It's hard to wake up out here on the West Coast to the awesome thought that Trump and Pence may be voted into office. Hillary here I come with many others.
JGAIA
JGAIA
18
Pence, rhymes with fence, is as close as the Donald may come to the great wall.
10
I guess Trump felt he needed the 2 ton "Washington insider" anchor to steady his little paper boat rebellion. It is already looking soggy.
He isnt going anywhere with mishmash policy that hates on women, gay folks, minorities, and then bats its eyelashes at the David Duke and religious literalist crowds.
He isnt going anywhere with mishmash policy that hates on women, gay folks, minorities, and then bats its eyelashes at the David Duke and religious literalist crowds.
9
Trump's entire campaign has been a stage managed reality show. That is how he has done with without the donor money considered essential by conventional political analysis like this.
This Editorial says this is "a gesture to Republicans whose money he needs to win." That just repeats the assumption that Trump needs big donor money to win. Come on, is there anybody who doesn't hear about Trump constantly anyway? He doesn't need money for advertising. He doesn't do it that way. Catch up.
"having the Indiana governor on the ticket does little to convince a struggling middle class that Mr. Trump aims to force the party into its corner."
Trump started with the staggering middle class that feels alienated by conventional politics. That is the explanation Hillary was quoted as giving for the recent polls, that people are angry at things as they have been. Trump was challenged for that role by Bernie, and Trump came out owning it. Trump does not need to convince a struggling middle class of that, it is his own base. Foolish it may be, but also true.
What Trump needs is to rally the followers of the other 16 candidates, just like Hillary needs to rally Bernie's followers. That is the pre-Convention task. VP choice is a way to do that. Trump did.
The criticism of Trump in this Editorial for lack of real ideas is correct. Real understanding of the real situation is required to defeat him. That he needs donor money and to convince his own base is not seeing that reality.
This Editorial says this is "a gesture to Republicans whose money he needs to win." That just repeats the assumption that Trump needs big donor money to win. Come on, is there anybody who doesn't hear about Trump constantly anyway? He doesn't need money for advertising. He doesn't do it that way. Catch up.
"having the Indiana governor on the ticket does little to convince a struggling middle class that Mr. Trump aims to force the party into its corner."
Trump started with the staggering middle class that feels alienated by conventional politics. That is the explanation Hillary was quoted as giving for the recent polls, that people are angry at things as they have been. Trump was challenged for that role by Bernie, and Trump came out owning it. Trump does not need to convince a struggling middle class of that, it is his own base. Foolish it may be, but also true.
What Trump needs is to rally the followers of the other 16 candidates, just like Hillary needs to rally Bernie's followers. That is the pre-Convention task. VP choice is a way to do that. Trump did.
The criticism of Trump in this Editorial for lack of real ideas is correct. Real understanding of the real situation is required to defeat him. That he needs donor money and to convince his own base is not seeing that reality.
3
if Pence was selected to "secure the Republican base", what a colossal mistake... the base would never vote for Clinton and was always "secure"... what Trump needed was a running mate who would widen - not secure - his weird appeal and Pence does nothing to attract the Great Undecided to his side
8
When do we say, "Enough", to these hateful bigots who don't seem to be able to get it that their policies and outright lies are hurting the American people? They deny science, the rights of women and gays, basic financial understanding and lie to our faces while quoting the bible. Conservatives really can't do better than this ticket?
17
Yeaaaa!!!!! Another old white man who doesn't believe in women's rights or LGBT rights and thinks the earth is 6000 years old. Talk about progress. At this rate we could be back to the 50's in no time.
25
Isn't Trump just so good for the gays!?
NO.
NO.
6
As a white educated woman I'm impressed with the Trump/Pence ticket. Anything would be better than warmongering, crooked Hillary.
7
At least nooone's trying to talk about "Compassionate Conservatism" these days.
Nope; the oxymoron has gone. Only the morons remain.
Except they're not such morons. They're counting on the voters for that - if they're foolish enough. And they might just be.
Nope; the oxymoron has gone. Only the morons remain.
Except they're not such morons. They're counting on the voters for that - if they're foolish enough. And they might just be.
12
I don't how the GOP, the party of wealth and big business, got tangled up with true-believer Christians, but with Trump as President and Pence as V.P., the marriage made in hell is confirmed.
If hopefully, Trump-Pence loses, Trump can host one of his glitzy unreality shows called "Who's the Biggest Hypocrite?" This would give all those failed snake-oil salesman like Trump who do little but rip off people and all those grandstanding phony Christian GOP politicians a place to keep putting themselves in front of cameras and microphones to show off and promote wrongheaded ideas to wildly cheering and confused audiences.
If hopefully, Trump-Pence loses, Trump can host one of his glitzy unreality shows called "Who's the Biggest Hypocrite?" This would give all those failed snake-oil salesman like Trump who do little but rip off people and all those grandstanding phony Christian GOP politicians a place to keep putting themselves in front of cameras and microphones to show off and promote wrongheaded ideas to wildly cheering and confused audiences.
7
I am really kind of disappointed. Trump promised to turn himself into a prince and save us all. With his choice of Pence the fairy tale is over and we are left with two toads and Hilary.
8
Let's see if this guy makes it past the Convention. One thing the Donald has conclusively established is his pugnacious volatility and razor thin skin. I don't foresee him suddenly becoming the bastion of sweet reason it would take to get along with a rock ribbed religious throwback to 1950. More likely most everything Mike Pence does or says will immediately get under his skin, while the irritation rapidly builds. And then.....Mount Donald erupts!! Stay tuned!!!
5
Trump's speaking as I type. He's spozed to be introducing Mike Pence; instead, of course, he's ranting about Clinton ("she led Obama down a dark path for four years") and making stuff up as he goes. It'll be hilarious watching him try to explain away Pence's loud cheering for the Iraq War, given his own lying about the topic. Oh, now he's on to lying about refugees.
But it won't be as funny as watching him and Pence discuss Planned Parenthood, given Pence's embrace of Christian sharia. And given their oddish notions about women...check out the campaign in which Indiana women asked their Governor just how much he needed to know about their menstrual flow.
What won't be funny is seeing a far-right fundamentalist and a wealthy loon run around loose for the next few months.
(Oh, now Trump's repeating his typical lies about taxes, and how he'll put all the coal miners back to work. About the nineteenth topic in the last five minutes.)
(Oh, and now he's bragging about how well he's doing with the evangelicals, and how he'll get the shabby little "religious freedom" act passed, and make sure that the IRS has to allow every political org run by religious fanatics get a tax exemption.)
But it won't be as funny as watching him and Pence discuss Planned Parenthood, given Pence's embrace of Christian sharia. And given their oddish notions about women...check out the campaign in which Indiana women asked their Governor just how much he needed to know about their menstrual flow.
What won't be funny is seeing a far-right fundamentalist and a wealthy loon run around loose for the next few months.
(Oh, now Trump's repeating his typical lies about taxes, and how he'll put all the coal miners back to work. About the nineteenth topic in the last five minutes.)
(Oh, and now he's bragging about how well he's doing with the evangelicals, and how he'll get the shabby little "religious freedom" act passed, and make sure that the IRS has to allow every political org run by religious fanatics get a tax exemption.)
14
Pence and Trump deserve one another.
4
The problem is that we don't deserve them.
21
You just don't get it. A bit more thinking like yours and the TRUMP name will be on a new marquee on the white house.
Let's just take the Carrier issue. Well paid "intellectuals" in our think tanks have read only the first half of the books on international trade: the gains from trade. They have wittingly ignored the second half: factor price equalization. They are as well devoid of any pragmatic inclination, oblivious to the US Carrier workers and the millions who came before them. Carrier execs will reap the benefit: manufacturing at Mexican prices and selling at US prices.
Go ahead. Laugh at Trump. If you don't take his message more seriously he'll be laughing all the way to the white house.
Let's just take the Carrier issue. Well paid "intellectuals" in our think tanks have read only the first half of the books on international trade: the gains from trade. They have wittingly ignored the second half: factor price equalization. They are as well devoid of any pragmatic inclination, oblivious to the US Carrier workers and the millions who came before them. Carrier execs will reap the benefit: manufacturing at Mexican prices and selling at US prices.
Go ahead. Laugh at Trump. If you don't take his message more seriously he'll be laughing all the way to the white house.
1
Governor Pence may have been a bad choice simply because he has also had difficulty with the ethics of politics. https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/mike-pence-used-campaign-funds-t...
In 1990 it was not illegal to use campaign funds for paying your mortgage and non-campaign expenses, the people of Indiana did not think highly of him after the scandal broke.
Maybe there were a paucity of Republicans who were willing to join the Trump effort but there were plenty of GOP public servants who have stellar credentials.
I don't think Mr. Trumps VP search committee made much of an effort or consulted with the experienced members of the Republican Party. All things considered a person who thinks global warming is a hoax and without military experience probably is not complementary to the Trump campaign.
Sometimes people forget that the VP is the President of the Senate and is very important as a tie breaker. Thinking a little into the future, I think it is reasonable that the Senate majority will return to the Democrats and just think about the very tough votes where the tiebreaker will be used.
We will have to deal with global warming simply because Nature is the final say in human affairs. Some of our very important military bases and power plants will be underwater, more times and the Congress will respond. They always do. Think Katrina on a regular basis.
In 1990 it was not illegal to use campaign funds for paying your mortgage and non-campaign expenses, the people of Indiana did not think highly of him after the scandal broke.
Maybe there were a paucity of Republicans who were willing to join the Trump effort but there were plenty of GOP public servants who have stellar credentials.
I don't think Mr. Trumps VP search committee made much of an effort or consulted with the experienced members of the Republican Party. All things considered a person who thinks global warming is a hoax and without military experience probably is not complementary to the Trump campaign.
Sometimes people forget that the VP is the President of the Senate and is very important as a tie breaker. Thinking a little into the future, I think it is reasonable that the Senate majority will return to the Democrats and just think about the very tough votes where the tiebreaker will be used.
We will have to deal with global warming simply because Nature is the final say in human affairs. Some of our very important military bases and power plants will be underwater, more times and the Congress will respond. They always do. Think Katrina on a regular basis.
2
With this news Hillary Clinton could choose anyone she fancies who will beat Pence in all the VP debate. Perhaps it will be Tim Kaine now..who is great and is bilingual or perhaps multi lingual to surprise us.
6
Mike Pence- A career politician who is the ultimate Washington insider. Bought and paid for by big tobacco and the Koch brothers. Sarah Palin without the charm. He certainly gives lie to Demagogue Don the Con's boast to get the smartest people.
4
Mike, pence for your thoughts? They have repeatedly been focused on limiting women's and minority rights and dignity in your state. How ironic and inconvenient that the opposing Democratic ticket will be led by a female!
6
It was Pence's Indiana where a woman got 20 years in prison for a miscarriage. Any woman who votes for the Trump/Pence ticket needs to have her head examined. Any man who supports equality for women, gays, people of color, who votes for Trump/Pence needs to have his head examined. Let's be very clear about who Pence is and why Trump picked him. It is Trump's nod to right wing extremism.
18
The ticket ain't worth a trumpence.
4
I can see why Newt and Christie wanted the job of VP. There is not much left for them. Most republicans stopped listening to Gingrich and Christie's career is about over (this being next to the final nail if not the final nail in Christie's political coffin).
But Pence has been promised something more than just a ride along because running with Trump is political suicide if Trump does not win. On the other hand maybe Pence thinks that he could someday (sooner or later) be president.
I can only hope that the November elections bring the end to both of their horrendous political careers.
But Pence has been promised something more than just a ride along because running with Trump is political suicide if Trump does not win. On the other hand maybe Pence thinks that he could someday (sooner or later) be president.
I can only hope that the November elections bring the end to both of their horrendous political careers.
9
The choice of Pence is the nail in the coffin of Trump supporters' insistence that their man is somehow different than any other politician, and it should also signal that his populist, outsider image was only smoke and mirrors. His choice of Pence is, on the one hand a clear indication that he wants to grab as much Koch brothers cash as he can get his hands on (in spite of his pledge to self-fund and thereby remain his own man), and on the other hand shameless pandering to the religious conservative community. Pence is also a man that is no match for Trump's bombast and bullying, who will remain firmly in the background, while Trump attempts to exploit Pence's conservative credentials. Trump's choice of an entrenched member of the political establishment has proven that, contrary to his supporters' ardent beliefs, he does represent the status quo and there is nothing new in what he offers. With Pence by his side, Trump has successfully made himself over into a mainstream candidate, and those that support the two of them will once again find themselves left behind.
6
Mike Pence, bastion of foreign policy and national security experience. Oh, wait. What?
7
The reality is that Donald Trump left 16 Republican primary caucus opponents floundering and drowning in his crushing cruising tsunami wake. The truth is that the Republicans control both houses of the U.S. Congress, four Supreme Court justices along with a majority of state executive governor mansions and legislatures.
Not since the liberal progressive Democrats laughed at the Republican nomination of the ancient amiable actor Ronald Reagan as their POTUS nominee have the liberal progressives been buried in such delusional denial of reality.
Reagan was blessed by Ted Kennedy's divisive fight against Jimmy Carter for the nomination into winning a transformational generational monumental landslide conservative political victory. Bernie Sanders showed that Empress Hillary Clinton is not clothed with any honorable truthful principled socioeconomic political policies and practices. Hillary tripped and fell on the way to her last coronation.
Hopefully, the "reality show" winner will be known come November 9, 2016.
Or will the Supreme Court of the United States get to decide who is POTUS once again? With only eight justices that could prove to be really tricky.
Not since the liberal progressive Democrats laughed at the Republican nomination of the ancient amiable actor Ronald Reagan as their POTUS nominee have the liberal progressives been buried in such delusional denial of reality.
Reagan was blessed by Ted Kennedy's divisive fight against Jimmy Carter for the nomination into winning a transformational generational monumental landslide conservative political victory. Bernie Sanders showed that Empress Hillary Clinton is not clothed with any honorable truthful principled socioeconomic political policies and practices. Hillary tripped and fell on the way to her last coronation.
Hopefully, the "reality show" winner will be known come November 9, 2016.
Or will the Supreme Court of the United States get to decide who is POTUS once again? With only eight justices that could prove to be really tricky.
3
Let's face it - none of the current Republicans bigwigs wanted the running mate job so it had to go to a loser like Pence. He does and says what the RNC tells him to do and say so may appease a few Evangelicals but in reality if Trump wins in November, Pence will be just an afterthought, a modern day Dan Quayle.
3
Pence is going to be the new Palin. His positions are isolated to but a narrow segment of the American society...which regretfully tend to come and vote in larger numbers, in more key states then the rest.
IF the GOP wanted to trump Trump, they should have come up with a plan so that not even the least among them showed any signs of wanting to be Trumps VP pick. But there are always the guys, and in the GOP its always the guys, who seek power and position by any means possible. Which is what we have with Pence. His lust for higher office is known, but he fails to recognize that losing VP picks (except FDR) never go on to win a presidential election.
Pence is going to shine as the newest Palin in the GOP corral. He just lacks that "personality" of dopiness and silliness that Palin has...so people might not notice as fast...letting the ticket to gain a few yards.
But Trump will do what Trump does, and that will be the downturn of the ticket. He will whine and b/tch, and be crass, and always vulgar. He will continue to flip-flop, even on his schedule, and Pence will find himself having to "explain" his boss more then do any real campaigning.
Either the Trump-Pence ticket will sett-off the implosion of the GOP - or it will simply scatter the party to the four directions.
IF the GOP wanted to trump Trump, they should have come up with a plan so that not even the least among them showed any signs of wanting to be Trumps VP pick. But there are always the guys, and in the GOP its always the guys, who seek power and position by any means possible. Which is what we have with Pence. His lust for higher office is known, but he fails to recognize that losing VP picks (except FDR) never go on to win a presidential election.
Pence is going to shine as the newest Palin in the GOP corral. He just lacks that "personality" of dopiness and silliness that Palin has...so people might not notice as fast...letting the ticket to gain a few yards.
But Trump will do what Trump does, and that will be the downturn of the ticket. He will whine and b/tch, and be crass, and always vulgar. He will continue to flip-flop, even on his schedule, and Pence will find himself having to "explain" his boss more then do any real campaigning.
Either the Trump-Pence ticket will sett-off the implosion of the GOP - or it will simply scatter the party to the four directions.
4
The only "Political Reality Show" that should concern Americans at this point, is what happens if Trump is elected -- and then for some reason or the other, is unable to fulfill his duties in the Office???
Now. Look at what kind of Vice President we will have to contend with.
A Christian conservative (in that order, by Mr. Pence's own self-admission), who is anti-technology, anti-gay, anti-abortion -- the list continues.
This is what this country will have at its head, and ostensibly as part of a Republican stronghold on the Congress, and Supreme Court.
It doesn't get any more "real" than that.
Now. Look at what kind of Vice President we will have to contend with.
A Christian conservative (in that order, by Mr. Pence's own self-admission), who is anti-technology, anti-gay, anti-abortion -- the list continues.
This is what this country will have at its head, and ostensibly as part of a Republican stronghold on the Congress, and Supreme Court.
It doesn't get any more "real" than that.
7
Reality show?
More like a freak show.
More like a freak show.
4
Pence doesn't make sense to me and I think it sinks Trump's bid for the presidency. Trump's VP pick was the chance for him to signal to women, minorities, and so on, in a non-rhetorical way, that he is for them, that he has respect for them.
Trump deserves all the credit in the world for boldly and brilliantly seizing the moment. However, I think his strategic ability was not equal to his ambition.
I won't vote Trump (or Hillary for that matter) in the election, as I see neither as representing my interests.
Trump deserves all the credit in the world for boldly and brilliantly seizing the moment. However, I think his strategic ability was not equal to his ambition.
I won't vote Trump (or Hillary for that matter) in the election, as I see neither as representing my interests.
1
Oh, c'mon! When HRC trots out Harry Reid or similar, you editorial folk will be cheering (in a refined manner, of course). Its still the worst two "top of the ticket" candidates in the history of the Republic. There is little practical choice, it seems ,other than to hold your nose, check a box and feed the scanner. Or opt out. How sad!!
1
George W. Bush would take the prize for the worst top of the ticket -- which was proven by his presidency.
7
Only Republicans say that, that's why we Democrats will win in Nov
4
Liin' Trump and liin' Pence!
1
Anti-labor, anti-choice, anti-reality!
Vote Hillary!
Vote Hillary!
9
Isn't it telling when the presumptive nominee is sooo weak on well anything but especially experience in a democracy that they have to bring in this guy Pence for gravitas
4
Gov Pence is a Good and honorable Man. A contrast to Hillary and her pattern of deceit. We will be in good hands. The world does not revolve around conjured up gay oppression and the right to kill an unborn child. This bogeyman will not work this time.
2
Pence is not a bogeyman. The bogeyman is scary for what he might do to you if he is real and if he gets you. Pence, however, is real. Has attacked freedom, choice and equality. Terrance and Phillip (TP) deserve to be feared.
4
Mike Pence a good and honorable man:
1. Smoking doesn't cause cancer so keep smoking
2. Bans IV needle exchanges. He didn't heed the evidence resulting in an explosion of HIV in the state.
3. Carrier decides to leave the state, and he's focused on limiting rights of LGBT citizens.
4. A soul mate for Demagogue Don the Con since he lies about most issues. ( check politifact.com)
We don't need this "good and honorable man"
1. Smoking doesn't cause cancer so keep smoking
2. Bans IV needle exchanges. He didn't heed the evidence resulting in an explosion of HIV in the state.
3. Carrier decides to leave the state, and he's focused on limiting rights of LGBT citizens.
4. A soul mate for Demagogue Don the Con since he lies about most issues. ( check politifact.com)
We don't need this "good and honorable man"
9
Said by a straight man, you know a straight man who can walk down the street holding the had of the person he loves without reprisal, we've not had that opportunity without fear of being bashed, you know a straight man who can go to work and talk about the person he loves without fear of being fired, you know a straight man who can talk about his life his relationship and be lauded on what a great role model he is, we've been told to sit down be quiet and stop making people (bigots, haters, fake religious Christians) uncomfortable. No, the sea change in America is NOW the BIGOT is told to sit down, now the HATER is told he's wrong. Thank God for America.
7
So glad Mike Pence will no longer be the Indiana governor, and will likely be back-filled by a Democrat.
As a proud Indiana University-Bloomington alumnus (class of 1977), I was afraid Pence would start to de-fund that great institution, as Scott Walker has begun to do with the University of Wisconsin.
Now it will be fun to see how shabbily Trump treats Pence over the next few months. More fun will be to see them go down in flames on election day.
As a proud Indiana University-Bloomington alumnus (class of 1977), I was afraid Pence would start to de-fund that great institution, as Scott Walker has begun to do with the University of Wisconsin.
Now it will be fun to see how shabbily Trump treats Pence over the next few months. More fun will be to see them go down in flames on election day.
8
The Trump-Pence ticket gives new meaning to the saying, “Politics makes strange bedfellows.” Trump is a conviction-less politician, who has favored both sides of many issues including taxes, trade, immigration, healthcare, abortion, LGBT issues, et al. throughout his adult life. Pence is a die-hard conservative ideologue, whose extreme positions on social and economic issues put him in the unfortunate position of likely defeat for reelection as governor, even in a conservative red state like Indiana.
Pence may not upstage Trump during the fall campaign, but they are so far apart on so many issues that the campaign is going to be walking on eggshells through election day with their fingers crossed.
Pence may not upstage Trump during the fall campaign, but they are so far apart on so many issues that the campaign is going to be walking on eggshells through election day with their fingers crossed.
3
Let's not overlook the Republican candidate's new logo, which graphically represents that concept that "Trump taps Pence" to be his running mate. What a buffoon!
4
Enough better educated, well off voters are closet racists to give this ticket a victory given the weakness of the opposition. I can't see why the Republicans are worried
I began reading the Times during college in the 1960s.This once great newspaper now reminds me of the National Enquirer.The editors obviously dislike Pence;but the use of the adjectives "ethically compromised,thrice married,politically damaged,talkative,bewildering" made me laugh.Other than the "thrice married" term,the remaining adjectives also apply to Hillary Clinton.How can the Times Editors still endorse Hillary after the scathing commentary from James Comey and Hillary's latest legal maneuver to avoid being deposed on her e mail scandal.
I have always felt, even from this distant vantage point that Donald Trump would betray those who supported him if elected. Now it is coming to pass. It certainly seems to me that the Trump campaign is in the midst of a slow but unrelenting coup d’etat engineered by the very establishment Republicans (its movers and shakers, power brokers, opinion leaders, fundraisers, major donors and their candidates that Trump had thought he had defeated and who would like to send Donald Trump to Pluto.) First came one Paul Manafort who eased into the campaign innocuously enough only to quickly rise to the undisputed campaign boss under the candidate. Then came the list of potential Supreme Court nominees, none of whom I am certain Donald Trump ever heard of or whose views he would agree with, but that he nevertheless announced would form the group he would draw from when a vacancy on the Supreme Court materialized. Now comes Governor Pence, the ideological, physical, religious, cultural and money driven embodiment of what the Republican Party has evolved into. The coup will continue to metastasize into a Trump Administration should he win leaving Trump surrounded by the acolytes of the very people he thought he had defeated and pondering the profound differences between managing a business and governing a nation.
4
Yes, "the Don" has picked his right-hand yes man - until he decides he doesn't like him. Then he's toast. Wise Americans will pay attention to the dictator in Turkey, who is trying to change their constitution to take over power and replace secularism with radical islam. He's supposedly a strong man - a man's man. Just like DT. Beware America. Mr. Pence's white hair hides a terrible religious-coup-attempt truth.
9
Downplay Trump all you want but he has already helped the American people by pointing out the corruption in the Primary voting process. You may not like his style but I'll talk the League of Women Voters process anytime.
Isn't it the job of the Press to point out the corruption in the Primary Process?
Score one for Trump the "superdelegate"
Isn't it the job of the Press to point out the corruption in the Primary Process?
Score one for Trump the "superdelegate"
1
To whom but the incorrigibly superstitious would Pence be acceptable? However, in a country that buys Trumps' nonsense nothing is predictable. We may have to get used to the VP Pence reality. Can we say about that what we say about terrorism, that we must learn to live with it? At least we can find a spot in America where terrorism is less likely. TrumPencism would permeate every nook and cranny.
3
Their new logo is at least good for a laugh. Ah, TP. That's what I put on my shopping list in order to avoid having to write "toilet paper."
9
Pence will not help Trump in "swing states", and he will not help Trump convince undecided voters to support the ticket. He is the final straw for anyone even remotely considering voting for trump. They are now,and will continue until November, running for their lives. Trump is preaching to the choir...hoping that some have nodded off.
5
A homophobe's snowball's chance in hell.
5
Pence against women's rights and their absolute control and command of their own bodies, http://www.slate.com/blogs/xx_factor/2016/07/14/mike_pence_fits_right_in...
That alone is enough to work fiercely against The Rump and his chosen VP.
That alone is enough to work fiercely against The Rump and his chosen VP.
8
A political reality show and how much did it costs? How much has Hillary directly or indirectly paid for her campaign?
Americans are beginning to understand how greed and corruption is a big part of the presidential campaign process and is why Hillary with the biggest political party and Wall Street money behind her Is losing ground to Trump who is now dead even with her.
In 2008 when Hillary and Obama were running neck and neck, they had a secret meeting in Washington with, the Bilderbergers. 2-days later, she resigned ending up as Secretary of State.
The media kept the meeting mum, save for an Associated Press report on the campaign trail saying that, "reporters traveling with Obama sensed something might be happening between the pair (i.e. Obama and Hillary) when they arrived at Dulles International Airport after an event in Northern Virginia and Obama was not aboard the airplane. Asked at the time about the Illinois Senator's whereabouts, Obama spokesman Robert Gibbs smiled and declined to comment." (The AP dispatch “Obama and Clinton meet, discuss uniting Democrats” is, strangely, “no longer available” on their website).
An investigation revealed at least 181 Clinton Foundation donors lobbied the State Department while Hillary Clinton served as secretary of state.
For those who are not brain-dead, there should be little doubt we should throw them out, throw them all out.
Americans are beginning to understand how greed and corruption is a big part of the presidential campaign process and is why Hillary with the biggest political party and Wall Street money behind her Is losing ground to Trump who is now dead even with her.
In 2008 when Hillary and Obama were running neck and neck, they had a secret meeting in Washington with, the Bilderbergers. 2-days later, she resigned ending up as Secretary of State.
The media kept the meeting mum, save for an Associated Press report on the campaign trail saying that, "reporters traveling with Obama sensed something might be happening between the pair (i.e. Obama and Hillary) when they arrived at Dulles International Airport after an event in Northern Virginia and Obama was not aboard the airplane. Asked at the time about the Illinois Senator's whereabouts, Obama spokesman Robert Gibbs smiled and declined to comment." (The AP dispatch “Obama and Clinton meet, discuss uniting Democrats” is, strangely, “no longer available” on their website).
An investigation revealed at least 181 Clinton Foundation donors lobbied the State Department while Hillary Clinton served as secretary of state.
For those who are not brain-dead, there should be little doubt we should throw them out, throw them all out.
1
Cut and paste, cut and paste. Seriously. this is the same old meme from the far, far far right. You forgot Vince Foster. But then we always have the Donald for pure entertainment. I wonder if he will intro the video on Bill' s misbehavior. Maybe Newt will.
7
So your choice is Deadbeat Donald and the religious fanatic? Get serious. Also, your confidence in "Rule by the Bilderbergers" is a pure fantasy. Give us some facts, not suppositions.
6
Pence has a purpose. He brings in a lot religious conservatives. He will still be a vice president and as such, not much power. He does have experience in congress and as the executive in the state's political makeup as governor. He understand how governments work Trump will need help and guidance with the mechanics of governing, especially with a divided and in some cases, hostile senate and house. He doesn't own the majority of shares. He is a business person. He knows negotiation an compromise are needed in making a deal. So he will know when to hold the line and when to bend. He knows that the court had authority concerning such things as abortion and gay rights. So he wont waste a lot of time on agendas he knows he can't change and more time on things like the economy and trade. We will see. None of this speculation means anything if he loses.
2
If the thought of Trump as president leaves one envisioning a tumultuous time in our country, imagine when his sidekick Pence, after Trump finds out he. like all other presidents before him is not a Supreme Ruler, packs it in and heads back to his gold-plated penthouse in Manhattan. We will be left with an equally unsuited president, incapable of governing a country which has long left the backward-thinking backwoods of Indiana and moved into the Twenty-First century.
Trump and TrumpUpPence, both none the wiser.
DD
Manhattan
Trump and TrumpUpPence, both none the wiser.
DD
Manhattan
9
Don the Con, who can't afford to fund his own campaign as he claimed, needs money from the Koch brothers and friends. He is bought and paid for, just what he said of Jeb Bush. At least Bush was knowledgeable, capable and had government experience. Now that Don has shown his true colors, perhaps the Repubs can back track and run the primaries all over again.
10
Why Pence accepted:
(1) His gubernatorial chances aren't great in the Fall.
(2) The Media is billing him as the ticket Savior so even if Trump loses he comes out smelling like a rose.
(3) No one really knows who he is but after the election they will.
(4) Vaults the conservative crazies to control of the party after Trump loses --- and he is going to lose.
(5) Keeps the big money in line for 2020.
(6) Here's there to act as the "Big Shhhhh" to the religious right and Cruz conservatives every time Mr. Tump goes off the rails.
In short, Pence has everything to gain from the VP slot and nothing to lose.
His acceptance is as cynical and empty as everything else in the Trump campaign.
(1) His gubernatorial chances aren't great in the Fall.
(2) The Media is billing him as the ticket Savior so even if Trump loses he comes out smelling like a rose.
(3) No one really knows who he is but after the election they will.
(4) Vaults the conservative crazies to control of the party after Trump loses --- and he is going to lose.
(5) Keeps the big money in line for 2020.
(6) Here's there to act as the "Big Shhhhh" to the religious right and Cruz conservatives every time Mr. Tump goes off the rails.
In short, Pence has everything to gain from the VP slot and nothing to lose.
His acceptance is as cynical and empty as everything else in the Trump campaign.
4
Putin has just invaded Poland.
TrumPence are in the situation room. But wait!
Where's Ivanka? Where's the Donald, Jr.? Where's Barron?
Can't decide til they get here. In the meantime, let's play that virtual, unreality video game Pokeman Go Don't Go. It'll sharpen our skills . . . .
TrumPence are in the situation room. But wait!
Where's Ivanka? Where's the Donald, Jr.? Where's Barron?
Can't decide til they get here. In the meantime, let's play that virtual, unreality video game Pokeman Go Don't Go. It'll sharpen our skills . . . .
6
"Mr. Trump has never forgotten or forsaken the people who work with their hands". Ha! Republicans and Fox have a long history of saying things "to make them true".
Or perhaps they use their own dictionary...
Or perhaps they use their own dictionary...
4
@therealdonaldtrump doesn't even want to be president, people, he's saying and doing everything a president would be loathe to say or do.... Now he picks a guy who lives by the Judeo-Christian version of shariah law... The kind Ted Cruz believes in.... I foresee a coup at the convention... Cruz is now set up perfectly - the platform is his and this is his vp.... Just a prediction of the coming clown car show in Cleveland
4
i'm surprised that a man so ostentatiously dedicated to the trappings of wealth picked a running mate named "Pence." Couldn't he find a "Pounds" or "Dollars?"
Forgive me, I just couldn't resist a cheap shot.
Forgive me, I just couldn't resist a cheap shot.
5
Please, please Hillary, pick E. Warren now, the debate between Pence and Warren would be the most watched debate in history. I know this is being selfish, but, watching Senator take Pence apart, fact by fact, would be precious. Oh, and all those one-liners she would insert about smoking, evolution, bathrooms, what a night.
10
Pence is just another huckster, using religion to further his ambitions and to make money. He ought to fit in well, with recently, Dobson approved, born again Trump. Yep, i am rolling on the floor!!
3
"Mr. Trump does not offer any real policies" for anything, and that is the crux.
He offers empty slogans with often unfinished sentences in grammatically faulty word salads like a 3rd grader, while insisting that he is the only tough Alpha male who can Make America Great Again and Whiter as well.
Il Trumpolini, the one that frequently addresses himself in the third person is all about himself.
Now our dear Republicans ended up with a fascist running for president and a running mate that want's to base the country law's on his holy book.
What can possibly go wrong with that combination?
He offers empty slogans with often unfinished sentences in grammatically faulty word salads like a 3rd grader, while insisting that he is the only tough Alpha male who can Make America Great Again and Whiter as well.
Il Trumpolini, the one that frequently addresses himself in the third person is all about himself.
Now our dear Republicans ended up with a fascist running for president and a running mate that want's to base the country law's on his holy book.
What can possibly go wrong with that combination?
8
Pence is already out there misstating the facts, or less politely, lying.
This morning he is reported to have taken President Obama to task for removing troops from Iraq in 2011.
Evidently, Pence is not aware, or ignores, the fact that George W. Bush signed an agreement with the Iraqis that American troops would leave be the end of 2011 because the Iraqis were unwilling to give American troops a guarantee that they would not be prosecuted under Iraqi Law for acts committed in Iraq.
President Obama was required to remove the troops under the agreement negotiated by President Bush. Pence is accusing President Obama of doing a TERRIBLE thing ... obeying the law.
I guess we have another 4 months of such nonsense to listen to and to rebut, EVERY SINGLE TIME.
As I said, Pence is a liar.
This morning he is reported to have taken President Obama to task for removing troops from Iraq in 2011.
Evidently, Pence is not aware, or ignores, the fact that George W. Bush signed an agreement with the Iraqis that American troops would leave be the end of 2011 because the Iraqis were unwilling to give American troops a guarantee that they would not be prosecuted under Iraqi Law for acts committed in Iraq.
President Obama was required to remove the troops under the agreement negotiated by President Bush. Pence is accusing President Obama of doing a TERRIBLE thing ... obeying the law.
I guess we have another 4 months of such nonsense to listen to and to rebut, EVERY SINGLE TIME.
As I said, Pence is a liar.
13
Perhaps Justice Ginsberg was onto something.
Unfortunately, there doesn't seem to be any bargains to be had in the New Zealand housing market.
http://www.realestate.co.nz/residential
Unfortunately, there doesn't seem to be any bargains to be had in the New Zealand housing market.
http://www.realestate.co.nz/residential
3
Why did this apparently milquetoast guy have his papers from his years in Congress sealed until 2022? Perhaps I'm ill-informed, but this isn't standard practice for former members is it?
5
A team for women voters? I think not.
7
One of our daughters lives in Indiana, and she is thrilled Pence was chosen V.P. because if Trump wins, Pence will be out of IN (the V.P. does not have much power, she reasons), and according to IN law, once he accepted the V.P. position, he became ineligible to run for governor of Indiana in 2016.
Basically, Pence's governorship has few successes & demonstrated he is strongly in the Koch brothers camp, similar to Scott (WI) and Brownback (KS). Under Pence, quality of life in Indiana "plummeted to 46th in the nation, the state’s workforce ranks 42nd."
Pence has been no friend, but an enemy to: the working class, education, infrastructure, women, and gays. "IN workers now do more work for less," &. Pence "declined an $80 million grant that would have established a statewide Pre-K system." The state has a D+ rating in infrastructure. Under his watch, 2 interstate bridges were closed, and "the Indiana Department of Transportation used $71 million in faulty asphalt." http://www.indems.org/mike-pence-to-run-on-record-really/
Pence is also no friend to tolerance and humanity. He is an ideological Christian determined to superimpose his religious beliefs on others & the state. After signing his Religious Freedom Restoration Act that essentially allowed businesses to discriminate against LGBT people, the business community protested loudly, and Pence backed down.
I hope people realize on election day that two negatives like Trump and Pence do not make a positive.
Basically, Pence's governorship has few successes & demonstrated he is strongly in the Koch brothers camp, similar to Scott (WI) and Brownback (KS). Under Pence, quality of life in Indiana "plummeted to 46th in the nation, the state’s workforce ranks 42nd."
Pence has been no friend, but an enemy to: the working class, education, infrastructure, women, and gays. "IN workers now do more work for less," &. Pence "declined an $80 million grant that would have established a statewide Pre-K system." The state has a D+ rating in infrastructure. Under his watch, 2 interstate bridges were closed, and "the Indiana Department of Transportation used $71 million in faulty asphalt." http://www.indems.org/mike-pence-to-run-on-record-really/
Pence is also no friend to tolerance and humanity. He is an ideological Christian determined to superimpose his religious beliefs on others & the state. After signing his Religious Freedom Restoration Act that essentially allowed businesses to discriminate against LGBT people, the business community protested loudly, and Pence backed down.
I hope people realize on election day that two negatives like Trump and Pence do not make a positive.
12
What a stupid choice; Pence is the enemy. Trump should have picked Pat Buchanan.
3
An autocrat and a theocrat. If elected, get ready for repression with divine warrant.
8
I must say their new logo says it all, especially the .gif format. Could this not get more surreal? Evidently Trump's children vetted this guy which says volumes about who is in control the Donald.
5
So, according to you guys, our choice is a circus performer or lyin' HRC.
Mike Pense is the same conservative that Trump belittled with insulting one-word-high school-name tags during the Republican Primary. I suppose I should not be surprised. Trump now has the perfect image to trot out to prove he will Make America White Again.
3
Two extremes running together I can just see Pence shouting at Trump about his divorces and daughters belly button showing while support a war based on the Illegal actions in Iraq starting in 2003.
Bush and Cheney are amateurs compared to these two monsters. If there ever was a reason for democrats to unite this is it. I shutter to imagine these two in charge of our country.
4
Pence who?
1
How can I opt out of TrumpPence reality show? I can't change the channel!
Lets hope the citizens choose a better channel in November for the real show that follows that will affect all of us.
Lets hope the citizens choose a better channel in November for the real show that follows that will affect all of us.
2
There is really no need to get misty
O'er the sad fate of Governor Christie.
Had he avoided the fridge,
And the Washington Bridge,
He might have made the A-listy
O'er the sad fate of Governor Christie.
Had he avoided the fridge,
And the Washington Bridge,
He might have made the A-listy
6
Well, if Trump should win Pence is just one step away from being president. I often wonder why anyone other than a white male straight christian would vote for the GOP, this is one more reason not too.
7
Mr. Spence will be a heart beat away from becoming president. In gun happy USA bad choice for Mr. Trump. Now there are no supporters that are not offended. Goes to show his children are not good choice makers. The apple(s) don't fall far from the tree. Mr. Spence will join the ranks of Palin. Trump just sank his election.
If there were ever two people who deserved each other...
3
Great running mate with Trump to balance the ticket. It is still America and anyone can select who they choose. If you want to see "political reality" wait for Hillary's choice.
Trump had a lot of options when it came to his VP choice. He chose Pence. Good for him and good for the ticket. This paper would have found fault with whoever he chose.
Clinton, on the other hand, has only one option and it's a narrow one. Choose the biggest masochist in DC. After all, who else would want to work for and report to her?
Next topic please
Clinton, on the other hand, has only one option and it's a narrow one. Choose the biggest masochist in DC. After all, who else would want to work for and report to her?
Next topic please
Come back on November 9, 2016 and see Madame President smiling.
4
Not a drop of foreign policy experience between them. Scary.
7
Indiana values aren't American values....
8
Trump's key promise - that he wasn't connected and beholden to the established powers that be - flies out the window.
But everyone who voted for him, because he is independent, a truth teller, self-funding, will fail to notice that none of this is actually true, and vote for him anyway.
I'd say we get what we deserve, but you know what? I don't deserve it.I never did anything that bad in my life. And my kids sure as sure don't deserve it either.
Hillary 2016 for God's sake.
But everyone who voted for him, because he is independent, a truth teller, self-funding, will fail to notice that none of this is actually true, and vote for him anyway.
I'd say we get what we deserve, but you know what? I don't deserve it.I never did anything that bad in my life. And my kids sure as sure don't deserve it either.
Hillary 2016 for God's sake.
12
I'm LOVING it!
Having Mr. Spence (Wasn't he a Colonel in the Confederate States of America?) on the ticket might help ensure a total collapse of the GOP/TP/KOCH AFFILIATE this November.
This so-called "Conservative" bunch has been gumming up the works for the last two years with fiscal cliffs, sequesters and government shutdowns the norm (Like screaming little 4 year old's not getting their way).
I look forward to the convention/riots where this greedy bunch will pat itself on the back, ensure zillions are spent on Clinton attack ads and shakedown as much cash from donors as possible (The Democrats will do the same the following week though attacking the Trump/Spence "clown car" will be a lot easier).
Then it's just three more months of this lunacy until the voters actually can hold their noses and make their choices, the few that will actually vote.
Democracy; hey, at least it's amusing!
Having Mr. Spence (Wasn't he a Colonel in the Confederate States of America?) on the ticket might help ensure a total collapse of the GOP/TP/KOCH AFFILIATE this November.
This so-called "Conservative" bunch has been gumming up the works for the last two years with fiscal cliffs, sequesters and government shutdowns the norm (Like screaming little 4 year old's not getting their way).
I look forward to the convention/riots where this greedy bunch will pat itself on the back, ensure zillions are spent on Clinton attack ads and shakedown as much cash from donors as possible (The Democrats will do the same the following week though attacking the Trump/Spence "clown car" will be a lot easier).
Then it's just three more months of this lunacy until the voters actually can hold their noses and make their choices, the few that will actually vote.
Democracy; hey, at least it's amusing!
3
Hard to imagine a worse choice for the VP slot. Just another overly religiously controlled small-mind who probably believes the Earth to be 5000 years old (because the Bible says so - somewheres). The big nail in the coffin of Trump's candidacy; oh well, welcome to the White House Madam President Clinton.
4
OK the Beltway press has unanimously agreed that Pence is a sop to the right wing so-called "leaders" of the remnants of the Republican Party. So far I have seen no mention of his qualifications to be President of the United States—usually a prime consideration. Trump and his campaign did not mention it. The Times article on the choice did not mention it. The PBS Nightly News, now in its nadir as an authoritative and respectable news program, did not mention it. Why not?
3
When you voted for Obama in 2008 what exactly were his qualifications to be President? Please illuminate us
A measurable IQ which puts him a leg up on this ticket.
3
Looks like Trump just went bankrupt again.
2
Wow. A guy who thinks of himself as the most valuable thing in the world paired with a guy whose name is "Pence." You do know what a pence is don't you?
1
I assume this is supposed to now come across as Trump being "Gods chosen" candidate? This election only gets scarier and more weird as time goes on. It seems to be this election is about anything and everything EXCEPT policy or actual record. I feel like I woke up in the middle of a really bad movie.
2
What a perfect match, a racist xenophobic con man and a religious fanatic whose policies against the LGBT community and now women (signed into law an anti abortion bill that would prohibit a woman from getting an abortion if there are any abnormalities with the fetus). The GOP has the dream ticket, a crooked Bozo the clown and the Ken doll.
5
Our diversity is our strength. Keep religion out of politics. Politicians are obligated to represent all residents of their districts, regardless of religious beliefs or lack thereof.
4
Trump's an idiot.
It's amazing he found someone even dumber to run with him.
It's amazing he found someone even dumber to run with him.
Gov. Pence is a great choice. I had to Google search Gov. Pence's background and he is a better choice than Se. Dan Qualye of Indiana was for George H. W. Bush (daddy Bush) who went on to become president of the USA. Both Christie and Gingrich would make good cabinet secretaries.
1
What's obvious about this opinion and related anti-Pence comments is the lack of any real mud to swing at Pence. Everyone agrees though: Pence will help Trump get elected. The rest is basically a list of his positions on various issues and spinning them as negatively as possible.
Hey, he signed legislation against gender-based discrimination. One would expect that would at least make the NYT happy, concede as much. Who cares how he got there? What matters is that he's demonstrated the ability to listen and compromise in favor of liberals, despite his own personal convictions. A rare quality on both sides of the aisle these days.
This has got to be the most grudging endorsement of any candidate in NYT history. It almost feels like high hopes were placed on Trump messing-up his Veep choice and dooming his campaign. Aka wishful thinking, now confirmed dashed. To the contrary, worst fears have been realized: a VP choice unquestionably smart, one who'll pick apart the opposition both in debates and also in office, one who'll propel Trump to the WH and much more beyond that.
In other words, Pence appears to have reinforced on the NYT, the long-denied inevitability of Trump getting elected. All the say-it-ain't-soing aside, a endorsement is what this opinion really is, for both Pence, and by extension, his boss, for picking him. Finally, even the NYT has gone from anti-Trump roar to polite squeak! Go Trump!
Hey, he signed legislation against gender-based discrimination. One would expect that would at least make the NYT happy, concede as much. Who cares how he got there? What matters is that he's demonstrated the ability to listen and compromise in favor of liberals, despite his own personal convictions. A rare quality on both sides of the aisle these days.
This has got to be the most grudging endorsement of any candidate in NYT history. It almost feels like high hopes were placed on Trump messing-up his Veep choice and dooming his campaign. Aka wishful thinking, now confirmed dashed. To the contrary, worst fears have been realized: a VP choice unquestionably smart, one who'll pick apart the opposition both in debates and also in office, one who'll propel Trump to the WH and much more beyond that.
In other words, Pence appears to have reinforced on the NYT, the long-denied inevitability of Trump getting elected. All the say-it-ain't-soing aside, a endorsement is what this opinion really is, for both Pence, and by extension, his boss, for picking him. Finally, even the NYT has gone from anti-Trump roar to polite squeak! Go Trump!
1
Mitch Daniels is smart, Pence not so much.
So, WAPO, you noticed?
It strikes me that this is a concession to the national GOP in that it makes a lot more sense down ticket. Pence's run for re-election was fragile, at best. With an unpopular Trump at the head of the ticket, all of the sudden Even Bayh is interested in getting his seat back and, maybe, has a good shot. With the favorite son boost from Pence, the senate race likely goes Republican and the Governor's race could be a toss-up. (Don't know who they are running, yet.) But my sense is that the national party is a lot more worried about what happen in the senate races than the cage-match presidential race. So it's sort of like, you do this for us and we hang onto one doubtful seat---it's the best we can get from a bad deal.
This election has brought out the worst in America that was simmering and festering under the surface, kept energized by the GOP. I take some small comfort from the fact that so many of the disgusting, Trump-bottom-feeding sycophants have fallen by the wayside. I'm waiting for it to happen to Trump. He and his whole family are a blight on the planet.
1
Trum/Pence 2016 Keep America Saxon
3
Two caricatures come to life. How did America come to this? Really.
This duo is like building a house with termite infested wood.
This duo is like building a house with termite infested wood.
2
2 Corinthians walk into a bar.
The first one says to the bartender "Set "em up. Two glasses of milk."
The bartender says "Who do you think you are, Donald Trump? At least I know he does not drink."
The firat one says "No, I'm Mike Pence and I do not drink unless my wife is with me (because you never know what I might do). But HE is Donald Trump."
(And you thought this was a joke.)
The first one says to the bartender "Set "em up. Two glasses of milk."
The bartender says "Who do you think you are, Donald Trump? At least I know he does not drink."
The firat one says "No, I'm Mike Pence and I do not drink unless my wife is with me (because you never know what I might do). But HE is Donald Trump."
(And you thought this was a joke.)
Talk about a nondescript guy. He looks like a police composite drawing. Give them skinny black ties, and with their "values" these two would make a dream team, for 1955.
I found this the most telling comment in this article:
"Above all, Mr. Trump’s choice of Mr. Pence is a gesture to Republicans whose money he needs to win"
Why does Trump need Republican money to win; Why does Clinton need Democratic money to win.
I guess it is the ads. And the people they send out to harangue potential voters.
Because voters, apparently, have no independent thoughts. They will just be swayed by the latest ad, because they are so stupid.
Hello, look at the Brexit vote;
Donald Trump will be the next President. These thing go in waves, Democrats, 8 years, Republicans 8 years, Democrats, 8 years, Republicans 8 years.
The writing is on the wall.
The economy is in the tank, you Progressives, under Obama's watch have only accomplished the doubling of the National Debt.
And everyone is still hurting. Everything is worse; And you think Fly Over America is going to vote for Hillary, more of the same?
"Above all, Mr. Trump’s choice of Mr. Pence is a gesture to Republicans whose money he needs to win"
Why does Trump need Republican money to win; Why does Clinton need Democratic money to win.
I guess it is the ads. And the people they send out to harangue potential voters.
Because voters, apparently, have no independent thoughts. They will just be swayed by the latest ad, because they are so stupid.
Hello, look at the Brexit vote;
Donald Trump will be the next President. These thing go in waves, Democrats, 8 years, Republicans 8 years, Democrats, 8 years, Republicans 8 years.
The writing is on the wall.
The economy is in the tank, you Progressives, under Obama's watch have only accomplished the doubling of the National Debt.
And everyone is still hurting. Everything is worse; And you think Fly Over America is going to vote for Hillary, more of the same?
This is about Koch money. Nothing more needs to be said about him. We don't need this one anywhere near DC.
Stay at home in Hoosierville, or wherever ever you dig your hidey-hole.
Stay at home in Hoosierville, or wherever ever you dig your hidey-hole.
1
How does Trump explain this to his daughter? OY !
I think she's the one explaining things to him. He doesn't listen to anyone else.
Great... Evil meets more evil... This craziness better end in November. I can't deal with it getting even worse for four years.
"...Mr. Trump’s choice of Mr. Pence is a gesture to Republicans whose money he needs to win..."
It's refreshing to hear of any gesture by Mr. Trump that does not employ his middle finger. Perhaps his reliance on that digit explains why he has never forgotten "the people who work with their hands."
It's refreshing to hear of any gesture by Mr. Trump that does not employ his middle finger. Perhaps his reliance on that digit explains why he has never forgotten "the people who work with their hands."
1
What is there to say, but the New York Times editorial board has whipped all the haters into another frenzy of childish name calling and mindless rhetoric.
The editorial board has not been right about anything in years, so why change their blind rush into irrelevance and oblivion at this late date.
Maybe the Saudis can build a mosque on the site of the Times building on West 43rd? Carlos Slim must be wondering why he got involved there.
The editorial board has not been right about anything in years, so why change their blind rush into irrelevance and oblivion at this late date.
Maybe the Saudis can build a mosque on the site of the Times building on West 43rd? Carlos Slim must be wondering why he got involved there.
Okay, now that we have that settled, the real issue is where are Trump's his tax returns for the last twenty years? Americans need to know whether or not this jerk is a crook!
4
I think Trump blew it with this decision. He took the safe bet but consequently risks important votes from Democrats like me that were supporting his anti-establishment self-funding platform. I'd have been far happier had he picked Marsha Blackburn. I might have to abstain from voting this round as Hilary is totally unpalatable.
3
R1NA: "unpalatable?" we're electing a POTUS, not a hot hors oeuvre.
4
Dont believe everything you hear on republican tv and radio. They have been on Hillary's case for 25 years and so far nothing has come of it.
4
Pence who?
Pence and Hillary agree on so many issues.
So by picking Pence, has Trump essentially voted for Hillary?
So by picking Pence, has Trump essentially voted for Hillary?
Right on all counts.
But if G-d was dead in the '60s, Facts Are Dead nowadays.
But if G-d was dead in the '60s, Facts Are Dead nowadays.
Hey, what's up with the Trump-Pence logo? It looks very sexual to me. Something like a symbol maybe for a transgender bathroom?
DD
NYC
DD
NYC
It would be nice if Hillary's campaign could come up with some of these conflicts and monumental hypocrisies regarding Trump/Pence that were pointed out in the piece.
But ya know, she made that pretty good speech three weeks ago, and that will be all the effort she will be making for the next couple months.
Wake up America; Trump is winning this campaign.
The narrative is all breaking his way nationally and internationally. He is all tuff-guy, she is all caution. He is the outsider who can blame her, the insider, for causing it all.
I'm not agreeing with this; I am saying that is what's happening.
Brexit
LePen
Turkey
Weekly national tragedy
Germany?
Here comes Trump.
But ya know, she made that pretty good speech three weeks ago, and that will be all the effort she will be making for the next couple months.
Wake up America; Trump is winning this campaign.
The narrative is all breaking his way nationally and internationally. He is all tuff-guy, she is all caution. He is the outsider who can blame her, the insider, for causing it all.
I'm not agreeing with this; I am saying that is what's happening.
Brexit
LePen
Turkey
Weekly national tragedy
Germany?
Here comes Trump.
2
Trump isn't going to build the wall, he is taking money from big donors and he has partnered with the Establishment to get acceptance. What is it about Trump's original claims that are still true? So what do all the supporters give now as their reasons? He's self funding, not. He's not the establishment, now he is. He's going to build a wall, that's just an analogy. He is not the candidate the primary voters rallied around. We could have had Jeb Bush and it would look exactly the same today, only much better organized and without the personality disorder.
Let's hope it's all a big gaffe.
Turning back the clock in 2016 is not an option.
Turning back the clock in 2016 is not an option.
1
Please stop giving DT so much coverage!!
3
Isn't it great that the second highest potential position in this land was announced by Twitter?
Now doesn't that show real American class?
Now doesn't that show real American class?
39
Once upon a time a Times editorial was significant, carrying both authority and gravitas. It appeared only occasionally, thus inherently establishing that its subject matter was of import.
Unfortunately, over the past several years the editors have seen fit to comment on almost everything, often with dubious reasoning. As a result, to the extent that anyone pays attention to them now, it is more as curiosity than much else. Functionally, they are little more than a column, and like Maureen Dowd, a second-rate column at best.
Unfortunately, over the past several years the editors have seen fit to comment on almost everything, often with dubious reasoning. As a result, to the extent that anyone pays attention to them now, it is more as curiosity than much else. Functionally, they are little more than a column, and like Maureen Dowd, a second-rate column at best.
4
It is absolutely amazing that those who support Mrs. Clinton have the chutzpah to make fun of Trump. Glass houses and stones, have you no shame?
1
I find it funny Trump strung Christie along, threw him under the bus at the last minute, and now I understand Trump and Pence are having an event in NJ tomorrow. Hope Christie made plans to check out the shore. Talk about a masochist.
4
Meanwhile Hillary has definitely found her message: ''No law applies to me. I do do as I wish and you'll find out if and WHEN I decide. Now, shut up, vote for me, and get back in line.''
Don't you just want to jump up and go park at the polling booth already?
Don't you just want to jump up and go park at the polling booth already?
2
Just as Paul Krugman predicted that the GOP nominee would be horrible you could have predicted the same for the VP choice, and you would be right.
2
Mr Trump is politically more savvy than the Media and the Establishment give him Credit for. His Republican Opponents for the Nomination who did not take him seriously found out later that underestimating Trump was a big Mistake.
A Trump/Pence Ticket is in my humble Opinion more appealing than the Romney/Ryan Ticket for several reasons.
A Romney (Mormon)/Ryan (Catholic) had no Appeal for the Social Conservatives/Evangelical Branch of the GOP. Many of these Voters did not vote in 2012. Mr Pence will certainly motivate most of these Voters to go the Poll come November.
Mr Trump will focus his Energy wooing Blue Collar Democrats in Swing States with his Populism Economic message. If he is successful in convincing enough of them to vote for him , this Election will be one of the most Competitive We've seen in a long Time.
Third, by choosing Pence , Mr Trump just opened the floodgates of Cash from The Kock Brothers.
I hope Ms Clinton will not make the same mistake as the GOP Establishment candidates.
A Trump/Pence Ticket is in my humble Opinion more appealing than the Romney/Ryan Ticket for several reasons.
A Romney (Mormon)/Ryan (Catholic) had no Appeal for the Social Conservatives/Evangelical Branch of the GOP. Many of these Voters did not vote in 2012. Mr Pence will certainly motivate most of these Voters to go the Poll come November.
Mr Trump will focus his Energy wooing Blue Collar Democrats in Swing States with his Populism Economic message. If he is successful in convincing enough of them to vote for him , this Election will be one of the most Competitive We've seen in a long Time.
Third, by choosing Pence , Mr Trump just opened the floodgates of Cash from The Kock Brothers.
I hope Ms Clinton will not make the same mistake as the GOP Establishment candidates.
3
Pence also shepherded through legislation that criminalized women who seek abortions if their fetuses are genetically abnormal. Or if they had miscarriages because their fetuses were genetically abnormal. Of course anti-women, anti-abortion legislation does not receive the same national outrage or attention that anti-LGBT legislation does, but both are heinous.
#periodsforpence
#periodsforpence
45
I am an independent who strongly backed Bernie and will never vote for Clinton which I'm sure will be criticized on this page as a vote for Trump. So be it. I will write-in Bernie or vote for a 3rd party candidate.
Having said that, Trump is much smarter than the "intellectual class" (NYT writers and readers) is giving him credit for. He's also less conservative and more practical than his bellicose language would suggest. (And I say all these things as his detractor!)
His pick of Pence is further proof of these traits. He is making a slow pivot to a general election which is not about competence for the job, but about independence from a broken Washington.
With this move and further pivots to the "sensible side" I hate to say it, but Trump is on his way to a big victory.
The American electorate is just NOT prepared to put Bill and Hillary Clinton back in the White House - full stop.
Having said that, Trump is much smarter than the "intellectual class" (NYT writers and readers) is giving him credit for. He's also less conservative and more practical than his bellicose language would suggest. (And I say all these things as his detractor!)
His pick of Pence is further proof of these traits. He is making a slow pivot to a general election which is not about competence for the job, but about independence from a broken Washington.
With this move and further pivots to the "sensible side" I hate to say it, but Trump is on his way to a big victory.
The American electorate is just NOT prepared to put Bill and Hillary Clinton back in the White House - full stop.
1
Trump went the establishment route. Will this work? I thought his campaign was all about the anti- establishment movement. I guess all roads still go through Washington D.C. after all.
2
Roosevelt tweeted: Day of Infamy #WW2 #realwar
Lincoln tweeted: All men created equal #gettysburg #emancipation
Jefferson tweeted: Conny plus 10 #july4th #independence
Kennedy tweeted: Ich bin ein berliner #pastry
Nixon tweeted: Not a crook #bye
Calvin Coolidge tweeted: .............
Lincoln tweeted: All men created equal #gettysburg #emancipation
Jefferson tweeted: Conny plus 10 #july4th #independence
Kennedy tweeted: Ich bin ein berliner #pastry
Nixon tweeted: Not a crook #bye
Calvin Coolidge tweeted: .............
This is not 1980. Americans are far more aware of the political process. We've been through the Bush disasters already. Trump may be a splendid president, but in eight years I can guarantee you that Mike Pence will not be anointed as Trump's successor. He has a history that will follow him. For now, though, he's fine.
So, Donald told us he is running against Washington insiders, political elites, those who supported the Iraq war and the TPP. He is self funding his own campaign so he won't owe lobbyists or Washington elites anything.
Sounds good in a stump speech but, nowhere near reality
Mr Pence has a history of doing all the "bad things" Trump is running against so, now he is on the ticket. Trump is raising money for his self funded campaign??
Can't people see through this charlatan?
Wake up America before it's too late
Sounds good in a stump speech but, nowhere near reality
Mr Pence has a history of doing all the "bad things" Trump is running against so, now he is on the ticket. Trump is raising money for his self funded campaign??
Can't people see through this charlatan?
Wake up America before it's too late
46
From the country that gave you Benifer and Brangelina now comes . . . Trumpence! May their union be uneventful and, above all, short-lived (looking forward to its dissolution on Wednesday, November 9, 2016).
"Trump has never forgotten those people who work with their hands". He should have added, for those who live anywhere outside of the US.
3
Which Republican will come to the rescue of the Trump and Pence forgotten and forsaken "people who work with their hands.”
Oh, I know! Speaker Paul Ryan, the GOP's white knight errant and man for all seasons, will ride to the rescue with all the enthusiasm and effectiveness that only a true devotee of Ayn Rand can possibly muster.
Oh, I know! Speaker Paul Ryan, the GOP's white knight errant and man for all seasons, will ride to the rescue with all the enthusiasm and effectiveness that only a true devotee of Ayn Rand can possibly muster.
2
As glib, scattered and fickle as Trump is, hooking up with a hard-core ideologue like Pence sounds like a marriage made in Hell. I'll be amazed if it lasts until November.
2
A week or two ago, Dr. James Dobson declared that Donald Trump is now a born again "baby Christian". Today, Trump selects arch-conservative fundamentalist Christian Gov. Pence as his running mate.
Presumptive Nominee Trump seems to be coming of a new age rather rapidly.
Presumptive Nominee Trump seems to be coming of a new age rather rapidly.
3
Give me an fin break. Can we have a military coup too? Please?
1
Trump's playing it safe now, and that will be his downfall. His core base won't be pleased with this conservative, establishment choice. Moreover, I don't see Trump getting along with Pence, and I won't be surprised if this marriage doesn't last. Christie is a more natural choice for someone like Trump. This will be fun.
19
he didn't select Governor Pence to please the liberals in the Democratic party and those liberals in the general electorate. He chose him to help in the unification of the Republican party and not to add an incendiary element to his already populist appeal. He has succeeded. Move-ON.Org will not be pleased but maybe Ohio, Pennsylvania and Michigan will be.
Once upon a time a Times editorial was significant, carrying both authority and gravitas. It appeared only occasionally, thus inherently establishing that its subject matter was of import. Unfortunately, over the past several years the editors have seen fit to comment on almost everything, often with tendentious reasoning. As a result, to the extent that anyone pays attention to them, it is more as curiosity than much else. Functionally, they are little more than a column, and like Maureen Dowd, a second-rate column at best.
2
Thanks, New York Times for your timely background reports on Mr. Pence. I just wonder if his conciliatory approach to his opponents will wither in Mr. Trump's harsh shadow? I seemed to find more common ground between the two than you did. At least Trump realized the other guys had plenty of strikes against them (a half dozen divorces between Trump & Gingrich, for example).
As a Republican turned Independent (where, oh where has Bernie gone?), I abhor Pence's endorsement by the NRA and the charade-debacle over Planned Parenthood. You noted that even some conservatives were appalled by Pence's attempted ban against abortion of fetuses which were determined to have "disabilities."
Trump's VP choice might have made the Republicans more repugnant to some, but still not enough to sway me to the Democratic ticket with its questionable leader (dozens of strikes against her) Clinton.
As a Republican turned Independent (where, oh where has Bernie gone?), I abhor Pence's endorsement by the NRA and the charade-debacle over Planned Parenthood. You noted that even some conservatives were appalled by Pence's attempted ban against abortion of fetuses which were determined to have "disabilities."
Trump's VP choice might have made the Republicans more repugnant to some, but still not enough to sway me to the Democratic ticket with its questionable leader (dozens of strikes against her) Clinton.
6
Funny that you count only divorces as strikes against a candidate, but not bigotry, multiple bankruptcies which cheated workers and hundreds of small businesses, hiring and cheating illegal immigrants of their pay. Also funny that accusations of impropriety which were found to be false weigh so heavily on Hillary's side of the scale.
2
Mike Pence may be the bridge to bring the Koch brothers into the presidential election. The Koch brothers pour millions towards eliminating environmental regulations, benefits for the middle and lower classes, all taxes and all entitlements such as social security and medicare. This is the right wing nightmare, and could help Trump win.
Liberals, Democrats, Bernie supporters: forget the meme about Hillary being untrustworthy. All fact checking has proven her to be the MOST TRUTHFUL candidate ever. Republicans invented this meme. It's not based in reality.
Make sure you vote in November, and vote for Hillary.
Liberals, Democrats, Bernie supporters: forget the meme about Hillary being untrustworthy. All fact checking has proven her to be the MOST TRUTHFUL candidate ever. Republicans invented this meme. It's not based in reality.
Make sure you vote in November, and vote for Hillary.
5
A political marriage arranged in hell for the betterment of the super wealthy and corporate capitalism--- they are the perfect match for all those who have no compassion for the financial oppressed or empathy for the starving children of impoverishment--Pence, Mr. Sanctimony and Trump, Mr. Self Aggrandizement! Good bye and good riddance.
2
Has anyone looked up the definition of "trumpence"? According to the Urban Dictionary:
"The amount of return on investment on a con job."
How appropriate! You just can't make this stuff up.
"The amount of return on investment on a con job."
How appropriate! You just can't make this stuff up.
2
Are people in Indiana happy because now Mike Pence cannot go back as Governor? What if he gets fired?
It is a reality show.
It is a reality show.
1
Aurace, I cannot type YES loud enough.
Not one member of the working class peasantry in this region has expressed regret within my hearing.
Another small upside is that everyone can remove their 'FIRE Mike Pence' signs from their yards.
Although....we now fear that his anti-worker, fundamentalist tyranny may be unleashed upon the rest of the country. Thank you for asking ;-)
Not one member of the working class peasantry in this region has expressed regret within my hearing.
Another small upside is that everyone can remove their 'FIRE Mike Pence' signs from their yards.
Although....we now fear that his anti-worker, fundamentalist tyranny may be unleashed upon the rest of the country. Thank you for asking ;-)
2
You folks just can't seem to help yourself from editorializing, rather than objectively reporting the news. Has it ever occurred to your paper that most folks are neither interested in or care about your political viewpoint? Try getting back to reporting the news. Leave the thinking part to the reader.
1
You may not have noticed, but you're posting an objection to editorializing in response to an editorial!
5
This is an editorial.
4
Now that the GOP ticket is set it is of signal importance that the American public know if Mr. Trump's business acumen is as advertised.
In this regard the best objective measure is what Mr. Trump submits on a yearly basis to the Internal Revenue Service of the United States under penalty of perjury. These are called in common parlance tax returns.
He has thus far refused to disclose his tax returns and as the Notorious RBG pointed out so acidly in her remarks about Mr. Trump, the media, including the Times, has thus far given Mr. Trump a free pass of his nondisclosure.
This deafening silence from major media is curious and extremely troubling.
The Times Editorial Board rightfully called out Justice Ginsburg. It's now time they call out Mr. Trump, over and over again if necessary, until disclosure is had or a legitimate reason for nondisclosure is supplied ( and being under current audit is not one of them).
In this regard the best objective measure is what Mr. Trump submits on a yearly basis to the Internal Revenue Service of the United States under penalty of perjury. These are called in common parlance tax returns.
He has thus far refused to disclose his tax returns and as the Notorious RBG pointed out so acidly in her remarks about Mr. Trump, the media, including the Times, has thus far given Mr. Trump a free pass of his nondisclosure.
This deafening silence from major media is curious and extremely troubling.
The Times Editorial Board rightfully called out Justice Ginsburg. It's now time they call out Mr. Trump, over and over again if necessary, until disclosure is had or a legitimate reason for nondisclosure is supplied ( and being under current audit is not one of them).
66
It will be up to us to keep reminding publicly Trump. Need to ask Pence to reveal his tax returns also since he was instrumental in getting tax reductions for the wealthy in Indiana and argued to privatize education and we know if that happens how right-wing conservative perspectives would polka dot curriculum.
3
Appearance is everything. Pence looks just like Robert Shaw - a man's man. Compare his photos with those of Shaw as a Bond villain or the tank commander in "Battle of the Bulge".
We are living in a world filled with international terrorism, economic fragility (where the U.S. is by far the most stable and secure) and now a Turkish military coup unfolding. The world is becoming less stable and there are Americans who think that Donald Trump and Mike Pence would be better for world security than Hilary Clinton and whomever.
Is there no limit to such ignorance? I guess not if it is fueled by anger and hate.
Is there no limit to such ignorance? I guess not if it is fueled by anger and hate.
13
Trumpocracy-a way for Trump to enrich his family's wealth. And if elected he will try to establish a monarchy. His real motto should be "let the people eat cake." In my 72 years on this dystopian planet earth we are in urgent need of a leader who can unite this country and make the world a safer place. Trump is not even close to being the one.
4
And to add to Trumpocracy, there's the penny pinching, Bible thumping Pence. I teach in Indiana and the manner in which University education, particularly the regional campuses, is funded is shameful and at what expense? There are hoardings along the expressways into Chicago and out of it proclaiming that the state is in the Black, inviting business to move from Illinois to Indiana. (Unfortunately, it is true that Illinois is in shambles money wise.) However, folk need to know how Indiana is in the Black-besides breaking Unions!. The state barely funds the state university, indirectly loading the cost onto students forcing them to keep paying more each year while the state insists students finish college in 4 years, Forcing them to take 5 classes each semester-or they will not pay for students who do not!!. The problem is students at the regional campuses are not rich and carry work loads of 20-40 hours while attending classes. They are tired and exhausted, and yet the state proudly shows how much money it saves. This is who Pence the honest religious man is. The two will make an awesome pair. Their motto will become- praise the poor; promise to help them; give tax cuts to the rich and fool them every time!
2
This reminds me so much of Sarah Palin's arrival: the nominee seemed bewildered, surprised, reluctant.
Even the Trump seems to have been presented with his VP selection - seeming unable to make a choice for himself. The great manipulator is suddenly seen to be managed himself. Perhaps he made that deal for more tangible support from the GOP establishment: our VP, for our financial backing.
Even the Trump seems to have been presented with his VP selection - seeming unable to make a choice for himself. The great manipulator is suddenly seen to be managed himself. Perhaps he made that deal for more tangible support from the GOP establishment: our VP, for our financial backing.
4
Where or where is the foreign policy experience?
I would argue that Clinton should choose retired Navy Adm. James Stavridis for her VP candidate.
Stavridis versus Pence in a debate, wow. Love to see Pence pray his way out of that confrontation.
Love to see Stavridis call people to the duty to serve the country one good way or another while asking Trump and Pence why they never served their country and are always so self-serving and holier than thou.
I would argue that Clinton should choose retired Navy Adm. James Stavridis for her VP candidate.
Stavridis versus Pence in a debate, wow. Love to see Pence pray his way out of that confrontation.
Love to see Stavridis call people to the duty to serve the country one good way or another while asking Trump and Pence why they never served their country and are always so self-serving and holier than thou.
5
So Pence is now the VP nominee for the Republicans.
Since he has been in government for many years, (Congress and Governor) his tax returns are probably public.
Maybe he can convince Trump to release his tax returns. One can hope.
Since he has been in government for many years, (Congress and Governor) his tax returns are probably public.
Maybe he can convince Trump to release his tax returns. One can hope.
4
"When it announced this year that it would move to Mexico and cut 1,400 Indiana jobs, Mr. Trump predicted that if he were president, Carrier would call “within 24 hours,” to say, “‘Sir, we’ve decided to stay in the United States.’”
How would that work, I wonder? Would those Mafia pals of Trump's come to the rescue? Would he send in Ivanka to oversee the apprentices, er, I mean, CEO's? Or would he just pick up the phone, call 'em himself, and pronto - they would change their minds because the great and powerful Trump had spoken? My God, does he actually believe that he has this power over others?
How would that work, I wonder? Would those Mafia pals of Trump's come to the rescue? Would he send in Ivanka to oversee the apprentices, er, I mean, CEO's? Or would he just pick up the phone, call 'em himself, and pronto - they would change their minds because the great and powerful Trump had spoken? My God, does he actually believe that he has this power over others?
6
Trump has basically sealed his win. While a lot of Republicans were turned off by him before, with Pence, anti-abortion, anti-Planned Parenthood, anti-environment, ultra conservative Christian, best friends with Paul Ryan, they will let out a sigh of relief and vote for him. This is Trump's bow to the party and proof that all he ever wanted was to be President in name only. Behind the scene, the Republicans will control him, will decide and dictate his every action and decision. Hat was all that really mattered to Republican party members. Trump and Pence are not circus members. They will now be in charge of the United States of America. We are now roaring down on the highway to hell.
3
Nope -- those white evangelicals were already in the Trump camp because they'd never pull the lever for Hillary. So Trump spent political capital on a nominee that's a poor investment, because the voters he really needs -- the independents -- lean left or libertarian on social issues. What a shock ... another bad decision by Donald. All he needed was a female with foreign policy credentials. Oh right ... all of them were on a fast and furious race as far away from his campaign as humanly possible.
1
This was supposed to be the part where The Donald demonstrates that he is equally capable of making rational decisions, as well as making fiery declarations.
Instead, he demonstrated chaotic flip-flopping and inability to manage conflict among his advisers. His weird pick--postpone--find a pretext -- unpick behavior is reminiscent of Ross Perot's quitting the presidential race and then jumping back in.
Instead, he demonstrated chaotic flip-flopping and inability to manage conflict among his advisers. His weird pick--postpone--find a pretext -- unpick behavior is reminiscent of Ross Perot's quitting the presidential race and then jumping back in.
4
It is a nice little ticket chosen by the devil. Pence is insane and Trump lacks any decency. I was really hoping Brownback would get the nod. He is a real gem. Ultimately, Trump followers do not care who is on the ticket. They want to rant and be racist. Pence should be a neutral force in the general election and that is why he was chosen. Someone like a Christie or a Gingrich simply has too much baggage, as the editorial team astutely pointed out.
2
This makes perfect sense for the Republicans. Assuming Trump gets elected, it is unlikely he will finish his term. He is more likely to resign or be impeached once the reality of being president further exacerbates his obvious character flaws. Then Pence becomes president, picks a new vice president and makes the critical appointments to the Supreme Court that will satisfy the conservative faction of the Republican party.
3
When I came to seminary a few years ago in middle age, Pence was "my" representative. Indiana is a beautiful state ful of beautiful small towns, almost all going to wrack and ruin. People like to talk about Kansas, but do come to Indiana to see the Republican wrecking ball in full play. It's pitiful and not what we want for the rest of the country. Pence a heartbeat from the Presidency would be a worse disaster than Trump as president. It gets scarier by the moment.
100
If you drive into Chicago from Indiana, there are billboards at the state line trumpeting the "balanced budget" of Indiana. What it doesn't say is that Republicans balanced the budget by selling the toll road you are driving on to a company in Argentina, which fired all the employees. He cut taxes on the rich, forcing cities to raise property taxes 2000% to pay the police, and fire departments. There has also been a war on public education.
6
With the selection of the bland, clean-cut Mike Pence as his running mate, Donald Trump has pacified donor-class Republicans, but the announcement should enrage working-class Republicans, if there actually are such people in America.
The question which nags at all Americans who are reasonably well-informed remains the same:
When are the bedrock Trump supporters who propelled him to those primary victories -- so discouraged by a deep resentment of a government they feel has ignored their economic straits -- going to wake up and realize that Donald Trump has perpetrated a con job on them?
The question which nags at all Americans who are reasonably well-informed remains the same:
When are the bedrock Trump supporters who propelled him to those primary victories -- so discouraged by a deep resentment of a government they feel has ignored their economic straits -- going to wake up and realize that Donald Trump has perpetrated a con job on them?
3
Does anyone outside of Indiana know that Pence could not win an election for the office he currently has? Commonplace are yard signs saying: Pence has to go" and "Get rid of Pence before he gets rid of your rights"
Pence is nothing more than an insider who only says to power, how far do you want me to bend over. This works out well for Trump and the GOP but is bad news for working people.
Pence has never met with the coalition of public health providers in the state, year after year refuses to even meet them. Because he signed a new law (similarly to the way he signed the one repealed allowing refusal to serve LGBT customers) tightening control of abortion that women are sending him their used tampons because the law easily defines spontaneous abortion during menses must be checked by government officials that the procedure was legally performed.
The guy is as much a bum as Trump. Ask most Hoosiers. They'll tell you the same. Evidently that is the new GOP criteria for executive office.
Pence is nothing more than an insider who only says to power, how far do you want me to bend over. This works out well for Trump and the GOP but is bad news for working people.
Pence has never met with the coalition of public health providers in the state, year after year refuses to even meet them. Because he signed a new law (similarly to the way he signed the one repealed allowing refusal to serve LGBT customers) tightening control of abortion that women are sending him their used tampons because the law easily defines spontaneous abortion during menses must be checked by government officials that the procedure was legally performed.
The guy is as much a bum as Trump. Ask most Hoosiers. They'll tell you the same. Evidently that is the new GOP criteria for executive office.
75
Yes America, didn't you hear the cheering from Indiana when Pence withdrew his name from the Governor's race? Those "Pence Has to Go" signs have been in yards throughout his pathetic, damaging term. Indiana's embarrassment over his anti-gay law and the reaction from the business world should be a giant red flag
3
No one, of course, usually votes based on the Vice-Presidential candidate, but when you have two very dislikable and untrustworthy candidates running for President, it may be different this year. Mike Pence helps unite the Republican Party and its conservative base thus helping Donald Trump. I hope Hillary Clinton, who is now tied with Trump in the latest polls, takes this lesson to heart and picks either Bernie (yes, I still "Feel the Bern") Sanders or Elizabeth Warren as her running mate. Sec. Clinton needs a strong, energetic and charismatic Vice-President to help unify the Democratic Party and overcome her trust-challenged, and frankly (by her own admission) lackluster and uninspiring campaign style. For Democrats to win and have any chance to take back the Senate they need a record turnout, and either Sens. Sanders or Warren would do that as none of the others who've been mentioned can.
18
Rather than Pence providing a Trump ticket with balance, I believe that it might lead to a question of compatibility. Can anyone really expect to get all ng with Trump. And, when you consider all the diversities that a President's responsibility include, would Trump really listen to his advisors--Economy, Foreign Affairs, Trade, etc? I doubt it!
Pence is hated in Indiana. Remember, he is the Governor who forced a law to enable merchants to refuse service to various groups--Gays and Lesbians, Minorities, etc. He was forced to reverse himself on the matter.
But, Pence does share one similarity to Trump, indecisiveness. Just ten weeks before he introduced Trump as the person that America truly must elect as President, he endorsed Ted Cruz with quite similar over-the-top embellishment. How genuine can Pence really be?
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
Pence is hated in Indiana. Remember, he is the Governor who forced a law to enable merchants to refuse service to various groups--Gays and Lesbians, Minorities, etc. He was forced to reverse himself on the matter.
But, Pence does share one similarity to Trump, indecisiveness. Just ten weeks before he introduced Trump as the person that America truly must elect as President, he endorsed Ted Cruz with quite similar over-the-top embellishment. How genuine can Pence really be?
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
3
Mike Pence's most infamous accomplishment as governor of Indiana was to sign a bill that legalized discrimination against gay people. The Pence pick means that the Trump campaign is willing to throw gay Americans under the bus. The Pence pick (and the GOP platform) are an open declaration of war against gay Americans. It bears repeating: The Republican Party Has Declared War Against Gay Americans. Do not be deceived by Donald Trump calling himself a "friend" of the gay community. Trump and Pence have pledged to overturn marriage equality. Pence has endorsed anti-gay conversion therapy. What Pence has tried to do in Indiana is make fundamentalist Christianity the law of the land in all its homophobic misery. Women need to be wary of Pence too for the obvious reasons, the primary one being Pence and his Church of White Patriarchy want to control your uterus. In the same way they want to control what any two consenting adults do in the privacy of their bedroom. They want to extend their powers into every American home and into every American bedroom. If we Americans value our freedoms and constitutional rights, we simply can't put Mike Pence one heartbeat away from the presidency.
91
This race for the White House could come down to who had the best running mate. Since neither of the candidates are popular, that leaves it to the possible veeps to shore up the votes.
Consider the fact that the Hillary camp feels fortunate to be running against such a loudmouth buffoon. The Donald camp knows their only chance of winning is beating Hillary, who is damaged goods as well as hated by the GOP conservative wing since 1992. Neither side would win against a better opponent.
But for all of Hillary's baggage, nothing compares to the winning GOP clown car driver, Donald Trump, and his co-pilot Mike Pence. If Hillary has a chance of winning, it will require Donald & Mike to do their version of Thelma & Louise.
In a recent op-ed, Times columnist, Thomas Friedman, suggested a Hllary sweep across the nation as possibility. Sorry Tom. While I hope Hillary wins it, it will be a lot closer than anyone has imagined. She has outspent Trump in advertising by a 10-to-one margin and yet she is, according some polls, in a dead hit, albeit prior to either convention. Then there will be the convention boost before the race settles in for a run through the mud.
Consider the fact that the Hillary camp feels fortunate to be running against such a loudmouth buffoon. The Donald camp knows their only chance of winning is beating Hillary, who is damaged goods as well as hated by the GOP conservative wing since 1992. Neither side would win against a better opponent.
But for all of Hillary's baggage, nothing compares to the winning GOP clown car driver, Donald Trump, and his co-pilot Mike Pence. If Hillary has a chance of winning, it will require Donald & Mike to do their version of Thelma & Louise.
In a recent op-ed, Times columnist, Thomas Friedman, suggested a Hllary sweep across the nation as possibility. Sorry Tom. While I hope Hillary wins it, it will be a lot closer than anyone has imagined. She has outspent Trump in advertising by a 10-to-one margin and yet she is, according some polls, in a dead hit, albeit prior to either convention. Then there will be the convention boost before the race settles in for a run through the mud.
1
Here's the way I see it.
This bonehead play of selecting an anti-LGBT, anti-reproductive rights, evangelical zealot wakes up any and all undecided Bernie supporters and sets them scurrying to Hillary.
A convention with no substance or positive message, starring a bunch B-List athletes and celebrities (Make America Mediocre Again) and Trump progeny propels Hillary to a commanding lead in the polls coming out of the Democratic convention the following.
Trump, growing increasingly desperate as summer moves into fall, becomes more volatile, humiliates himself by being totally unprepared in the debates and tries to "fire' Pence in favor of a running mate with more zing.
November is a landslide for the Democrats.
The world breathes a sigh of relief.
This bonehead play of selecting an anti-LGBT, anti-reproductive rights, evangelical zealot wakes up any and all undecided Bernie supporters and sets them scurrying to Hillary.
A convention with no substance or positive message, starring a bunch B-List athletes and celebrities (Make America Mediocre Again) and Trump progeny propels Hillary to a commanding lead in the polls coming out of the Democratic convention the following.
Trump, growing increasingly desperate as summer moves into fall, becomes more volatile, humiliates himself by being totally unprepared in the debates and tries to "fire' Pence in favor of a running mate with more zing.
November is a landslide for the Democrats.
The world breathes a sigh of relief.
89
Let us hope and pray so.
I personally cancelled my order for a new Carrier residential heating and cooling system when I learned that the profitable Carrier corporation had laid off its American workers and their community and fled to low labor cost Mexico.
I do not believe that Trump, who has stiffed many business partners and spouses or Pence who has fought to deny women essential modern healthcare through Planned Parenthood has any concern for others.
How can any human being with a brain or a heart vote for these Republicans who think they are qualified for the highest office in the United States.
I do not believe that Trump, who has stiffed many business partners and spouses or Pence who has fought to deny women essential modern healthcare through Planned Parenthood has any concern for others.
How can any human being with a brain or a heart vote for these Republicans who think they are qualified for the highest office in the United States.
4
Anti-establishment D.J.T. who embraces G.O.P. as the party to be nominated for presidency ends up compromising his beliefs in non-conservativeness by choosing Gov. Mike Pence of Indiana, a conservative, as his vice president nominee.
Grim political reality proves the establishment, while weakened by working class’s awakening, hasn’t been defeated at all. It’d been true that a well-established politician like Mike Pence “who knows how Washington works” would have great difficulty to change his political, ideological and cultural penchants for establishment supported by capital, but political reality would not be kind to those who defy people’s power. If he will keep giving people the same shaft as before when doing capital’s bidding, he will stand no chance to help D.J.T. winning the office. The long-standing era of anti-establishment movement based on the equally long-standing faltered economy is so salient that any reactionary sway that intends to win the office by a fluke will suffer defeat by a lurch.
Hillary Clinton, another well-established political insider doing capital’s bidding impugns D.J.T. for his wrong choice of V.P.N. Reality is it's like Through the Looking Glass but with Tweedledum and Tweedledumber.
Grim political reality proves the establishment, while weakened by working class’s awakening, hasn’t been defeated at all. It’d been true that a well-established politician like Mike Pence “who knows how Washington works” would have great difficulty to change his political, ideological and cultural penchants for establishment supported by capital, but political reality would not be kind to those who defy people’s power. If he will keep giving people the same shaft as before when doing capital’s bidding, he will stand no chance to help D.J.T. winning the office. The long-standing era of anti-establishment movement based on the equally long-standing faltered economy is so salient that any reactionary sway that intends to win the office by a fluke will suffer defeat by a lurch.
Hillary Clinton, another well-established political insider doing capital’s bidding impugns D.J.T. for his wrong choice of V.P.N. Reality is it's like Through the Looking Glass but with Tweedledum and Tweedledumber.
1
The choice of Pence displays not only the utter bankruptcy of the Trump campaign but also the utter bankruptcy of the entire Republican party. This piece is completely accurate when it states that, “having the Indiana governor on the ticket does little to convince a struggling middle class that Mr. Trump aims to force the party into its corner”, if, and only if, that struggling middle class is observant enough to realize that fact.
While workers in Indiana are worrying about jobs, Pence focuses on the smokescreen Religious Freedom Restoration Act. This is a classic “rabbit out of a hat” establishment Republican tactic to distract white middle class and working class voters from the issues that concern them the most: jobs, wages and the economy.
Emulating the entire Republican establishment, Pence espouses fraudulent Conservative concern with social political agendas regarding all who are not white and Christian and fulfilling of his definition of “normal”…blacks, gays, transgenders, Muslim, Hindu, Hispanic…the list never ends for racists like Pence.
Meanwhile the jobs in Indiana will keep disappearing but those radically important social issues will be there to console all those whose income falls and can no longer pay the mortgage.
While workers in Indiana are worrying about jobs, Pence focuses on the smokescreen Religious Freedom Restoration Act. This is a classic “rabbit out of a hat” establishment Republican tactic to distract white middle class and working class voters from the issues that concern them the most: jobs, wages and the economy.
Emulating the entire Republican establishment, Pence espouses fraudulent Conservative concern with social political agendas regarding all who are not white and Christian and fulfilling of his definition of “normal”…blacks, gays, transgenders, Muslim, Hindu, Hispanic…the list never ends for racists like Pence.
Meanwhile the jobs in Indiana will keep disappearing but those radically important social issues will be there to console all those whose income falls and can no longer pay the mortgage.
94
Choosing Mike Pence as the vice presidential candidate is a smart move by Donald Trump and will bring people into the Republcan party which means more votes. He seems like a decent and level headed man with conservative values which is needed for our country at this uncertain time. I look forward to the Republican National Comvention next week and hope it is a success. Donald Trump can count on my vote as we need change.
Hillary Clinton will just be copying President Obama's policies which have been a failure. She is dishonest and deceitful and not to be trusted. Donald Trump is catching up to her in the poll numbers and I think he has a very good chance of being our next president. He would not be my first choice but he is superior to Mrs. Clinton.
Hillary Clinton will just be copying President Obama's policies which have been a failure. She is dishonest and deceitful and not to be trusted. Donald Trump is catching up to her in the poll numbers and I think he has a very good chance of being our next president. He would not be my first choice but he is superior to Mrs. Clinton.
Mr. Pence was probably chosen at the urging of Trump's children. They seem to be the only ones he takes any counsel from. Pence is a far right religious extremist. Trump is catering the GOP base by choosing him. However, in the Trump Show there is room for only one start, and as stated in the article part of his attraction was the assurance he won't steel any limelight from Trump. Trump had to know that either Gingrich or Christie would want to have at least some of the spotlight. I always find politicians such as Mr. Pence interesting - they spend hours and days trying to impose their religious views on the populace, while things with real meaning - say affordable education and decent paying jobs are side issues. Mr. Pence has shown he is no friend of the working class, so it will be interesting to see if religion or economic self interest wins out.
5
It's a grave disappointment and disservice to the public that the media, including the Times, continues to treat the Trump candidacy with the false equivalency of a legitimate candidate.
Trump has not once spoken in coherent terms about policies, he never fails to mar minority groups in the most grotesque ways possible. He mocks, dismisses and scorns without constraint. Such an unpredictable nature does not bode well for our country.
This false equivalency perpetuated by the media gives Trump an undeserved legitimacy. If elected the media must be considered complicit in presenting Trump as a thoughtful and worthy candidate, which he most definitely is not.
Trump has not once spoken in coherent terms about policies, he never fails to mar minority groups in the most grotesque ways possible. He mocks, dismisses and scorns without constraint. Such an unpredictable nature does not bode well for our country.
This false equivalency perpetuated by the media gives Trump an undeserved legitimacy. If elected the media must be considered complicit in presenting Trump as a thoughtful and worthy candidate, which he most definitely is not.
5
Dear Americans who are eligible to vote: please do not inflict a Donald Trump presidency on the rest of us, let alone your own people, either by default (not voting) or by choice. At this point in our history, with multiple and complex issues impacting across borders, we do not need a belligerent demagogue as American president fermenting division on race and religion, being dangerously confrontational in international relations, and proudly projecting ignorance or disdain about issues like climate change. Many of us outside America are in a state of disbelief (and horror) at the thought of a Trump presidency. Whatever the faults or mistakes of Hillary Clinton, she is at least a highly intelligent and well informed individual who is widely respected internationally.
7
Assuming Trump wins the election in November, Mike Pence will become the 46th President of the United States. Pence will not be elected to that honor in 2020 or 2024; it will be handed to him when Trump vacates the office, probably sooner rather than later.
Trump is no more capable of handling the duties of the office of POTUS than a chihuahua is capable of diving into freezing water to retrieve a downed Canada goose more than 5 times its size. Picture, if you can, the golden-haired and orange-skinned one delivering a eulogy following a mass killing. Keep trying. The picture just won't come into focus? Your glasses are not the problem.
Next, imagine Donald at a world summit. Two of the attendees are Angela Merkel and Theresa May. The first rates a 1.5 on Trump's Babe-O-Meter, the second ekes out a 3. Neither of them will have anything to say that interests Donald Trump, even if they kneel as they speak.
Now, put Mr. Pence in the same situations. Mr. Ted Cruz-Lite may deliver a more believable performance on the former, if a little heavy on the hellfire and brimstone vs redemption side. But evangelicals aren't real supportive of women outside their god-given places in the kitchen and the delivery room.
If there really is a God, can we blame Him for putting us in this situation?
Trump is no more capable of handling the duties of the office of POTUS than a chihuahua is capable of diving into freezing water to retrieve a downed Canada goose more than 5 times its size. Picture, if you can, the golden-haired and orange-skinned one delivering a eulogy following a mass killing. Keep trying. The picture just won't come into focus? Your glasses are not the problem.
Next, imagine Donald at a world summit. Two of the attendees are Angela Merkel and Theresa May. The first rates a 1.5 on Trump's Babe-O-Meter, the second ekes out a 3. Neither of them will have anything to say that interests Donald Trump, even if they kneel as they speak.
Now, put Mr. Pence in the same situations. Mr. Ted Cruz-Lite may deliver a more believable performance on the former, if a little heavy on the hellfire and brimstone vs redemption side. But evangelicals aren't real supportive of women outside their god-given places in the kitchen and the delivery room.
If there really is a God, can we blame Him for putting us in this situation?
105
Perfect! What a disgusting pair. What an embarrassment for our country. Their promise for regressive, repressive policies that deny every worthwhile achievement we have fought so hard to achieve is sickening. Pence's total failure as a governor and public servant, Trump's failure as a human being, liar, and manipulator of the worst in all of us combine as the most dangerous threat to the health and stability of our country in memory. God has challenged us to see evil, reject it, and pledge ourselves to truth and "good".
Oh my golly! This keeps getting weirder. This shines a bright light, again, on the depravity of the GOP. How they have rotted, how far down into immorality the Bible-over-Constitution path has taken a large swath of Americans.
5
The choice in the upcoming Presidential Election is a "hot-mess." Now, will Hillary see beyond and through the trees to grasp that Trump is popular 'enough' and the 'electorate' mad enough - to make him the next President?
To win the presidency in this sea of political madness Hillary can only do one thing to assure a "win." Put Bernie on the ticket. He brings his energy, popularity and followers to the ticket. Kane appears to be a nice guy...while the rest of the folks being considered as HRC's running mate fail to inspire the kind of voters that Bernie can attract.
Well Dems...do you wanna win bad enough - thn Hillary has to be big enough!
To win the presidency in this sea of political madness Hillary can only do one thing to assure a "win." Put Bernie on the ticket. He brings his energy, popularity and followers to the ticket. Kane appears to be a nice guy...while the rest of the folks being considered as HRC's running mate fail to inspire the kind of voters that Bernie can attract.
Well Dems...do you wanna win bad enough - thn Hillary has to be big enough!
2
After the announcement, Wimpy could be heard saying,
"I'll gladly pay you a trumpence Tuesday for a hamburger today."
"I'll gladly pay you a trumpence Tuesday for a hamburger today."
1
Wow From your headline.........you folks really HATE this guy. How American!
Edward Burchianti
Williamsburg, VA
Edward Burchianti
Williamsburg, VA
Trump is just another trump is just another RINO.
"Feed the birds, TrumpPence a bag. TrumpPence, TrumpPence, TrumpPence a bag." Serves 'em right for not knowing their Mary Poppins.
1
Ah, Tuppence are the Republican candidates. That two pennies, which is about what this duo is worth.
1
Picking anyone short of Trump picking his own daughter is a compromise with the GOP
1
OK girls get resdy to vote or get ready to start calling the White House instead of Indy.
Dear Editorial Board,
It is not surprising to see you criticize Mr. Trump's VP pick - there isn't anyone you would have liked in the first place. You call Mr. Gingrich ethically compromised and Mr. Christie politically damaged. Both charges equally apply to Hillary Clinton, whom you endorse.
You say that, "Mr. Trump does not offer any real policies for creating jobs...". It's not the role of government to create private sector jobs. All they can do is provide make-work, temporary jobs with taxpayer money.
You criticize Governor Pence for his support of the "Religious Freedom Restoration Act, seen as a means for businesses to deny services to same-sex couples". I'll criticize him as well, all those well-meaning but short-sighted conservatives out there and especially for the narrow-minded editors of the NY Times. We have RFRA laws because liberals lie about being tolerant. They are not tolerant if they insist on denying someone the freedom to associate, which means freedom to choose. To make it more plain, in a free society everyone should have the right to discriminate. Liberals hate that concept. Conservatives want freedom of association only when it comes to religion.
Any business should be free to deny anyone service for any reason without fear of a lawsuit. Until then, we're not really free to choose - unless a woman wants to have an abortion and then the "right to choose" is all of a sudden important. Can the Editorial Board say "hypocrisy"?
It is not surprising to see you criticize Mr. Trump's VP pick - there isn't anyone you would have liked in the first place. You call Mr. Gingrich ethically compromised and Mr. Christie politically damaged. Both charges equally apply to Hillary Clinton, whom you endorse.
You say that, "Mr. Trump does not offer any real policies for creating jobs...". It's not the role of government to create private sector jobs. All they can do is provide make-work, temporary jobs with taxpayer money.
You criticize Governor Pence for his support of the "Religious Freedom Restoration Act, seen as a means for businesses to deny services to same-sex couples". I'll criticize him as well, all those well-meaning but short-sighted conservatives out there and especially for the narrow-minded editors of the NY Times. We have RFRA laws because liberals lie about being tolerant. They are not tolerant if they insist on denying someone the freedom to associate, which means freedom to choose. To make it more plain, in a free society everyone should have the right to discriminate. Liberals hate that concept. Conservatives want freedom of association only when it comes to religion.
Any business should be free to deny anyone service for any reason without fear of a lawsuit. Until then, we're not really free to choose - unless a woman wants to have an abortion and then the "right to choose" is all of a sudden important. Can the Editorial Board say "hypocrisy"?
I'm beginning to believe that truly moderate republicans in this day and time are about as common as Ivory Billed Woodpeckers.
1
The jokester picks a joker. Or perhaps it's the other way around. In any case, we don't no whether to laugh or cry. But we do know that this match makes uncertainty more certain and political incoherence the platform of the Republican Party. If elected, these guys would bring us back to the 1920s or even further to the 1850s. Progress engineered by old and out-of-touch white men.
3
Reminds me-I need to buy TP (toilet paper) this week...
2
For anyone still under the delusion that Trump and Clinton are about the same, please read this comparison https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/open-letter-sanders-supporters-scott-s-sm...
2
Here's hoping your fantastic job of presenting the facts about Trump vs Hillary has a positive effect, Scott. An impressive research job! Many thanks!!
2
Amid all this madness, the Polls show Trump tied with Hillary? Because he's "more trustworthy". Huh?
Has America gone completely bonkers?
Has America gone completely bonkers?
3
As hard as it may be for the NYT Editorial Board and the NYT's readership, Donald Trump is the likely next President. As the world devolves into chaos before our eyes, partly because of America's abdication of its leadership role under President Obama, many Americans are searching for reassurance and change from our current status quo. Secretary Clinton's email fiasco has reinforced her image as dishonest, untrustworthy and completely self-serving. Her image as a dishonest politician, pandering to achieve her lifelong lust for power while she lines her pockets with millions of $ paid to her by Sycophantic Bankers currying favor. And to make matters exponentially worse, Justice Ginsberg speaks the truth, spills the beans and discloses to everyone her profound and unprofessional bias. Really? Do you really think the Secretary will win the election. Before all this chaos I thought it would be a close election. Now, I predict that Trump wins in a landslide. So, I recommend that the NYT Editorial Board, and its readers, begin to come to terms with a Trump Presidency.
"A poll last week found that only 12 percent of voters said Mr. Pence’s name on the ticket would make them more likely to cast a ballot for Mr. Trump. Among Republican voters 22 percent said it would."
Before - 83% of Republicans said they will vote for Trump in November.
Now - 22% more will decide to vote for him.
it's already 105%, and it's still July...
Before - 83% of Republicans said they will vote for Trump in November.
Now - 22% more will decide to vote for him.
it's already 105%, and it's still July...
Although I voted for Barack Obama twice (including in the 2008 Democratic primary), I sincerely miss the days when the Republicans had presidential candidates who were actually decent human beings, e.g., John McCain and Mitt Romney with whom I could disagree and still respect.
In 2016 I feel like I am living in Germany in 1932.
In 2016 I feel like I am living in Germany in 1932.
2
"Mr. Pence . . . won’t hog the spotlight or embarrass the boss." The boss wouldn't worry about that. When has Trump ever had any real competition in hogging the spotlight and embarrassing himself?
1
I'm sure the reality TV star and his talk show radio host sidekick will run a very entertaining campaign.
It's just that, I don't want a President or a VP to entertain me.
I want one that will fairly govern our country, and one who will go into office with the knowledge that they are there to be President of the ENTIRE country. That they are there for the good of ALL Americans, not just white Christian, mainly male Republicans. That rich or poor, old or young, Republican or Democrat, pro-Choice or Pro-life, black or white or brown or yellow, male or female, religious or not, straight or LGBT won't matter.
Trump, and Pence, have yet to show any of us, that they can be a leader for every American.
It's just that, I don't want a President or a VP to entertain me.
I want one that will fairly govern our country, and one who will go into office with the knowledge that they are there to be President of the ENTIRE country. That they are there for the good of ALL Americans, not just white Christian, mainly male Republicans. That rich or poor, old or young, Republican or Democrat, pro-Choice or Pro-life, black or white or brown or yellow, male or female, religious or not, straight or LGBT won't matter.
Trump, and Pence, have yet to show any of us, that they can be a leader for every American.
1
No use pointing out the inconsistencies, the exaggerations, the outright lies because they are the essence of their campaign. The only way this surprising duo can be shown for what they are: Trump a man who is running for the presidency so that he can improve on his brand name and make more money, Pence who has a narrow and distorted understanding of what human beings are like, is to insist, by interviewers, newspapermen and debate moderators, on specific details about their programs, that is, if they have one.
9
What a team Trump and Pence. America, you ain't seen nothing yet. When these two take the reigns of America it will become once again the greatest nation on the face of the earth!
You're joking; I can only assume.
And when did it stop being the "greatest country"-2008, Now 8 years later it's back. What brought it down, W's collapse of the economy, the doubling of Stock markets under Obama, the now low unemployment rate , or perhaps the killing of bin ladin. Just wondering.
How many wars do you think we'll be in Trump's first year. My bet is at least two.
How many wars do you think we'll be in Trump's first year. My bet is at least two.
2
From Southern Boy in TN, "When these two take the reigns of America it will become once again the greatest nation on the face of the earth!"
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And long may they reign! (cough, cough)
With the reins held tight, always in control of the bit, the once educated Americans are headed to the manure pile under Trump and Pence.
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And long may they reign! (cough, cough)
With the reins held tight, always in control of the bit, the once educated Americans are headed to the manure pile under Trump and Pence.
2
To quote a friend, "Thrilled for Indiana. Terrified for the nation".
59
He does not really hate the establishment. He poked them in the eye because doing so drew attention and support and established a "brand". That having been done, he can go on and embrace whoever the next love will be to bring him donations, political organization, allies, and more.
It is a never ending series of 'stances' and 'proclamations' and 'positions on issues' where there is always sizzle and never steak. Where there is always thunder but never lightning.
It is remarkable that a man with no center, no core, has risen to lead the party on the right whose entire 'brand' had been built upon so-called Values Voters and defined themselves by how tightly they clung to tradition. Now they cling to him and let's see how long this marriage lasts.
It is a never ending series of 'stances' and 'proclamations' and 'positions on issues' where there is always sizzle and never steak. Where there is always thunder but never lightning.
It is remarkable that a man with no center, no core, has risen to lead the party on the right whose entire 'brand' had been built upon so-called Values Voters and defined themselves by how tightly they clung to tradition. Now they cling to him and let's see how long this marriage lasts.
29
MIKE Pence?? I thought Trump was going to choose HUNTER Pence as his running mate. Hunter has better name recognition and is much more popular.
9
Who is he?
As a gay man I refuse to vote for a man who so bitterly opposes my rights. That is a firm "NO!" to Mike Pence.
70
To know Pence is to (dis)like Pence. The aw shucks and pious posturing just barely masks a man willing to do anything - including shafting low income, pre-school kids - to get ahead.
In this he resembles the person at the head of the ticket.
Trump's choice, meanwhile, shows his desperation. Indiana is one of the reddest of red states, declared for Bush within minutes of the polls closing in 2004. It has been led by the reactionary Pence and equally reactionary Republicans in controlling both legislative chambers for years.
And for a GOP candidate to need to shore up the evangelical vote - "Not Good!" as the Donald might tweet.
In this he resembles the person at the head of the ticket.
Trump's choice, meanwhile, shows his desperation. Indiana is one of the reddest of red states, declared for Bush within minutes of the polls closing in 2004. It has been led by the reactionary Pence and equally reactionary Republicans in controlling both legislative chambers for years.
And for a GOP candidate to need to shore up the evangelical vote - "Not Good!" as the Donald might tweet.
36
Pence like Reagan & Bush rides a horse! A 'real' man's man. Nothing there for the ladies...NOTHING!
1
Have you seen the Trump - Pence campaign logo? It looks like the ticket has made another unforced error!
32
Another radical Christian who votes for and advocates war. Right to life? Sure.
77
Pence? Wake me when its over.
33
Just don't sleep through election day.
Pence is Trump's shout out to the anti-abortion groups, anti LGBT groups and Evangelicals. No dog whistles any more!
43
Crazy Donald needed someone who would not hog the stage. Like everything Crazy Donald does, it is only about winning. If Pence secures Evangelicals and other extreme right wingers, that's good for winning. If he brings in Koch brothers' money, even better for winning. Pence certainly makes it appear that Crazy Donald is unambiguously against the LGBT community, women's right to choose, women's rights generally, and probably nearly anything else involving rights that has evolved since the end of the Civil War (at least until he again contradicts himself).
What we really have is two entertainers, a reality TV star and a talk show host, who are collectively vying for ratings by trying to provide the best election entertainment possible. Substance, character, knowledge, etc. are irrelevant in the Crazy Donald parallel universe.
Crazy Donald cannot take a back seat to anyone and must always be in charge and the center of attention; it is part of his sickness. No doubt Pence will be just a show pony for the conservative extremists. Crazy Donald will have him on very short reins. This choice is just Crazy Donald being Crazy Donald; no one should take anything he does or says seriously. Everything he does is only about himself.
The problem is that the truly crazy part is Crazy Donald is only one election away from being President.
What we really have is two entertainers, a reality TV star and a talk show host, who are collectively vying for ratings by trying to provide the best election entertainment possible. Substance, character, knowledge, etc. are irrelevant in the Crazy Donald parallel universe.
Crazy Donald cannot take a back seat to anyone and must always be in charge and the center of attention; it is part of his sickness. No doubt Pence will be just a show pony for the conservative extremists. Crazy Donald will have him on very short reins. This choice is just Crazy Donald being Crazy Donald; no one should take anything he does or says seriously. Everything he does is only about himself.
The problem is that the truly crazy part is Crazy Donald is only one election away from being President.
72
And Medieval Pence would be a heartbeat away from the presidency. Once again the Republicans are duping the American worker into voting against their own futures by vilifying the "other".
1
Amazing ! Those two are more 1950s than the GOP ! Two weirdos with (possibly) a finger on the Nuclear Button and a modern army at their beck and call. Now I AM getting scared........
121
Gov. Pence's fairly nondescript features give him the uncanny appearance of a somewhat aged, white-haired, plastic Ken doll. So he's pretty much the perfect generic white male for the Trump ticket. Expect him to be seen but not heard, except for the Vice Presidential debates and, even there, probably not heard by many unless Clinton does better.
45
Trump "We need to go to World war over the attack in France". We dont even know if it was heist gone bad or terrorism and this fool wants to go to WW 3? Nothing like a steady had on the tiller folks?
153
German and Italian mothers sent their boys to early graves on foreign fields.
Will Republican mothers do the same following this fool's calls for war, war and more war? Just what we need- another chicken-hawk who wants to send boys into battle that he shied away from.
Korean Vet
Will Republican mothers do the same following this fool's calls for war, war and more war? Just what we need- another chicken-hawk who wants to send boys into battle that he shied away from.
Korean Vet
Neo-Mussolinian type of dictatorial fascism raises its head with the possible election of Trump. What are the voters thinking? An appalling shortsightedness of the electorate and lack of foresight of the consequences to the country.
And I do not think that Hillary Clinton would be any better.
And I do not think that Hillary Clinton would be any better.
7
TuvwXyz, you can't believe that Hillary would be as bad as Trump if she tried! If you can, you haven't yet come to appreciate Trump.
54
I hope Jim from Atlanta doesn't mind too much: I'm quoting his wonderful comment here: http://www.nytimes.com/2016/07/15/us/politics/hillary-clinton-donald-tru...
"Oh, please. Enough already.
"Weak-willed Eve persuades Adam to eat the forbidden fruit. Paradise lost, all because of a woman. Curious Pandora, "sheer guile, not to be withstood by men," opens the mysterious jar and releases evils into the world. .... Disaster ensues, all because of a woman. And so on, seemingly ad infinitum.
"Are we ever going to reach bottom in this free fall of ours into sheer stupidity? Are we really this clueless and lacking in self-awareness? This caricature of Hillary Clinton as a modern-day Lady Macbeth is the creation of the same cabal of white male reactionaries who are eager to hand Donald J. Trump — he of the narcissistic personality disorder — the nuclear codes. If you are willing to swallow this misogynistic tripe, you are a misogynist yourself or a dupe, pure and simple."
"Oh, please. Enough already.
"Weak-willed Eve persuades Adam to eat the forbidden fruit. Paradise lost, all because of a woman. Curious Pandora, "sheer guile, not to be withstood by men," opens the mysterious jar and releases evils into the world. .... Disaster ensues, all because of a woman. And so on, seemingly ad infinitum.
"Are we ever going to reach bottom in this free fall of ours into sheer stupidity? Are we really this clueless and lacking in self-awareness? This caricature of Hillary Clinton as a modern-day Lady Macbeth is the creation of the same cabal of white male reactionaries who are eager to hand Donald J. Trump — he of the narcissistic personality disorder — the nuclear codes. If you are willing to swallow this misogynistic tripe, you are a misogynist yourself or a dupe, pure and simple."
101
Thank you. A letter to read and re-read, to remind us of the insidious, millennia-old dynamic at play in this seemingly never-ending free-for-all of an election. The entrenched patriarchy in America has never been as threatened, or revealed its anxiety so baldly. We now have a volatile, erratic, woefully inappropriate and unqualified caricature white knuckling the last days of white male privilege.
4
Gov Mike is there to function as a recruiter of evangelicals. To make sure they are registered and remain committed to the Trump version of identity politics via Pence assurances (interpretations?) of God's will & Trump; as well as a character reference for Donald's intentions.
48
There goes the chance of Pence getting reelected and his Governorship. Dead end, Gov. Spence. You are fired!
47
Joining Trump was his only hope of political salvation.
1
Bravo for the citizens of the indiana
1
Donald Trumps "political reality show" is working for him. With Gov. Pence he is likely to seduce even more voters to watch the show. Great move in picking Pence!
What about Hillary Clinton's reality show? Can she find a running mate who brings excitement to her dull campaign? Can she do more than nod 406 times in 30 minutes (with Sanders)? I hope so.
Why can't Clinton push the "W" women's card to the max? Bring a woman into the White House and inspire men and women in government and in the White House.
The only thing we have to fear is... Donald Trump!
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What about Hillary Clinton's reality show? Can she find a running mate who brings excitement to her dull campaign? Can she do more than nod 406 times in 30 minutes (with Sanders)? I hope so.
Why can't Clinton push the "W" women's card to the max? Bring a woman into the White House and inspire men and women in government and in the White House.
The only thing we have to fear is... Donald Trump!
--------------------------------------------------------------
4
Watch Hillary pick a military man as running mate so we can have a preview of the military conflicts she is itching to instigate. Henry Kissinger for Secy of State sounds like a logical choice and then the MIC will be rolling in clover for years.
Maybe people fear an out and out liar more.
1
If Donald Trump were looking to improve his chances with women voters he could hardly have made a worse choice than Mike Pence. I doubt there are many women who would describe as "affable" a man whose sole political agenda seems to consist of attacking Planned Parenthood, controlling women's reproductive decisions and offering legislative succour to evangelicals wishing to deny services to same sex couples. He is a mysogynist bigot, who like Trump, has no business anywhere near the Presidency in any capacity.
36
Pence maybe dense, but he's smart enough to know that being possible VP is the best thing that he could ever hope for -- got him out of getting kicked out of the IN statehouse. He'll keep quiet and do his master's bidding.
1
Pence is capable of a lot more ways to "embarrass the boss" -- if, that is, the boss were the least bit embarrassable. Just replay Pence's interview with George Stephanopoulos about hiring gay workers in Indiana. His primary defense rested on the "wonderful people of Indiana." As a big part of the country went so voluminously for candidate Trump, I had been wondering where the wonderful people lived. I guess now we know.
I really believe Trump and the rest of the GOP establishment were thinking of Mitch Daniels instead. You know Indiana. They all look alike.
I really believe Trump and the rest of the GOP establishment were thinking of Mitch Daniels instead. You know Indiana. They all look alike.
18
In hearing the news, I was reminded of a recent comment that England is planning to issue a new coin in honor of the Brexit vote, a coin worth nothing to be called a 'Trumpence'.
24
12 Trumpence to a Shill(ing).
2
I'm just happy that DT didn't choose Joni Ernst, the junior senator from Iowa. I was fearful that a woman, even a right-wing nobody like Ernst, might have given Trump credibility with the millions of women he has turned off. Bullet dodged, I believe.
I'm also happy - and this is my vindictive side - that lapdog Christie did not get the nod. Regardless, his sycophantish ways are sure to earn him a spot in a Trump administration, should there be one. But then of course, we would have much greater things to worry about than the obsequious governor hanging on to power in which ever capacity he can.
I'm also happy - and this is my vindictive side - that lapdog Christie did not get the nod. Regardless, his sycophantish ways are sure to earn him a spot in a Trump administration, should there be one. But then of course, we would have much greater things to worry about than the obsequious governor hanging on to power in which ever capacity he can.
19
DT doesn't want a running mate, just a toady. I can hardly see Ernst in that role. Nope -- Pence is the right guy.
1
This has longed ceased to be amusing let alone interesting. Pence is a shill for a christian (small c) version of the Taliban. This loosely defined theocracy has no place representing or leading a diverse, complex and evolving electorate. Waiting in the wings are Paul Ryan and company with their survival of the fittest economic and social policies. The GOP has ceased to be a political party worthy of making any decent contribution in the realm of ideas and solutions. As flawed as the Democratic candidate may be, that choice is the only rational one.
82
Just from a political strategist perspective, I think Sanders' endorsement of Clinton, forced the GOP nominee's hand. As such, I think it was his best move.
Sanders captured many of the independent voters, and independently minded voters. So now that they no longer have Sanders to vote for, I think the calculation is correct that the GOP had to dig deeper into their base.
Demographically, the base is dwindling, but it is still possible that there are enough disaffected free radicals to still add mystery to the outcome.
Sanders captured many of the independent voters, and independently minded voters. So now that they no longer have Sanders to vote for, I think the calculation is correct that the GOP had to dig deeper into their base.
Demographically, the base is dwindling, but it is still possible that there are enough disaffected free radicals to still add mystery to the outcome.
3
Pence will mess up in the debates and we will see how unqualified he is
23
There are no running mates for Mr. trump that will make him any more palatable to thinking human beings. The "social conservative" Mike Pence is simply "more of the same" from the bankrupt Republican bullpen. Let's see how he likes kowtowing to a seriously deranged "boss".
44
"There are no running mates for Mr. trump that will make him any more palatable to thinking human beings."
Maybe not so -- rumor has it that Trump is looking into getting himself cloned.
Maybe not so -- rumor has it that Trump is looking into getting himself cloned.
1
CNN and MSNBC are both reporting tonight that after midnight Thursday Trump made frantic calls to his inner circle asking if it was still possible to cancel the choice of Pence. They told him no, that Pence had already withdrawn his name from the Indiana ballot in order to run with Trump. So much for calm, deliberative decisions.
Dan Senor tweeting today that he had recently commiserated with Pence about what a bad choice Trump was - and he now feels disoriented seeing Pence has agreed to become Trump's running mate. Dan Senor no friend of Mike Pence???
The Trump administration will be the most chaotic in history. Trump refuses to learn anything, relies on his 'gut,' knows nothing about foreign policy or governing, flies off the cuff, threatens people who disagree with him, retweets white supremacist memes, lies constantly, spouts bigotry and misogyny, demands passage of laws and declarations of war that are unconstitutional, relies for advice about policy and strategy from his know-nothing sycophant children - especially daughter Ivanka, his consigliere, who is a handbag designer.
This would make a pretty-good sitcom. Unfortunately it's our nightmare reality.
Dan Senor tweeting today that he had recently commiserated with Pence about what a bad choice Trump was - and he now feels disoriented seeing Pence has agreed to become Trump's running mate. Dan Senor no friend of Mike Pence???
The Trump administration will be the most chaotic in history. Trump refuses to learn anything, relies on his 'gut,' knows nothing about foreign policy or governing, flies off the cuff, threatens people who disagree with him, retweets white supremacist memes, lies constantly, spouts bigotry and misogyny, demands passage of laws and declarations of war that are unconstitutional, relies for advice about policy and strategy from his know-nothing sycophant children - especially daughter Ivanka, his consigliere, who is a handbag designer.
This would make a pretty-good sitcom. Unfortunately it's our nightmare reality.
113
If you are relying on MSNBC for factual reporting, your reality checking is in dire need of an overhaul.
It is not Trump that I worry so much about. It is his supporters who believe that he knows what he is talking about and are ready to go to the mat for him.
1
Here's what Trump cares about: "Winning!" He must think Pence (and perhaps the deep pockets of the accompanying Koch brothers) will help him get there. He'll sing any tune you like -- if it gets him what he wants. Yesterday it was "build a wall, cancel the trade agreements," today its social conservatism. He's counting on his followers loving his form and caring nothing about substance in the long run. As long as he's willing to stick his finger in the eye of whoever represents the "politically correct," he's golden in the eyes of his supporters.
14
I don't know who's bright idea this was, but on paper, it's a disaster. Pence supports everything Trump has railed against. Pence is against every modernist culture trend that Trump has supported.
And for the state and governor that drove Carrier to Mexico--the very same Carrier Corporation cited by Trump over and over during the primary season as Enemy #1 of workers--to now be his running mate, sort of underscores what a circus this whole show is.
Unless you follow the money. Trump can't raise any. Pence brings the open checkbooks of the Kochs (largely because he's so malleable). And so, the Pence pick brings the whole Trump show full circle: first he rages, then he compromises, then he caves.
If any of his supporters care, and really want a populist in Washington, then they won't be too happy. With Pence, Trump immediately joins the very establishment (and big pocket donors) he railed against for the past year.
Trump-Pence aren't a breath of fresh air, a iconoclast pairing that will burn Washington down. Au contraire, they are business as usual, giving everything the Kochs and their ilk want, while stiffing the little guy.
Hey, little guy America: how do you feel tonight? Still convinced Mr. Trump will get restore your jobs, thumb his nose at the elites, and make America great again?
Don't bet on it: Donald and Mike could care less about you, because for their donors and themselves, America is already pretty darn great.
And for the state and governor that drove Carrier to Mexico--the very same Carrier Corporation cited by Trump over and over during the primary season as Enemy #1 of workers--to now be his running mate, sort of underscores what a circus this whole show is.
Unless you follow the money. Trump can't raise any. Pence brings the open checkbooks of the Kochs (largely because he's so malleable). And so, the Pence pick brings the whole Trump show full circle: first he rages, then he compromises, then he caves.
If any of his supporters care, and really want a populist in Washington, then they won't be too happy. With Pence, Trump immediately joins the very establishment (and big pocket donors) he railed against for the past year.
Trump-Pence aren't a breath of fresh air, a iconoclast pairing that will burn Washington down. Au contraire, they are business as usual, giving everything the Kochs and their ilk want, while stiffing the little guy.
Hey, little guy America: how do you feel tonight? Still convinced Mr. Trump will get restore your jobs, thumb his nose at the elites, and make America great again?
Don't bet on it: Donald and Mike could care less about you, because for their donors and themselves, America is already pretty darn great.
60
To all the little guys and gals in America, do you really want pity, do you really want others to protect you from the "man". How about growing a pair, stopping your whining, getting off your butt, pulling on your boots, and taking some pride in your own abilities. Quit acting like victims. You don't need protecting from the "man" you need to show the "man" your stronger than he is.
"Mr. Trump does not offer any real policies for creating jobs, and he has been faulted for his treatment of his own employees, but he does at least talk about the pain people are feeling."
And yet Trump scores better than Clinton in polls asking who would do better at creating jobs. As to Trump's claim that he could turn around a company's plan to move in "24 hours," why can his fans not see through such wild rhetoric? Capitalism does not allow for the gov't forbidding a company from moving; the President does not have the power to simply say "no" or slap on an instant fine. Even assuming that punishments could be put in place for firms which move production overseas, Congress would have to act - hardly a 24 hour deal...
And yet Trump scores better than Clinton in polls asking who would do better at creating jobs. As to Trump's claim that he could turn around a company's plan to move in "24 hours," why can his fans not see through such wild rhetoric? Capitalism does not allow for the gov't forbidding a company from moving; the President does not have the power to simply say "no" or slap on an instant fine. Even assuming that punishments could be put in place for firms which move production overseas, Congress would have to act - hardly a 24 hour deal...
57
That's primarily due to the NY Times building a mountain out of a few grains of sand in emailgate, at least when they weren't simply making stuff up. If Trump does eventually become President the media in general and the Times in particular have a lot to answer for.
1
The 98% of voters to your right are aware that Mr. Trump has employed THOUSANDS of people and 90+% of the corporations he has formed for various activities are STILL operating normally.
Meanwhile the one corporation Hillary ever formed - Whitewater - was a shady-to-outright criminal enterprise from the beginning and went bankrupt.
Are you aware of these tote-the-note used car dealers who come get your car after you miss the minimum number of payments and immediately resell the car? THAT is what Whitewater was doing with housing. People lost fortunes.
It WAS Hillary's idea.
Meanwhile the one corporation Hillary ever formed - Whitewater - was a shady-to-outright criminal enterprise from the beginning and went bankrupt.
Are you aware of these tote-the-note used car dealers who come get your car after you miss the minimum number of payments and immediately resell the car? THAT is what Whitewater was doing with housing. People lost fortunes.
It WAS Hillary's idea.
His fans like instant and simplistic "answers" he offers. They have no patience nor the desire to see through Trump's rhetoric. "I'll have the double cheeseburger all the way with extra fries to go."
Shame on the media for giving this guy Trump so much attention. The media has created this monstrosity over many years, and now we have an unbelievably dangerous situation, with his opponent not everyone's favorite to say the least. She trails Trump in the polls and it is likely to get worse. While there is still time, nominate Bernie Sanders as the Democrat candidate for president. The polls showed consistently throughout the primaries that Sanders can beat Trump handily.
22
Shame on you for repeating Republican opposition research on Clinton in Bernie's name. Sanders didn't face Trump. That's why Trump repeats some of his accusations word for word, while not devoting any energy to taking him down. Slogans and rockstar/tent evangelist energy notwithstanding, governing takes patience, hard work, tolerance, and compromise, along with voting in midterms to help leadership get past the real villains.
https://medium.com/@michaelarnovitz/thinking-about-hillary-a-follow-up-2...
"simply stating that you are against Hillary because she’s a ”pathological liar” or “war criminal” is not an argument, and it’s not a position. It’s just an insult pretending to be discourse."
"I’m particularly interested in those people open to the possibility that maybe, just maybe, there are things they think they know that they don’t. ... the Internet is full of people who know all kinds of things about Hillary Clinton that they don’t actually know."
"the beginning of my real education was the acceptance that many of the things I already knew I didn’t really know at all. And that’s a lesson I’ve tried never to forget. And I don’t think it would be the worst idea to bring a little of this open-mindedness and humility to our political discussions, because politicians and their policies are often not nearly as black & white as so many people want to believe. And ... reality does not always conform to the narratives we create for the politicians we love or hate."
https://medium.com/@michaelarnovitz/thinking-about-hillary-a-follow-up-2...
"simply stating that you are against Hillary because she’s a ”pathological liar” or “war criminal” is not an argument, and it’s not a position. It’s just an insult pretending to be discourse."
"I’m particularly interested in those people open to the possibility that maybe, just maybe, there are things they think they know that they don’t. ... the Internet is full of people who know all kinds of things about Hillary Clinton that they don’t actually know."
"the beginning of my real education was the acceptance that many of the things I already knew I didn’t really know at all. And that’s a lesson I’ve tried never to forget. And I don’t think it would be the worst idea to bring a little of this open-mindedness and humility to our political discussions, because politicians and their policies are often not nearly as black & white as so many people want to believe. And ... reality does not always conform to the narratives we create for the politicians we love or hate."
30
That's because there hasn't been any negative ads run against Sanders. Trump already labeled him a communist during the primary. The Republicans wanted Sanders nominated for that reason alone. There are no solid predictions during this cycle because it's so atypical of past elections.
It's time to get over it. Independent voters like me will swallow hard and vote for Hillary. I would NEVER vote for t-RUMP, but if Bernie were the candidate, I would just stay home.
1
Trump’s selection of Pence, to Trump, no doubt is all upside. If Trump is elected, Pence would retreat to the obscurity in which almost all our vice-presidents have lived, not affecting policy at all. In the meantime, he gives Trump cover with a group of voters perhaps even less likely otherwise to vote for him than liberal Democrats: religiously conservative Republicans.
Any review of the arc of Pence’s political life shows him to be an unreconstructed social conservative, against LGBT rights, against abortion for any reason, no doubt against thinking errant thoughts during sermons. Just the kind of man liberals love to demonize as just too dangerous to allow too close to real power. But when standing next to Trump, what possible mud can stick? Despite the inevitable fulminations on the far-left, nobody will pay him the slightest attention. One word of advice, though: if they can avoid it, Pence shouldn’t participate in a vice-presidential debate unless Mrs. Clinton’s choice of a VP running mate is as excessively liberal as Pence is excessively conservative. If he or she is, then their mutual contempt would cancel out; but if not, Pence could suffer from comparison.
Of course Trump did this to woo the support, including the money, of evangelicals. He’ll get it, too. Who are they going to vote for, a Hillary whose policy proffers tack farther left by the day? But it remains that everyone knows, as president, Trump is about as secular a guy as they could hope for.
Any review of the arc of Pence’s political life shows him to be an unreconstructed social conservative, against LGBT rights, against abortion for any reason, no doubt against thinking errant thoughts during sermons. Just the kind of man liberals love to demonize as just too dangerous to allow too close to real power. But when standing next to Trump, what possible mud can stick? Despite the inevitable fulminations on the far-left, nobody will pay him the slightest attention. One word of advice, though: if they can avoid it, Pence shouldn’t participate in a vice-presidential debate unless Mrs. Clinton’s choice of a VP running mate is as excessively liberal as Pence is excessively conservative. If he or she is, then their mutual contempt would cancel out; but if not, Pence could suffer from comparison.
Of course Trump did this to woo the support, including the money, of evangelicals. He’ll get it, too. Who are they going to vote for, a Hillary whose policy proffers tack farther left by the day? But it remains that everyone knows, as president, Trump is about as secular a guy as they could hope for.
9
Isn't Pence a Koch man? Trump probably now becomes palatable to the Kochs who will open up their coffers to Trump. Trump did it for the money.
124
Rita:
And why is it surprising that Trump is smart enough to know how to attract Koch money? Hillary certainly is smart enough to know how to attract Wall Street money.
And why is it surprising that Trump is smart enough to know how to attract Koch money? Hillary certainly is smart enough to know how to attract Wall Street money.
3
"...proffers tack farther left by the day..."
-----------------------------
What is so "further left" about robust systems of public education and health care; clean air and water; affordable university tuition; wages indexed to inflation; and diplomacy as a foreign policy?
I really want to know how those things conjure "Run for your lives! It's the socialist boogeyman waiting to swallow us all!!" screech that always shows up in these forums.
And please - enough with the ten-dollar sentences. That's just trying way too hard to impress.
-----------------------------
What is so "further left" about robust systems of public education and health care; clean air and water; affordable university tuition; wages indexed to inflation; and diplomacy as a foreign policy?
I really want to know how those things conjure "Run for your lives! It's the socialist boogeyman waiting to swallow us all!!" screech that always shows up in these forums.
And please - enough with the ten-dollar sentences. That's just trying way too hard to impress.
13
This reminds me on 2008 when John McCain's camp decided to go with a certain Governor who would win over social conservatives and Christian fundamentalists. I need not name her or lay out the disasters to follow.
Yes, this "odd couple" pairing is less of a balanced team than a testament to the bleak field of Republicans. Maybe Trump's kids like shooting the breeze with Pence, but the two candidates' differences just heighten the other's drawbacks. And each claims to be principled! No sell.
On the bright side for the rest of us, Pence can no longer run for Governor, so he has now forever tied his fate to brandishing an orange "T" on himself. May the two fail as spectacularly as McCain and you-know-who.
Yes, this "odd couple" pairing is less of a balanced team than a testament to the bleak field of Republicans. Maybe Trump's kids like shooting the breeze with Pence, but the two candidates' differences just heighten the other's drawbacks. And each claims to be principled! No sell.
On the bright side for the rest of us, Pence can no longer run for Governor, so he has now forever tied his fate to brandishing an orange "T" on himself. May the two fail as spectacularly as McCain and you-know-who.
153
As a citizen of Indiana I could not be happier when I heard Mike Pence was leaving the Governorship. He has been a true disaster as a political leader and has grossly failed at exercising Rule#1 for any politician. First due no harm. Unfortunately Gov. Mike Pence never received the memo and went ahead with a closed door signing of the Religious Freedom bill that caused undo hardship to a state struggling to compete for jobs. As Pence said, "This bill is not about discrimination and if I thought it legalized discrimination I would have vetoed it." Except the Religious Freedom bill did exactly what Pence said it wouldn't do, discriminate.
So while I agree with the thousands of yard signs across the state of Indiana that say "PENCE MUST GO", I'm sure nobody wanted him to leave for Washington D.C.!
So while I agree with the thousands of yard signs across the state of Indiana that say "PENCE MUST GO", I'm sure nobody wanted him to leave for Washington D.C.!
224
When I drive to Florida, via I65 this winter, I figure that if I plan carefully, I can avoid spending one cent in red state Indiana. The state that coughed up Mike Pence, like a hairball, to national prominence.
I hoping he won't end up in Washington either. Maybe a nice place can be found for him somewhere in South America.
1
yes, let's have little more unctuous sanctimony in office. that's what we need.
1
Other news sources are reporting that as late as Thursday midnight Trump was trying to get out of picking Pence. Does the NYTimes have any interest in following this up?
50
Dear Mr. Trump,
Time to put down that Twitter machine. With the unfortunate incident in Nice yesterday, there are not going to many questions tomorrow on why you didn't pick C or G. We know already. This is one old problem with real life news conferences. They don't ask about what you want to talk about.
Do tell us how would you deal with what happened yesterday in that beautiful city. Here in USA. How good your previous suggestions look now. You see a need to change them or keep repeating the same mantra? With so many people still wanting to vote for you and the world watching, won't you try to Make America Great Again or at least make it look like something similar?
Time to put down that Twitter machine. With the unfortunate incident in Nice yesterday, there are not going to many questions tomorrow on why you didn't pick C or G. We know already. This is one old problem with real life news conferences. They don't ask about what you want to talk about.
Do tell us how would you deal with what happened yesterday in that beautiful city. Here in USA. How good your previous suggestions look now. You see a need to change them or keep repeating the same mantra? With so many people still wanting to vote for you and the world watching, won't you try to Make America Great Again or at least make it look like something similar?
12
Right now Charlie Sheen running as an Independent seems like a valid option.
57
Charlie Sheen/Gary Busey!
I understand he's a Trump supporter. Big surprise
To bad Andy and Barney aren't around any more!
Foghorn Trump’s press release on his nomination of his Veep may run something like this:
“The GOP’s infamous Buffoon and Favorite reality TV star and Stud-Horse with yuuuge hands has appointed a like-minded howling dog twittering aficionado Veep from a variety of contenders who, for unknown reasons, were all running for the hills. The new Veep, Indiana Gov. Mike Pence, well for now anyways, was greeted and serenaded by the Mickey Mouse Club, … err the Trump family.
“The new Veep was quoted as saying: King Trump the Foe to Society and Sanity has never failed to forget or forsake the people who speak or work with their brains.
“On that note, get ready for the big show under the Big Top in Cleveland. There will be plenty of fireworks and not just from those who will be packing heat outside the Coronation Center in Cleveland.
“Ah, what a spectacle the Cleveland Coronation Convention will be. It will present the NRA-Republican Party dancing duo who worship at the altar of the Second Amendment and who conduct themselves like terrorists holding America hostage to their proposition ensuring that every American must be armed.
“YAHOO !!! It will be shoot-em’-up time at the-OK corral brought to you by the NRA and their guardian and protector the Republican Party !!!”
“The GOP’s infamous Buffoon and Favorite reality TV star and Stud-Horse with yuuuge hands has appointed a like-minded howling dog twittering aficionado Veep from a variety of contenders who, for unknown reasons, were all running for the hills. The new Veep, Indiana Gov. Mike Pence, well for now anyways, was greeted and serenaded by the Mickey Mouse Club, … err the Trump family.
“The new Veep was quoted as saying: King Trump the Foe to Society and Sanity has never failed to forget or forsake the people who speak or work with their brains.
“On that note, get ready for the big show under the Big Top in Cleveland. There will be plenty of fireworks and not just from those who will be packing heat outside the Coronation Center in Cleveland.
“Ah, what a spectacle the Cleveland Coronation Convention will be. It will present the NRA-Republican Party dancing duo who worship at the altar of the Second Amendment and who conduct themselves like terrorists holding America hostage to their proposition ensuring that every American must be armed.
“YAHOO !!! It will be shoot-em’-up time at the-OK corral brought to you by the NRA and their guardian and protector the Republican Party !!!”
43
Would love to be listening in on Caitlyn Jenner's phone call to Trump after this announcement....Switched parties yet CJ?!!
deb
deb
44
By they way, did you people just see Trump sell out to the right wing establishment of the GOP? He is their boy now.
159
THIS Is The Perfect Odd Couple, A Marriage Made For The Heavens....
NOW We Need To Figure Out Who Is Felix And Who Is Oscar!
ANY Guesses!???
NOW We Need To Figure Out Who Is Felix And Who Is Oscar!
ANY Guesses!???
5
So, the Trump took a guy who would have lost his reelection in his home state and is trying to put lipstick on a pig on the national level. Amazing he also had another home state looser on his roster, Christie. And this is his amazing good judgement, picking up strays along the road?
59
Let Pence keep talking. Let him enthuse over the Bible being taught in public schools; let him shine with glee over the far-right Republican Platform. Let him pull back the curtain and show us how narrow-minded and against our Constitution he is. Let his eyes twinkle when talking about Indiana's fetal burial laws. Hey... maybe he'll try again for a goverment-run news site.
79
Wow....Psycho Don on his knees, beholden to the Koch Brothers, adding a Koch fav to his ticket.
A Taliban Christian who supports TPP, who opposes expanding MediCare, who is homophobic, who is a Womb Raider, a climate change denier, and evolution denier, a man who denies the cigarette smoking cancer link.
Ah....but he brings in the plutocrat money!!!
A Taliban Christian who supports TPP, who opposes expanding MediCare, who is homophobic, who is a Womb Raider, a climate change denier, and evolution denier, a man who denies the cigarette smoking cancer link.
Ah....but he brings in the plutocrat money!!!
298
"Womb Raider"! Excellent brief but precise and accurate description!
8
I'm always looking to expand my vocabulary. 'Womb Raider' has just been added to the list. Thank you!
3
Pandering to religious conservatives while picking their pockets is the oldest trick in the Republican book. Will it work this time around? Let's hope it won't.
147
How simply and directly you put it: a memorable summary!
8
It might work for Republican voters, just not the rest of us.
1
Mike Pence is the newest member of the "Circus in Cleveland" beginning on Monday.
And to think Sarah Palin will NOT be there to share her "insights." Viewers will see the GOP continue to IMPLODE right before their eyes at "the mistake by the lake," stay tuned!
Hillary will be laughing all the way to The White House!
And to think Sarah Palin will NOT be there to share her "insights." Viewers will see the GOP continue to IMPLODE right before their eyes at "the mistake by the lake," stay tuned!
Hillary will be laughing all the way to The White House!
27
That "circus" may not be at all funny.
There's a huge possibility of violence. Open carry rifles are allowed outside the Convention hall.
I, for, one will not be watching.
I'm too scared.
There's a huge possibility of violence. Open carry rifles are allowed outside the Convention hall.
I, for, one will not be watching.
I'm too scared.
3
That's your choice pk! Millions of Americans will be watching the RNC and DNC. Don't forget to vote on November 8, 2016.
That the NYT doesn't like Pence is all I need to know. That means he is a good pick.
7
Sure, like your pick of Romney. How well did that work out for you?
12
Jacobi
The NYT didn't like Hitler either. Are you suggesting HE would have been a good pick?
The NYT didn't like Hitler either. Are you suggesting HE would have been a good pick?
1
good luck with that!
Another square-jawed white guy. Bore bore bore. Been there done that, over and over again.
37
I guess the round- faced black guy didn't do so well so we're back to a 'square- jawed white guy'. Why is everything racial with the dems, it makes a country divided.
1
>the round- faced black guy didn't do so well
He's cleaned up W's mess and then some.
Republicans don't hold a candle to him.
And you know it.
He's cleaned up W's mess and then some.
Republicans don't hold a candle to him.
And you know it.
3
I'm a working class guy who's been self employed since the 70's..never made more than 50 K a year ..these two jokers are a pox on the face of America.
One is dangerous braggart with a sole interest in lining his own pockets and the other is a wacko religious fanatic.
One is dangerous braggart with a sole interest in lining his own pockets and the other is a wacko religious fanatic.
551
Perfect.
Lying Ted Cruz has hatched his Shakespearean plot; Pence, the SURROGATE, is the not so virtual demise of Donald Trump. The art of the deal belongs to Lying Ted Cruz. Cruz: "Yes, Donald. I will speak at your convention providing you choose Pence for VP." Cruz presents himself to Trump's sheep next week as a holier than thou presidential candidate for 2020. The plot is hatched, the deed is almost done. Cruz's vitriolic enemy will NOT win in November. Breathtakingly Machiavellian!
Lying Ted Cruz has hatched his Shakespearean plot; Pence, the SURROGATE, is the not so virtual demise of Donald Trump. The art of the deal belongs to Lying Ted Cruz. Cruz: "Yes, Donald. I will speak at your convention providing you choose Pence for VP." Cruz presents himself to Trump's sheep next week as a holier than thou presidential candidate for 2020. The plot is hatched, the deed is almost done. Cruz's vitriolic enemy will NOT win in November. Breathtakingly Machiavellian!
16
And, if Trump does win, and commits some impeachable offense, or becomes certifiable, or decides it's too much work and quits, or all of the above, Pence can pick Cruz for Veep.
4
Terrific Opinion NYT! A Trump-Pence ticket “would be a hell of a team,” Chuck Jones, the union’s leader, said sarcastically. “All we need is a circus tent.”
I cannot wait for the circus to leave town.
I cannot wait for the circus to leave town.
104
Penny-wise and Constitution idiotic...
19
Isa it true that Pence does not believe in evolution? If that is true, he is a real piece
of work, to say the least. The DNC should not waste any time reminding the American people. How could he get through the vetting process?
of work, to say the least. The DNC should not waste any time reminding the American people. How could he get through the vetting process?
Perhaps the best thing one can say about Gov. Mike Pence is that he's not Sarah Palin.
56
We could have a right wing extremist radio talk show host and born again ayatollah as the VP. Maybe he could make Hannity FCC Chairman and Rush the White House Spokesperson and Glenn Beck could assume the newly created position of rigorous czar.
49
Religious czar thst is... And Gingrich could be Chief Muslim Checker.
You forgot Karl Rove... court jester?
1
Don't forget Sarah Palin as Secretary of State.
1
To quote a line...
Feed the birds, Trumpence a day, trumpence, trumpence, trumpence a day.....
These two have about as much chance of doing something good for America as the rich folks feeding the pigeons bags of crumbs on the cathedral steps...
Feed the birds, Trumpence a day, trumpence, trumpence, trumpence a day.....
These two have about as much chance of doing something good for America as the rich folks feeding the pigeons bags of crumbs on the cathedral steps...
44
A boilerplate, socially conservative, old school republican. A man completely out of step with the needs of twenty first century America. Another Mitch McConnell clone, except without all the excitement and pizazz !
35
A Trump-Pence ticket “would be a hell of a team,” Chuck Jones, the union’s leader, said sarcastically. “All we need is a circus tent.”
Apparently, Mr. Jones is not aware that it was the ardent free-trader Bill Clinton (with support from then free-trader Hillary Clinton) who pushed NAFTA, which allowed Carrier to move to Mexico.
Those who are against NAFTA (presumably Mr. Jones), should take no solace that Mrs. Clinton, who has been a free-trader for two decades, morphed into Bernie Sanders a few months ago.
Prediction - The members of Mr. Jones's union will vote overwhelmingly for Trump.
Apparently, Mr. Jones is not aware that it was the ardent free-trader Bill Clinton (with support from then free-trader Hillary Clinton) who pushed NAFTA, which allowed Carrier to move to Mexico.
Those who are against NAFTA (presumably Mr. Jones), should take no solace that Mrs. Clinton, who has been a free-trader for two decades, morphed into Bernie Sanders a few months ago.
Prediction - The members of Mr. Jones's union will vote overwhelmingly for Trump.
1
Skipped right over those eight years in between Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, didn't you? I can't say I'm surprised.
13
sadly true ... their reasons for doing so would have nothing to do with their self-interest, oddly
"All we need is a circus tent." Couldn't have said it better, Mr. Jones.
25
What a surprise! The New York Times editors don't like the most responsible choice that Donald Trump could have made. Funny that Mr. Trump has pulled even with Mrs. Clinton in your own poll.
7
Stay tuned
2
Even isn't nearly good enough for Trump on the heels of Clinton's recent bad press; He needed to pull clearly ahead. There's a better chance of his own convention hurting him than providing a bump up. Clinton will get a bump up with her convention and there is now a formidable team that can throw punches on her behalf. She maintains leads in key battleground states, including your own. The electoral math continues to look bleak for Donnie, and let's don't forget his oft demonstrated capacity for self-destruction.
2
Can't wait for the TV ads featuring Comey's descripition of Hillary's e mail fiasco. The polls are already even and one side hasn't even fired a shot yet.
There is a stench of Koch all over this selection. So the ironic and competing force combination of free-market ideology and fundamentalist social conservatism makes it all the way to to the top of an American political party ticket, huh? Must be a day for celebration in Wichita!
Trump wins and the next in line for the presidency are Mike Pence and Paul Ryan. That's the reality we all need to swallow? Ayn Rand, John Birch, and Fred Koch must be partying in their graves today.
Anyone who can't detect the rank smell of this patrician graft needs to have their sniffer checked. Republicans, your party has been hijacked by this country's wealthiest power couple. Gonna be a rough ride...
Trump wins and the next in line for the presidency are Mike Pence and Paul Ryan. That's the reality we all need to swallow? Ayn Rand, John Birch, and Fred Koch must be partying in their graves today.
Anyone who can't detect the rank smell of this patrician graft needs to have their sniffer checked. Republicans, your party has been hijacked by this country's wealthiest power couple. Gonna be a rough ride...
274
Truly not worth a pence.
17
Ouch! What a slam.
Should we expect equally prickly pieces when Mrs.Clinton's VP choice is selected?
Should we expect equally prickly pieces when Mrs.Clinton's VP choice is selected?
1
Well yes if Clinton picks an ignorant bigot, we should absolutely expect this kind of treatment. Happily she's not going to do that.
16
Mr. Trump and Pence can sit on the fence for the rest of their lives 'cause they ain't gonna win this election.
Millions of people may find themselves entertained by Jerry Springer, it doesn't mean they would want a Jerry Springer type character in the White House.
Millions of people may find themselves entertained by Jerry Springer, it doesn't mean they would want a Jerry Springer type character in the White House.
19
"Liar, liar, Pence on fire" should be their logo.
109
Good move from a strictly objective, political perspective. Gingrich and Christie have so much baggage they would sink any boat they jumped into. Question is, why would a mild-mannered, bland conservative like Pence want to sign on with an erratic, bombastic narcissist? Pence completely blew it in Indiana and had little chance of reelection. Anything to stay in the game, eh Mike? We all saw you freeze up on screen and make astounding flip-flops over the anti-gay legislation you tried to disguise as a 'religious freedom bill' last year. Nice shark bait for Bernie and others campaigning for Clinton.
36
The Times writes off the Republican ticket and, by implication, writes off its supporters. Consider this the equivalent of Romney's 47% quote. Times liberals cannot realistically win the sport of approximately half of America.
6
I'm sorry but that simply isn't true. For starters the NYT isn't running for office. You might want to take a good hard look at the demographics in this country.
29
And Romney received 47% of the vote. The 47% that want something for nothing, which is to be at the top of the food chain just because they're white and entitled.
10
BTW, ask Romney how important the woman's vote is.
9
An unlikely pair. I have a feeling their love affair will be short-lived.
But will it be a case of body-versus-host rejection, or "You're fired!"?
But will it be a case of body-versus-host rejection, or "You're fired!"?
29
Talk about an arranged marriage- no doubt the mother in law has a beard.
1
Donald Trump has a track record of bailing when the real pressure's on. So here's a very real possibility: Donald Trump wins the presidency but soon discovers it's a lot of work that distracts from running his business empire. So he quits. Mike Pence coasts into the oval office.
125
Offal office.
12
Ah, yes! The Republican ticket can't possibly be complete until someone representing the most disdainful and regressive "social conservative" faction is tacked on.
Now we'll have someone launching tirades against anyone who isn't straight and Christian alongside someone who spews hatred toward anyone who isn't white and male.
Good grief.
Now we'll have someone launching tirades against anyone who isn't straight and Christian alongside someone who spews hatred toward anyone who isn't white and male.
Good grief.
26
Mr. Trumps lack of policy agenda is only outdone by the backwards neo-theocratic gibberish of Mr. Pence and his unproductive time in Congress and as a Governor. Together, they present a bleak outlook for the United States.
Hypocritical and obstructionist to the extreme. The GOP is pathetic.
Hypocritical and obstructionist to the extreme. The GOP is pathetic.
18
Pence is a decent man, a conservative and a knowledgeable operator in Congress and among Governors. A solid, good choice by a man who needs all of what Pence brings. Beyond talking past these points, this Editorial is what, a chance to take some shots at Trump on points unrelated to his choice? Can the Times manage to just say "This makes sense."?
You can say "This makes sense" only if it's prefaced by "The other choices are disastrous, so..."
5
Except the pick doesn't make sense -- none of his top three did. Pence only gives him the anti-Hillary constituency he already had. Pence knocks out the Independents who find his blurring of the line between church and state suspect at best and repellent at worst.
Interesting choice, but irrelevant. If you're a Trump supporter, this won't make a difference. If you're undecided, but appreciate Pence's conservative credentials, you have to ask yourself what are the odds that Pence will have any impact on the actions of the blowhard-in-chief. Trump really doesn't want a VP, he thinks he and Ivanka can handle everything themselves.
19
Which is the greater hypocrite? Trump for choosing Pence? Or Pence for accepting Trump's offer? (Or the GOP ready to annoint this dastardly duo?)
This has got to be one of the most bizarre pairings in politics.
Let us hope it is only the GOP that is headed for a fall. And not the Republic!
This has got to be one of the most bizarre pairings in politics.
Let us hope it is only the GOP that is headed for a fall. And not the Republic!
26
So Mr. Trump has "never forgotten or forsaken the people who work with their hands." except for those who have not gotten paid and they have responded with "a finger that still works."
136
In my opinion, Pence is worse than Christie and Gingrich for they are malleable on social issues while he is stone. He is cut from a strain of Christianity too rigid to be second in line to lead our diverse nation.
22
That's like comparing which STD you would prefer to contract.
6
To understand our coming election, it helps to think of Mr. Trump as the bullet in a game of Russian Roulette.
If he comes up in the chamber after you have spun the cylinder, you are about to shoot yourself in the head.
Mrs. Clinton is the five empty chambers in the revolver. If she comes up, you have survived the election, without knowing much of anything about what comes next.
I prefer Mrs. Clinton to lights out and extinction.
If he comes up in the chamber after you have spun the cylinder, you are about to shoot yourself in the head.
Mrs. Clinton is the five empty chambers in the revolver. If she comes up, you have survived the election, without knowing much of anything about what comes next.
I prefer Mrs. Clinton to lights out and extinction.
27
Trump was left with The Three Stooges as potential VP.
Appears he chose the smart one.
Appears he chose the smart one.
3
Sorry, no. I'm a Hoosier, and Pence is NOT the smart one!
5
After watching his painful "audition" at the Trump rally in Indiana, I thought for sure this guy was toast. If for no other reason than his faux outrage, continual invoking of RR's legacy (not a great one - but he must still be doing cartwheels in his grave having his name even associated with the Trump ticket) and the hard hard right record he has. Seems to me this guy is the safest bet for a sociopathic narcissist that has room for only one person in the White House - him along with his outsized ego.
Ah America - what a team you have there. HRC is not the dream candidate either - but then again - how can you possibly watch Trump for more than 10 minutes without throwing up a bit in the back of your mouth.
Ah America - what a team you have there. HRC is not the dream candidate either - but then again - how can you possibly watch Trump for more than 10 minutes without throwing up a bit in the back of your mouth.
33
This is a very good editorial. This VP pick seems to be Trump's gracious nod toward the Republican establishment, while I am sure he plans to make all the decisions alone. Pence on the other hand will be the spy for Ryan and the hardliners, the new Cheney type plant only that Trump is more savvy than W and will never be a president upstaged and up-conned by his VP.
Sadly, the Republicans don't have any political, un-compromised stars; the only one amongst with fresh ideas is Trump, and he has been until recently a democrat. As a matter of fact, Trump is still a democrat with conservative values on guns, and such., and he'll bring the GOP - kicking and screaming - to the 21st century.
Sadly, the Republicans don't have any political, un-compromised stars; the only one amongst with fresh ideas is Trump, and he has been until recently a democrat. As a matter of fact, Trump is still a democrat with conservative values on guns, and such., and he'll bring the GOP - kicking and screaming - to the 21st century.
4
Another low-brow old white guy with brain-cramped opinions about sex, gender and the glory of unrestrained capitalism. Swell. I never felt this threatened even when Kruschev was toying with the nuclear button. Heaven help us, cause we can't seem to help ourselves.
226
Pence is 100% owned by Charles and David Koch. He's one of their favorites.
8
Can we just go over this again? I thought that Trump was the anti-establishment candidate. Isn't that what he said when this mess started? That's why I thought he would have to choose either Christie or Gingrich. Apparently, what he says and what he does are, in fact, two very different things. This is just one more lie that he tells on a daily basis. But will any of his supporters even notice?
23
Pence will have to work hard to get his old job back in Indiana and has decided to take the safer route. He doesn't have to take responsibility for losing in Indiana, and if the Trump clown show goes down in defeat he can play the role of adult running mate who did his best to save the ticket but was brought in too late.
18
perfect...Jasr...right on the money!
What a hoot from the state that gave us Dan Quayle. Pence is no better. Nice hair, nice suit, but not much else.
38
From me: lifelong Hoosier: Pence is beyond boring and makes really stupi and backwards decisions. He's likely to "freeze up" when being pressed for an answer of a tough question. This is going to be fun to watch!
7
All of a sudden, I long for the audacity of hope for a Clinton-Warren ticket. The VP debate would be a gem.
The inevitable onslaught of TP jokes are already a wonder to behold.
But Pence is all about shoring up a base that doesn't trust Trump; it's about locking up that 30 to 35% of voters who would vote for Trump no matter what (unless they don't bother to vote). Seems like a sign of weakness to me.
The inevitable onslaught of TP jokes are already a wonder to behold.
But Pence is all about shoring up a base that doesn't trust Trump; it's about locking up that 30 to 35% of voters who would vote for Trump no matter what (unless they don't bother to vote). Seems like a sign of weakness to me.
20
How can any reasonable person support the clowns Trump and Pence? They do not believe in science, self-choice on abortions, sane gun laws, global climate change, gay marriage, sound economic principles, and so on?
65
"Reasonable" is the key word here.
2
Let me get this straight. Republicans are comfortable with Pence because his positions are more in line with the party and think he will moderate Trump, even though Trump has stated he is who he is and won't change? These guys are bigger chumps than I thought.
20
I'm a lifelong Hoosier, and I can tell you that Pence is weak-sauce; a post-turtle, especially compared to Trump. Pence was going to lose his reelection this November, and it's more than probable the "dynamic duo" (/s) will owe then anyway. It's a win-win for Hoosiers!
3
Trump ran throughout the primaries that he was the man to shake up Washington. Not beholden to anyone. Not afraid to make the tough choices.
and here in his first major decision as the Republican candidate for President he completely caves to the existing Washington establishment and picks the only Republican Beltway-acceptable candidate willing to run with him.
A bland and mediocre choice that seems to undermine Trump's only argument for voting for him. (And please note: I would never vote for him no matter whom he selected).
and here in his first major decision as the Republican candidate for President he completely caves to the existing Washington establishment and picks the only Republican Beltway-acceptable candidate willing to run with him.
A bland and mediocre choice that seems to undermine Trump's only argument for voting for him. (And please note: I would never vote for him no matter whom he selected).
81
It is perfectly fitting that for a Make America White Again campaign, Donald Trump has chosen someone frozen in the 1950s who is as white as Wonder Bread.
I have no doubt that Governor Pence is a man of deep convictions, but we're not living in an all-white Vermont town in the 1950s where everyone went to one of two or three Protestant churches and anyone who "just didn't fit in" left for the "Big City."
We live in a post-industrial, interconnected, and diverse world in which not everyone looks, talks, believes, or acts like everyone else.
And, Governor Pence, it is a world that God made -- loving each one of us for who we are, despite our flaws, because we are all God's children.
Sadly, Governor Pence, I look at your record and ask, "Is this how a Christian treats his brothers and sisters?"
It is not for me or anyone else to judge your response, Governor Pence, but we deserve and are curious as to your answers.
I have no doubt that Governor Pence is a man of deep convictions, but we're not living in an all-white Vermont town in the 1950s where everyone went to one of two or three Protestant churches and anyone who "just didn't fit in" left for the "Big City."
We live in a post-industrial, interconnected, and diverse world in which not everyone looks, talks, believes, or acts like everyone else.
And, Governor Pence, it is a world that God made -- loving each one of us for who we are, despite our flaws, because we are all God's children.
Sadly, Governor Pence, I look at your record and ask, "Is this how a Christian treats his brothers and sisters?"
It is not for me or anyone else to judge your response, Governor Pence, but we deserve and are curious as to your answers.
251
Wonder Bread also is from Indiana.
5
Vermont town? Even the smallest all white Vermont towns are filled with progressive minded individuals who abhor the thought of a Trump-Pence ticket.
Call it an all white Indiana town, which is clearly what put reactionary Pence in office to begin with.
Call it an all white Indiana town, which is clearly what put reactionary Pence in office to begin with.
4
Please don't equate Mr. Pence with Vermont conservatives (albeit white) who were old school conservatives and active conservationists to boot (think George Aiken). Mr. Pence's intolerance has no place in that company.
1
I admit I was fooled for 5 minutes, back in the fall. I thought that Trump represented a challenge to the Republican status quo. But everytime his incoherent ravings coalesce into a detailed proposal (his tax proposal) or the name of a nominee (Trump's Supreme Court list, or Gov. Pence) it's clear that he stands for the same upward redistribution of wealth the GOP has pursued for decades. When the routine gets stale, or the contradictions get too obvious, they crank up the ''social issues'' or they produce a performer who is flaky or extreme enough to pass as an ''outsider'' running against the system (Reagan, Palin, half the current congress, and now Trump). But the actual policies never change direction, they just go farther. Yes, he will doubtless gives us a more violent and divided country and world than his fellow oligarchs prefer. But, like the politicians who ''aren't ready'' to endorse him yet, they will get over it. This time next year we'll all be blaming the uncancelled trade deals and the unbuildable Mexican wall on the liberal fascists or on the courts, while the oligarchs and party leaders are laughing all the way to the bank.
62
Trump/Pence don't need a circus tent, they need a revival tent for Elmer Gantry wanna-be Donald and Puritan Pence handing out scarlet A's for the American citizens that they feel free to judge. No Thanks.
161
Ronald Reagan and Gingrich oversaw the sorddid marriage between Evangelicals (with increasing support from the Catholic hierarchy) and GOP politicians. Reagan became our first "Evangelist in Chief" and obviously Pence would be put in charge of mollifying the Evangelicals if Trump is elected.
Even Obama got slotted into this manmade role, and meanwhile Evangelicals and haters insisted he was a secret Muslim and other attacks, ad nauseam.
We need a fully secular government with separation of church and state. The next president needs to be like Mrs. Clinton, a Methodist whose political life is grounded in and informed by her faith. She would never cave to Evangelicals like Trump has, he and his 'punish women' nonsense.
Even Obama got slotted into this manmade role, and meanwhile Evangelicals and haters insisted he was a secret Muslim and other attacks, ad nauseam.
We need a fully secular government with separation of church and state. The next president needs to be like Mrs. Clinton, a Methodist whose political life is grounded in and informed by her faith. She would never cave to Evangelicals like Trump has, he and his 'punish women' nonsense.
12
Maybe this will make some of the 78% of Evangelicals who support Trump feel better about their support. Mike Pence, Christian, conservative and Republican, in that order. Hmm. How does he square that with running with a thrice married, serial philanderer a majority of whose comments have been labeled false with more pants on fire ratings than all his Republican opponents combined? They say politics makes strange bedfellows. It also exposes hypocrites.
14
As I recall, Mike Pence does not believe in evolution let alone climate change. What a pair to lead the country in the 21st century! Climate change is a threat, but stated differently, it represents a tremendous opportunity to develop new technologies to both reduce the rate of increase and how to adapt to issues such as water shortages. The country needs leadership that believes in science and government investment in research which will lead to innovation, new industries, and good jobs. Trump and Pence represent four years of lost opportunity.
18
Actually Trump DOES believe in global warming. He is taking measures to protect some of his shoreline properties from rising ocean levels.
C'mon, it's one thing to use 'no climate change' as a campaign talking point but, he isn't going to risk his business holdings.
C'mon, it's one thing to use 'no climate change' as a campaign talking point but, he isn't going to risk his business holdings.
1
I can't wait for the VP debates where Pence will have to tie himself up in knots to explain Trump's positions on LGBT, the military and abortion rights. This guy is as hard right as you can find. His social positions play extremely poorly with the broader electorate.
11
What an awful choice for a ticket that torched the tent that Reince Priebus said needed repair after Mitt (47%) Romney got crushed by the incumbent president.
Governor Pence was living on borrowed time in Indiana. He's along for the ride, much like Captain McCloskey was with Sollozzo in The Godfather. We all know how that scene ended.
Whrn you're anti-labor; anti-choice; anti-LGBT; anti-voting rights; anti-gun control; well, there aren't many groups left to alienate from your party's platform. And Governor Pence is far to the right of Donald Trump who has no political compass to begin with.
The GOP may have, like Barnum and Bailey, retired the elephants from the three-ring circus, but circus it remains. Their tent just got a whole lot smaller, maybe smaller than Trump's fingers.
Governor Pence was living on borrowed time in Indiana. He's along for the ride, much like Captain McCloskey was with Sollozzo in The Godfather. We all know how that scene ended.
Whrn you're anti-labor; anti-choice; anti-LGBT; anti-voting rights; anti-gun control; well, there aren't many groups left to alienate from your party's platform. And Governor Pence is far to the right of Donald Trump who has no political compass to begin with.
The GOP may have, like Barnum and Bailey, retired the elephants from the three-ring circus, but circus it remains. Their tent just got a whole lot smaller, maybe smaller than Trump's fingers.
39
Pence is window dressing for Trump's uninformed, unpredictable campaign and will not fool big-ticket donors. What Pence can do is extend a straw to grasp for voters searching for any reason at all to justify voting for Trump.
3
No one, of course, usually votes based on the Vice-Presidential candidate, but when you have two very dislikable and untrustworthy candidates running for President, it may be different this year. Mike Pence helps unite the Republican Party and its conservative base thus helping Donald Trump. I hope Hillary Clinton, who is now tied with Trump in the latest polls, takes this lesson to heart and picks either Bernie (yes, I still "Feel the Bern") Sanders or Elizabeth Warren as her running mate. Sec. Clinton needs a strong, energetic and charismatic Vice-President to help unify the Democratic Party and overcome her trust-challenged, and frankly boring, campaign style. For Democrats to win and have any chance to take back the Senate they need a record turnout, and either Sens. Sanders or Warren would do that as none of the others who've been mentioned can.
4
What does it tell you that Trump's campaign strategists thought that the VP nomination should hinge on securing the conservative base instead of broadening his reach into other constituencies? The people in the base would have held their noses and voted for Trump anyway. With this choice he is just making sure that the choir shows up for Sunday service.
1
It will be interesting to see how Mr. Pence handles his demotion from governor to Trump's gofer. Anyone who thinks that Trump will share power with or give meaningful responsibilities to, his vp has not paid attention to the the primary campaign. Trump's children will probably retain greater access to their father than Pence will enjoy.
That said, Pence appears to adhere to most tenets of Republican theology, so whatever influence he might exert would not counteract Trump's toxic plans. The two men deserve each other, and may they drag each other down to defeat in November.
That said, Pence appears to adhere to most tenets of Republican theology, so whatever influence he might exert would not counteract Trump's toxic plans. The two men deserve each other, and may they drag each other down to defeat in November.
11
Mr. Pence graduated from Hanover, a tiny Indiana church college that was not equally open to women until it became coeducational in 1978.
He went to law school at Indiana University, a public system school. In 2014, U.S. News & World Report ranked the law school at 87th in the nation. The most prominent of Indiana University Law graduates was Poppy Bush’s vice-president, Dan Quayle of “potatoe” infamy and who, during that candidacy, had to be informed on national television that he was “no Jack Kennedy.”
Pence ran two failed campaigns before being elected in a third and then served in the U.S. Congress for twelve years without passing one single bill.
He is hardly distinguished by the fact that he was a member of the Congressional Republican Study Committee, not an elite select group but rather a far right-wing caucus of one-hundred seventy-two reactionary extremists.
An anti-labor, anti-woman, anti civil-rights governor, Pence is best known on the national stage as a dangerous homophobic bigot whose greatest state legislative catastrophe was his signing of the “Religious Freedom Restoration Act” which virtually authorized and endorsed broad discrimination against the LGBT community. He pigheadedly alienated liberals and conservatives alike and probably would have lost his upcoming gubernatorial re-election contest.
Pence has little to lose except his last shred of dignity by taking on the stink of Donald Trump. Congratulations, boys. You deserve each other!
He went to law school at Indiana University, a public system school. In 2014, U.S. News & World Report ranked the law school at 87th in the nation. The most prominent of Indiana University Law graduates was Poppy Bush’s vice-president, Dan Quayle of “potatoe” infamy and who, during that candidacy, had to be informed on national television that he was “no Jack Kennedy.”
Pence ran two failed campaigns before being elected in a third and then served in the U.S. Congress for twelve years without passing one single bill.
He is hardly distinguished by the fact that he was a member of the Congressional Republican Study Committee, not an elite select group but rather a far right-wing caucus of one-hundred seventy-two reactionary extremists.
An anti-labor, anti-woman, anti civil-rights governor, Pence is best known on the national stage as a dangerous homophobic bigot whose greatest state legislative catastrophe was his signing of the “Religious Freedom Restoration Act” which virtually authorized and endorsed broad discrimination against the LGBT community. He pigheadedly alienated liberals and conservatives alike and probably would have lost his upcoming gubernatorial re-election contest.
Pence has little to lose except his last shred of dignity by taking on the stink of Donald Trump. Congratulations, boys. You deserve each other!
55
Why not bundle Barnam & Bailey with cure "LGBT through conversion therapy" in hopes of political magic. I don't understand it but what else is there to know? Trump Pence. Pence Trump. Nothing sounds right about the two: Hoosier New Yorker. Oil and water. Pence is more conservative than, than, everybody. Maybe he can teach trump about evangelical orthodoxy and the evils of homosexuality. This basically means that Hilliary can easily pick Elizabeth Warren without pause or concern.
4
As a former resident of Mike Pence's state and Congressional district, let me be the first to congratulate the Hoosiers for their emancipation from this nut job. Mr. Trump's pick should resonate with his base - the Klan, the Stormfronters, and the Walmart enthusiasts - while also shoring up support among those who reject evolution, view homosexuality as a sin, and believe that it is God's will to slash wasteful spending on such trivialities as schools and basic social services.
He'll never make America great, but his choice of VP does hold the slight possibility of making Indiana slightly less abysmal than it is.
He'll never make America great, but his choice of VP does hold the slight possibility of making Indiana slightly less abysmal than it is.
40
Too bad Trump's strategists opted for Pence, who presents a slightly smaller target for Democrats than Christie or Gingrich. That being said, Clinton's campaign should be able to use the selection of Pence to lure more Berners to her side, since Pence is as Establisment as it gets.
VP picks do matter. Several of my Republican friends couldn't bring themselves to vote for McCain after he chose Palin. I'd like to see a survey showing the percentage of Democrats who wouldn't switch to Trump because of the presence of Pence on his ticket.
VP picks do matter. Several of my Republican friends couldn't bring themselves to vote for McCain after he chose Palin. I'd like to see a survey showing the percentage of Democrats who wouldn't switch to Trump because of the presence of Pence on his ticket.
11
Toouché
It might be more interesting to see how many likely voters were influenced (and in which direction) by this VP selection. What demographics are now more likely to support Trump than they were before the selection?
Trump's "strategists"? Can you possibly name one?
The media needs to focus on actual policy positions and their effects day after day. Here's just one: scientists estimate that the Artic Sea Cap will dissolve into the ocean this summer - that means the cap of ice that reflects heat back out into the atmosphere is now replaced by dark ocean water that absorbs heat, thus warming up the oceans. The ice has protected us from the worst impacts of climate change. In the meantime, methane is erupting off the coast of WA and has been located in dozens of holes in Siberia. If only 2 percent of the world's frozen methane hydrate gets released, that rings the bell for the beginning of abrupt climate change. Just google Siberian methane emissions - it's all right there. But what do we see? Donald Trump and now Mike Pence, who both don't believe in climate change. The worst effects of climate change are now far out of sight and mind as they are confined to the poles, but it's not going to be that way forever...how did this country end up with so many disbelieving the scientists who have dedicated their lives to understanding our planet. This is the issue that should be on the front page. Hillary Clinton has policies for addressing this - they may not be perfect or go far enough, but at least she has the sense to listen to others and work with others. Look at the issues and the policies of the two parties, and vote for the party that affirms the right to life for all of us, including our planet.
29
Trump is a businessman so compromising is in his blood. However, Republican Congress doesn't believe in flexibility, so Trump, if elected, will have hard time in Washington. He was going to get the Evangelical votes anyway, hence no real benefit. Pence is not very poplar in Indiana, and will not help get extra votes in the Mid West. I bet if it was possible Trump would have no Vice President.
It will be interesting to see how much bigotry, misogyny, and demagoguery comes out of Trumpence.
It will be interesting to see how much bigotry, misogyny, and demagoguery comes out of Trumpence.
4
Alas, Newt does not get his shot. But he could lead health and human services - because he cares about people. Trump and he have so much in common; making money off gullible people, wanting a personality cult, and ability to reframe the conversation to make themselves the hero (e.g., Newt claims he balanced the budget and created a surplus while flying Air Force One).
But Pence brings much to the ticket. He will lead the weekly book burning, the scarlet lettering, the institutionalized misogyny. He will enforce all kinds of religious tests seeking inspiration from the best of the Talibanic scholars. Besides, given the very early embrace Trump received from the religious right, he owed this theocracy seeking, white-supremacist justifying constituency that wants the country barefoot, in debt, and obedient.
Both will take the country back as promised. As in, away from an illegitimate Kenyan Muslim Socialist regime that improved the economy, cut unemployment, restored our stature internationally, laid the foundation of public health, and produced a government without any political appointee charged with federal crimes. They can't stand it.
They will take us back to the halcyon days of 1950s race laws, 1850s sensibilities toward women, pre-WWI view of the world, and G. Bush II's economic policy.
You can't make this stuff up.
Kalidan
But Pence brings much to the ticket. He will lead the weekly book burning, the scarlet lettering, the institutionalized misogyny. He will enforce all kinds of religious tests seeking inspiration from the best of the Talibanic scholars. Besides, given the very early embrace Trump received from the religious right, he owed this theocracy seeking, white-supremacist justifying constituency that wants the country barefoot, in debt, and obedient.
Both will take the country back as promised. As in, away from an illegitimate Kenyan Muslim Socialist regime that improved the economy, cut unemployment, restored our stature internationally, laid the foundation of public health, and produced a government without any political appointee charged with federal crimes. They can't stand it.
They will take us back to the halcyon days of 1950s race laws, 1850s sensibilities toward women, pre-WWI view of the world, and G. Bush II's economic policy.
You can't make this stuff up.
Kalidan
189
Rationally, these running mates can be denounced, derided and dismissed. But so much in this campaign has an irrational flavor, resembling a political casino more than a thoughtfully constructed plan. And the polls give a strong hint that the electorate is being heavily swayed by factors other than the kind of rational analysis so prominent in this editorial.
6
A showman huckster who attracts voters by disparaging wide swaths of them, and an extreme right-wing christian conservative who's homophobic and theocratic walk into an American election to take control of the nation with inadvertent plans to run it off the cliff.
The US is an unprecedented superpower greater than any empire in all history, and we are witnessing how such power gets out of control, even for the most capable leaders: our nation is struggling. It is my opinion that the republicans in general lack the ability to control the US and a Trump/ Pence administration is positively incapable of being trusted with such great power. For comparison, we wouldn't put a 6-year old kid on a backhoe or in a Porsche or tank be cause they lack the ability to control the great power of these machines. Just think of the crash awaiting us all if these buffoons get elected by other buffoons.
The US is an unprecedented superpower greater than any empire in all history, and we are witnessing how such power gets out of control, even for the most capable leaders: our nation is struggling. It is my opinion that the republicans in general lack the ability to control the US and a Trump/ Pence administration is positively incapable of being trusted with such great power. For comparison, we wouldn't put a 6-year old kid on a backhoe or in a Porsche or tank be cause they lack the ability to control the great power of these machines. Just think of the crash awaiting us all if these buffoons get elected by other buffoons.
28
Mr. Pence won’t hog the spotlight or embarrass the boss?
Underneath that mild mannered exterior, seems to be an insatiable appetite for divisive culture wars that much of the country has moved on from, as well as a highly inflexible commitment to conservative ideology. I foresee similar embarrassments and headaches as seen with V.P. Dan Quayle.
Underneath that mild mannered exterior, seems to be an insatiable appetite for divisive culture wars that much of the country has moved on from, as well as a highly inflexible commitment to conservative ideology. I foresee similar embarrassments and headaches as seen with V.P. Dan Quayle.
26
Pence is not establishment. He is hard-core right wing and rabid.
The establishment wants to expand free trade, destroy unions, keep immigration, lower their taxes and cut back on public programs of all kinds - like social security, education, food stamps, etc.
They don't care who is gay or muslim. All they care about is amassing more wealth and power.
Someone at the times is confused.
The establishment wants to expand free trade, destroy unions, keep immigration, lower their taxes and cut back on public programs of all kinds - like social security, education, food stamps, etc.
They don't care who is gay or muslim. All they care about is amassing more wealth and power.
Someone at the times is confused.
17
Well, this aligns the Republican ticket with the GOP platform. It squarely places the mission far right of center, even further than one anticipated, leaving no doubt that the mission is to return to the days prior to Roe Versus Wade., while maintaining their anti-immigration posture. This should alienate most women (43% of voters) as well as most immigrants (80% supporting HRC).
Solidifying the GOP into an extreme right position makes a victory for them remote.
Certainly, with Hillary moved further left by Sanders and the GOP pushed to extreme right by evangelicals, never has there been more polarized positions in my 73 years.
The good news to me, is that choices are clearly defined and that with a likely Democratic win (Five Thirty Eight) - a resetting of our national agenda will move forward, reducing the GOP to redesign mode for the next 4-8 years. Its about time!
Solidifying the GOP into an extreme right position makes a victory for them remote.
Certainly, with Hillary moved further left by Sanders and the GOP pushed to extreme right by evangelicals, never has there been more polarized positions in my 73 years.
The good news to me, is that choices are clearly defined and that with a likely Democratic win (Five Thirty Eight) - a resetting of our national agenda will move forward, reducing the GOP to redesign mode for the next 4-8 years. Its about time!
23
If there's still time to organize a GOP convention challenge to Trump, why not ask Colin Powell to place his name in contention? But also Trump may need an experienced military commander; at worse, Powell would make a great VP on the Trump ticket should Pence's VP bid falter.
Powell would probably never agree to be in the same room with Trump much less be his VP candidate.
9
This is the first time we've seen Trump compromise on his "principles" and follow political advice rather than his own whims. As governor Pence has shown himself to be a hard-line conservative on every social issue, from LGBT rights to abortion, which will raise questions about Trump's own historical waffling. The contrast between the two is sure to create conflict, both between the two candidates and with the voters.
In other words, it's just another day in the schizophrenic campaign of Donald Trump.
In other words, it's just another day in the schizophrenic campaign of Donald Trump.
21
Mr. Pence is a safe choice. He will neither attract nor drive away GOP voters. He will, however, provide the Clinton Campaign fodder to use with Independent voters. All-in-all about the best that Mr. Trump could do in the circumstances.
2
Enough with the obligatory "Mr." Trump already!
2
It will give campaigning points to Clinton and her VP. Consider the positions that Trump has taken that Pence opposed. I would guess that he will abandon those convictions soon but, videotape of them being firmly on opposite sides of an issue will be useful.
The first question can be: Trump said ... then, in one of his most important decisions to date, he picked a guy who has long held ....
Which position represents the #realtrump and which is just a convenient pretext for gathering supporters. If he REALLY MEANT what he has said, why would he put someone so diametrically opposed on so many important issues one heart beat away from the presidency?
What of Pence? He has always maintained ... why would he choose to be the VP to someone who has so vehemently opposed those positions? If Pence actually has principles why is he just going to go along and support someone who doesn't share them?
The first question can be: Trump said ... then, in one of his most important decisions to date, he picked a guy who has long held ....
Which position represents the #realtrump and which is just a convenient pretext for gathering supporters. If he REALLY MEANT what he has said, why would he put someone so diametrically opposed on so many important issues one heart beat away from the presidency?
What of Pence? He has always maintained ... why would he choose to be the VP to someone who has so vehemently opposed those positions? If Pence actually has principles why is he just going to go along and support someone who doesn't share them?
1
Of course there is much about the Trump phenomenon that is illogical, inexplicable and downright frightening; but this notion that he is a "friend of people who work with their hands" just beggars the imagination.
To begin with, here is a man who remains a bullying, obnoxious, spoiled and overgrown rich kid, who has never done any hard work in his life, and who has spent his adult years cheating and exploiting those who do the heavy lifting. But more to the point, one of the only specific programs he has ever taken the time to articulate is a tax plan that by any reasonable reckoning would drain about $10 trillion out of federal revenues over the course of a decade; save the average "working family" at most $2700 a year in federal taxation; and save the earners at the top of the pile about $275,000 a year.
Most of us mere mortals expect to see our tax dollars come back to us in the form of education, health care, emergency relief, transit, roads and other infrastructure, social security -- the essentials that otherwise many could not afford for themselves. We would lose far more than $2700 a year in return on our taxes, while the rich, who don't need help with essentials, will walk away with annual tax savings that are many times what the average family EARNS in a year.
How is it that no one notices? Does the Trumpian trash talk, sabre rattling and hate speech really create a smoke screen so impenetrable that no one can see the stringy, inedible steak behind the sizzle?
To begin with, here is a man who remains a bullying, obnoxious, spoiled and overgrown rich kid, who has never done any hard work in his life, and who has spent his adult years cheating and exploiting those who do the heavy lifting. But more to the point, one of the only specific programs he has ever taken the time to articulate is a tax plan that by any reasonable reckoning would drain about $10 trillion out of federal revenues over the course of a decade; save the average "working family" at most $2700 a year in federal taxation; and save the earners at the top of the pile about $275,000 a year.
Most of us mere mortals expect to see our tax dollars come back to us in the form of education, health care, emergency relief, transit, roads and other infrastructure, social security -- the essentials that otherwise many could not afford for themselves. We would lose far more than $2700 a year in return on our taxes, while the rich, who don't need help with essentials, will walk away with annual tax savings that are many times what the average family EARNS in a year.
How is it that no one notices? Does the Trumpian trash talk, sabre rattling and hate speech really create a smoke screen so impenetrable that no one can see the stringy, inedible steak behind the sizzle?
28
Don't forget, a LOT of that money has been going back to the states in the form of grants and such. When the federal money dries up the states will have to either cut services or raise taxes to maintain them. Roads, bridges, sewers and other infrastructure components can only be ignored for so long.
Since too many legislators have taken the 'never raise taxes, EVER' pledge, once these cuts are in place at the federal level, they can't be rolled back. State legislators have taken the same pledge so, raising taxes at the state level to provide funds won't happen either.
We can look forward to seeing our infrastructure's descent to 3rd world levels.
Since too many legislators have taken the 'never raise taxes, EVER' pledge, once these cuts are in place at the federal level, they can't be rolled back. State legislators have taken the same pledge so, raising taxes at the state level to provide funds won't happen either.
We can look forward to seeing our infrastructure's descent to 3rd world levels.
2
Oh the fascinating things Pence did in Indiana! The new formula, under Indiana's educational budget, slowly but surely, gives wealthier schools (and student) more money, while trickling away funds from poorer districts (and students). Student from poorer districts are also now required to fill out extra forms to prove, in fact, they are poorer. Conservatism is fascinating!
437
Poorer students in their schools are required to buy their books that is not required in wealthier schools. Sometimes more than $70.
5
And uncompassionate. "This is all mine" might as well be conservatives' credo.
2
And gives millions in vouchers to religious schools . . .
2
Trump is against free trade.
Pence is for free trade.
How is this difference going to be reconciled.
Pence is for free trade.
How is this difference going to be reconciled.
4
Trump is happy to flip flop.
6
Without any specifics of how he will carry out his promises, it should be easy to do.
He's already backed out of releasing his tax returns (see above), self-funding his campaign so that he can't be corrupted and stopping all Muslims from entering the country.
If he is ever pressed for specifics, he is going to have to admit that there is no way to compel the Mexican government to pay for a wall. Without that funding source, he will either have to use money borrowed from China (assuming they are still willing to buy our debt) or renege on this promise as well. He is most likely to label the questioner a 'Trump hater' and just avoid answering altogether.
He's already backed out of releasing his tax returns (see above), self-funding his campaign so that he can't be corrupted and stopping all Muslims from entering the country.
If he is ever pressed for specifics, he is going to have to admit that there is no way to compel the Mexican government to pay for a wall. Without that funding source, he will either have to use money borrowed from China (assuming they are still willing to buy our debt) or renege on this promise as well. He is most likely to label the questioner a 'Trump hater' and just avoid answering altogether.
33
Trump has never had to ask God's forgiveness. I can't imagine that Pence would say the same about himself.
Given his ego, it is unlikely that Trump believes that there is a 'higher power' of any kind.
Given his ego, it is unlikely that Trump believes that there is a 'higher power' of any kind.
2
A 20th Century businessman added a 13th Century thinker to the ticket.
Perhaps the Republicans have missed it's the 21st Century?
Perhaps the Republicans have missed it's the 21st Century?
304
Actually, Trumps is more of a 19th century businessman, though that is to insult some good people who did business before 1900.
6
reply to Joe Sabin: Touche.
1
One amusing consequence of Trump's selection of Mike Pence is that he has made himself a disposable president. Why risk have the erratic and undependable Trump as President when Pence would provide a steady and proven conservative alternative. While I think Trump's principal motivation in running is revenge against President Obama's ridicule and that once in office he would find governing too much of a burden, if he does not step down within months his erratic and ignorant style will create an impeachable offense, and the Republican Party would, "for the good of the country", vote to remove him from office, placing Pence in a presidency he could not have won on his own. Perhaps this is Trump's ultimate revenge as Pence will have two or three Supreme Court nominations (and perhaps more), will undo the Iran nuclear deal, increase voter suppression, undermine rights of women and minorities, and enshrine the Koch brothers' crony capitalism as the dominant economic model. And of course he will dump all over the working class voters Trump lured to his support in November. As we look toward a Trump electoral victory the next question will be "will he jump or will he be pushed"? toward an exit in 2017. Trump is the ultimate culture wars Republican candidate, skillfully manipulating resentments and distress while Clinton prattles about "conversations" and further undermines the declining privilege of white males in favor of women and minorities, neither of which assures a win.
94
Nice try but the demographics don't add up for Trump.
5
Are you a script writer? If so get your treatment out quick before Hillary is sworn in.
Right on the money......Trump decided to run the night Pres. Obama
worked him over at the Press dinner.....I saw it in Trumps face............
Just like the first G.Bush lost during the town hall meeting when he looked at his watch.................
worked him over at the Press dinner.....I saw it in Trumps face............
Just like the first G.Bush lost during the town hall meeting when he looked at his watch.................
Governor Pence is also close to the Koch brothers, two of the most proficient instigators of voter suppression, expanding gun rights, blocking climate change legislation and opposing the minimum wage at every level of government through their legislative arm, ALEC.
Trump, Pence and the Kochs as champions of the middle and working class will be one of the biggest jokes on Trump supporters ever perpetrated by a presidential candidate against his voters.
If the press was actually doing its job, every article about Trump would end with a demand to see his tax returns and a call for him to admit that his promise to his supporters to self-fund his presidential campaign so he owed nothing to special interests was one more lie among the hundreds he's told in the past year.
Trump, Pence and the Kochs as champions of the middle and working class will be one of the biggest jokes on Trump supporters ever perpetrated by a presidential candidate against his voters.
If the press was actually doing its job, every article about Trump would end with a demand to see his tax returns and a call for him to admit that his promise to his supporters to self-fund his presidential campaign so he owed nothing to special interests was one more lie among the hundreds he's told in the past year.
595
It's amazing how Liberals like to throw around the Koch Brothers as if the Democrat party doesn't have their own version in donors like Bloomberg or Soros. Bloomberg is the biggest Liberal investor, championing the whittling of rights of all Americans. Soros generally funds any group willing to create anarchy in any American city.
I also hate to break it to you, but the with the propositions of the Clinton agenda, there will be no middle class left. A $15 minimum wage will mean that all companies who employ UNSKILLED laborers will have to make up the increase in payroll by transferring that cost onto the consumer. That means the $1.79 gallon of milk will be $5.00. As the cost of everything increases, the middle class today will become the new poverty class, because no one will be able to afford anything. I'm sorry, but unskilled labor isn't worth $15/hr. People who work at corner stores, box stores or fast food restaurants shouldn't be counting them as careers. They are temporary jobs while training for a career or going to school.
Also, it's sad to see the Democratic Party stopped being the, "ask not what your country could do for you, but what you could do for your country" party to the "gimme" party.
Lastly, the "Trumps Tax Returns" whining is getting old. How about Trump show his Tax Returns when Hillary releases scripts to her speeches to Wall Street, Opens the Books on her illegal foundation or Pleads Guilty to Perjury for her testimony to Congress. DEAL?
I also hate to break it to you, but the with the propositions of the Clinton agenda, there will be no middle class left. A $15 minimum wage will mean that all companies who employ UNSKILLED laborers will have to make up the increase in payroll by transferring that cost onto the consumer. That means the $1.79 gallon of milk will be $5.00. As the cost of everything increases, the middle class today will become the new poverty class, because no one will be able to afford anything. I'm sorry, but unskilled labor isn't worth $15/hr. People who work at corner stores, box stores or fast food restaurants shouldn't be counting them as careers. They are temporary jobs while training for a career or going to school.
Also, it's sad to see the Democratic Party stopped being the, "ask not what your country could do for you, but what you could do for your country" party to the "gimme" party.
Lastly, the "Trumps Tax Returns" whining is getting old. How about Trump show his Tax Returns when Hillary releases scripts to her speeches to Wall Street, Opens the Books on her illegal foundation or Pleads Guilty to Perjury for her testimony to Congress. DEAL?
2
Every email would make Senator/Secretary of State Clinton, "What difference does it make." responsible. Not a President I want. Do you?
One can only hope that with Pence on the the Republican ticket; Hillary Clinton finally will get the ammunition she needs to bury the Trump-a-Dump presidential candidacy
19
Mike Pence is a pariah in Indiana and has alienated core constituencies, i.e., woman, LGBT and brings a record of obstructionism and extortion politics to the "ticket". Pence is another, albeit quieter clown, in the clown car that is the Trump campaign. It is terrifying that U.S. politics is so bankrupt as to have the possibility of Donald J. Trump in the White House. Hillary Clinton is no prize (perhaps the booby prize) but she's competent. Disclosure: I will vote for Hillary Clinton but I don't have to like having to choose the best of the worst.
282
Extortion or Obstructionism shouldn't matter much to Liberals, considering their nominee is guilty of both, plus a plethora of other forms of illegal behavior. Most has to do with her "so called" foundation and the recent scam on Americans regarding her handling of Classified and Secret Emails.
But, if you feel she is the best of the worst, then that doesn't surprise me. Liberals have been putting those types of candidates up for years.
But, if you feel she is the best of the worst, then that doesn't surprise me. Liberals have been putting those types of candidates up for years.
5
So who is your best of the best Mr. Cohen? Is it Mr. Sanders who, in addition to single-handedly curing the ills of American society in one revolutionary term, will also deal with international terrorism rocking nations around the world?
5
The "booby" prize? Really? The gender gap exists on both sides. What is certain with a pence pick is that Trump will need the Hubbell telescope to see the other side of the gap from where he stands. Pence cannot stand the spotlight - it's only a matter of time before he's sent to Alaska to campaign with Sarah.
7
have nothing to do with world affairs, allies of the US, or anything of
substance that Hillary would like to discuss. You have now served your country.