who see death as a grief to exploit for political gain. They cast aside honor for power.
272
Sorry, the word "class" doesn't apply to Trump or the Clintons.
47
I think someone who can pick herself up and keep coming back stronger shows a lot of courage and class. Her concession to Obama and graciousness in campaigning for him and serving as his Secretary of State was the epitome of class.
9
But we're not thinking about the Clintons. We are (or should be) thinking about Hilary Rodham (Clinton.)
3
Thank you. I was thinking that too. And how easy it was for Blow to ignore Bill's massive blunder with Lynch this week. If that's class, god help us.
2
And quite amazingly the GOP again defines what to be talked about in the news!
We cannot trust Hillary? Based on WHAT? Bengazi? She is a woman?She is well prepared? The emails issues?
Why the party of Trickle Down economics defines the issues?
The Party of more tax cuts and less social net defines the issues?
The party is not capable to come out and say that the war in Iraq was based on a lie or several of them and that the economic mess up in 2008 could have been avoided if just some rules would be in place to not allow banks to stretch
The economic system as much as it was capable to support until they broke it?
It is quite Increadible that those who are living on lies can define the issues to be discussed.
We cannot trust Hillary? Based on WHAT? Bengazi? She is a woman?She is well prepared? The emails issues?
Why the party of Trickle Down economics defines the issues?
The Party of more tax cuts and less social net defines the issues?
The party is not capable to come out and say that the war in Iraq was based on a lie or several of them and that the economic mess up in 2008 could have been avoided if just some rules would be in place to not allow banks to stretch
The economic system as much as it was capable to support until they broke it?
It is quite Increadible that those who are living on lies can define the issues to be discussed.
454
The Republicans have been doubling down on every lie since Reagan won the presidency by feeding Iran a pack of lies to drag out the US embassy hostage crisis.
6
Hillary's credibility issues go back to her support for the Liar in Chief in 1998.
2
It is the MEDIA which defines what is to be talked about in the news - All Of You.
Mr Blow, your employer never lets a day pass without publishing something about Trump, usually on the front page and then something in the opinion pages. Afterall, this makes them money and with money at stake, who cares about class!
BTW I agree with A.M. Payne above: Sorry, the word "class" doesn't apply to Trump or the Clintons."
Mr Blow, your employer never lets a day pass without publishing something about Trump, usually on the front page and then something in the opinion pages. Afterall, this makes them money and with money at stake, who cares about class!
BTW I agree with A.M. Payne above: Sorry, the word "class" doesn't apply to Trump or the Clintons."
1
For 25 years, right wing politicians and media outlets have fed the American people a relentless stream of lies and smears about Hillary Clinton — to the point that the distortions are believed not only by conservatives, but have even seeped into the views of Democratic voters, diminishing enthusiasm for an uncommonly worthy candidate. During this year’s presidential election, however, we have a chance to set the record straight about Hillary Clinton. The facts show her to be charming, effective, experienced, savvy — and among the most truthful (see Politifact) of all politicians. Let’s clarify the record!
Here is one great example:
Thinking about Hillary - A Plea for Reason
https://thepolicy.us/thinking-about-hillary-a-plea-for-reason-308fce6d18...
Here is one great example:
Thinking about Hillary - A Plea for Reason
https://thepolicy.us/thinking-about-hillary-a-plea-for-reason-308fce6d18...
530
Every die-hard Bernie supporter should read the article you have posted. Heck, Bernie should read it and be embarrassed about his petty reluctance to support the woman who beat him by every measure in the primary.
6
Thanks for the information.
2
Thanks so much for Correcting the Record, Frances! How could i have been so blind.
As usual, I'll probably write in the H.P. Lovecraft "elder being" Cthulhu because, as Cthulhu's campaign slogan says, "Why vote for the lesser of two evils? Vote for the most evil creature in the universe, Cthulhu and forget the wannabes"!
Sure, Trump is worse than Clinton but, quite frankly, these two are the "best and brightest" of both major parties?
Look how bad it's become; your column focused on both candidates "unfavorable ratings" with Trump ahead (?) by 9 points!
What next, a poll concerning which candidate has the worst television habits?
Does anyone besides myself have a feeling that we're all on board some really, really big "Titanic" with the band soothing us while we merrily speed toward the ice berg dead ahead?
Now where's that life vest....
Sure, Trump is worse than Clinton but, quite frankly, these two are the "best and brightest" of both major parties?
Look how bad it's become; your column focused on both candidates "unfavorable ratings" with Trump ahead (?) by 9 points!
What next, a poll concerning which candidate has the worst television habits?
Does anyone besides myself have a feeling that we're all on board some really, really big "Titanic" with the band soothing us while we merrily speed toward the ice berg dead ahead?
Now where's that life vest....
29
Richard Petro: why would it surprise anyone that nearly fifty percent of the the voters dislike Hillary? That same hald is and always was destined to vote against her. Should we also be surprised that democrats like me detested Cheney and Bush and Reagan, or that a democrat like me still has rage against Nixon and the way he lead as president? Telling me that it is significant that half the country dislikes Hillary is no more meaningful or insightful than telling me that Red Sox fans hate the Yankees.
There is a sharp division in what folks think should happen next in America and we've narrowed it down to two choices. There were people who not only detested FDR before he was president but continued to hate him as he lifted us out of the depression and helped save the world from facism in WWII, and it was unclear in 1863 - 1864 if Lincoln would win re-election.
Unpopularity and sharp divisions in public opinion to not make Hillary a bad candidate and don't erase her resume and preparation for public office. Nor can similar favorability ratings erase the profound differences between Trump and Hillary or the different reasons why each scares half the electorate: We all see Trump's inconsistency and loathsome comments as why people are so troubled by Trump now.
We live in a different era now than times when Humphrey or Nixon were around. They would be subject to the same level of scrutiny and dichotomous discord now. Its not impolite to have an opinion these days.
There is a sharp division in what folks think should happen next in America and we've narrowed it down to two choices. There were people who not only detested FDR before he was president but continued to hate him as he lifted us out of the depression and helped save the world from facism in WWII, and it was unclear in 1863 - 1864 if Lincoln would win re-election.
Unpopularity and sharp divisions in public opinion to not make Hillary a bad candidate and don't erase her resume and preparation for public office. Nor can similar favorability ratings erase the profound differences between Trump and Hillary or the different reasons why each scares half the electorate: We all see Trump's inconsistency and loathsome comments as why people are so troubled by Trump now.
We live in a different era now than times when Humphrey or Nixon were around. They would be subject to the same level of scrutiny and dichotomous discord now. Its not impolite to have an opinion these days.
4
Dear Mr. Currier,
My intent was not to really comment on who likes whom or how long this has been going on but to point out that if the two "major" parties can only produce mediocre or truly crummy material for the presidency (And have been doing this for quite some time), then this country has a severe problem in the system itself.
Does "electability" really trump, pardon me please, "leadership"?
I gather you loathe Mr. Trump but, truly, are you that enthralled with Ms. Clinton as president?
My intent was not to really comment on who likes whom or how long this has been going on but to point out that if the two "major" parties can only produce mediocre or truly crummy material for the presidency (And have been doing this for quite some time), then this country has a severe problem in the system itself.
Does "electability" really trump, pardon me please, "leadership"?
I gather you loathe Mr. Trump but, truly, are you that enthralled with Ms. Clinton as president?
We may be on the Titanic. But it hasn't hit the iceberg yet, and maybe with some luck and judgement it won't.
You going to put a mad-man at the helm?
You going to put a mad-man at the helm?
3
Unfortunately I ahve seen very few positive articles on Clinton, they have ALL been pretty negative from the corporate media.
29
I think the media has been trying to hobble Clinton to try to get a more even race.
3
What about this papers change in describing what happened in the Arizona airport.
First news said Bill CLinton left his plane, strode across the tarmac to Lynch's and asked to see her.
2 day later the whole episode was described by the NYTimes best Clinton idolitor, A Chozik, as a 'chance encounter.
Like to twist things much???
First news said Bill CLinton left his plane, strode across the tarmac to Lynch's and asked to see her.
2 day later the whole episode was described by the NYTimes best Clinton idolitor, A Chozik, as a 'chance encounter.
Like to twist things much???
2
I is a sad commentary on this election when a NYT columnist writes in support of Hillary Clinton urging the country to "give her her due," and the best he can muster is "both Clinton and Trump are flawed and damaged candidates, but they aren’t equally flawed and damaged. And while Trump is digging his holes deeper, Clinton is remaining steady in some and climbing out of others."
Great endorsement, remaining steady in the holes you have dug for yourself.
Despite Trump's seeming disaster of a campaign month, and despite a Democratic party now coalescing around Clinton, the Trump clown show is only 4.5 points behind Clinton in the RCP poll of polls, and gaining on her. And this is before the FBI releases its recommendation about her email conduct.
Hillary Clinton's career and "competency" is a Potemkin village erected by the press. From health care, to ham-handed comments denigrating housewives ("I suppose I could have stayed home and baked cookies and had teas."), to a carpetbagging Senate campaign, to the Arab Spring, to lies about being under sniper fire, to her email server debacle she has never shown qualities that should command respect as a leader. She is personally unlikable, of questionable character, and has accomplished nothing of note in her career.
The only thing she has going for her is that she isn't Donald Trump. It will be hard to argue to the world that America is a meritocracy after people everywhere witness four months of these two clowns.
Great endorsement, remaining steady in the holes you have dug for yourself.
Despite Trump's seeming disaster of a campaign month, and despite a Democratic party now coalescing around Clinton, the Trump clown show is only 4.5 points behind Clinton in the RCP poll of polls, and gaining on her. And this is before the FBI releases its recommendation about her email conduct.
Hillary Clinton's career and "competency" is a Potemkin village erected by the press. From health care, to ham-handed comments denigrating housewives ("I suppose I could have stayed home and baked cookies and had teas."), to a carpetbagging Senate campaign, to the Arab Spring, to lies about being under sniper fire, to her email server debacle she has never shown qualities that should command respect as a leader. She is personally unlikable, of questionable character, and has accomplished nothing of note in her career.
The only thing she has going for her is that she isn't Donald Trump. It will be hard to argue to the world that America is a meritocracy after people everywhere witness four months of these two clowns.
63
No, what she has going for her is a detailed well thought out progressive policy agenda that so inflames Republicans that they continue to pour millions of their own and taxpayer Lola's into attacking her
https://www.hillaryclinton.com/issues/
https://www.hillaryclinton.com/issues/
29
RCP is run by repugniklans, always has.
2
"Vote for Hillary: she's not as bad as you think. Really! Really! REALLY!"
Yeah, that should inspire people to get out, register and vote.
Yeah, that should inspire people to get out, register and vote.
Let's establish a meaningful measure of success for Ms. Clinton. Leading a disorganized bigot who can frightens voters by pointing to toy airplanes isn't a measure of success, it's a measure of the gullibility of his supporters.
Winning should be about convincing voters that your campaign promises are believable and that, if elected, you will remain committed to peoples' hopes for a better and fairer society. Failing that, what will you achieve, and, more importantly, what have you accomplish?
Winning should be about convincing voters that your campaign promises are believable and that, if elected, you will remain committed to peoples' hopes for a better and fairer society. Failing that, what will you achieve, and, more importantly, what have you accomplish?
102
"isn't a measure of success, it's a measure of the gullibility of his supporters. " I definitely agree with the second half of your statement but, alas, I fear that the first half may off base. That is to say that the gullibility of his supporters may indeed be the very thing that will propel Trump into the presidency.
I suspect a similar disaster just happened in England when Trump's British double persuaded the voters to vote against themselves and against the future of their country (I'm referring to Brexit, of course.)
I suspect a similar disaster just happened in England when Trump's British double persuaded the voters to vote against themselves and against the future of their country (I'm referring to Brexit, of course.)
1
These polls reflect a mixture of sound judgment and popular misconceptions, with respect to the two candidates. Trump has certainly earned his low reputation. Lies infest his speeches like creditors at one of his bankruptcies, while his campaign promises rely on powers no president possesses. His campaign's theme, moreover, depicts an America surrounded by enemies, foreign and domestic, whose defeat would require us to violate democratic principles and abandon our mutually beneficial role in the international community. Trump's lack of personal integrity and his nihilistic approach to national challenges, in short, have earned him the popular distrust reflected in the polls.
Clinton's standing, however, rests on no such sound empirical foundations. Opposition to her agenda, or doubts raised by her lack of candor and talent for boneheaded decisions, inspire legitimate hostility to her candidacy. But none of this justifies the visceral hatred and contempt apparent in the polls.
Clinton's high intelligence, her substantial experience, and her long commitment to children and other vulnerable groups, more than offset any genuine shortcomings her critics can attribute to her. Dismissing her as the lesser of two evils grossly distorts her character and underestimates the positive qualities she would bring to the presidency.
To allow the GOP slander machine to paint her in the garish colors appropriate only to Trump threatens the well-being of this country.
Clinton's standing, however, rests on no such sound empirical foundations. Opposition to her agenda, or doubts raised by her lack of candor and talent for boneheaded decisions, inspire legitimate hostility to her candidacy. But none of this justifies the visceral hatred and contempt apparent in the polls.
Clinton's high intelligence, her substantial experience, and her long commitment to children and other vulnerable groups, more than offset any genuine shortcomings her critics can attribute to her. Dismissing her as the lesser of two evils grossly distorts her character and underestimates the positive qualities she would bring to the presidency.
To allow the GOP slander machine to paint her in the garish colors appropriate only to Trump threatens the well-being of this country.
1299
It is rather astonishing that Hillary Clinton's propaganda machine has managed to create a reputation of her having "high intelligence." The reason that Hillary Clinton moved to Arkansas to marry Bill Clinton after she got out of law school is that she failed to pass (i.e., flunked) the Washington D.C. bar exam, one of the easier bar examinations. Highly intelligent people tend to pass bar exams on the first try.
Hillary Clinton's education is devoid of any science or mathematics courses, leaving her with no method of understanding the scientific and technological issues of the day. And maybe that is why she does not understand the importance of a secure email server.
Clinton's undergraduate degree was in political science, the easiest of programs. She can speak only English. No patents, inventions or other remarkable achievements are to her credit. She has shown an ability to enrich herself and her nuclear family, affording her a Trumpish lifestyle and her daughter a $10 million NYC apartment. She is smart enough to know who has the big bucks to pay for her speeches.
Those with high intelligence got that GW Bush & Co were lying about alleged weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. Though hundreds of UN weapons inspectors were finding no WMDs, Clinton believed Bush lies and voted for a war which has destabilized the Middle East and put us all in danger. Not smart.
Clinton is not brilliant and is no genius, possessed only of a mundane above average intelligence.
Hillary Clinton's education is devoid of any science or mathematics courses, leaving her with no method of understanding the scientific and technological issues of the day. And maybe that is why she does not understand the importance of a secure email server.
Clinton's undergraduate degree was in political science, the easiest of programs. She can speak only English. No patents, inventions or other remarkable achievements are to her credit. She has shown an ability to enrich herself and her nuclear family, affording her a Trumpish lifestyle and her daughter a $10 million NYC apartment. She is smart enough to know who has the big bucks to pay for her speeches.
Those with high intelligence got that GW Bush & Co were lying about alleged weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. Though hundreds of UN weapons inspectors were finding no WMDs, Clinton believed Bush lies and voted for a war which has destabilized the Middle East and put us all in danger. Not smart.
Clinton is not brilliant and is no genius, possessed only of a mundane above average intelligence.
5
She's so committed to children, she gave the $250k she collected for speaking to the camp association that sends underprivileged children to camp back to them, right? So they could instead use the obscene fee to send more inner city kids to camp, right? Wrong. She pocketed it.
6
Bernie certainly didn't help by running a "mean girl" campaign smearing Clinton as corrupt, making a lot of left wing voters implacably hostile to her.
5
If you are for Trump, none of what Charles Blow writes matters. And if you are for Clinton, her fatal inability to read public perceptions will be nothing.
We have reached the point in politics in which emotion is a stronger driver than fact, and in which each camp considers the opposite so seriously, brutally and inescapably awful that they will accept the obvious flaws of the candidate they support.
My own thinking is that all the drama that swirls around Clinton - the e-mails, Benghazi, the fact that she is Hillary Clinton - is overstated, and not particularly true. But then again, I may be reacting to just how awful the GOP Congress is, and how awful Trump is. Am I realistic, or emotional?
I stopped thinking of my vote for President as a vote for President months ago. I am lodging a firm protest vote against a Senate and House which I consider reckless and infinitely damaging to the country. And I am voting for a Justice.
That doesn't give Hillary Clinton her due; it will yield a vote.
We have reached the point in politics in which emotion is a stronger driver than fact, and in which each camp considers the opposite so seriously, brutally and inescapably awful that they will accept the obvious flaws of the candidate they support.
My own thinking is that all the drama that swirls around Clinton - the e-mails, Benghazi, the fact that she is Hillary Clinton - is overstated, and not particularly true. But then again, I may be reacting to just how awful the GOP Congress is, and how awful Trump is. Am I realistic, or emotional?
I stopped thinking of my vote for President as a vote for President months ago. I am lodging a firm protest vote against a Senate and House which I consider reckless and infinitely damaging to the country. And I am voting for a Justice.
That doesn't give Hillary Clinton her due; it will yield a vote.
133
Everyone should calm down about the danger of Trump being elected. He won't be and here's why (based on anecdotal evidence). I meet regularly with fellow retirees and we are all in our 70s and even 80s. For the most part, they (not we) are Fox News watching citizens who watch Fox News so they can "find out what's going on." Of course they hate Hillary but recent "anecdotal" evidence suggests they think Trump is "just as bad."
My wife and I have been waiting eight years for the moment when we can vote for Hillary Clinton for president of the United States. You might ask your colleague Mr Brooks if she has now, after being Secretary of State, a senator and future president, exceeded his expectation that she would end up as the dean of Vassar College. As Grace Slick said at Woodstock in 1969, It's a new dawn America.
332
1969 was some time ago.....perhaps we should be in the Now if we hope to improve the hot mess we are in now.
1
I am confident that Hillary Clinton will do a good job as President. When George Wallace could no longer run for Governor of Alabama he got his wife, Lurlene, elected. She did a good job as well. We flourished under President Bill Clinton and having him in the White House will Hillary will benefit the whole world.
25
Sorry but the Clinton's already had their two terms. We don't need Bill back as a "shadow President" influencing his wife. Though the job of "First Lady" is not paid or official, it is still very much real, and there is something squicky about a former First Lady running for POTUS -- very "Evita Peron", and implies this is less about Hillary's skills (there are none! she was handed every job she ever had!) and more about a cult of personality regarding the Clinton name ("brand") and the Democrats utter failure to develop new young politicians.
17
We flourished? Way to forget NAFTA, welfare reform and the crime bill.
Slanderous ruminations do not a good voter make.
Trumps comments are hard to comprehend. Is he a windbag prone to saying whatever drafts across his mind whether it be true or not, or, more ominously, is he less than fully sane when he says Mexico may be attacking the US?
That Clinton only has a handful of percentage point advantage in the polls is not a flattering statement about the American public. While less than perfect (e.g. what was she thinking having a private server?), between the two Clinton is clearly the only one competent enough to be president.
That Clinton only has a handful of percentage point advantage in the polls is not a flattering statement about the American public. While less than perfect (e.g. what was she thinking having a private server?), between the two Clinton is clearly the only one competent enough to be president.
82
Thank you, Don, for such a thoughtful, steady clear-minded comment.
1
"Both Clinton and Trump are flawed and damaged candidates".
Nuff said. We could actually just move on now. and.....
Instead of all newspapers continuing to cover the candidates, we, all of us, could focus on real problems and real challenges that the US faces.
Instead of reporting every bomb blast in every nook and cranny in the world and wringing our hands about that we could be
Initiating discussion, in some detail, on how to begin policies that support reasonable costs for college education. I know, this is not as sensational as "is his hair real or fake", but, it is responsible, and, the discussion is clearly of interest to young people.
Initiating discussion on how to tackle the mass extinction in the worlds forests of mammals, and, many other species.
I know, this is not as titillating as Trumps tiny hands and speculating if that is the real reason for his three divorces.
There are so, so, so many real issues facing humanity that we have the intelligence to solve.
And, all we discuss is hand size, ISIS, fake hair, golf courses, email servers, and blue dresses.
Our newspapers should lead. Not follow.
Nuff said. We could actually just move on now. and.....
Instead of all newspapers continuing to cover the candidates, we, all of us, could focus on real problems and real challenges that the US faces.
Instead of reporting every bomb blast in every nook and cranny in the world and wringing our hands about that we could be
Initiating discussion, in some detail, on how to begin policies that support reasonable costs for college education. I know, this is not as sensational as "is his hair real or fake", but, it is responsible, and, the discussion is clearly of interest to young people.
Initiating discussion on how to tackle the mass extinction in the worlds forests of mammals, and, many other species.
I know, this is not as titillating as Trumps tiny hands and speculating if that is the real reason for his three divorces.
There are so, so, so many real issues facing humanity that we have the intelligence to solve.
And, all we discuss is hand size, ISIS, fake hair, golf courses, email servers, and blue dresses.
Our newspapers should lead. Not follow.
85
Our newspapers should report the news, period. The operative word there is "news." The opinion pages are the proper venue for expressing ideas about the conduct of the nation and world.
3
Thank you.
1
Why does the title of that TV show, "Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?" keep going through my mind? Of course Hillary Clinton can discuss policy better than Donald Trump. So could my Basset Hound when she was alive.
The problem since the very beginning of this election cycle is that the New York Times columnists have been thrilled with every up and down of the horse race and have blatantly ignored the millions of people struggling to survive in the US.
You want to be a cheerleader for Hillary? Okay. Well then start by laying it out why somebody should get off the couch and vote for her. And not because her negative approval rating has slightly improved (I think that's what you were getting at) compared to Donald Trump's.
The problem since the very beginning of this election cycle is that the New York Times columnists have been thrilled with every up and down of the horse race and have blatantly ignored the millions of people struggling to survive in the US.
You want to be a cheerleader for Hillary? Okay. Well then start by laying it out why somebody should get off the couch and vote for her. And not because her negative approval rating has slightly improved (I think that's what you were getting at) compared to Donald Trump's.
130
"why somebody should get off the couch and vote for her." Not voting is a vote of sorts and runs the obvious risk that the (far in this case) greater of two evils wins. "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." - variously attributed to conservative icon Edmund Burke, liberal icon Thomas Jefferson but appears in neithers' writings and probably comes from John Stuart Mill.
5
Why should they care? they are all quite wealthy -- card carrying members of the 1% -- and they absolutely hate us...by "us", I mean "those awful low class, low information stupid voters in the South and Midwest". We are scum to them -- literally scum -- we have no right to our votes, to our beliefs, to our religions or moral values. WE DON'T EVEN KNOW OUR OWN SELF INTERESTS. We need them -- elites, the "correct thinking professional class" -- to tell us how to live and what to think.
They "know" for example that we are unemployed "losers" -- but then they were happy to send our jobs overseas to Mexico and China and Pakistan. Happy to pass NAFTA. Happy to get rid of Glass Steagall. (Hello, Bill Clinton! and thanks again!) Now Hillary is gung ho for the TPP, which is NAFTA on steroids! And nothing will stop her....she "knows" what is best for us.
Washington is not listening to us. The NYT is not listening to us. DO YOU WANT TO MAKE THEM LISTEN? Elect Donald Trump.
Then they will hear us.
Voting for Clinton is a vote for the status quo.
They "know" for example that we are unemployed "losers" -- but then they were happy to send our jobs overseas to Mexico and China and Pakistan. Happy to pass NAFTA. Happy to get rid of Glass Steagall. (Hello, Bill Clinton! and thanks again!) Now Hillary is gung ho for the TPP, which is NAFTA on steroids! And nothing will stop her....she "knows" what is best for us.
Washington is not listening to us. The NYT is not listening to us. DO YOU WANT TO MAKE THEM LISTEN? Elect Donald Trump.
Then they will hear us.
Voting for Clinton is a vote for the status quo.
Trump or Clinton. YOU are a voter, YOU decide.
If you still need time to answer the question, you have already lost.
If you still need time to answer the question, you have already lost.
5
Clinton's "flaw" is purely a media construct; if CNN and the other news channels didn't constantly refer to her as flawed or unpopular, she'd be merely a highly qualified candidate. But how would that translate into ratings? A runaway race makes for bad television. However, if you handicap one of the candidates in such a way as to render her superficially comparable to the other, you give the impression of a tight race, and theoretically the ratings soar.
Benghazi and an email server--those are the crumbs that the Republicans and the networks have been trying to make into a meal for at least the past year, with little success. Nothing sticks, because there was nothing there. So the networks--and the Repubs--simply drone on about Benghazi and the emails, and put their children to bed with the warning that if they're bad, Hillary will come in the night like a succubus and turn them into Homosexual Liberal Elites.
Meanwhile, every time Trump stays on message for half an hour he's congratulated on "pivoting to the general," and looking presidential. But then within minutes he goes off script and alienates another demographic, or does something that reminds the world that he's genuinely a racist, narcissistic, ignorant cretin.
It's always about false equivalency. Every time you hear a news model say, "And of course on the Democratic side, there's still the problem..." or something similar, you can see that the flaw is with the media and its credulous viewers--not with Clinton.
Benghazi and an email server--those are the crumbs that the Republicans and the networks have been trying to make into a meal for at least the past year, with little success. Nothing sticks, because there was nothing there. So the networks--and the Repubs--simply drone on about Benghazi and the emails, and put their children to bed with the warning that if they're bad, Hillary will come in the night like a succubus and turn them into Homosexual Liberal Elites.
Meanwhile, every time Trump stays on message for half an hour he's congratulated on "pivoting to the general," and looking presidential. But then within minutes he goes off script and alienates another demographic, or does something that reminds the world that he's genuinely a racist, narcissistic, ignorant cretin.
It's always about false equivalency. Every time you hear a news model say, "And of course on the Democratic side, there's still the problem..." or something similar, you can see that the flaw is with the media and its credulous viewers--not with Clinton.
907
you are correct News is a business and the cable networks as well as the legacy realize that viewers will be scarce if the race goes to a 62-38 lead as it well might after Sanders speaks..most of the undecided are Bernie voters who will not switch to Trump. I notice even "liberals" like Cooper, Lemon and some MSNBC are pushing the "clinton unpopular untrustworthy" narrative and their hearts are not in it. Mypillow, match.com, joseph a banks and others have a lot riding on it so just like the NBA the "refs" will help the team that is behind. Luckily i won't be watching as it THIER FAULT that Trump won with their lazy juvenile coverage of the republican primaries earlier this year. I hope many get fired and much money is lost as they have soiled the extremely important presidential election.
21
Gregory has to decide if he is ready for the most secretive American President in history. Since she has not held any sort of a press conference in 222 days, we can assume she will NEVER hold one as President. Her secrecy fetish extends to her tell co-conspirator Huma Abedin that she never wanted anyone in the American media or government to have access to any of her email traffic.
Hillary had no way to keep numerous foreign governments out hf her server and that information is undoubtedly creating a lively market these days.
Gregory needs to decide just WHY she had to keep all of her message traffic a secret from the State Department and law enforcement.
Hillary had no way to keep numerous foreign governments out hf her server and that information is undoubtedly creating a lively market these days.
Gregory needs to decide just WHY she had to keep all of her message traffic a secret from the State Department and law enforcement.
6
Oh my heavens. A media "construct"? Clinton is flawed, period. Let's at least be honest with one another.
6
"Hillary Clinton ran an incredibly strong campaign last month."
At present, there's an incredibly low bar for comparison.
At present, there's an incredibly low bar for comparison.
34
Except Blow isn't comparing; you are. Don't vote for Hillary, but at least do it for real reasons.
7
Drumpf's pointing to the plane overhead illustrates his primary character defect regarding aspiring for POTUS - the lack of training that holding prior public office provides, which would have taught him that being a ' disruptor ' capitalist constantly trying to make a deal and shift his negotiating position to keep his adversary dealmakers off-balance is not an advantage when heading the world's only super-power.
Drumpf doesn't understand the fundamental role/responsibilities of the U.S. in the world, has shown no prior interest in learning, and shows no indication of being able to change his stripes.
Drumpf doesn't understand the fundamental role/responsibilities of the U.S. in the world, has shown no prior interest in learning, and shows no indication of being able to change his stripes.
79
RL can never complain about all of the made-up names those on the Right have used for Mr. Obama now.
l'osservatore - The current iteration is the ' made-up name ', changed from Drumpf, as has been widely documented:
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/03/03/us/politics/donald-drumpf-a-funny-labe...
Like everything else:
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/jul/02/donald-trump-net-worth-c...
the guy's very name is a fraud :)
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/03/03/us/politics/donald-drumpf-a-funny-labe...
Like everything else:
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/jul/02/donald-trump-net-worth-c...
the guy's very name is a fraud :)
10
I plan to write in a candidate because I will apparently have no Green Party option here. Clinton is not the idiotic Trump but of course she is flawed. She is in the war mongering and big financial/Wall Street camps. She has acted, spoken, and voted accordingly. The revolving door between the Clinton Foundation and repressive governments has been documented. The Clintons are committed to the means tested privatizing logic, whether in Michigan or Haiti, which always hurts the poor and brown, the disabled and unlucky. I suspect that Clinton will continue to do whatever is necessary to keep power, consolidate family wealth, and assuage the interests of U.S. economic and geopolitical elites who sell us war, unfettered capitalism, and "structural adjustment" at home and abroad and then wring their hands at the devastating results, environmental, infrastructural and human.
72
Laysh:
And if we get Trump as a result of your and others' write-ins, will you be happy?
And if we get Trump as a result of your and others' write-ins, will you be happy?
85
Hillary Clinton will salvage the SCOTUS, from more republican 1950s thinking, as well as secure Social Security from the republican voucherizers/privatizers. Try reading her policy plans, and take no chance a non vote will elect Trump.
7
Publius, to answer your question I think it may be yes. Too many of these BernieBots believe that in order to save a country that you must first destroy it.
4
So Hillary can outclass Trump.... Now that's really lowering the bar. For an establishment candidate to have such low favorability ratings is remarkable and a testament to the strength of the establishment. I guess we'll find out where the FBI fits into this establishment. In any case, we've got some depth in the line-up with Bernie.
48
@carl bumba: "I guess we'll find out where the FBI fits into this establishment." You tipped your hand with that statement. It perfectly expresses the attitude of those on both the left and right who are determined to smear Hillary no matter what. If the FBI condemns her, you'll be fine with it. If they absolve her of wrongdoing, it's because they're part of the "establishment." It's the usual lose-lose for her. Fortunately, many millions of voters aren't as narrow-minded as the Fox News addicts and the Bernie dead-enders.
116
What happens when the Democratic Convention refuses to go with Bernie despite Hillary's criminal indictment?
1
the lose-lose for her is that an FBI investigation is required at all. pretty unusual, isn't it?
9
A new George W. Bush biography portrays him as an unmitigated disaster. But we knew that already.
Obama has accomplished something but not nearly what he could have done, particularly the first two years when he still had a majority in both houses. He did not prosecute the banksters, let everyone get away with everything, and then passed a half way measure in Obama care instead of a single payer plan or a simple expansion of Medicare by lowering the age of eligibility.
The two current candidates offer more of the same blundering or mediocrity. It's ironic that I live a much better life in my safe expatriate niche in Provence than I would anywhere in America. Terrorists are not interested in my community and the worst visitors are Americans who scream at the waiters because they think there being ignored. They're not!
Obama has accomplished something but not nearly what he could have done, particularly the first two years when he still had a majority in both houses. He did not prosecute the banksters, let everyone get away with everything, and then passed a half way measure in Obama care instead of a single payer plan or a simple expansion of Medicare by lowering the age of eligibility.
The two current candidates offer more of the same blundering or mediocrity. It's ironic that I live a much better life in my safe expatriate niche in Provence than I would anywhere in America. Terrorists are not interested in my community and the worst visitors are Americans who scream at the waiters because they think there being ignored. They're not!
42
Michael Kittle:
Even with a Democrat majority, President Obama did not have the Congressional support for a single-payer health plan unfortunately. The AHCA was a compromise, but for 20 million Americans not living in Provence, it was far better than nothing, which would have been the case if the President held out for a single-payer plan. "The perfect can be the enemy of the good."
Even with a Democrat majority, President Obama did not have the Congressional support for a single-payer health plan unfortunately. The AHCA was a compromise, but for 20 million Americans not living in Provence, it was far better than nothing, which would have been the case if the President held out for a single-payer plan. "The perfect can be the enemy of the good."
89
I'm glad obama's first priority wasn't vengeance or futile prosecutions. My, and many others personal financial security, is dependent on the markets and shaking them in an economy on the brink of depression would have been suicidal.
3
I'm an Obama fan, but agree that it is a blemish on his administration's record that the no banksters were prosecuted post-Great Recession. As Warren has said, the laws are there, you just need strong people to effectuate them.
9
They hate Obama because of skin color; they hate Clinton because of gender.
Failing to see beyond the superficial gave us Reagan and the end of the middle class, Iraq, and vile Trump.
I want my country back. Bernie, this means you too.
Failing to see beyond the superficial gave us Reagan and the end of the middle class, Iraq, and vile Trump.
I want my country back. Bernie, this means you too.
413
Exactly! They're ALL sexist pigs! There couldn't possibly be any other reason for a person not to just absolutely LOVE Hillary, right? It definitely couldn't be because she's an outright liar or anything. After all, it was a "vast right-wing conspiracy" that forced her to lie about being under sniper fire in Bosnia. And, those dirty, sneaky Republicans made Bill climb aboard Loretta's airplane in Phoenix just days before Hillary's FBI interview. And, all those racist, sexist men in the evil GOP forced her to take $100-200k for speeches at Goldman Sachs. I think it's about time that the United States seriously considers banning anyone who doesn't like Hillary. That way she can totally win!
10
Well, I don't know whom you refer to as "they" actually is. for example I'd vote for elizabeth warren in a heartbeat, and you'd have to put a gun to my head to get me to vote for clinton. I'm so sick and tired of my disgust of the entire clinton crony capitalist money machine as being characterized as being a gender issue, and in fact it's one of those annoying clinton campaign tactics to paint anyone who won't supporter her as a woman hater that destroyed any potential I'd vote for her. I honestly believe the clinton supporters suffer from the backfire effect The backfire effect occurs when, in the face of contradictory evidence, established beliefs do not change but actually get stronger. The effect has been demonstrated experimentally in psychological tests, where subjects are given data that either reinforces or goes against their existing biases - and in most cases people can be shown to increase their confidence in their prior position regardless of the evidence they were faced with. http://rationalwiki.org/wiki/Backfire_effect Your inability to see her as corrupt is due to a long established psychological condition/ phenomena
10
Two rebuttals:
Sara Palin
Dr. Ben Carson.
It's not the gender or the race; it's the politics.
Sara Palin
Dr. Ben Carson.
It's not the gender or the race; it's the politics.
7
What we have here is about 800 words that say "I do not like Donald Trump's approach to things and I think Clinton is better." Nothing wrong with that. But to imagine that giving Clinton her "due" is a way to combat the characteristics of Donald Trump that appeal to his supporters is at best naive. There is no evidence that Trump supporters are taking rational measures of the two candidates and making a decision on who to vote for based on those measures.
Near as I can tell, the only thing that might change a Trump supporters mind is that the members of the GOP who present themselves as rational thinkers are not defending him.
Near as I can tell, the only thing that might change a Trump supporters mind is that the members of the GOP who present themselves as rational thinkers are not defending him.
11
Honestly: those "rational people" had their chance in 2008 and 2012 and they blew it. And the NYT and the left wing hated McCain (a war hero) and Romney (a sensible and moderate businessman) almost as viciously as they hate Trump. NOTHING will satisfy the left except total capitulation of the opposition -- end of the GOP -- running NO candidate and hence, Mrs. Clinton to run "unopposed" (as suits a candidate known as "The Anointed One").
Trump upended that apple cart and those lefty dreams of total domination. This publication is remarkable in its cluelessness and denial of history and facts, and total unwillingness to GO OUT INTO THE PUBLIC and really talk to ordinary voters, and see how they feel, and what matters to them.
Trump upended that apple cart and those lefty dreams of total domination. This publication is remarkable in its cluelessness and denial of history and facts, and total unwillingness to GO OUT INTO THE PUBLIC and really talk to ordinary voters, and see how they feel, and what matters to them.
1
Concerned, it is your people who are running for the edge of the political cliff. All we're doing is giving just the slightest push to help achieve a merciful result. End of the GOP? Very ambitious, but nice if we can do it.
5
I'm a big Hillary supporter, but I'm not sure the past month will be viewed as that favorable for her. There was the FBI interview: even if they determine nothing criminal happened, that is still a pretty notable event for a presidential candidate. And there was Bill's blunder with Loretta Lynch.
Weirdly, Mr Blow starts by saying how all everyone talks about is Trump and that we should give Clinton her due. But I checked the naming of Trump and Clinton in the paragraphs of this essay. Out fo a total 16 paragraphs, seven mention both Trump and Clinton, seven mention only Trump and only two are about Clinton without mentioning the Republican's name. That's giving her her due?
Weirdly, Mr Blow starts by saying how all everyone talks about is Trump and that we should give Clinton her due. But I checked the naming of Trump and Clinton in the paragraphs of this essay. Out fo a total 16 paragraphs, seven mention both Trump and Clinton, seven mention only Trump and only two are about Clinton without mentioning the Republican's name. That's giving her her due?
64
Why is Hillary constantly held accountable for Bill's behavior? whether his serial philandering or NAFTA or three-strikes-you're-out or the Foundation or the visit to the AG's plane... his popularity remains untouched and she gets slammed. Mr. Teflon and Mrs. Velcro.
6
It is impossible to read this blather without acknowledging that the NYT has been promoting and sanitizing HIllary for at least TWO YEARS NOW, and is 100% in her pocket.....they attacked both Trump AND Sanders on her behalf. They are "all in" for Hillary without even considering alternatives. They are essentially "on her payroll".
As such. Mr. Blow's salary -- cushy job -- status and fame -- are linked to his willingness to stump relentlessly for Hillary. Not one NYT columnist even came out for SANDERS. They are all good little soldiers -- aren't they? Gee, that's such a remarkable coincidence!
I am sure every writer here has received "marching orders" to come out at least twice a week, if not more often, with articles demeaning Mr. Trump and promoting Mrs.Clinton and insisting how wonderful she was, and just ignore all her failings. "She's had a wonderful month!" -- ha! Do you think the public cares about "hearings"? The truth is that very few people like or trust her, and the typical comment is "I'll vote for her....with my nose pinched".
That isn't the kind of support that compels people to go out and vote. It's the kind that makes them shrug, and stay home.
As such. Mr. Blow's salary -- cushy job -- status and fame -- are linked to his willingness to stump relentlessly for Hillary. Not one NYT columnist even came out for SANDERS. They are all good little soldiers -- aren't they? Gee, that's such a remarkable coincidence!
I am sure every writer here has received "marching orders" to come out at least twice a week, if not more often, with articles demeaning Mr. Trump and promoting Mrs.Clinton and insisting how wonderful she was, and just ignore all her failings. "She's had a wonderful month!" -- ha! Do you think the public cares about "hearings"? The truth is that very few people like or trust her, and the typical comment is "I'll vote for her....with my nose pinched".
That isn't the kind of support that compels people to go out and vote. It's the kind that makes them shrug, and stay home.
6
Concerned:
Agreed, for the most part.
But you apparently have not been reading Maureen Dowd lately.
Agreed, for the most part.
But you apparently have not been reading Maureen Dowd lately.
1
With Clinton you are sure to get war. Her record in Honduras, Libya, Syria, Yemen and Ukraine leaves very little doubt about that.
Trump is a loose canon. He could be worse and he could be better.
So my evaluation is: with Clinton we are doomed, with Trump we have a chance, but I would prefer to see neither of them in power.
Trump is a loose canon. He could be worse and he could be better.
So my evaluation is: with Clinton we are doomed, with Trump we have a chance, but I would prefer to see neither of them in power.
40
The country is doomed if you think that Trump is not out for himself only.
11
The likely "big chance" with Trump will be his impeachment and removal from office in short order for something massively illegal or horrifying.
12
NOBODY running was my personal choice. But we have a serious problem in US politics -- corruption and stagnation and entitlement (of the political class).
They don't hear us and they do not listen to us and they haven't care what we thought for a LONG long time.
If you want to get a message through....you had two chances this year. One was Sanders, and he is effectively toast.
So TRUMP is your very last, best chance to make a difference, and make Washington DC hear you. They are not hearing you. They don't want to hear you. They don't care what you think or feel or want. They don't feel your pain or even care you are in pain.
MAKE THEM LISTEN. Electing Clinton will ensure nobody will listen, and they will steam roller more lousy legislation, taxes and "programs" on you -- install hard left Justices who will take away your rights -- and the TPP, which is NAFTA on steroids and will cause millions to lose their jobs and descend into poverty.
Hillary is not Bill, and this is not 1992 (unfortunately). We aren't going to be magically propelled back in time, nor have the economic advantage we once enjoyed before neo-cons and neo-libs spent our national wealth on futile wars in the Middle East. THIS IS NOW. This is reality. And only Trump can MAKE THEM LISTEN.
They don't hear us and they do not listen to us and they haven't care what we thought for a LONG long time.
If you want to get a message through....you had two chances this year. One was Sanders, and he is effectively toast.
So TRUMP is your very last, best chance to make a difference, and make Washington DC hear you. They are not hearing you. They don't want to hear you. They don't care what you think or feel or want. They don't feel your pain or even care you are in pain.
MAKE THEM LISTEN. Electing Clinton will ensure nobody will listen, and they will steam roller more lousy legislation, taxes and "programs" on you -- install hard left Justices who will take away your rights -- and the TPP, which is NAFTA on steroids and will cause millions to lose their jobs and descend into poverty.
Hillary is not Bill, and this is not 1992 (unfortunately). We aren't going to be magically propelled back in time, nor have the economic advantage we once enjoyed before neo-cons and neo-libs spent our national wealth on futile wars in the Middle East. THIS IS NOW. This is reality. And only Trump can MAKE THEM LISTEN.
2
Hillary is remarkable. She is a practical visionary rather like soulsister Frances Perkins who brought the New Deal to FDR. Those who know Hillary find her utterly trustworthy and kind. That is exactly why RoveLuntzCo have gone for this her core strength.
The scabrous comments in this thread notwithstanding, Hillary's led a life 1000 times more exemplary & helping than mine. I'm OK/She's fab. As 14-yr-old Noah put it, "You'll be such a lovely goodhearted president!"
The scabrous comments in this thread notwithstanding, Hillary's led a life 1000 times more exemplary & helping than mine. I'm OK/She's fab. As 14-yr-old Noah put it, "You'll be such a lovely goodhearted president!"
357
You call getting kicked off the Watergate investigative commission by your own boss for being and I quote "the most unethical lawyer I know", exemplary!
11
Please read William Safire's 1996 column, "A Blizzard of Lies" and then reflect on her "trustworthiness." Neither Hillary , nor Trump are worthy of being president.
8
I gave Wendy (and Jimmy above) recommends under the assumption that their comments were tongue in cheek. If in fact that's not the case, please mentally subtract one recommend for both. Ta.
3
Clinton will win. Why? Changing demographics and a Trump who has yet to take his foot out of his hateful mouth. Plus facts:
Trump has to flip some blue states to win. Unlikely.
18 states plus D.C.. have voted for the Democratic presidential nominee in every election between 1992 and 2012. 242 electoral votes.
13 states have voted for the Republican presidential nominee in each of the past six elections. 102 electoral votes.
If Clinton wins the 19 that every Democratic nominee has won and she wins Florida (29 electoral votes), she wins the White House.
Or if she wins the 19 reliable Democratic states and Virginia (13 electoral votes) and Ohio (18). Or the 19 states plus Nevada (6), Colorado (9) and North Carolina (15).
There are many ways for Clinton to get to 270 electoral votes. There are very few ways for Trump to get there.
Trump has to flip some blue states to win. Unlikely.
18 states plus D.C.. have voted for the Democratic presidential nominee in every election between 1992 and 2012. 242 electoral votes.
13 states have voted for the Republican presidential nominee in each of the past six elections. 102 electoral votes.
If Clinton wins the 19 that every Democratic nominee has won and she wins Florida (29 electoral votes), she wins the White House.
Or if she wins the 19 reliable Democratic states and Virginia (13 electoral votes) and Ohio (18). Or the 19 states plus Nevada (6), Colorado (9) and North Carolina (15).
There are many ways for Clinton to get to 270 electoral votes. There are very few ways for Trump to get there.
64
The professional number crunchers at 538 have Arizona as being a close race right now. Arizona.
Most of these polls mean nothing as long as the US has the Electoral College. As you so correctly pointed out, Hillary, or any Democrat for that matter, has a built in advantage from the get go.
Trump would have to flip far more states than Clinton. And states harder to flip at that.
Most of these polls mean nothing as long as the US has the Electoral College. As you so correctly pointed out, Hillary, or any Democrat for that matter, has a built in advantage from the get go.
Trump would have to flip far more states than Clinton. And states harder to flip at that.
7
Yes, yes, I know you have "proven" Trump cannot win.
The problem with your theory (handily posted 3 times a daily, with cut-and-paste) is that Trump by all logic should have never lasted more than a couple of months in the primary campaign. He should have been the first candidate to DROP OUT. He spent almost no money. He had no real background in politics. He is not attractive or glib or polished. He has HUGE negatives, and many people disliked him long before this election year.
He faced down 16 opponents, many of whom were seasoned politicians including TWO US Senators -- backed with tens of millions in Koch "dark money'! -- and the son & brother of former POTUSES (Jeb!). A betting person in November 2015 would have put their money on one of them. Most "sensible people" were explaining, as you have very logically here, that it would be Bush vs. Clinton.
Except it wasn't. Because life & politics are not logical.
The problem with your theory (handily posted 3 times a daily, with cut-and-paste) is that Trump by all logic should have never lasted more than a couple of months in the primary campaign. He should have been the first candidate to DROP OUT. He spent almost no money. He had no real background in politics. He is not attractive or glib or polished. He has HUGE negatives, and many people disliked him long before this election year.
He faced down 16 opponents, many of whom were seasoned politicians including TWO US Senators -- backed with tens of millions in Koch "dark money'! -- and the son & brother of former POTUSES (Jeb!). A betting person in November 2015 would have put their money on one of them. Most "sensible people" were explaining, as you have very logically here, that it would be Bush vs. Clinton.
Except it wasn't. Because life & politics are not logical.
6
You equate GOP primary voters with the general electorate. That's theory, Sarah.
I presented only facts.
I presented only facts.
6
My fear is rooted in Bush vs Gore. Then too there was a clearly qualified, experienced, intelligent, thoughtful candidate vs the other - and still Bush won because the voters thought he was more like them : someone we could have a drink with. People! Running America is not for people like us, especially not when swayed by populist fears and simplistic rhetoric; this is important business, not the stuff of bar-room entertainers and their rants.
715
Yes, but bush as a campaigner did appeal to decency in people, and you'd see him interacting with people in a friendly, natural way. In short, a good guy. No one can say that about trump with a straight face.
5
Thank God for the DNC and the quiet writing of the Democratic platform? Keeping all of us people from changing the laws on Fracking, over militarization, continued non thoughtful support of Israel, poisoning of our water destruction of our local economies, and environments. Loss of control over local or even regional legislation. More of the same that we have had since 1990.
4
Not that it should matter, but I'd much rather have a drink with Hillary Clinton than the clown. Can you imagine how boring it would be to sit through even 15 minutes of total self absorption and clueless blabbering with DT?
No thanks.
No thanks.
14
Donald Trump is psychologically ill, meeting all 12 criterial for narcissistic personality disorder, with arrested development at the pre-adolescent stage, a loose cannon. Hillary Clinton is sane, intelligent, experienced, in control of herself. No more need be said.
1142
I'll agree with the diagnosis of narcissist. But your bias is that you don't see clinton as the sociopath she is.
9
You need to read the new book by the former Secret Service agent who guarded the Clinton's in the White House. I am sure your assumptions of Hillary as sane and in control will change.
5
The book by a uniformed agent whose supervisors and coworkers said he could not have seen what he claims he witnessed. But credibility it the least of your concerns isn't it? Slander after slander, churned out and directed at those with with little ability in critical thinking.
20
It is refreshing to see some critical analysis of the difference between the two candidates rather than the endless media recitation of the negatives ratings of the two candidates - which are grossly false and misleading equivalencies. Mr Trump's negatives are earned by the candidate himself who has conducted himself in a racist, ignorant and inexperienced manner the entire campaign and longer. Much of Ms Clinton's unfavorables are the results of a carefully orchestrated and multi million dollar smear campaign waged over 25 years. And, sadly, there is still a lot of sexism out there making her unlikeable to a certain percentage of the electorate. Very little of the negatives for Ms Clinton are actually policy based whereas mr trumps are deserved. This is what makes me hopeful for November.
461
Also:
-Secretary Clinton is hated by most Republicans (fewer and fewer when compared to Trump).
-Add to that the BernieBros who haven't faced reality.
=Then there are those who don't see the differences between her and her (idiot?) husband.
That's a lot of people but it doesn't add up to a flawed candidate. It's a candidate with a stated set of policies who attracts enemies who don't agree -- or who are misled by Yes! the press.
Comparing that with Trump is a complicated endeavor but I bet the NYT and others can do it. It should be done and inserted in every article that mentions the two "flawed candidates."
Haz el try!
-Secretary Clinton is hated by most Republicans (fewer and fewer when compared to Trump).
-Add to that the BernieBros who haven't faced reality.
=Then there are those who don't see the differences between her and her (idiot?) husband.
That's a lot of people but it doesn't add up to a flawed candidate. It's a candidate with a stated set of policies who attracts enemies who don't agree -- or who are misled by Yes! the press.
Comparing that with Trump is a complicated endeavor but I bet the NYT and others can do it. It should be done and inserted in every article that mentions the two "flawed candidates."
Haz el try!
5
She's outclassed Trump. Faint praise indeed.
43
Why should we give Clinton anything? Her whole career we've been asked to give her slack a million times.
48
Imagine how a strong politician could seize this moment, when the Republican Party is weak, and most Americans--white and minority; all but some of the upper classes--show anger and fear centered on economic justice. This is a traditional Democratic value. If Clinton could grow this common ground between her supporters, Sanders supporters, and millions of Independents--even some of those white, middle- and lower-class Republicans, who want economic growth but not Trump's xenophobia and racism--she could build a huge coalition. Instead, she acts as if she doesn't want or need them.
Her favorability and honesty ratings show that voters reject her responses to the investigations, the speeches, etc. But instead of changing her responses to build trust, she's sticking with the Clinton program of downplay, deny, and defend.
I'm afraid for the Democratic Party, for putting forth a candidate who is more disliked the longer she campaigns.
And I'm afraid for our country, for having either of these candidates as potential President.
Her favorability and honesty ratings show that voters reject her responses to the investigations, the speeches, etc. But instead of changing her responses to build trust, she's sticking with the Clinton program of downplay, deny, and defend.
I'm afraid for the Democratic Party, for putting forth a candidate who is more disliked the longer she campaigns.
And I'm afraid for our country, for having either of these candidates as potential President.
53
It's not her doing. She is unfairly attacked and demonized from both the right and the left, and people on both sides buy into that. What is she supposed to do? I think that by not reacting to all of that slander, she is showing a great deal of class and restraint, and that this will reap huge benefits down the road.
492
F.T., you must be joking. You say Hillary should be "changing her responses to build trust..." which would cause cries of "liar!" You would be the worst campaign advisor ever.
30
Slander is defined as: "the action or crime of making a FALSE spoken statement damaging to a person's reputation."
The key word there is FALSE.
It is the TRUTH that Hillary Clinton made $21 million in three years giving "speeches" to special interests:
http://userctl.com/BlueVsRed/064.png
It is the TRUTH that Hillary Clinton has not released the infamous Wall Street speech transcripts:
http://userctl.com/BlueVsRed/063.png
It is the TRUTH that Hillary Clinton's very first political flip-flop was switching from being a Republican Goldwater supporter to becoming a Democrat:
http://userctl.com/BlueVsRed/047.png
LOL I guess she must have done it because that's where all the boys were.
Nope, no slander there, just the TRUTH. They say the TRUTH hurts, but you need to face up to it first instead of living in a fantasy world.
#BernieOrBust #NeverHillary #NeverTrump
The key word there is FALSE.
It is the TRUTH that Hillary Clinton made $21 million in three years giving "speeches" to special interests:
http://userctl.com/BlueVsRed/064.png
It is the TRUTH that Hillary Clinton has not released the infamous Wall Street speech transcripts:
http://userctl.com/BlueVsRed/063.png
It is the TRUTH that Hillary Clinton's very first political flip-flop was switching from being a Republican Goldwater supporter to becoming a Democrat:
http://userctl.com/BlueVsRed/047.png
LOL I guess she must have done it because that's where all the boys were.
Nope, no slander there, just the TRUTH. They say the TRUTH hurts, but you need to face up to it first instead of living in a fantasy world.
#BernieOrBust #NeverHillary #NeverTrump
15
Pardon me, but assertions like "Both Clinton and Trump are flawed and damaged candidates, but they aren’t equally flawed and damaged" are exactly at the bottom of the problem. In what way is Clinton flawed other than that she is consistently measured by standards that nobody else is required to adhere to.
Decades of smearing of her character and record have produced not a shred of credible evidence against her. She is the best vetted candidate ever and each and every accusation was found wanting. But instead of following the evidence to the obvious conclusion - that HRC is cleaner than any reasonable person could expect anybody to be - the media is complicit in making the smear tactics leveled against her a success.
So if not this, what else are her unfavorable ratings based on? That she's a reasonable centrist politician? That she supported an intervention in Libya that was championed by the French of all people? That after going on three decades of being hammered on soundbites taken out of context, she has become a professional in the game at the expense of candid off-the-cuff remarks?
In every case I have seen of people ranting against her, there was more than a hint of them projecting their own shortcomings at her. If this seems like a unfair accusation to you, you are welcome to spend the time and effort on defending yourself she was forced to spend defending herself against baseless accusations.
Decades of smearing of her character and record have produced not a shred of credible evidence against her. She is the best vetted candidate ever and each and every accusation was found wanting. But instead of following the evidence to the obvious conclusion - that HRC is cleaner than any reasonable person could expect anybody to be - the media is complicit in making the smear tactics leveled against her a success.
So if not this, what else are her unfavorable ratings based on? That she's a reasonable centrist politician? That she supported an intervention in Libya that was championed by the French of all people? That after going on three decades of being hammered on soundbites taken out of context, she has become a professional in the game at the expense of candid off-the-cuff remarks?
In every case I have seen of people ranting against her, there was more than a hint of them projecting their own shortcomings at her. If this seems like a unfair accusation to you, you are welcome to spend the time and effort on defending yourself she was forced to spend defending herself against baseless accusations.
958
Complaining that your candidate is being held to too high a standard when they're running for President of the United States isn't terribly inspiring.
Also, you may be missing the fact that centrism from the Democrats has led to a steady drift to the right in this country. When the right is collapsing on its own, it's not surprising that so many people are calling for her to move to the left. And if you're committed to the values on the left, you probably should be complaining.
Also, you may be missing the fact that centrism from the Democrats has led to a steady drift to the right in this country. When the right is collapsing on its own, it's not surprising that so many people are calling for her to move to the left. And if you're committed to the values on the left, you probably should be complaining.
30
She's not being held to too high a standard. She's being held to a standard based on lies, innuendo, and years of smears, not one of which has been proven.
114
It's not the Hillary is being held to a too high standard; it's that she 's being held to an unrealistic and double standard.
41
I agree that Clinton should be given her due. But I don't agree that she's a "flawed" candidate. She is simply a candidate. What's a woman got to do to get a fair assessment? The media acts like if she's not ending world hunger and curing malaria while looking good and also entertaining us, then she's flawed and unsatisfactory. But Trump IS a flawed candidate, that much is clear. We could have Charlie Sheen run and get similar results. Tiger blood. Winning. Supermodels only. This is about me. But Clinton, how is she any more of a flawed candidate than McCain or Romney or Gore or Kerry? The media, and apparently the country, like simple, dumbed-down narratives. Two "flawed" candidates going at each other's throats in a showdown for the Oval Office. Clinton is a fine candidate. Look at her resume and credentials. She may be hated, but by Washington's standards, she's not flawed.
1262
'What's a woman got to do to get a fair assessment?'
Get elected, do a good job, get re-elected. That would certainly help the situation.
Since this country has never had a woman so close to the Oval Office before, expectations are extraordinarily high. And since this woman is Hillary Clinton, a victim of nearly 25 years of smears and lies, the bar is beyond what it would be for a man, or, perhaps, a different woman.
Get elected, do a good job, get re-elected. That would certainly help the situation.
Since this country has never had a woman so close to the Oval Office before, expectations are extraordinarily high. And since this woman is Hillary Clinton, a victim of nearly 25 years of smears and lies, the bar is beyond what it would be for a man, or, perhaps, a different woman.
66
Don't you know, Aaron? She is flawed because she is a smart, courageous woman who seeks the most powerful position in the world. Lucky for us that she doesn't let it stop her. She has my vote.
15
I strongly agree. Clinton is flawed only in the sense that all human beings are flawed -- she is very bright, incredibly hard-working, has a wealth of relevant experience, clearly knows and cares deeply about policy issues. Politically, she is to the right of me (I voted for Bernie in the primaries), but she is as good as presidential candidates get.
13
And this is why Donald Trump needs to not do ad buys. The media, both good and bad, are doing the work for him. He's "smart" to save his money. I know the NYTimes and WaPo do investigative work but what does that matter when CNN hires his old campaign manager and Fox gives him 25/7 coverage??
49
If the best Charles can conjure at this still-distant remove from 8 Nov. is that Trump’s unfavorability ratings are higher than Hillary’s … then he’s seriously reaching. Events may decide this election, rather than a month’s campaigning, and the damaging Trump U. matter apparently won’t be adjudicated before the election while we all await a decision from the FBI as to how many years they’re going to try to put Huma Abedin away as politically acceptable surrogate for Hillary herself. That is, unless Bill Clinton’s talk with AG Lynch was persuasive.
And Charles’s blithe assertion that they aren’t “equally flawed” candidates is balderdash. Hillary has a record of performance that goes back decades. It’s a serious question where to focus first and most intensively on highly questionable actions and outcomes over all that time, from the long litany of scandals since the nineties to the questionable Senate votes of the aughts to the disastrous state of the world propelled by U.S. foreign policy in the teens. I won’t go into Trump’s challenges – that’s YOUR job. But to suggest that their flaws aren’t equally evident is boobooyaga-nonsense. As to weight, let’s not forget that Hillary’s flaws affected America and the world.
Among those who conditionally support Trump, I’m among the first who gives Hillary her due: she is a formidable historical figure. That doesn’t mean that she’d make the best president at this point in our history, and that doesn’t mean that Trump wouldn’t.
And Charles’s blithe assertion that they aren’t “equally flawed” candidates is balderdash. Hillary has a record of performance that goes back decades. It’s a serious question where to focus first and most intensively on highly questionable actions and outcomes over all that time, from the long litany of scandals since the nineties to the questionable Senate votes of the aughts to the disastrous state of the world propelled by U.S. foreign policy in the teens. I won’t go into Trump’s challenges – that’s YOUR job. But to suggest that their flaws aren’t equally evident is boobooyaga-nonsense. As to weight, let’s not forget that Hillary’s flaws affected America and the world.
Among those who conditionally support Trump, I’m among the first who gives Hillary her due: she is a formidable historical figure. That doesn’t mean that she’d make the best president at this point in our history, and that doesn’t mean that Trump wouldn’t.
19
You really have to be a nihilist to support an obvious psychopath for president.
309
@ Richard Luettgen: Ah, Richard, "disastrous state of the world propelled by U.S. foreign policy in the teens." Who invaded Afghanistan and Iraq? Just asking.
254
soxaredwhatever:
And who voted for that Iraqi invasion?
Steve:
You really need to be tiresomely derivative to join the chorus of those who have nothing useful to say in argument other than to charge "nihilism".
And who voted for that Iraqi invasion?
Steve:
You really need to be tiresomely derivative to join the chorus of those who have nothing useful to say in argument other than to charge "nihilism".
13
Young voters are always idealistic, but this generation is even more so. They look at both candidates and see nothing but negatives. The Clintons can't operate without drama and intrigue - it seems to be in their DNA. She is always just barely escaping from one thicket or another and Bill just can't help himself.
Trump is everything that he has been called, but his base just calls for more.
If the young people sit out (and much is riding on the tone of the Democratic Convention and the eventual running mate selection) then we may have a Brexit redux here in the US. The national hangover from such a catastrophe will not be easily cured.
Trump is everything that he has been called, but his base just calls for more.
If the young people sit out (and much is riding on the tone of the Democratic Convention and the eventual running mate selection) then we may have a Brexit redux here in the US. The national hangover from such a catastrophe will not be easily cured.
40
This generation is the most naive since the US decreed itself "under God".
44
Not sure your making your generation proud by laying such a claim without any context. Tossing out words like naive often reads like someone who has long since sacrificed principle. It's true that the sausage making isn't pretty, but what's the point of it all if not to form a more perfect union?
6
I hold to the principle that allowing any faith-based legislation whatsoever is fundamentally divisive and attracts bad people to run for public offices.
9
Mr. Blow, there's something unique, itchy, to the Clintons that defies logic and clarity. June was, as you wrote, a very good month for the Madame Secretary.
With the nuclear events of Orlando and Brexit and Bangladesh and Turkey and Baghdad producing mushroom clouds of major importance, both here and abroad, Hillary Clinton does indeed present the *only* sane, rational and comforting option to the red-haired one. His rapturous, almost orgiastic response to Brexit at Turnberry proves he's always looking for an advantage, an angle, from which to profit.
On this brightening horizon for the Madame Secretary comes the blowing gale of her husband. For absolutely no reason that can be employed as reason's advocate, he decides, on the spur of the moment, to engage the Attorney General in meaningless conversation. Was he completely unaware that people would liken it to his videotaped handshake with "that woman" whom he claimed not to know? This cannonball may not have gone through his wife's hull but she's going to have to patch it; it's taken (and is taking) on water. If she's indicted, what then? Talk about something unpleasant in the punch bowl! Bernie Sanders is exhumed.
Trump has absolutely nothing going for him. His rumored running mate, Mike "Sing A Song Of Six" Pence, Indiana's governor, has national negatives after being on the wrong side of voting ID laws and same-sex legislation.
And the Clinton dynamic remains unchanged; the fires of suspicion go forever un-banked.
With the nuclear events of Orlando and Brexit and Bangladesh and Turkey and Baghdad producing mushroom clouds of major importance, both here and abroad, Hillary Clinton does indeed present the *only* sane, rational and comforting option to the red-haired one. His rapturous, almost orgiastic response to Brexit at Turnberry proves he's always looking for an advantage, an angle, from which to profit.
On this brightening horizon for the Madame Secretary comes the blowing gale of her husband. For absolutely no reason that can be employed as reason's advocate, he decides, on the spur of the moment, to engage the Attorney General in meaningless conversation. Was he completely unaware that people would liken it to his videotaped handshake with "that woman" whom he claimed not to know? This cannonball may not have gone through his wife's hull but she's going to have to patch it; it's taken (and is taking) on water. If she's indicted, what then? Talk about something unpleasant in the punch bowl! Bernie Sanders is exhumed.
Trump has absolutely nothing going for him. His rumored running mate, Mike "Sing A Song Of Six" Pence, Indiana's governor, has national negatives after being on the wrong side of voting ID laws and same-sex legislation.
And the Clinton dynamic remains unchanged; the fires of suspicion go forever un-banked.
33
The suspicion is a Republican dynamic. It has come up empty every time while enriching people like Ken Starr at vast public expense.
134
soxared040713, the "fires of suspicion" indeed "go forever unbanked." That's because suspicions enjoyed--and I do mean enjoyed--in lieu of facts are not likely to be let go.
44
It took 40 years to finally get John Gotti, the Teflon Don, too but he was never innocent just a really good criminal... as a matter of fact it always took decades to bring down crime bosses who were committing all manner of crime almost right out in the open but for some reason the government could never make anything stick no matter how many times they were picked up....Just like Hillary Clinton.
4