One question I have here - why do we (the Times and most other outlets) refer to her as "Mrs. Clinton" as opposed to "Secretary Clinton"? I don't recall it being "Mr. Obama" instead of "Senator Obama" or "Mr. Bush" instead of "Governor Bush". I find it demeaning and a way to constantly NOT remind the public of her experience. While whether that experience is positive or negative can be debated, the fact that she has it and others have been recognized for it in title while she has not has to have something to do with her gender.
14
Can we look forward to reading emails between Hillary's team and the author discussing exactly how Team HRC would like this story to be published, and what additional access the NYC will receive in exchange for printing this fluff-P.R. piece? Was the publication of this article coordinated so that team HRC knew exactly when to put out a tweet referencing it?
5
What value do the debates have when moderators cannot fact-check the candidates? Basically, most viewers opinions are being defined by whichever candidate is most convincing, as opposed to most correct.
3
"Hillary Clinton’s advisers are getting advice from psychologists and undertaking a forensic-style analysis of the Republican primary debates."
One would hope that at her age and with her vaunted "experience" Mrs. Clinton would have the skill and ability to try something radical like... just being herself.
https://emcphd.wordpress.com
One would hope that at her age and with her vaunted "experience" Mrs. Clinton would have the skill and ability to try something radical like... just being herself.
https://emcphd.wordpress.com
3
You mean be like the Donald?
3
Most people do debate prep.
2
Hillary: stay cool and pleasant, just as you did at the Benghazi inquisition. No matter what you say, the Donald will bluster and insult and call you names. As Michelle said, Take the high road. You will win and be the first woman president. And I am praying for the Senate, too. Let's start to move forward again!
14
Stephen Colbert offered a great idea for a Trump stand-in for Hillary to practice debating with: Drunken bear wearing a jack-o-lantern on its head.
That said, Trump has been playing a game of beating abysmally low expectations for over a year. I have a horrible feeling that if he manages to sting together a few coherent, grammatically correct sentences, it'll be treated as a "victory" somehow.
That said, Trump has been playing a game of beating abysmally low expectations for over a year. I have a horrible feeling that if he manages to sting together a few coherent, grammatically correct sentences, it'll be treated as a "victory" somehow.
4
Who won Regan v Carter? The policy and data wonk?
2
Reagan won. That's why they got Trump now.
6
Many people ask "why is Clinton talking about preparing?" Isn't it obvious that any normal candidate/campaign will prepare, indeed the Trump campaign is preparing ... after some fashion?
This is a genius move by whoever thought it up in the Clinton campaign, because it focuses all sorts of public attention on what Clinton "might" do, but there's no information at all about what she really intends to do.
This is pure "free publicity." And it must raise the stress level over at Trump Depot, as all sorts of stuff gets mentioned as a "possibility," and yet HRC is responsible for none of it.
This is a genius move by whoever thought it up in the Clinton campaign, because it focuses all sorts of public attention on what Clinton "might" do, but there's no information at all about what she really intends to do.
This is pure "free publicity." And it must raise the stress level over at Trump Depot, as all sorts of stuff gets mentioned as a "possibility," and yet HRC is responsible for none of it.
7
"Mr. Trump is most insecure about his intelligence, his net worth and his image as a successful businessman."
That sums it up adequately. I've always thought these insecurities were the cause of his bravado. One that is self assured has a quiet disposition.
That sums it up adequately. I've always thought these insecurities were the cause of his bravado. One that is self assured has a quiet disposition.
5
Billionaires tend to be confident. And progressive blog-readers sent here to file their little book reports tend to be seriously jealous.
1
I agree. Billionaires tend to be confident. Self-declared billionaires, like Trump, rather less so.
9
As others here have said, Trump's supporters will cheer over any sort of Trumpian bluster, no matter how ignorant, with the middle-school boy mentality that is their hallmark. Make the debate too intelligent, and these guys will think they won, because they won't understand what happened. Make the debate about international relations and current problems in foreign affairs, rile Trump up to his usual ignorant stuff and nonsense, lead him to look like a man to start another useless ego-driven war--and even the mid-states will recognize the danger.
5
If this story isn't a planted distraction, we have sunk to altogether new lows. Do either of these preposterous candidates even know that voters exist? Do they care that voters have concerns for themselves and their families? Can none of these hired psychologists explain this?
4
At the very 1st opportunity, Hillary Clinton should ask Donald Trump why he always repeats himself. And she should do it more than once. Watch, as the audience tunes in to this fact and watch Trump flail like a fish out of water, not unlike Rubio when he was primed like a pump by Christie about his rehearsed lines.
11
Shouldn't this be a story for post-election? Why is the Clinton team leaking this info now? This is only enlightening to readers after having voted or, at least, seen the debates.
1
Why are the debate tactics being discussed openly? This is just dumb
4
In any world where politics was linked to experience, knowledge, and ability, Trump would not be on the same stage as Hillary Clinton. This is not politics, not even political theater. It is high farce. It would be the equivalent of casting Romeo and Juliet on Broadway with a young Judy Dench as Juliet and Vanilla Ice as Romeo, everybody pretending that somehow the cast included a pair of skilled actors. Its an insult to Clinton that she has to pretend to talk to Donald as an equal.
14
You are so funny. Mr Trump is a very accomplished business man. Hillary won't stand a chance in this debate. What in all her years in politics, has she ever accomplished?
5
Jane:
Trump has no clue about policy. Google "Trump nuclear triad" if you doubt me.
Insults worked in the GOP primary. The general election is another matter entirely. And Trump has never been in a one-on-one debate. Hillary's been in dozens of them.
Trump has no clue about policy. Google "Trump nuclear triad" if you doubt me.
Insults worked in the GOP primary. The general election is another matter entirely. And Trump has never been in a one-on-one debate. Hillary's been in dozens of them.
7
Trump Says He Supports Slashing Social Security From A ‘Moral Standpoint’
Social Security has been called the third rail of American politics: Touch it and you die. And if that is indeed the case, then Donald Trump might want to start picking out a nice casket.
Bloomberg is reporting that when the GOP nominee met with Paul Ryan on May 12 he told the House Speaker that he does indeed favor cutting Social Security, but he’s afraid to say so publicly because it would doom his chances in November.
Social Security has been called the third rail of American politics: Touch it and you die. And if that is indeed the case, then Donald Trump might want to start picking out a nice casket.
Bloomberg is reporting that when the GOP nominee met with Paul Ryan on May 12 he told the House Speaker that he does indeed favor cutting Social Security, but he’s afraid to say so publicly because it would doom his chances in November.
8
I strongly feel that NYT is not serving its readers with its constant focus on campaign strategy, to the exclusion of coverage on the issues of our country, the positions of the candidates on these issues, and the implications their positions have for the country. Today, I count six stories that appear to relate to campaign strategy and zero related to the real issues. Coupled with recurrent top stories on Anthony Weiner, I feel like I'm reading a gossip rag. Perhaps these political strategy stories are more salacious and drive more emotional response, but they fail to serve the core purpose of reporting relevant issues to ensure well-informed readers. Perhaps NYT might consider consolidating these campaign strategy stories into a smaller footprint and reporting more on real issues the country is facing.
17
At the end, a good thing for Hillary to say is, "Donald, more than anything else the American people want us to end the gridlock and get the country moving again. Opponents resolving their differences and working together is what made America great. After the inauguration, come to the White House. We'll have coffee and work on how together we can make America even greater."
3
Why would he need to come to the White House when he will already be there? Surely you mean SHE should come to the White House. But I'm sure that after flying across the globe picking up checks for tens of millions of dollars from dictators that abuse their citizens must be exhausting, I can't imagine she would have time for coffee after his inauguration. Or even time to do something genuine for this country - there is no profit in that.
3
Ah, yes...regarding the upcoming Presidential debates! It's only human nature that if you favor someone from the get-go that you're more likely than not to give them a "pass", "bend-over-backwards" to make excuses for them, or simply LOOK THE OTHER WAY when loud sirens go off. Some people call it favoritism; others simply call it "rationalization".
Sadly, in the world of politics it cuts both ways! But at what point do we put politics aside, wake up, smell the flowers (or putrid decay, as the case may be) and call a spade a spade?
This brings me to HRC's private, unsecure private email activity as U.S. Secretary of State, the Clinton Foundation and its alleged "quid pro quo/pay-for-play" dealings with highly questionable donors, intermingling with her role as Secretary of State, etc.
No, I don't think I'm being particularly "hard" on HRC. But as a general rule what I try to do is STEP BACK and ask myself the following question: If a Republican (or a far less influential/powerful Democrat) were in HRC's exact same position, would they even be allowed to run for POTUS? Just curious...that's all.
Sadly, in the world of politics it cuts both ways! But at what point do we put politics aside, wake up, smell the flowers (or putrid decay, as the case may be) and call a spade a spade?
This brings me to HRC's private, unsecure private email activity as U.S. Secretary of State, the Clinton Foundation and its alleged "quid pro quo/pay-for-play" dealings with highly questionable donors, intermingling with her role as Secretary of State, etc.
No, I don't think I'm being particularly "hard" on HRC. But as a general rule what I try to do is STEP BACK and ask myself the following question: If a Republican (or a far less influential/powerful Democrat) were in HRC's exact same position, would they even be allowed to run for POTUS? Just curious...that's all.
7
Oh my god email? And taking money for woman and children she doesn't even know so they can have a better. What Gaul!
3
MelanIa may be his wife but Money is his mistress. And for Money he will betray his wife. He is and will continue to betray his supporters in the primaries to attract new supporters in the general election and then if elected betray them. In short he will betray everyone as he has done his whole life until there is no one left to betray. And then he will betray his family, his country and finally himself.
Ms. Clinton's critical path to success in the first debate is paved with emotionally truthful stories of her life as well as retellings of Donald Trump's endless betrayals.
Ms. Clinton's critical path to success in the first debate is paved with emotionally truthful stories of her life as well as retellings of Donald Trump's endless betrayals.
6
Just looking at your comment it would appear Hillary has never changed a stance in her entire career! That could not be further from the truth
3
Elliott:
How do you know Trump will betray his wife for money? Has he told you that? Or, did you make it up?
How do you know Trump will betray his wife for money? Has he told you that? Or, did you make it up?
1
This country has lots of people who value the "low road." The preps of Mrs. C seem more like a person who s preaching to the converted rather than addressing the strengths of her opponent and appealing to his minions.
1
So the Clinton folks think it's best to leak their strategy.... alrighty then...
1
This is EXACTLY what a person does when she has ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to run on.
7
The only sure winner will be the TV station broadcasting it. It will be a ratings blockbuster. Trump's performance in the Republican "debates" was more entertaining than informative. Everyone's mind is already made up, people will tune in just to see their candidate shred the other one. Trump supporters claim he will win, of course Clinton supporters claim she will win. I for one hope substance will win, not just jokes and name calling.
5
“I believe you can prep too much for those things,”
Apparently he considers the Presidency as just one of "those things"
Apparently he considers the Presidency as just one of "those things"
22
Pass. I already decided that I'm not watching. I know who I'm voting for, and I don't need to watch her grapple with the undignified blowhard she's been shackled to in this nasty cage fight of an election.
I skipped most of the primary debates as well, which turned out to be an excellent decision: highlights and summaries are available right away, and they spared this weary voter the pain of sitting through the whole prolonged mess.
I skipped most of the primary debates as well, which turned out to be an excellent decision: highlights and summaries are available right away, and they spared this weary voter the pain of sitting through the whole prolonged mess.
16
What a waste of time and energy. The Democratic nominee should not spend her time irritating the Republican candidate when there are so many important issues to explore. Degrading.
2
I think Hillary's biggest hurdle will be trying to convince people that she cares about them and the country.
It's been beyond clear she is only out for herself at any and all cost. When you delete tens of thousands of emails, Bleach Bit thousands of other emails, you are clearly hiding illegal activities and scandals. No one is stupid enough to believe otherwise.
All this woman does is lie and use people. Her credibility is shot and DOA. Using a secret unsecured private server for all State Department communications is despicable. We only found out about it due to the Benghazi hearings.
We're finally finding out more connections between the Clinton Foundation and the State Department. We'd find out more, but gosh darn it, lots of emails were done away with by Bleach Bit.
Hillary's biggest problem is herself. It's bad enough she used the State Department as her own hedge fund. Many are convinced she'd turn the White House into her own private Wall street. And you bet she'd use multiple private servers for that. The rest of the country will be treated like a bunch of stupid patsies.
It's been beyond clear she is only out for herself at any and all cost. When you delete tens of thousands of emails, Bleach Bit thousands of other emails, you are clearly hiding illegal activities and scandals. No one is stupid enough to believe otherwise.
All this woman does is lie and use people. Her credibility is shot and DOA. Using a secret unsecured private server for all State Department communications is despicable. We only found out about it due to the Benghazi hearings.
We're finally finding out more connections between the Clinton Foundation and the State Department. We'd find out more, but gosh darn it, lots of emails were done away with by Bleach Bit.
Hillary's biggest problem is herself. It's bad enough she used the State Department as her own hedge fund. Many are convinced she'd turn the White House into her own private Wall street. And you bet she'd use multiple private servers for that. The rest of the country will be treated like a bunch of stupid patsies.
10
There are three questions these candidates should address if they want to win this debate:
1. What should our economic strategy be regarding building walls vs. continuing the integration/globalization of the past 25 years? Mrs. Clinton should make the case for why immigration and free trade are good for nearly all Americans, and how she will address those adversely impacted, such as a free college or trade education. Mr. Trump will argue the case for building walls to protect jobs and our people from crime. What are the pros and cons of each strategy?
2. What will each candidate do about the high costs of healthcare, childcare, and college? These are rising faster than inflation, while wages are stagnant for much of the population.
3. To what extent should we intervene in the affairs of other countries? Should we enforce stability in the Middle East? Should we demand that Western Europe spend more in its own defense?
Both candidates are seriously flawed. Mr. Trump is a constant flip-flopper without the intellectual qualifications for the job, while Mrs. Clinton came close to indictment for e-mail abuse. If facing stronger primary competition, neither candidate would have been the primary choice of their parties with such negatives.
So let's have a real debate, which is about our role in the world and what we do about those left behind by progress.
1. What should our economic strategy be regarding building walls vs. continuing the integration/globalization of the past 25 years? Mrs. Clinton should make the case for why immigration and free trade are good for nearly all Americans, and how she will address those adversely impacted, such as a free college or trade education. Mr. Trump will argue the case for building walls to protect jobs and our people from crime. What are the pros and cons of each strategy?
2. What will each candidate do about the high costs of healthcare, childcare, and college? These are rising faster than inflation, while wages are stagnant for much of the population.
3. To what extent should we intervene in the affairs of other countries? Should we enforce stability in the Middle East? Should we demand that Western Europe spend more in its own defense?
Both candidates are seriously flawed. Mr. Trump is a constant flip-flopper without the intellectual qualifications for the job, while Mrs. Clinton came close to indictment for e-mail abuse. If facing stronger primary competition, neither candidate would have been the primary choice of their parties with such negatives.
So let's have a real debate, which is about our role in the world and what we do about those left behind by progress.
5
Mr Trump faced 16 very, very strong competitors in the Primaries. He won every debate according to all news medias. Mrs Clinton only had Socialist Bernie Sanders and she would not have beat him except for the very dishonest DNC . Hillary has never accomplished anything in all her years in politics. Mr Trump is a very accomplished business man that knows how to make deals and get things done. He will tear her to shreds in the debates because he will be talking about things that will turn this country around to go in the direction that benefits the American People. Hillary does not understand the economy and closing borders to keep the country safe.
2
I expect Don Trump in his diminished capacity will rely on one liners to entertain his followers. One liners are far more memorable than intellectual discourse. The memories created by these debates have to make it election day and we all know memories can be short. Politicians do rely on that fact.
3
Could Henny Youngman give us 90 minutes' worth of one-liners? I don't think DT can. He will fold in 15 minutes. I wouldn't be surprised if he walks off the stage. If he shows up at all, that is.
8
The purpose of debates is to get a clear view of what they think, why they think in and how they react to pressure. The moderator's role is to illuminate this by asking probing questions that require actual answers. If debaters say outlandish things about their opponents, moderators need to make them answer the question. The question - what is the reason you make that claim? -needs to be asked. Questions that play into stump speeches are to be avoided, as we already know what they are saying to their supporters. And any slurs to bully moderators should not be tolerated. If they cannot deal with their opponent or moderators with respect, they are not equipped to carry out the difficult job they want to fill,
4
Get Simon Cowell to play Trump.
6
These debates will just like most others.
Nobody will actually answer a question.
The moderators will be ineffective in controlling the discussion and it will go to the loudest voice in the room.
Nobody will actually answer a question.
The moderators will be ineffective in controlling the discussion and it will go to the loudest voice in the room.
8
It doesn't seem to be too awfully hard to get under Mr. Trump's skin. Even a crying baby can set him off. I think if it were me, I would go after his ratings and the quality on his reality TV show. Trump would stop the debate and immediately start firing off tweets about that subject.
11
The danger for Hillary is that she will follow the old rules like really knowing the real facts and figures of critical issues and try to rub it into Trump's face from different angles. But realities have changed - is the earth flat, is the EU good or bad, what is the American Middle Class. Trump may better grasp that real facts and figures are a non-reality but knows what the audience wants to hear - somewhat like Reagan with his winning "Here you go again" against Jimmy Carter. Apples and Oranges.
3
Voters' opinions on Trump and Clinton are so baked-in that HRC could just rap Jay-Z lyrics for her answers and it wouldn't make a difference to voters. This debate and subsequent debates will be purely for entertainment.
These two public figures have been a part of our national discourse for roughly 3 decades now; any "undecided voters" at this point are just a statistic, not a reality.
These two public figures have been a part of our national discourse for roughly 3 decades now; any "undecided voters" at this point are just a statistic, not a reality.
3
The Presidential Debates should prove quite illuminating for both candidates. Both candidates perceived strengths may very well become liabilities when faced with two polar opposite debaters.
Donald Trump is the king of slander! He attacks his opponents on what he senses are their weaknesses. He bullies, prods, pushes & pounces. At no time does he ever really deal with substance or solutions for the issues our country is facing.
Hillary Clinton prepares, studies, plans & commits enormous amount of information to memory. She showed her ability to handle pressure during the House inquiry into the tragic events in Benghazi, Libya.
Both seem to have a huge reservoirs of energy when facing an audience of backers.
Ms. Clinton appears to handle attacks in a more controlled manner. She may have to if only because how we look upon men & women differently. Women will be attacked more for getting frazzled then men will. It isn't right but it's a cultural bias we have.
Donald Trump can be made to respond to attacks by striking back in a childish, immature way. He gets off topic & resorts to bullying tactics when he feels backed into a corner. But he's well trained before a camera from his years as a reality show host, & that shouldn't be trivialized.
For me what's important is how well the candidates stand up to questioning & how they project leadership. Being bossy isn't leadership. Having the ability to listen & respond on a human, almost intimate level will determine the outcome.
Donald Trump is the king of slander! He attacks his opponents on what he senses are their weaknesses. He bullies, prods, pushes & pounces. At no time does he ever really deal with substance or solutions for the issues our country is facing.
Hillary Clinton prepares, studies, plans & commits enormous amount of information to memory. She showed her ability to handle pressure during the House inquiry into the tragic events in Benghazi, Libya.
Both seem to have a huge reservoirs of energy when facing an audience of backers.
Ms. Clinton appears to handle attacks in a more controlled manner. She may have to if only because how we look upon men & women differently. Women will be attacked more for getting frazzled then men will. It isn't right but it's a cultural bias we have.
Donald Trump can be made to respond to attacks by striking back in a childish, immature way. He gets off topic & resorts to bullying tactics when he feels backed into a corner. But he's well trained before a camera from his years as a reality show host, & that shouldn't be trivialized.
For me what's important is how well the candidates stand up to questioning & how they project leadership. Being bossy isn't leadership. Having the ability to listen & respond on a human, almost intimate level will determine the outcome.
3
The media needs to develop (with input from past Presidents, organizational psychologists/behaviorists and other analysts in the political) and broadcast before ( a lot), during and after the debate what it is the people should be looking for from these candidates. They are seeking to show that they are best suited for the job. It could be considered an audition or interview on steroids. The best interviewers seek examples of past performance that match best with what the new job will entail. The best interviewers also try to see how the candidates react under differing circumstances including pressure, including how they respond when they don't know something or when they have not had experience in the role but try to show how they will learn that aspect of the job; in other words how they deal with their weaknesses.
I hope the live moderators are expert and that they will not only ask the right questions (not just try to egg on a performance) but also probe further, ask follow ups on the spot depending on the direction taken and call out lies, mistakes, etc.
I hope the live moderators are expert and that they will not only ask the right questions (not just try to egg on a performance) but also probe further, ask follow ups on the spot depending on the direction taken and call out lies, mistakes, etc.
3
I get that it is amusing to make fun of Trump and minimize his "abilities" (see? I did it there myself). But to those now smugly crowing about what a horrible debate performance he will give, well, there are a few Republicans you should consult on that score. The fact that you don't remember who they all were should tell you something.
https://emcphd.wordpress.com
https://emcphd.wordpress.com
2
Has the distinguished ph.d made billions of dollars? Donal Trump has great abilities. To say otherwise is a lie
1
Dan .. generally people with "Rev." in front of their name aren't out to make billions of dollars.
3
I have never filed for bankruptcy.
Or filed for bankruptcy.
Or filed for bankruptcy.
Or filed for bankruptcy...
As Herman Mankiewicz wrote in Citizen Kane (And yes, Welles has said many times that Mankiewicz wrote all the Bernstein dialogue): "Well, it's no trick to make a lot of money... if what you want to do is make a lot of money."
As Trump's checkered career shows, the trick is keeping it. On that score, which seems important to you, Dan, I have indeed succeed where "Donal" has failed.
https://emcphd.wordpress.com
Or filed for bankruptcy.
Or filed for bankruptcy.
Or filed for bankruptcy...
As Herman Mankiewicz wrote in Citizen Kane (And yes, Welles has said many times that Mankiewicz wrote all the Bernstein dialogue): "Well, it's no trick to make a lot of money... if what you want to do is make a lot of money."
As Trump's checkered career shows, the trick is keeping it. On that score, which seems important to you, Dan, I have indeed succeed where "Donal" has failed.
https://emcphd.wordpress.com
1
She is very vulnerable to counter punches. If she asks where his tax return is, he will counter with "where's those speech transcripts, Hillary?"
If she questions how he made his money, all he has do to is say "I build buildings and put thousands of people to work to make my money. And to make your money, all you do is give speeches to Wall Street and big Pharma?"
She would be better off to try to show off as a policy wonk, with great knowledge of detail, where he knows little.
If she questions how he made his money, all he has do to is say "I build buildings and put thousands of people to work to make my money. And to make your money, all you do is give speeches to Wall Street and big Pharma?"
She would be better off to try to show off as a policy wonk, with great knowledge of detail, where he knows little.
5
Clinton is looking for the debate equivalent of "you're likable enough," three words that clinched a debate for Obama. Brevity is essential.
1
"Nobody's perfect, Donald."
1
Plenty of material to debate in blatant contradictions between one candidate's promises and record of practices violating laws on immigration:
http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2016/08/donald-trump-model-managemen...
http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2016/08/donald-trump-model-managemen...
Jon Stewart would be the best adversary for her practice debates.
Highly intelligent, very quick and devastating when it's called for.
Stewart would be the best in terms of reproducing Drumpf's "persona".
Highly intelligent, very quick and devastating when it's called for.
Stewart would be the best in terms of reproducing Drumpf's "persona".
4
The Presidential debates should be commercial free and the moderators should ask substantive questions about real issues. Tax policy, immigration, minimum wage, relations with Russia, global trade, college debt, healthcare, etc. The moderators should be real news people, not paid performers there to get ratings. I'm afraid that these debates will be turned into a circus concerned with emails, the Clinton Foundation, and "making America great again." Real issues will get little play, which is to Trump's benefit because he really knows nothing about real issues. Trump has low expectations, so if he can eat up all his time with repeated platitudes and personal insults, and not be too crude, many people will say he won. Clinton really can't win because no matter what she says, the press will say she was cold, calculated, and too careful with her words.
1
Here's what you do, Hillary : Keep up an endless, pulverizing loop of everything he's ever said. You can do 90 minutes worth of insane rhetoric from him. And there's no argument he can raise against it- because they are all his words.
No need to thank me. Just don't let him off the hook. And you'll be our next president.
No need to thank me. Just don't let him off the hook. And you'll be our next president.
5
Has Donald Trump ever had to deal with a woman as an equal?
10
The liberal press will turn any Trump hiccup into a major ahhaaaa moment. HRC will be a victim of the big ol' bully.
2
I think there is a difference between a hiccup and a projectile diarrhea. Not sure if you can tell the difference between those two physiological responses.
3
The debate will be a disservice to the people if the two "other" candidates, Gary Johnson and Jill Stein, are not allowed to participate.
7
the "other" candidates who are polling in single digits?
3
Are you afraid that your candidate might lose votes? Which is exactly why the Presidential Debate Committee made up of mega rich democrats and republicans have decided for everyone what presidential candidates get to debate. The committee has taken away every Americans, democrats, republicans and independents alike violating our basic right to the liberty we should have in the USA. In a democracy like ours, don't we have the right of at least hearing all presidential candidates before choosing our next president even if he/she is not a democrat or republican. Who has actually given my and your right to choose away and has taken away the right of free speech? The presidential debate committee at 202-872-1020
3
I have a beautiful brain. Even I know what I am thinking. My brain tells me so many beautiful things. I think more than loser Hillary ever did. I think so much more you won't believe it. You put my brain next to anyone, they will tell you what beautiful thoughts I have.
7
Trump can never prepare enough for the debates. His tiny, circumscribed head cannot retain information, and he has no ability to think on the fly. He can only hope for an audience that itself has no ability to think. How likely is that?
9
Pretty likely. People believe everything they see and hear on Television.
5
Trumpsters will so P.O.'d by the whupping Hillary will dish out, that they will vote for him anyway, just for spite. It's how they live their lives. He's their man, and that's all there is to it.
6
Scott Adams (Dilbert creator) had a great piece in the Wall Street Journal last weekend regarding the title of this article. While Adams is neither an R or a D, he is a rather studied and intelligent man. He points out that Donald is much better at reacting on his feet than Hillary. He points out the first debate when Megyn Kelly had him dead to rights with the fat disgusting women comment. If he said he didn't say that, he was a liar, if he said he did say that, he was a jerk. He said the only thing he could have said to have gotten out of that corner. "Only Rosie O'Donnell". Perfect response.
I think Hillary isn't going to do as well in the debates as Donald (not to say she will do poorly, just not as well as him). Donald is a salesman... Hillary is a politician. Salesmen always are more reactionary to being told no or overcoming argumentative obstacles. Politicians try to ride the gray line that attorneys do so well with.
I'm willing to bet he will rattle Hillary at these debates. He made "Low Energy" stick with Jeb. "Lyin' Ted" stuck with Cruz. "Crooked" Hillary is an adjective that is here to stay. She isn't helping herself out either (Foundation, emails Assange from WikiLeaks is holding until October... etc.)
I think Hillary isn't going to do as well in the debates as Donald (not to say she will do poorly, just not as well as him). Donald is a salesman... Hillary is a politician. Salesmen always are more reactionary to being told no or overcoming argumentative obstacles. Politicians try to ride the gray line that attorneys do so well with.
I'm willing to bet he will rattle Hillary at these debates. He made "Low Energy" stick with Jeb. "Lyin' Ted" stuck with Cruz. "Crooked" Hillary is an adjective that is here to stay. She isn't helping herself out either (Foundation, emails Assange from WikiLeaks is holding until October... etc.)
8
Trump's fans obviously prefer discombobulation to integration.
7
Steve--they refer his "jokes." Very presidential.
6
"Only Rosie O'Donnell". Perfect response."
Nope. Not a perfect response. He got away with it only because it wasn't further challenged. That "perfect response" was a lie; his comments were not confined to O'Donnell. His lie should have been confronted.
Nope. Not a perfect response. He got away with it only because it wasn't further challenged. That "perfect response" was a lie; his comments were not confined to O'Donnell. His lie should have been confronted.
10
Perhaps Hillary can hire " psychology experts" to explain what animates her campaign. From this piece and others she seems to be obsessed with Trump and to have lost her way. Couldn't she ignore him?
7
Politicians want to know what animates their voters. They animate their own campaigns.
2
Politicians with real talent already know what their voters want. In this respect Donald has what Hillary has to study to find out.
2
Steve:
If Hillary cares about what animates voters, would she be doing this? Why can't she ignore him and speak to those voters?
If Hillary cares about what animates voters, would she be doing this? Why can't she ignore him and speak to those voters?
1
This is positively creepy and odd that people think it is normal for a candidate to do this kind of pre-debate prep. Trump has plenty of arsenal should be no contest.
2
Clinton should stick to the facts and debate Trump as such. It should be a no-brainer if she can ignore the ignoramus's poor manners, and debate him on her platform.
2
Trump doesn't have a command of the issues. He doesn't have any detailed policies.
4
"Her team is also getting advice from psychology experts to help create a personality profile of Mr. Trump to gauge how he may respond to attacks and deal with a woman as his sole adversary on the debate stage."
I wish the press had more stringent standards beyond throwing mud and seeing if it sticks.
I wish the press had more stringent standards beyond throwing mud and seeing if it sticks.
2
They used to, but Trumps has completely changed their focus. We may never get any real news again.
3
No sane general tells his/her enemies what his/her plans are. If indeed folks with her campaign are talking about what she is doing to prepare, someone needs to remind them to shut up!!
9
It's a feint, designed to try to make the Trump folks think there's something out there. Clinton has all the opposition research already to use if necessary. All she has to do is be a somewhat more relaxed version of her normal self to make Trump lose his composure.
The Congressional Republicans fomented a lie that Hillary lied to make it take hold through the population. Of course the low information followers let it bounce repeatedly through their brains and spread the lie.
Watch for that in the Debate.
Watch for that in the Debate.
5
For Republicans and their supporters, repetition is creates truth. Eventually, they Believe what they knew, at first, was a lie and a strategy.
3
Actually, I think that what made vast portions of the population think that Hillary was lying were the videos and SoS IG report that showed quite clearly that Hillary was lying.
2
I think it would be easy enough for Mrs. Clinton to attack Donald Trump's ethics too.
Or run rings around him intellectually and morally.
What has Mr. Trump ever done except make and lose money, not pay those who have done jobs for him, and run around with models?
He doesn't give to the charities he pretends to, until he's called out on it.
Like a twelve year old, he makes fun of people with disabilities.
What a guy.
Or run rings around him intellectually and morally.
What has Mr. Trump ever done except make and lose money, not pay those who have done jobs for him, and run around with models?
He doesn't give to the charities he pretends to, until he's called out on it.
Like a twelve year old, he makes fun of people with disabilities.
What a guy.
10
Get Bernie Sanders really drunk, and he could stand in for Trump.
5
The Clinton & Trump Circus is coming to a town near you.
This has got to be the worst for the selection of these 2 candidates, and the level that both are stooping to win this election.
I had more regard for Mrs. Clinton until "Hillary Clinton Piles Up Research in Bid to Needle Donald". Instead of keeping her head way above Mr. Trump, she is now resorting to descending to his crass level!
This has got to be the worst for the selection of these 2 candidates, and the level that both are stooping to win this election.
I had more regard for Mrs. Clinton until "Hillary Clinton Piles Up Research in Bid to Needle Donald". Instead of keeping her head way above Mr. Trump, she is now resorting to descending to his crass level!
WHile there is no end to the entertainment value in imagining a debate fit for wrestling fans, Ms Clinton needs to keep in mind that her goal here is to solidify and improve her standing with educated white males. It is the one demographic that can guarantee her presidency. This demographic is not likely impressed with Clinton finding ways to get Trump to lose it...rather they are looking for someone who can take a hit, avoid the mud, and show leadership. Fly above it, Ms Clinton. No points here for belittling the challenged.
8
All she has to do is lie like she always does.
5
Every word that falls out of his mouth belittles him.
4
"It can be dangerous. You can sound scripted or phony — like you’re trying to be someone you’re not.”
You said it Mr. Trump. And I can't repeat it enough.
You are trying to be something you are not.
You said it Mr. Trump. And I can't repeat it enough.
You are trying to be something you are not.
8
This election contest is over for Trump. The debates will be strictly entertainment if Clinton remains calm and collected with a sharp list of needle points and Trump will do the rest.
6
It's hard to say the election is over when it's the end of August. I'm gonna guess you're not an elections expert. Those guys get it wrong all the time anyway.
4
Trump devotees are the only fools who do not recognize a loser of a candidate.
4
Yet another opportunity for Hillary to avoid talking directly about issues and policies, but instead resort to talk-show stunts.
What a fluffy election this has turned out to be!
What a fluffy election this has turned out to be!
4
You can't be serious. Hillary talks nothing but policy and issues.
Trump talks slogans...childish, ignorant slogans...and nothing but.
Trump talks slogans...childish, ignorant slogans...and nothing but.
3
Rattle Trump? He's already rattled. It might be interesting someday to someone to learn what's behind his behavior. I'm not interested. Hillary's already won. (...just looking at one professional forecast: http://pollyvote.com.)
All it's going take to get rid of him is one intelligent debate moderator, and Trump's gone--before the first debate is over! (Or, he sticks around and makes an utter fool of himself.)
He can't change. He's going to blow. You heard it here first. Ms. Clinton doesn't have to anything other than simply be herself, her intelligent self.
I'm telling you, he's stomping out in, oh, I give him 20 minutes at the most. Anybody want to bet cash money on it? Do you really think he can last all the way through a formal debate with Hil.? Come on. One, and it's over.
Trump will be screaming about how unfairly he is being treated. That's it. No more debates. Bye.
All it's going take to get rid of him is one intelligent debate moderator, and Trump's gone--before the first debate is over! (Or, he sticks around and makes an utter fool of himself.)
He can't change. He's going to blow. You heard it here first. Ms. Clinton doesn't have to anything other than simply be herself, her intelligent self.
I'm telling you, he's stomping out in, oh, I give him 20 minutes at the most. Anybody want to bet cash money on it? Do you really think he can last all the way through a formal debate with Hil.? Come on. One, and it's over.
Trump will be screaming about how unfairly he is being treated. That's it. No more debates. Bye.
7
Who needs to prepare for the debates? The voters. We all need to inform ourselves about the issues. What can you find about in advance about the candidates positions? What are you hoping a new president will do? What are you hoping to hear them say? How do YOU feel about the issues. Adequate preparation will make us more receptive to good debate and more impervious to obfuscation and gobbledygook.
And the moderators need to ask real policy questions and the press needs to report the real policy answers. If this produces lower ratings and lower readership, tough.
And the moderators need to ask real policy questions and the press needs to report the real policy answers. If this produces lower ratings and lower readership, tough.
12
Given Trump's professed superior knowledge when it comes to all things terrorist, Ms. Clinton should ask if he is taking credit for nailing Adnani. Given his obvious inability to give credit for anything to anyone other than himself, I'd estimate the probability of him breaking out in a cold sweat, turning bright red and stammering his response would be in the 85% range.
4
Trump's mainstay "policy" is two fold and he will not alter either of them regardless so let's see how he will bring them to fruition.
#1. The Wall paid for by Mexico designed by unknown engineers with years of planning before any possible execution of plans . Hillary need only ask how he will get Mexico to pay for the planning and construction of said Wall and how will he keep people from digging under it. If he can't then it is an empty policy.
#2. Deportation of illegal immigrants: does he know how much that would cost, how to roundup the illegals and who will sort out who goes where and on which form of transportation. But most significant is who will pay for this.
Surely the US GOVT which cannot afford to support Entitlement Programs and infrastructure rebuilding costs could never put those needs aside to pay for Trumps deportation policy.
Would Trump sacrifice these programs for a program of illegal immigrant removal?
So Hillary put him on the spot. Insist that he explain! If he can't his main platform positions are baseless and empty and totally unbelievable.
#1. The Wall paid for by Mexico designed by unknown engineers with years of planning before any possible execution of plans . Hillary need only ask how he will get Mexico to pay for the planning and construction of said Wall and how will he keep people from digging under it. If he can't then it is an empty policy.
#2. Deportation of illegal immigrants: does he know how much that would cost, how to roundup the illegals and who will sort out who goes where and on which form of transportation. But most significant is who will pay for this.
Surely the US GOVT which cannot afford to support Entitlement Programs and infrastructure rebuilding costs could never put those needs aside to pay for Trumps deportation policy.
Would Trump sacrifice these programs for a program of illegal immigrant removal?
So Hillary put him on the spot. Insist that he explain! If he can't his main platform positions are baseless and empty and totally unbelievable.
3
Trump may have Ailes and Sean Hannity, but let us not forget that Clinton has the ear of America's most skillful rhetorician - Barack Obama. I think the Democratic Convention proved that the Democratic party has a wealth of brilliant and engaging orators, from Hillary's husband to the First Lady. She must simply draw on their elegance, all the while exploiting Trump's volatility. Not to mention, Hillary has proven that she is competent in the face of aggressive adversity. Who could forget her masterful performance at the Benghazi House Select Committee in October of last year? She has got to display her fortitude, capitalizing on Trump's inexperience. She has gone toe-to-toe with the President, this should be no problem to her as long as she navigates the debates with caution and highlights Trump's obvious vices.
10
Hillary also has Bill Clinton. No one was better than Bill over the last 50 years.
1
I love the fact that the readers here are overestimating Hillary's ability, and underestimating Donald's. Expectations for the debate are being raised for her and lowered for him. He can win the debate by showing up, not blowing up, and being congenial, and only mildly knowledgeable. It is being set up so he does not have to win on issues. That is great for him. For her to win, she has to bury him, and she is incapable of that. She arguably lost the Democratic debate to both O'Malley and Sanders. Neither of them holdds a candle to Trumps ability on a stage. If this article is an accurate portrayal of what is going on in prep, Clinton will not be ready, and Trump will. If her practice strategy is to use juvenile attacks against Trump, she will be buried like Jeb, and Rubio, and Christie, and all the other Republicans that tried that tactic.
8
I must have seen different debates. I felt every person up there did better than Trump on content. All he had was bluster and name-calling. That is not winning.
7
A "president" presides. This means mediating a multi-faceted cross-disciplinary process to integrate the ideas of many people. I think Hillary has the right stuff to do it.
4
It is a shame that reality TV (the debate show) now determines the leader of the Free World. And a risk that the least ready candidate is the one who excels at reality TV.
1
I agree without Gary Johnson in the debates, the presidential debates will be a continuation of America has to pick the lessor of two evils from the "entertainment debates" provided, not the presidential debates covering issues that Americans want to know about.
1
Just tell the truth. He'll be so shocked he'll be speechless. We all willl.
9
Two suggestions for the HRC Debate Team:
1. The first time Trump makes one of his idiotic outbursts, HRC should look at the camera - deadpan - and say "Do you want THAT as President of the United States?"
2. The second time he acts out, she should smile and say "There you go again".
Game, Set & Match, Mrs. Clinton
1. The first time Trump makes one of his idiotic outbursts, HRC should look at the camera - deadpan - and say "Do you want THAT as President of the United States?"
2. The second time he acts out, she should smile and say "There you go again".
Game, Set & Match, Mrs. Clinton
10
3. The only thing consistent about my opponent is that he doesn't know anything about anything, and he just proved it again.
Champion, Mrs. Clinton
Champion, Mrs. Clinton
4
Clinton could go on as if she knows what is in Trump's tax returns, dropping little hints. Then, just keep hammering Trump about tax returns, tax returns. That ought to keep him off kilter. All night long, turn every question into Trump's tax returns.
The debate will be a contest to see who can be the most entertaining. We already know that the star will be the arrogant, bombastic, know-nothing, lying, Trump. None of his followers care that he isn't prepared for the job of president of the U.S. and leader of the free world. He just has to show that he's a bully and that he can insult and embarrass Hillary. Those who are against Hillary don't care about her policies or her grasp of the world situation. The media will hype it and score it like a wrestling match . In the end, people won't have changed their minds about who they will vote for.
5
Yes they actually will if Gary Johnson is in the debates, that is why he is being excluded by democrats and republicans alike.
1
Trump will easily be able to rattle Clinton because she is about as nimble as a turtle. Unfortunately, he will probably also shoot himself in the foot, leg, arm, hand, etc.
9
One point of Trump insecurity, which I have never seen mentioned in anything but a biographical piece, is that he transferred into Penn after spending his first two years at Fordham. Trump himself never mentioned it in the primary debates and rallies when he could not say often enough how smart he is and that Wharton is the best business school in the country.
Imagine how wounded he might be if Hillary had the right moment to mention on the debate stage how he conveniently leaves Fordham out of his educational background.
Imagine how wounded he might be if Hillary had the right moment to mention on the debate stage how he conveniently leaves Fordham out of his educational background.
7
Hillary lines of attack:
I'm too polite to talk about your small hands... and that implication..
I would never suggest that you actually posed for those statues that recently appeared in several cities.... but people are saying....
This is a public debate and many people are watching, so we should not talk about your 3 divorces, and how you were cheating on your wives.
You really are a good businessman... you've filed for bankruptcy how many times? 3? 4? More?????
You really are a good sport... You are blessing Arnold as he takes over your reality TV show.... He won't be able to say and enjoy, "you're fired" as well as you did...
People are saying..... you're being advised by a sexual harasser, a former Russian lobbyist, a fringe blogger and a pollster but I know you're too smart to have people like that working for your campaign...
I understand that you admire strong men? Saddam Hussein, Kim Jung-Un of North Korea, and Putin, the President and former KGB Spy leader?
Were you really being sarcastic when you suggested that you wished your Russian buddies would hack my electronic accounts? You must be thankful to your Russian handlers because people are saying the Russians hacked the DNC, many other organizations and even some state voting systems... Just remember what you wish for.... you receiving 99% of the votes in California would not look right....
Can anyone think of other good ways to get under Trump's thin skin?
I'm too polite to talk about your small hands... and that implication..
I would never suggest that you actually posed for those statues that recently appeared in several cities.... but people are saying....
This is a public debate and many people are watching, so we should not talk about your 3 divorces, and how you were cheating on your wives.
You really are a good businessman... you've filed for bankruptcy how many times? 3? 4? More?????
You really are a good sport... You are blessing Arnold as he takes over your reality TV show.... He won't be able to say and enjoy, "you're fired" as well as you did...
People are saying..... you're being advised by a sexual harasser, a former Russian lobbyist, a fringe blogger and a pollster but I know you're too smart to have people like that working for your campaign...
I understand that you admire strong men? Saddam Hussein, Kim Jung-Un of North Korea, and Putin, the President and former KGB Spy leader?
Were you really being sarcastic when you suggested that you wished your Russian buddies would hack my electronic accounts? You must be thankful to your Russian handlers because people are saying the Russians hacked the DNC, many other organizations and even some state voting systems... Just remember what you wish for.... you receiving 99% of the votes in California would not look right....
Can anyone think of other good ways to get under Trump's thin skin?
3
Ask Trump if he still thinks his daddy would let him run for president.
5
I agree with Mr. Schwartz. Mrs. Clinton could very well win the battle, but lose the war. Remember when G.W. Bush debated Al Gore. There was no doubt that Gore was better prepared, and, in fact, answered better. However, he rolled his eyes and practically pushed Bush aside as he eagerly strode center stage to answer him. He acted like a ten year old, and made Bush seem more likable, despite the obvious difference in intelligence and preparedness. Incredibly, the public at large actually felt Bush had won, and the results that November reflected this. Trump has always peddled his "brand" effectively, but he lacks preparedness and attention. He is, in truth, something of a charleton. The procedure discussed in the article is fine. Subtly Goad Trump into making mistakes, and let his natural proclivities do the rest. He hates being challenged, and he, especially hates being challenged by a woman. Plus his tendency to lie and reverse himself, and then reverse himself again makes him his own worst enemy. We'll see. Should be interesting.
7
(AsP) Donald Trump, while writing in a note book, was overseen writing how he believes that he can “save” America. He writes in his notes that he wants to “sell” a state. The security service man that saw the writing quit and found outside employment.
I think he aims to sell D.C.
I think he aims to sell D.C.
2
It will be a complete over match by Clinton. The professor debating the irrational student. Repugnant Republicanism will be sent to the abyss of oblivion, screaming default all the way down....Just a Thought!!
5
Logic will get her nowhere.
6
Chris Matthews - fast talker/fast thinker/blunt/very familiar with Trump tactics/100% in support of HRC - he would be BEST to fill the bill to fill the role in practice debate sessions.
7
"...“I believe you can prep too much for those things,” Mr. Trump said in an interview last week. “It can be dangerous. You can sound scripted or phony — like you’re trying to be someone you’re not.”
Oh, like the President of the United States?
Oh, like the President of the United States?
9
"...still potentially lose the debates if she comes off as too condescending, too much of a know-it-all.”
This statement speaks volumes about the sorry state of our electorate. As if we don't want our president to "know it all"??
This statement speaks volumes about the sorry state of our electorate. As if we don't want our president to "know it all"??
11
The prowess of hillary clinton in debate might not put her at an advantage when the "debate" keels over to insults, innuendos or conspiracy drivel. Debate? This would better be described as a sports or entertainment event.
2
We need Johnson / Weld in the debates for best outcome, ie, discussion of the issues.
2
Maybe Hillary can goad him if she's is condescending and smug. That's what we need from the first woman president. We need an entitled millionaire lawyer white woman and a monotone elitism that doesn't get ruffled. We'll all want to vote for that.
6
And "woman" is worst, right? Any man is better than any woman?
5
Empty drum (trump) has lots of strengths, which the Hillary team cannot ignore. Of course, his full weaknesses must be exposed for the entire country to view. Being a racist, he will be saying something against various sets of people, later he might say, "It's sarcasm". How dangerous he has been and he would be must be exposed.
Family values - three wives, sometimes overlapping. If he says something against Bill Clinton, he should have contested 24 years ago. He cannot say a word against Hillary; she is morally a strong woman. She is an exemplary mother, leader, and a woman.
When comes to debate, she must be ready on various policy questions, and questions on national security, international affairs & security, and job generation/creation at home.
These 4 debates are so important. Empty drum (trump) has proclaimed that he has more brain, and he can remember everything, and he knows international 'affairs' very well (perhaps, he might have learnt through Sarah Palin's windows). Still Hillary shouldn't underestimate the enemy of American values, the Empty drum.
Family values - three wives, sometimes overlapping. If he says something against Bill Clinton, he should have contested 24 years ago. He cannot say a word against Hillary; she is morally a strong woman. She is an exemplary mother, leader, and a woman.
When comes to debate, she must be ready on various policy questions, and questions on national security, international affairs & security, and job generation/creation at home.
These 4 debates are so important. Empty drum (trump) has proclaimed that he has more brain, and he can remember everything, and he knows international 'affairs' very well (perhaps, he might have learnt through Sarah Palin's windows). Still Hillary shouldn't underestimate the enemy of American values, the Empty drum.
5
Complacency is is bad. For all of us.
6
Expect Trump to go after the valid point of HRC's crookedness.
2
Morgan--But, what about Trump;s crookedness? The broken deals, the unpaid contract, Trump University, the bankruptcies leaving others holding the bag, the cheating on his wive(s,) the tax evasion, the lying about his contributions to charities, his connections with Russa? Trump is as crooked as a dog's hind leg. There are 1000's of people with firsthand knowledge.
6
Sources close to the campaigns indicate Trump is getting advice from psychology experts to help him understand why Hillary is incapable of telling the truth about anything and showers with her Blackberry.
5
Somehow, though, she got stuff like CHIP and Trumpy's being a dimwitted, privileged bigot right. Go figure.
6
This should be on Pay-Per-View. Dispense with the pretense of discourse and just market it as a smackdown of some sort. This isnt politics.
2
The Trump nomination is arson.
2
I agree without Gary Johnson debating it is just a "sporting" event. But I want the presidential debates to be about the issues and they won't be without Gary Johnson. The media and TV should listen to their audience, 62% of Americans WANT to hear Gary Johnson in the debates, regardless of who they are voting for.
1
She isn't even President yet. And already I'm exhausted with her.
How fondly I remember 2008 when I had hope for change with a young, energetic, fresh, erudite and inspiring man named Barack Obama.
Now we must, once again, as we have been doing for the past 25 years, endure Mrs. Clinton, with her mastery of minutiae, her endless legal dramas, her pants suits and her denials, her fake smile, and her polished and poll tested speeches.
She will project confidence, but I confidently project that her tenure in office will be a domestic and foreign policy meltdown because she is the quintessence of the old order which is collapsing around the world.
How fondly I remember 2008 when I had hope for change with a young, energetic, fresh, erudite and inspiring man named Barack Obama.
Now we must, once again, as we have been doing for the past 25 years, endure Mrs. Clinton, with her mastery of minutiae, her endless legal dramas, her pants suits and her denials, her fake smile, and her polished and poll tested speeches.
She will project confidence, but I confidently project that her tenure in office will be a domestic and foreign policy meltdown because she is the quintessence of the old order which is collapsing around the world.
8
Substance is better than hope.
1
Oh jeez, old Hilary with her pantsuits. Sorry she isn't sexier. Your implicit focus on her age and clothing shows your true colors. There are valid concerns about a Clinton presidency (though nothing as scary as Trump) but your aren't articulating your case well. Maybe you don't have one?
14
If it's true that Trump is not seriously preparing for the debate, then the event can assume the WWE-style moniker, "Countdown to Meltdown".
"Winging it" is no way to debate, much less run a country.
Donald: Please be prepared, if for no other reason than to save your remaining supporters like me from having to avoid the water cooler for days after the event.
"Winging it" is no way to debate, much less run a country.
Donald: Please be prepared, if for no other reason than to save your remaining supporters like me from having to avoid the water cooler for days after the event.
1
Why are you supporting him if you know what a disaster he is?
6
It's easy for him to support Trump. John lives in Germany.
4
Momomo:
I disagree with the "disaster" description, but I’m also waiting to see if he has the temperament to prepare for the debates.
Reasons for supporting him:
1. Immigration: Trump's mostly right, Clinton is wrong. If Clinton grants citizenship to 12+ million illegal aliens, it will effectively disenfranchise Republicans at a national level for at least a generation.
2. Trade deals: Trump's mostly right, Clinton is wrong (no serious person can actually believe that she doesn't support TPP)
3. Global alliances: Trump’s mostly right that “allies” need to carry their fair load; Clinton is fine with the status quo
4. Warmongering: Trump’s an unknown, but seems less belligerent; “Run it up the gut” Clinton is a war hawk
Trump and Clinton are both very-flawed individuals, but Clinton is part and parcel of a globalist system that I believe is failing the lower 90% of Americans.
I disagree with the "disaster" description, but I’m also waiting to see if he has the temperament to prepare for the debates.
Reasons for supporting him:
1. Immigration: Trump's mostly right, Clinton is wrong. If Clinton grants citizenship to 12+ million illegal aliens, it will effectively disenfranchise Republicans at a national level for at least a generation.
2. Trade deals: Trump's mostly right, Clinton is wrong (no serious person can actually believe that she doesn't support TPP)
3. Global alliances: Trump’s mostly right that “allies” need to carry their fair load; Clinton is fine with the status quo
4. Warmongering: Trump’s an unknown, but seems less belligerent; “Run it up the gut” Clinton is a war hawk
Trump and Clinton are both very-flawed individuals, but Clinton is part and parcel of a globalist system that I believe is failing the lower 90% of Americans.
1
Watch for favoritism from the Television people towards Don Trump.
They have already given him a billion dollars worth of free airtime and continue to do so.
They have already given him a billion dollars worth of free airtime and continue to do so.
6
Clinton is a study in steeled composure whereas Trump is more emotional. But I think the tone of the debate will rest primarily on the moderators.
3
Oh? Like in the Republican primary debates?
2
Trump has a different live experience than Hillary.
Putting up huge buildings all over the world he has been in situations and meet-debated people that are not scripted.
He has real world experience, she has not.
Those who understand politics and global construction knw exactly what I am talking about.
He can be asked an obscure political question at the debate and most likely will not know.
That dose not make you a leader.
Hillary may know Angela Merckles pet dog name...but dose that create a job?
I don't think so..do you?
Putting up huge buildings all over the world he has been in situations and meet-debated people that are not scripted.
He has real world experience, she has not.
Those who understand politics and global construction knw exactly what I am talking about.
He can be asked an obscure political question at the debate and most likely will not know.
That dose not make you a leader.
Hillary may know Angela Merckles pet dog name...but dose that create a job?
I don't think so..do you?
5
At one time he bragged that Trump University was going to be great,unbelievable,same for his casinos,Trump airline,etc. Obviously he was dead wrong. With that track record of predicting the future I am guessing he will be wrong again
2
he can be asked non-obscure political questions and still won't know the actual answer. He is someone who openly states that the art of making deals involves deception and outright dishonesty. While Hillary doesn't inspire much confidence in me, honesty-wise, neither does Trump. He is not better than her in any way. They are both experts at putting their feet in their mouths.
Yeah, real-life exprience, like the time this summer that Trumpy bragged on how he's spent a lot of time on construction sites, "helping pour drywall."
By the way, we don't care about Merkel's dog, if she has one. But we do have these notions about how it'd be nice to have a Prez who knew, oh, what a "nuclear triad," is, what Brexit was, that Russia had grabbed Crimea, stuff like that.
Your boy has never been out of an office or a hotel room in his life.
By the way, we don't care about Merkel's dog, if she has one. But we do have these notions about how it'd be nice to have a Prez who knew, oh, what a "nuclear triad," is, what Brexit was, that Russia had grabbed Crimea, stuff like that.
Your boy has never been out of an office or a hotel room in his life.
6
of course she would do this - she is a snake and a cretin and that is the way they behave - wouldn't expect anything else from her - can't wait until she is roundly defeated - if she couldn't beat Obama - why does she think she stands a chance now -
3
Did you believe that students who did their homework in school were cheating too?
6
He has nothing other than ad hominem?
3
Trump's approach to this appears to be one of putting on a show - using Ivanka to play Clinton in a mock practice - "Wouldn't she be great at that?" He's serious, isn't he?
1
Trying to figure out how to needle Trump? One would hope that she would want
to concentrate on how she will deal with the issues facing our country should she be elected. Hillary may turn out to be so bad that Trump will actually win the election. I think that neither of them is Presidential material.
to concentrate on how she will deal with the issues facing our country should she be elected. Hillary may turn out to be so bad that Trump will actually win the election. I think that neither of them is Presidential material.
5
Anybody can imagine they'd be a greater president from the high of your state's biggest cash crop, dude.
4
It may be our biggest, but it's far from our only one. Remember, our state provides almost 3/4 of all the produce consumed in this country. What we don't have that you do, however, are cannabis candy trucks selling their "treats" to the passersby on the street.
1
The problem is how do you debate with a name-calling liar? Unless the referee is prepared to shut off the microphone, Trump can disrupt a fact-filled message and appear to be righteous. There need to be real, hard rules and they need to be enforced.
10
No way to do that. They're all too chicken-hearted to stand up to him. Afraid he'll come up with a name for them: Low energy, Lyin', Blood coming out, Little, Ugly, Sweaty, etc.
1
Instead of fighting each other, a most productive exchange would be about the most pressing needs of the country in the eyes of each candidate and what exactly they will push to do about it. What will they do about North Korea, Chinese expansionism, Russia's aggressive behavior, how to bring about an end to the war in Syria even if not peace, The need for social security reform, opinions about the minimum wage.............. Id rather ten minutes of actual thoughtful intelligent discussion about something that actully matters rather than Hillarys research on Trumps foibles or Trumps one liners, well one worders, on Hillary. We have SO very many real issues to discuss, if I want to see loud interrupting talking heads, the 24 hour news networks will do.
5
Is there any point to these debates? People already picked their sides...
3
20% haven't yet.
1
Hillary only needs to prepare to do 3 things:
1. Respond to each falsehood and exaggeration Trump makes with "That's a lie."
2. Respond to any personal attack with examples of Trump's own, worse behavior: cheating on his wives, bankruptcies, housing discrimination, not paying his fair share of taxes, questionable charitable contributions including playdoh for flood victims, fake health reports, close ties to Russian operatives and to sexual harassers, pay for play beauty pageants, misleading Trump University students, mocking POWs and the handicapped, outsourcing the production of Trump products to foreign countries, and stiffing contractors and workers.
3. When Trump claims he "doesn't remember" his own statements and actions, attribute it to dementia.
1. Respond to each falsehood and exaggeration Trump makes with "That's a lie."
2. Respond to any personal attack with examples of Trump's own, worse behavior: cheating on his wives, bankruptcies, housing discrimination, not paying his fair share of taxes, questionable charitable contributions including playdoh for flood victims, fake health reports, close ties to Russian operatives and to sexual harassers, pay for play beauty pageants, misleading Trump University students, mocking POWs and the handicapped, outsourcing the production of Trump products to foreign countries, and stiffing contractors and workers.
3. When Trump claims he "doesn't remember" his own statements and actions, attribute it to dementia.
12
Trump may demonstrate what a cad he is just as Rick Lazio did in his debates with Hillary in the New York campaign for US Senator.
3
she should know what a lie is - she tells plenty of them - come on people -g et real -
she used that line - she can't recall -when she was grilled years ago - 56 times to be exact - doesn't that mean she is demented too?
she used that line - she can't recall -when she was grilled years ago - 56 times to be exact - doesn't that mean she is demented too?
2
A better response to falsehood & exaggerations is to say: Really? The truth is (and then tell what the truth is).
All that Secretary Clinton need do is simply show up at the podium and that will be sufficient to anger Mr. Trump. All else will follow from the Moderator's questions and her responses.
9
That look (Hillary's) says it all. She's got this.
5
People were most impressed with Clinton's all-day session before the Congressional committee where she never lost her cool in the face to partisan detractors who questioned her repeatedly about her emails. Remember how she came across as presidential? That is what we want to see, not someone who lowers herself to Trump's school-yard level of bullying tactics. Don't get drawn into name-calling and mud-slinging by him. Ignore that, show us that Clinton has good knowledge and gravitas while he demonstrates that knows virtually nothing about global and national problems and that he will continue to act the buffoon under pressure.
10
Her performance at the Benghazi hearings led to my decision to vote for her; I even wrote Trey Gowdy a thank-you letter.
8
Why would the Clinton camp announce to the Trump camp what they're doing, except to "get into his head" a bit here a full month before that first debate? They know he will obsess over what they're doing or not doing, so much so that the psychopath will grow increasingly agitated as we approach Sept. 26th and start to slip deeper into his rabbit hole than he's ever gone before. Should make for some great Twitter moments.
3
Lotsa luck with that.
2
I have a suggestion for Trump's stand-in at the Clinton campaign's mock debates: Triumph the Insult Comic Dog.
4
Triumph is a tad too intellectual to ape Trump, but I'm sure he could dumb it down to help Hillary prepare.
7
Isn't surprise your best advantage in battle? Why on earth is the Clinton camp divulging their battle plan?
1
You don't know that they're doing that. Ever hear of a false battle plan being leaked to an enemy? Or a trick play in football? Or angling in gin rummy?
3
You never know what is disinformation until the forces are joined.
1
The only thing anyone should care about is if Trump can give any sort of lucid or detailed account of how he will do anything. How many times (thousands so far) will he or G.O.P. surrogates get away with never answering a straight yes or no question on any controversial subject? The media overall have been gutless in letting this demagogue spout lies with no bases of facts time and time again. I realize no matter what insanity this sad pathetic man says is going to change the minds of his rabid supporters; but surely to GOD at some point Trump must actually tell the truth about whether he has a clue how to handle serious issues above the mentality of a 10 (5?) year old!
3
Hillary is grounded in facts? Really? Well then she lies through omission and about her emails and about her speeches. She's a politician for gods sake. They all lie. They lie when they say "hello".
This campaign shows how far the US has sunk into the muck. It's more a clown show than a debate. Back last year I decided not to vote for either of them. Everyone says if you don't vote for Hillary then it is a vote for Trump. Frankly that is not true. I am voting for Jill Stein. I would be ashamed of myself if I voted for anyone else.
This campaign shows how far the US has sunk into the muck. It's more a clown show than a debate. Back last year I decided not to vote for either of them. Everyone says if you don't vote for Hillary then it is a vote for Trump. Frankly that is not true. I am voting for Jill Stein. I would be ashamed of myself if I voted for anyone else.
5
Just don't discusses vaccines with Jill Stein
3
Anti-science Jill is grounded in facts?
(LOL)
Like the ones about vaccinations?
https://www.google.com/?gws_rd=ssl#q=jill+stein+lies
(LOL)
Like the ones about vaccinations?
https://www.google.com/?gws_rd=ssl#q=jill+stein+lies
10
I would ask Mr. Trump what all that birther nonsense was about. Most all of us know the answer but would like to hear Mr. Trump explain himself.
4
Yet another liberal blissfullly unaware who it was that was more than happy to jump on the bandwagon gleefully promoting the "birther" nonsense in the first place, back around 2008. Hint: his initials are WJC. (Note that I'm not claiming he was the original source.)
1
Trump benefited from the primary debates because he didn't have to do anything. He was so adept at dominating the media cycle that the other candidates became background noise - at the debates they were reduced to attacking each other in a fratricidal attempt to acquire the mantle of the anti-Trump. That can't happen this time. Trump's rhetorical skills are elementary--if you call bragging, lying, and name-calling rhetorical skills--and I suspect none of those approaches will bear fruit against Hillary.
If Trump were smart, and he's not, he'd avoid the debates at all costs. But that man sure enough loves the limelight and nobody has a higher opinion of him than he does, so....
If Trump were smart, and he's not, he'd avoid the debates at all costs. But that man sure enough loves the limelight and nobody has a higher opinion of him than he does, so....
7
“I know who I am, and it got me here,” Mr. Trump said, boasting of success in his 11 primary debate appearances and in capturing the Republican nomination over veteran politicians and polished debaters.
I remember. He mocked opponents, spewed divisive slogans, offered nothing except an open window to hatefulness. He was the least presidential candidate ever, and I’ll go ahead and assume that not too many elementary schools put his posters up. How do you point to Trump and tell kids to be like him? As for Hillary - “needling" is the wrong wrong path. Since when did it become about destroying the other candidate vs showing casing what you have that’s special? Clinton’s knowledge is her special strength. His lack of it is his weakness. That’s all I want to see.
I remember. He mocked opponents, spewed divisive slogans, offered nothing except an open window to hatefulness. He was the least presidential candidate ever, and I’ll go ahead and assume that not too many elementary schools put his posters up. How do you point to Trump and tell kids to be like him? As for Hillary - “needling" is the wrong wrong path. Since when did it become about destroying the other candidate vs showing casing what you have that’s special? Clinton’s knowledge is her special strength. His lack of it is his weakness. That’s all I want to see.
8
It is not apparent that Trump thinks on his feet. It is apparent that he has little to think with. Maybe he thinks with his feet. And they are very small.
6
Going into battle, why share your strategy with your opponent? Who are these anonymous sources and why are they leaking all this information? Baffling.
1
Baffling is what they intend to do. It worked, didn't it? Trump will grab the bait, just as you did.
5
I wonder if it is to scare him and make him drop out.
Trump believes he can get through the debate merely by zinging Hillary over the Email, Bengazi, and personal issues. He will lack substance. For some reason, a lot of people are being sucked into his charm. Hillary has all the experience needed to perform the presidential task. I ask the question to Trump supporters,"Are you smarter than a 5th grader"?
8
Hillary has set the example for all women. Her along with Michelle Obama, have proved that when the going gets tough the tough get going. She stood tall with President Clinton, powerful message to married couples. She will make a dynamic, effective, efficient President.
6
She stayed with him to benefit her political career. Let's not make her into a hero for staying with a husband who showed no respect towards her
3
Trump just dumps everyone.
1
"Powerful message to married couples"--like what? "Women, if you stand by your cheating slimeball husband, no matter how disgusting his behavior, if he's got the right connections, you can claim an equal share of the takings, maybe even outdo him." In the old days, she would have gotten a mink and diamonds or pearls. This post gets my vote for "most unintentionally hilarious comment of the day". So far.
1
Trump has a tremendous advantage in that the bar is set so low for him. And, as per Bush-Gore in 2000, the public perception of who won will hinge on post-debate spin. If he manages to get through the debates without exploding, pundits will proclaim that he kept his cool, remained focused, even looked presidential. It won't matter much that he will likely lie, avoid discussing any policy in depth and otherwise be very vacuous. All he needs to do is throw a few crumbs of sobriety and substance the media's way and he could well come out on top.
5
The difference between Hillary and Donald is the difference between prose and poetry. She can bone up on all the books and briefings there are, but she still can't rhyme.
2
Or tell the truth.
1
And Trump is such a, such a, such a great poet. Yup.
3
I would like to see Mrs. Clinton start talking in everyman's language, like Trump only smarter and of course, not bigoted. There are many "tell it like it is" truths out here where we are. We know, for example, that "the system is rigged" by and for the big-money players. They get more of what they want from our government -- the anti-competitive, anti-union, anti-worker, anti-consumer laws, the deregulation and non-enforcement, the tax breaks, loopholes and subsidies, the government contracts -- than the middle-income worker and small business owner. We know our prescription drugs wouldn't cost nearly so much if our government bargained with pharma companies as a giant single customer in a single-payer healthcare system. We know that allowing too many immigrants into our economy, at all skill and education levels, means unfair competition with citizens for jobs, depresses wages and salaries, and increases costs of social services and public education. We know that higher education is the path to the middle class and beyond and that it is way too expensive. We know that climate change is happening and people are already suffering and we need national action to slow it down. We also know that neither candidate can do what they say they will do without cooperation from Congress and pressure from citizens. Tell some of those "tell it like it is" truths, Mrs. Clinton. And imagine, like Mr. Trump, that we are all fifth-graders when you say it.
3
I know it should be pretty obvious how to deal with Trump in a debate but why give your whole playbook? The Clinton team seems to be so eager to talk about the strategy. Everyone knows she should try to unravel him and set him off but to give specifics about what they see as his his insecurities and psychological vulnerabilities seems too much to divulge. Let him stay in his no-prep bubble so he feels he can just get up there and wing it. Now he may try to practice at a podium with someone trying out some of these tactics.
1
Traditionally, Presidential Debates have been about expectations management, and not about actual performance. The contest is neither won nor lost by some rigid score card; rather, it is matter of how each camp spins the narrative of their candidate's performance in the aftermath.
The expectations game that has been set here is telling. The bar for Trump cannot be set any lower than it already has; no one expects the man to do more than even show up - a win for him would be to walk off the stage without screaming or announcing the size of his manhood. For Clinton, this debate is fraught with peril on so many levels because of the inherent misogyny of the American political system. Trump's strategy is reduced physical comparisons - elect the tall, white male, or the woman.
At this stage, the debate is almost anti-climactic -- barring another soundbite from Trump, or a gaffe from Clinton, we already know that Trump will know little, and Clinton will know more.
The real question is -- will the the media play into gender-baiting media narrative of the Trump campaign which will no doubt comment on Clinton's pant suit, hair, makeup, voice -- anything remotely feminine -- or will they will they stay above the fray?
If history has been any guide, the media has only parroted Trump's misogyny and bombast at every turn, reporting it under the guise of news when it is only hate speech.
For America, this isn't so much a debate as it is a test of the Fourth Estate's credibility.
The expectations game that has been set here is telling. The bar for Trump cannot be set any lower than it already has; no one expects the man to do more than even show up - a win for him would be to walk off the stage without screaming or announcing the size of his manhood. For Clinton, this debate is fraught with peril on so many levels because of the inherent misogyny of the American political system. Trump's strategy is reduced physical comparisons - elect the tall, white male, or the woman.
At this stage, the debate is almost anti-climactic -- barring another soundbite from Trump, or a gaffe from Clinton, we already know that Trump will know little, and Clinton will know more.
The real question is -- will the the media play into gender-baiting media narrative of the Trump campaign which will no doubt comment on Clinton's pant suit, hair, makeup, voice -- anything remotely feminine -- or will they will they stay above the fray?
If history has been any guide, the media has only parroted Trump's misogyny and bombast at every turn, reporting it under the guise of news when it is only hate speech.
For America, this isn't so much a debate as it is a test of the Fourth Estate's credibility.
5
The debates will show me nothing I don't already know. HRC is the most qualified and experienced person on the presidential ballot even with all her baggage. Trump is nothing but a snake oil conman hoping to make a buck off the US Presidential brand name.
10
Hillary is going to be exposed like never before in the history of presidential TV debates. Trump will never be where Hillary is going to hit. He is like a ninja fighter in debates. She will be an easy target for him. He is too flexible for her rigid thinking.
2
that's not a plus for Trump, in my opinion. it would just highlight his flips and flops on all sorts of issues, his lack of depth and substance. He's a slithering snake, dazzling people in all the wrong ways.
5
Trump's debate style is purely middle school name calling. Your assertion that he is a ninja at debating is both provably false and hilarious. Interesting to see the paid commenters start to infiltrate the Times comment section as well.
5
And so now the Clinton team is announcing that they're piling up research in order to needle him? Why not just give Trump Hillary's debate notes while your at it, so he can be truly prepared for the debate.
1
If they released this info, it is an intimidation move. Love her or leave her, Hillary runs a tight campaign operation and if this much leaked out, the leak was more PR than and actual leak. Trump is reading this article and us pondering all the ways he can "call in sick" for the debates just like he did last summer.
1
My suggestion: Let Trump go first, then respond with three words:
"I'm not him." Leave the stage.
"I'm not him." Leave the stage.
4
Since I doubt that there is any way for a discussion on the issues to take place with Trump on stage, Secretary Clinton he should just pretend that Trump is senile. That will allow her to be graceful and to avoid reactivity. Plus, narcissists can't stand it when you pity them, so there's a good chance he will explode on stage. What happens when a senile gent explodes? You just smile, remember his more cogent moments, and move on.
5
There are many enertainment programs on TV. Most of them are not worth the time to see. What is erroneously called "a debate" is not one I have any interest in watching. Neither candidate has almost never said anything relevant to solving the very real problems we have that better be solved in the near future. That they have not is very relevent of course. But that was established many months ago. Have fun when you watch. Rowland
1
Trump knows what got him through the primaries and thinks that will get him the general election. So at the debates his plan is to continue to be the insulting, bigoted ,know-nothing, childish bully that so many of his worshipers love.
6
How about just addressing the specifics of things like ISIS, world economy, European Union, Racism in the USA, Nuclear threats, the peace approach with Iran, terrorism, or -- anything, actually? Mrs. Clinton is more likely able elucidate intelligently and with experience on all these issues about which Mr. Trump has is more likely to exhibit ignorance. This can only happen if the moderators, generally media types, do their jobs and not pimp for advertisers by allowing and encouraging incendiary and irrelevant personal assaults, if they demand that the candidates expound on the complex issues of the world and this country, we the people will be able to judge very clearly who is ready to serve as our president.
4
So Americans don't like "know-it-alls", but they love a bumbling, brash, & sophomoric sentient Cheeto. Tells you all you need to know about the American voter.
5
What I'm afraid of is that Clinton will win the debate, but Trump will score points with more media coverage afterwards for not being an inflammatory nincompoop that he usually is. It worries me that we are so overly saturated with the Orange One's outrageous declarations, that he just might be able to get away with both low expectations and by coming across as only half-insane instead of full-throttle crazy.
10
RUFFLES + NEEDLES
Clinton is playing with fire. The Donald has his juicy sources, too—Dick Morris and abused women/ex-SS, to name a few….
Ruffle Clinton enough and she may exhibit the weird and confused affect recently on display. Or her well-documented fits of rage. She can hold onto that coached, controlled Merkelesque modulation for only so long. Even if preemptively sedated.
At a minimum, though, there are the "you knows." Needle her even slightly and the Hillary coached-out-but-never-quite-gone "you knows" will return with a vengeance.
One of the more significant predictors of political moribundity, Clinton's tic-like insertion of "you know” is a marker for ineloquence, vulgarity, ignorance, rube-meets-valley-girl demographics, low self-esteem, anxiety & insincerity.
In a post-9/11 interview on "Greenfield at Large," she uttered "you know” 52 times. Greenfield eventually caught bug & uttered 6 "you knows” himself—a cautionary tale for wannabe Clinton lap dogs. Frequency of Clinton "you knows” varied directly with intensity of Greenfield contempt & inversely with magnitude of Greenfield softballs.
Mr. Trump will doubtless serve the contempt up thick…between slices of unfitness, corruption and treason.
4
The more you write, the worse you make yourself look to me. Transference-projection is a very bad habit.
5
Marian, what the heck are you taking about? Are your thoughts the latest taking points from the right wingers holed up in the basements?
4
Is there any post this man won't nominate his daughter to fill? What's next, Ivanka for secretary of state?
I'm tired of hearing that Trump's children are best equipped to answer every question. We fought the Revolution to get away from family dynasties.
I'm tired of hearing that Trump's children are best equipped to answer every question. We fought the Revolution to get away from family dynasties.
11
Instead of "There you go again," I would like to hear Hillary Clinton say, "Donald Trump, why do you lie so much?" each time he makes one of his outrageous accusations.
8
For which the obvious retort is "talk about the pot calling the kettle black." Duh.
1
Much bettre to say: Really? The truth is (and tell what the truth is). And as the debate goes on, people will get it and she doesn't have to call him a liar. Besides, he's probably a sociopath and they have an elastic relationship with truth. Also, he may actually believe what he's saying the first time he says it.
Just websearch "Narcissistic Personality Disorder Symptoms"
The Huckster may be able to learn to identify Wyoming, or Syria or Vietnam on an unmarked map (Don't count on it)
The Huckster may be able to identify who is current IMF Managing Director.
The Huckster may even be able to identify what Amendment in the constitution contains the Equal Opportunity Clause.
But The Huckster will not be able cure his Clinical Narcissism in 3 weeks.
The Huckster may be able to learn to identify Wyoming, or Syria or Vietnam on an unmarked map (Don't count on it)
The Huckster may be able to identify who is current IMF Managing Director.
The Huckster may even be able to identify what Amendment in the constitution contains the Equal Opportunity Clause.
But The Huckster will not be able cure his Clinical Narcissism in 3 weeks.
5
go Donald.... the tv ratings are going to go through the roof !
1
IO think that it's funny/sad that, instead of focusing on the real issues that most Americans should be concerned with, she chooses to devise ways to "needle" and belittle her opponent.
I can't help but wonder if. maybe, she's really not all that concerned with the American people as she is in just beating Trump.
Makes you think that she has nothing of real value to say having to resort to "needling" him.
BTW, isn't that pretty much what everyone complained about Trump? That he was, at the time, more focused on "needling" his opponents by pushing their buttons? Maybe he has moved on past that. Maybe she should too.
I can't help but wonder if. maybe, she's really not all that concerned with the American people as she is in just beating Trump.
Makes you think that she has nothing of real value to say having to resort to "needling" him.
BTW, isn't that pretty much what everyone complained about Trump? That he was, at the time, more focused on "needling" his opponents by pushing their buttons? Maybe he has moved on past that. Maybe she should too.
2
Trump will come out dressed to the 'nines', wearing a navy blue suit with red tie and bench made shoes polished to perfection. His trade mark look of day-glo orange and the reverse comb over will be perfect... However, once the debate starts the melt down will begin and that patented cheese will slid right off that crackerl
10
"... once the debate starts the melt down will begin ..."
Obviously, you haven't watched any of Trump's many news conferences. Trump is very confident in front of a hostile audience of reporters. Do a search on Youtube for "trump news conference".
Obviously, you haven't watched any of Trump's many news conferences. Trump is very confident in front of a hostile audience of reporters. Do a search on Youtube for "trump news conference".
You are wrong. You are paid. He has the thinnest skin of anyone in the whole 2016 race and cannot let anything slide. Just look at his behavior towards the gold star parents. PS. Tell your boss, Kellyanne Conway, that no one at the Times believe your comments because no one belueves Trump supporters can form coherent, grammatically correct sentences.
2
“If she hits me, though — you have to see what happens,” Mr. Trump said.
To a paranoid narcissist everything is a "hit".
If a moderator asks Trump a question he doesn't know the answer to or pushes him to respond to the actual question asked, Trump will have been "hit".
So we need to anticipate how Trump will "hit", which in his mind, of course, will be hitting back.
We know many of the locker-room type insults Trump will use. And if you've ever watched a locker-room mouth-bully at work, you know how effective such petty, cruel meanness can be.
First, get the other kids on your side, and let the bullied one know this. "People love me, look at the polls, look how many votes I got. They love me."
Then dish out the humiliating insults in a way such that if you respond in kind, what you say will seem much worse. Unbelievable that a guy with the preposterous hair and orange tan and pompous staring smirk got away with insulting Ms Fiorina's face, Mr Rubio's size, etc. The trap to avoid is insulting back. Rubio's hand comment, for example, didn't make out too well, did it?
Even if the moderators cut this stuff off, it could still benefit Trump. No, you can't keep calling her "Crooked Clinton" would just benefit Trump, as he well knows.
The challenge is how to move the debate to substantive issues while not appearing to avoid Trump's cheap insinuations.
Does anyone else remember how Trump cut off his (nephew's was it?) health insurance as a weapon in the family squabble?
To a paranoid narcissist everything is a "hit".
If a moderator asks Trump a question he doesn't know the answer to or pushes him to respond to the actual question asked, Trump will have been "hit".
So we need to anticipate how Trump will "hit", which in his mind, of course, will be hitting back.
We know many of the locker-room type insults Trump will use. And if you've ever watched a locker-room mouth-bully at work, you know how effective such petty, cruel meanness can be.
First, get the other kids on your side, and let the bullied one know this. "People love me, look at the polls, look how many votes I got. They love me."
Then dish out the humiliating insults in a way such that if you respond in kind, what you say will seem much worse. Unbelievable that a guy with the preposterous hair and orange tan and pompous staring smirk got away with insulting Ms Fiorina's face, Mr Rubio's size, etc. The trap to avoid is insulting back. Rubio's hand comment, for example, didn't make out too well, did it?
Even if the moderators cut this stuff off, it could still benefit Trump. No, you can't keep calling her "Crooked Clinton" would just benefit Trump, as he well knows.
The challenge is how to move the debate to substantive issues while not appearing to avoid Trump's cheap insinuations.
Does anyone else remember how Trump cut off his (nephew's was it?) health insurance as a weapon in the family squabble?
10
Sadly, this will turn into a debate focused on 'gotcha' rather than issues.
5
Hillary Clinton is a liar, a sociopath and a power-mad, patronizing, pandering leftist who will say anything to get elected. She's guilty of criminal negligence, along with her former boss because of four Americans getting killed in Benghazi, then lying to the world afterwards.
The FBI director cited under oath in a Congressional hearing all the laws and rules she denied breaking regarding her receiving, sending and erasing top secret emails. Anyone else would be perp-walked by now which should be her.
That's only the tip of the iceberg. How anybody can vote for someone so extremely unqualified for office is beyond comprehension. What is wrong with you voters?
The FBI director cited under oath in a Congressional hearing all the laws and rules she denied breaking regarding her receiving, sending and erasing top secret emails. Anyone else would be perp-walked by now which should be her.
That's only the tip of the iceberg. How anybody can vote for someone so extremely unqualified for office is beyond comprehension. What is wrong with you voters?
7
You didn't tell us who we SHOULD vote for.
1
I guess this means there's no chance of convincing you to vote for her.
Anything which happened with her emails means ZERO to me because Bush, Chenney, Rumsfeld, et al, from that criminal enterprise paved the way by running their White House email traffic through the RNC servers. . and then deleted thousands. . whoops. . "lost them" when confronted with the facts.
However, I will give you credit for chutzpah for calling someone running against Don the con, a "sociopath."
Anything which happened with her emails means ZERO to me because Bush, Chenney, Rumsfeld, et al, from that criminal enterprise paved the way by running their White House email traffic through the RNC servers. . and then deleted thousands. . whoops. . "lost them" when confronted with the facts.
However, I will give you credit for chutzpah for calling someone running against Don the con, a "sociopath."
8
I'm sorry. How many dead and wounded in Iraq looking for WMD ? You angry about that ?
7
As C.S. Lewis stated: "True humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less."
Since Trump has no humility, Hillary should think about never referring to Trump and never mentioning Trump's name during the entire debate. Such an approach would surely drive Trump batty, something that would surely be noticed by swing voters.
Since Trump has no humility, Hillary should think about never referring to Trump and never mentioning Trump's name during the entire debate. Such an approach would surely drive Trump batty, something that would surely be noticed by swing voters.
10
Clinton doesn't need a physiological approach to throw Trump, just stick to the basic facts and ask the questions such as:1. Exactly how are you going to get Mexico to pay for this impenetrable wall and how much to you estimate it will cost? 2. How will you get the illegible immigrants to pay back taxes when they probably were paid in cash because their employer didn't want to pay the required state, federal and unemployment fees. 3. How are you going to get big business such as Walmart to sign on to a 45% tariff on Chinese goods when they make a sizable profit on these good? Just ask these questions and see his reaction. I'd like to know the answers to these questions also.
11
The answer is simple just ensure Trump does most of the talking. He loves the sound of his own voice and without a teleprompter he'll hang himself. He's been doing it for months. And you can't compare the Republican primaries where he simply won by being entertaining against a motley crew of little boy Rubio, Jeb "I always look confused' Bush and creepy Ted Cruz who is wildly out of touch and made the mistake of concentrating on Trump too much.
8
Trump's fans believe bluster is winning strategy in negotiations.
Clinton reminds me of one of these people who was thought to have so much promise at a very young age, but has never lived up to all that supposed potential. This lack of fulfillment led her to politics, which is the only thing for her that can give meaning to an empty life. Trump strikes me as one who suffered some very personal psychological/“spiritual” injury from someone close when young, and has spent his life trying to prove his worth against that. Trump obviously is much more comfortable with sensuality than is Clinton, an emotional miser.
Both Clinton and Trump clearly display too much self-regard and not enough regard for others. Trump sees himself as a commodity; Clinton sees others as commodities. This is what makes Trump’s personality flexible and Clinton’s superficial. Trump is an independent thinker to a fault, whereas Clinton is unimaginative and relies on authority figures; thus he under-prepares, and she over-prepares: she has little patience for the untidiness of life, while he thrives on it. Trump sees himself as a leader who can develop consensus, based in large part on cultivating relationships rather than by focus on a particular task at hand. Clinton would like to see herself as inspirational, but she lacks the charisma (and cognitive capability) of an Obama to pull it off—to the extent that he did. She does not have leadership qualities. She assumes that the power of the position or office one holds is adequate to command.
Both Clinton and Trump clearly display too much self-regard and not enough regard for others. Trump sees himself as a commodity; Clinton sees others as commodities. This is what makes Trump’s personality flexible and Clinton’s superficial. Trump is an independent thinker to a fault, whereas Clinton is unimaginative and relies on authority figures; thus he under-prepares, and she over-prepares: she has little patience for the untidiness of life, while he thrives on it. Trump sees himself as a leader who can develop consensus, based in large part on cultivating relationships rather than by focus on a particular task at hand. Clinton would like to see herself as inspirational, but she lacks the charisma (and cognitive capability) of an Obama to pull it off—to the extent that he did. She does not have leadership qualities. She assumes that the power of the position or office one holds is adequate to command.
3
Trump's daddy was a "tough love" sadist.
And therefore ......
So you are saying the next president of the US never lived up to her potential? If being President of the US is second best, what is the first?
3
What is to prevent Russian hackers from swiping the questions and giving Trump advance notice before the debate begins?
3
Yeah, maybe they can hack the IRS and get his tax returns, too...
6
2016 will be the apotheosis of what I call the Trump paradox: we have a person manifestly unfit to be president; yet anyone unable to defeat him in a debate is also manifestly unfit to be president. By "debate" I mean a modern American presidential debate, one ineptly moderated, "reported" and "analyzed" under the direction of game show hosts whose journalistic pretensions are firmly subordinated to the profit motives of their employers, a debate "won" or "lost" according to whatever best sustains a ratings-generating narrative. If the debates were conducted as the commenter Robert suggests, I would simply be stating the obvious: of course someone who can't use facts and logic to defeat an ignorant charlatan is not mentally competent. But the reality is that these debates are produced and packaged by the same infotainment industry that produces and packages the bulk of public discourse in America. So someone who can't win these debates is also someone who won't be successful at bending the corporate media to her ends and selling her policies to the public, the public that in turn won't be pressuring Congress in the direction of those same policies. And we will have another weak or failed presidency. The political salesmanship required to communicate effectively with the populace through the filter of the media is a core competency for the job of president. Al Gore and John Kerry did not understand this. Obama campaigned as if he did, but fell short on this score in office.
Clinton is not our choice she was thrown down the peoples throats but by Corrupt DNC and never will be that is why smart people are voting for Jill Stein. I am sure Wikileaks is going to put the final nail in her coffin before the debates and this will all be a mute point. Sooner or later they say those that try to deceive will have to pay the piper. We can only hope that This will be the last time we ever have to hear from this wretched woman again!! Can you imagine what her presidency would be like? One scandal after another, Nothing could get done, impeachment just liker her husband and one war after another. She would send the young men and women off to war in a instant to fill her pocket book. Trump might say terrible things but Clinton actually has a track record of doing them! Only a nit wit would vote for her.
7
Hillary Clinton will be fighting for the entire Democrat party and all it's leaders nation wide. She should highlight the fact that the Democrats care for society while the Republicans shun them and their needs. This has been well illustrated most in the last decade.
12
the only thing the democrats care about is their pocketbooks and nothing else. The DNC Is even more corrupt than anything especially after the wikileaks revelations and what they did to Bernie. How anyone with a brain could support this party is beyond me
2
Richard..........of course we care about our pocketbooks, and wallets, because people like you are always focused on them and getting richer, and the money only "Trickles" back down.
Will you be refusing your Social Security Benefits?
Will you be refusing your Social Security Benefits?
2
After watching Hillary's calm, forceful and competent testimony even in the waning hours of the 11 hour Benghazi hearing, I have no doubt that she can handle Trump.
As for Trump's confidence that he can corner her on ethics, he should be careful what he wishes for. Any alleged ethical issues she might have, e.g., the Clinton Foundation which is a highly rated charity and does demonstrable good work throughout the world, pale in comparison to Trump's. The man is a study in ethics and legal problems. His lengthy and questionable connections to Russian oligarchs, organized crime, and investors are serious stuff - especially given his apparent love for Putin and his insistence on a pro-Russian RNC platform regarding Ukraine. To name a few others: today's news that Trump's modeling agency knowingly hired and promoted models who lacked legal status in the US; his hiring as campaign manager Bannon, a leading proponent of white nationalist policies and crazed conspiracy theories, his renowned stiffing of small businesses, discrimination against blacks in rental housing, and on and on.
Trump's spontaneous "food fight" approach to campaigning may work well for publicity and to fire up his base, but it won't work in a format where actual facts, knowledge, and coherent full sentences and paragraphs are expected and visible to all.
As for Trump's confidence that he can corner her on ethics, he should be careful what he wishes for. Any alleged ethical issues she might have, e.g., the Clinton Foundation which is a highly rated charity and does demonstrable good work throughout the world, pale in comparison to Trump's. The man is a study in ethics and legal problems. His lengthy and questionable connections to Russian oligarchs, organized crime, and investors are serious stuff - especially given his apparent love for Putin and his insistence on a pro-Russian RNC platform regarding Ukraine. To name a few others: today's news that Trump's modeling agency knowingly hired and promoted models who lacked legal status in the US; his hiring as campaign manager Bannon, a leading proponent of white nationalist policies and crazed conspiracy theories, his renowned stiffing of small businesses, discrimination against blacks in rental housing, and on and on.
Trump's spontaneous "food fight" approach to campaigning may work well for publicity and to fire up his base, but it won't work in a format where actual facts, knowledge, and coherent full sentences and paragraphs are expected and visible to all.
10
no predictions here...
that would surely be a fools errand...
i do think,
however,
that a couple of points are germane:
DJT is not a politician...
his acolytes will not be deterred no matter what happens in the "debates"...
they are a large cohort.
their 'leader' loves to "come-from-behind" and has virtually nothing to lose.
he is currently immune to embarrassment and knows no shame.
he loves this setup and his physical size.
he is a natural born, bred and trained bully.
one-on-one suits his too few strengths.
he eventually destroyed all of his republican't party opposition.
he cannot be taken-for-granted.
HRC has a great deal to lose...
how she responds to a non-politician will be crucial...
"winning" may actually be losing.
displaying her own talents, knowledge, skills, experiences,
and, most importantly, genuineness should be the goals.
use as few "I's" as possible and an overabundance of "us" 'we'
and "you" but only as to the voter,
brevity should be the constant - - this is not a dissertation, but rather a conversation.
avoid making and causing interruptions.
use pauses and silences as a ploy.
and: listen, feel, care.
this 'format',
in this particular presidential election cycle,
given these particular participants,
is not designed to determine who is best-suited...
this is not the final chapter.
far better would be to simply survive an unwieldy opponent in this reality-show environment.
6
All of this is nothing more than a tempest in a teapot. Mr. Trump will never show.
7
It is obvious that Trump must keep the focus on Hillary's perceived untrustworthiness, and Hillary has to expose Trump for his lack of knowledge and ability to do the job. Nasty attacks will be launched by both sides and in the end we will know less than when we started. In the end we will be voting on what is expressed in the first sentence.
1
Another ridiculous, pro-Clinton article that did not need to be written. Why not write about the weather instead?
She should simply learn how to tell the truth and accept responsibility for her actions and words. You would think that someone at her age would have learned this by now. Honesty, ethics, integrity, personal character, accountability, everything she lacks, so pathologically pathetic.
She should simply learn how to tell the truth and accept responsibility for her actions and words. You would think that someone at her age would have learned this by now. Honesty, ethics, integrity, personal character, accountability, everything she lacks, so pathologically pathetic.
8
"She should simply learn how to tell the truth and accept responsibility for her actions and words."
I don't disagree. But I don't think this has anything to do with debating Donald Trump. Really, I think all she has to do is keep her cool while he beclowns himself.
I don't disagree. But I don't think this has anything to do with debating Donald Trump. Really, I think all she has to do is keep her cool while he beclowns himself.
3
Sounds like you are describing Trump. His honesty and ethics include stiffing anyone he can. Independent sources show he lies more than everybody. Refuses to admit when he is proven to be wrong. He has surrounded himself with a sterling group of characters such as Ailes, Bannon, Hannity. and Giuliani. A group of truth seekers all. P.T. Barnum was a better politician.
1
A number of psychologists have used the "greater good" exception to make remote diagnoses of Trump. It is their opinion that he suffers from Narcissistic Personality Disorder, one of the most intractable forms of mental illness. NPD is worth reading about. But the real danger comes from Narcissistic collapse. People need to be thinking about how Trump will react when he loses. He could well do anything from quit and walk away before the election to inciting the hard core of his supporters to violence. He is constantly laying the groundwork for a whole range of responses to losing.
8
I don't think I'll be watching these debates. There is nothing I'm going to hear from either side that's going to sway me and I'm willing to bet that's the case for the majority of Americans. There is nothing Trump could say or not say that would cause me to vote for him. These 'debates' aren't truly debates- they are entertainment for the masses and there is too much at stake for me to enjoy the spectacle. How about debates where the moderator asks a question, gives a set time to respond; then asks the same question of the other party. How about if they are 're-directed' when they go off-course. How about if they are scored, like true debates? Frankly, any format that would allow Hillary to be questioned about her husband's infidelities- which have no bearing whatsoever on anything- is a joke. Likewise, there would be no need for Hillary to have to struggle with whether to jab at Melania's centerfold appearances. Our debates make a mockery of the true purpose- ask hard questions about policy positions and let Americans decide who answers they like.
14
I agree that the debates have gone off in a useless direction. Clinton should not address any questions about infidelities, Trump has had his share so that's a wash. Policy, foreign and domestic. I'd like to see jobs, infrastructure, limitless special interest money corrupting our elections and a whole lot more discussed without stupid attacks and stupid questions.
1
These debates will be pure entertainment with not much substance. It is interesting that Trump is so lazy and Clinton leaving no stone unturned; sort of like the rabbit and the turtle race. But debates have turned into throw-downs instead of issues discussed. Nixon/Kennedy, the first modern debate, had lots of gristle but seemed to turn on Nixon's appearance under TV lights. For real meat you have to go back to Lincoln/Douglas when the entire subject was slavery. These times are no less dramatic; why do we settle for insults and gotchas?
2
Donald, you've met your match. Hilary is a junk yard dog and a smart one at that. There's no way you'll spin your way out of the debates.
10
Hillary should take Reagan's approach. Print two graphs, one pointing up; the other pointing down. Hold up the chart that points down and say "this is their plan". Hold up the chart that points up and say "this is our plan".
2
I propose that debates be conducted *without* live audiences. Live audiences distort perceptions because they may or more likely may not be representative of the general public. They also distract from message content and take time away from the debaters.
11
The winner of these debates will, I suppose, be determined by the metric with which we decide victory. Clarity, factuality, reason or ribaldry and jocularity?
".... undertaking a forensic-style analysis of..." has been political tactic forever. How about some real news.
My greatest hope is that DT will say something so outrageous and absurd that it will cause HC to reflexively laugh uncontrollably. I just love the image of her (and all of us) laughing at him. It seems to be the one response he hasn't gotten yet and might be the one thing that would confound him.
4
I'm not worried at all about HRC. She was outstanding during every primary debate, taking the high road, responding with wit, intelligence and candor. Trump is seriously out of his league, so he'll try to compensate by turning on his bratty and inane lunatic as a distraction.
7
Dear Hillary
It will be your heart focus that carries you through not only this sham debate thing but the election. The heart knows, your heart knows with an accuracy that totally eludes your intellect. The heart reveals all paths. Listen to it!
It will be your heart focus that carries you through not only this sham debate thing but the election. The heart knows, your heart knows with an accuracy that totally eludes your intellect. The heart reveals all paths. Listen to it!
4
The heart is a pump. When one notices it, it is overloaded or malfunctioning.
2
spoken by a man with a heart....
Trump has demonstrated an astonishingly high level of ignorance about just about every subject that a President needs to be well versed in. Hillary, by intelligence and experience, can confidently address any policy question in depth. As seen in the primary debates, Trump cannot stand being challenged by a woman (e.g. Megyn Kelly). All Hillary has to do is expose his ignorance (e.g. Putin's not in the Ukraine) and he'll explode. Game over.
7
'The Debates' are NOT worth watching at all..... Who, at this point, is undecided ?
And I prefer not to witness the further degradation of our Bread and Circuses politic...
They're anachronistic 'entertainment' playing to the cheap seats....
No Thanks...
And I prefer not to witness the further degradation of our Bread and Circuses politic...
They're anachronistic 'entertainment' playing to the cheap seats....
No Thanks...
5
In today's Science section there is cool stuff about bats, moths, satellites, firenados, toxins in Indiana soil, Zika, and accidental plagiarism.
Once again my sincerest thanks to the editors.
Once again my sincerest thanks to the editors.
5
This is how Hillary plans to win the debate. Not by highlighting her strengths and by persuading Americans that she'd be the best choice as their president.
4
Pull out his tax forms, or some semblance of them. The one thing he said was off limits for a comedy roast was talking about how much he's worth.
6
Trump has no thoughts..he gets his idea about NATO from his traitorous relationship with the pro Russian faction in Ukraine. he gets his hatred of Muslims from his new CEO., His lies to blaAfrican Americans from God knows where. The Democratic Party earns the votes of their supporters by being the party that supports them The GOP would not approve any jobs bills that President Obama tried to pass, They want to take away unemployment benefits, cut wages, cut family support, cut social security , get rid of affordable health care, allow interest rates on student loasn to destroy young people trying to start their lives. most of all, he and the entire Republican party, funded by the kicks brothers DENY SCIENCE! They would rather get richer than defend our planet from the destruction that burinng oil is causing. He goes to Baton Rouge when asked not to and brings PLAYDOH! I am stil lin shock from his stupidity and his lies. He has never done anything for anyone is thins country- he offshorse all of th eproducts he makes, and then lies about creating jobs. He defradued hundereds with his so called University and has sued so many vendors rathe thn just pay them what they are owed. he says American wages are too high and should be lowered. How can anyone anywhere support him? I am embarrassed by him and his white supremacist supporters. It is sickening!
5
Trump could even be a player in the dollars for rubles money-washing stock-trading scheme through Deutsche Bank that one can read about in the August 29 issue of The New Yorker, written by Ed Caesar, beginning on page 41.
1
If only "Doc" and his "flux capacitor" was around now to transport Hillary back in time to 1933 Germany to debate narcissistic Adolph - some of those boys lying under white crosses overlooking Normandy would be holding their great-grandchildren today. No pressure Hillary. The world is counting on you.
4
Imma gonna get my popcorn because this is gonna be good.
2
It'd be nice if BOTH parties would focus on issues rather than trashing each other.
Quite sad that Hillary & Trump are the only choices we have. Is this really what our country has come to?
Quite sad that Hillary & Trump are the only choices we have. Is this really what our country has come to?
2
It's gonna be like shooting Trump fish in a barrel. He does have a branded fish, doesn't he? I'm thinking flounder.
3
Please be careful. Trump's lies and viciousness have no bottom. He is unpredictable and facts do not matter to Trump or his supporters.
3
Are you kidding me. HRC isn't in Donald's league in understanding the media. His comparative cost effectiveness with this 21st Century essential have made her expenditures, in a league with Jeb's, wasteful. She cannot obtain a personality transplant if she prepares 24/7. Her massive effort demonstrates her HUGE insecurities about a candidate who outshines celebrities, even at 70, in effectiveness on camera. He has that charisma that caused JFK to win a debate he had substantively lost. Any effort to predict Donald's precise response to provocation wreaks of shortsightedness facing the most unpredictable campaigner, perhaps ever. That combination of unpredictability and charisma obviously has HRC deeply concerned, as she should be.
2
Charisma? Yuck!
1
Ms. Hanlon, As I understand the quality it's completely unrelated to one's politics, i.e. the Democrat, Kennedy and the Republican, Trump. Perhaps your anger is getting in the way of your better judgement. Unless you do have a point, but I don't understand it's foundation. The brusque, short response seems more a product of anger than the product of some serious thought and intuition. Am I missing something?
As a narcissist, Mr. Trump wants, among other things, to dominate other people. To him, money and beautiful women are the ultimate display of dominance. He has a history of allowing jokes about himself on any topic, with one exception. No jokes about his wealth.
Mrs. Clinton should subtly suggest that Mr. Trump doesn't want to release his tax returns because he doesn't want people to realize that he's not nearly as wealthy as he claims. And then repeatedly make humorous digs about his wealth.
The fact that these threats to his dominance came from a woman would be especially intolerable to him.
Mrs. Clinton should subtly suggest that Mr. Trump doesn't want to release his tax returns because he doesn't want people to realize that he's not nearly as wealthy as he claims. And then repeatedly make humorous digs about his wealth.
The fact that these threats to his dominance came from a woman would be especially intolerable to him.
4
For someone with such a "reputation" as a skilled debater, HRC taking a month off from campaigning to prepare reeks of fear and desperation
4
Let's hope these are real debates, that the moderators won't let anyone get away with the crap that we saw at the primary Republican "debates" where Donald Trump was allowed to get away with churlish playground behavior of a 12 year old. Funny, if it's rigged, it's rigged in his favor. Carrot Top has gotten a free ride most of the election, no one has seriously called him out on anything of his more spectacular and specious monetary dealings with foreign governments. The guy's running for president, let's give him the respect and due diligence worth of such a candidate.
For most Americans I suspect the debates will be more like watching a sporting event, which is sad.
For most Americans I suspect the debates will be more like watching a sporting event, which is sad.
2
We don't care about how the candidates "win" debates ... we care about the policy proposals. This shouldn't be about "scoring points." And all the press does in these debates is try to elicit outrageous comments or stir up verbal sparring matches. They don't hold the candidates to answering the questions. They don't ask candidates to contrast their stands on actual policies. In other words, this is just another side show that tells us nothing, more bread and circuses.
5
"Trump has severe attention problems and simply cannot take in complex information — he will be unable to practice for these debates,” said Mr. Schwartz, who was the subject of a New Yorker profile last month that portrayed Mr. Trump as a charlatan." So we'll quote a known adversary as if he was an unbiased informant. C'mon NYT! Can you afford to lose any more credibility with this election period and the public?
2
Why should HRC have to do this much prep? I thought she was the bestest and brightest?
3
Danny, what in the world do you think the best and brightest do? Just wing everything?
2
And here I thought she was a natural.
HRC needs only to provide irrefutable facts of the shallowness of his views and ideas; and back them up with sources to the press for post-debate review.
Con-Way and her boy child, Trump couldn't stand that fire.....
Con-Way and her boy child, Trump couldn't stand that fire.....
2
This is one reader who won't be watching the "debates". A good leader doesn't make a snap decision on any subject. He or she meets with advisors and considers a long list of options. The "debates" do not show how well a candidate can think through complex problems.
1
But it will give us a good indication of whether they are even generally informed enough. Trump should nail it as he knows more than all the generals, believe me!
No need to train. The tried and true method is, above al, not to be provoked, then: stick to issues, be polite, letting him wreck himself. (Usually Clinton laughs, which she might do occasionally, when it's hyper-extreme.)
2
I don't think Hillary will try to get under Trump's skin in a way that will seem like bullying. You don't fight fire with fire. I don't even think her team is trying to prep Hillary on how to push Trump to make a fool of himself. He does a great job at that himself. I think her team is teaching her how to counter, this news article is already a bait for the Trump campaign. They will expect her to attack and she might be planning to play the victim. If she handles Trump like she handled the Benghazi panel, then Trump is in trouble. She needs to keep her cool, she needs to disregard him when he tries to insult her, and as many have said, keep her cool. Trump is no longer debating the clowns he debated in the Republican nomination debates, so we will see how his style helps him here.
8
Completely agree.
Things that "bother" him are not at all bullying - simply drawing attention to well documented facts such as business bankruptcies, failure to release his tax return, using "bone spurs" to get out of service - might be enough.
Things that "bother" him are not at all bullying - simply drawing attention to well documented facts such as business bankruptcies, failure to release his tax return, using "bone spurs" to get out of service - might be enough.
1
Nothing in this bizarre election year has run according to historic standards; there's no reason to suspect this debate will be like any other we've witnessed, either. I hope that preparation for this debate doesn't waste time looking for clues in what has come before.
Virtually every rule for modern campaining has been thrown out. There's no playbook.
Trump is an entertainer. Made for TV. I'd be very cautious expecting anything but a masterful performance by him. Think about his total dominance over the other Republican candidates. He destroyed them.
I'm terrified.
Virtually every rule for modern campaining has been thrown out. There's no playbook.
Trump is an entertainer. Made for TV. I'd be very cautious expecting anything but a masterful performance by him. Think about his total dominance over the other Republican candidates. He destroyed them.
I'm terrified.
3
I don't envy Clinton. Trump just knocked off 16 contenders for the Republican primary, and some (Cruz, Rubio, Christie) were, like them or not, excellent debaters. Trump has changed the traditional rules of engagement to suit him, and so far no one has been able to successfully shift the stage back to more familiar terrain. It's kinda like Al Queda using $20 worth of bomb making materials to bring a multi-billion dollar US military to its knees. Clinton and her supporters better not underestimate the challenge.
3
Excellent debaters? Seriously?
4
It just goes to show you that claiming to know what God thinks is a losing proposition.
1
The clown car passengers were not excellent debaters.
5
The trick is understanding Trump's primal injury, which is that his father made him feel weak. Hillary just needs to exploit this fear of/ shame about his weakness at every opportunity.
7
Thanks Dr. Freud.
I'll add this to my list of 10 wierd tricks to throw off Trump in a debate.
I'll add this to my list of 10 wierd tricks to throw off Trump in a debate.
3
Mr. Trump's formula for debate disaster: His monstrous ego, thin, brittle skin, unbelievable hubris and and no preparation.
It'll be fun to watch, if it ever happens. I anticipate Mr. Trump will find fault with anyone chosen to moderate causing him to try his favored "negotiation" - meaning demanding the world conform to him - after which he claims via Twitter that the debates are rigged against him and he won't attend.
It'll be fun to watch, if it ever happens. I anticipate Mr. Trump will find fault with anyone chosen to moderate causing him to try his favored "negotiation" - meaning demanding the world conform to him - after which he claims via Twitter that the debates are rigged against him and he won't attend.
8
In addition to practicing debating politicos and TV stars, perhaps getting in arguments with some actual middle school bullies would be good preparation.
9
If Gary Johnson makes the debates, how would the debaters be arranged? I suppose whoever is leading in the polls would be center stage and the other two candidates could flip a coin.
1
I predict that Trump will try the tactic that worked in the GOP primary "debates", which resembled grade-school playground shouting matches: call your opponent names. He has already tried by calling her a "bigot." What preposterous nonsense, but it reminds me of the Mad Hatter, wasn't it, who said "a word means what I choose it to mean."
3
That was Humpty Dumpty. One of my favorite Through the Looking Glass passages:
“When I use a word,” Humpty Dumpty said, in rather a scornful tone, “it means just what I choose it to mean—neither more nor less.” “The question is,” said Alice, “whether you can make words mean so many different things.” “The question is,” said Humpty Dumpty, “which is to be master—that's all.”
“When I use a word,” Humpty Dumpty said, in rather a scornful tone, “it means just what I choose it to mean—neither more nor less.” “The question is,” said Alice, “whether you can make words mean so many different things.” “The question is,” said Humpty Dumpty, “which is to be master—that's all.”
1
Donald Trump discussing ethics is like Charles Manson talking about family values.
12
Trump is stay away from substance..in part, because he has none. There is no way Trump can compete with Clinton on international issues, let alone issues relating to the American economy, social issues or future challenges.
Remember, with Hillary..one gets Bill..and regardless, this is a powerful team of experienced, smart well themed political veterans. I will be watching...like you!
Remember, with Hillary..one gets Bill..and regardless, this is a powerful team of experienced, smart well themed political veterans. I will be watching...like you!
2
An effective "Godfather II"-like tactic by Team Clinton would be to have Ivana and Marla (ex-Mrs. Donalds I and II) seated in the debate audience directly behind the moderators.
2
Team Trump should provide similar seating for Monica Lewinsky, Juanita Broaddrick and Kathleen Willey.
I agree that anyone who has even a ounce of open-mindedness at the upcoming "debates" would quickly conclude that it was the greatest mismatch since the U.S. vs. Granada during Reagan.
It probably won't appreciably move the needle in one direction or the other. Most people are emotionally committed to one candidate or the other. The indies might commit, but who knows?
Let's face it: Who voted for the smartest guy to be student body president in high school? Not many. We always voted for the "most popular." Political elections are 30% reason and 70% emotion.
It probably won't appreciably move the needle in one direction or the other. Most people are emotionally committed to one candidate or the other. The indies might commit, but who knows?
Let's face it: Who voted for the smartest guy to be student body president in high school? Not many. We always voted for the "most popular." Political elections are 30% reason and 70% emotion.
We should thank Donald Trump
Trump has opened the door to change, by being such a terrible candidate.
This is a fantastic and long-overdue chance for the Republican Party to utterly reinvent itself.
We currentlyl have no socially tolerant fiscally responsible party.
The newly reformed Republican Party could become it, and leave the losers in the Tea Party and this sad chapter behind.
Trump has opened the door to change, by being such a terrible candidate.
This is a fantastic and long-overdue chance for the Republican Party to utterly reinvent itself.
We currentlyl have no socially tolerant fiscally responsible party.
The newly reformed Republican Party could become it, and leave the losers in the Tea Party and this sad chapter behind.
2
I don't know how HRC has the nerve to stand up in front of this country given her history of corruption and enabling of her sexual predator husband. Ill take Trump any day rather than the prospects of 4 years .more of Clinton corruption. It is amazing to me how you progressives have such blind hate for Trump that you would support a failed bureaucrat, serial liar and someone clearly unfit to serve on the basis of her health which only an idiot could ignore.
6
I see you've been swallowing alt-right talking points hook line & sinker!
2
Well, being married to a sexual predator seems a step up from being one like Mr. serial infidelity who seems to have a yen for his own daughter. Serial liar? I think you ought to read politifact before you say that. Trump has a rating of about 72%
false on his public statements, though it's hard to keep track since he contradicts himself every two minutes.
false on his public statements, though it's hard to keep track since he contradicts himself every two minutes.
1
If Americans of all political tribes reallocated the time and mental energy they've wasted on this election, they could have built a mountain. This is why I'm apolitical.
1
For better, or more commonly for worse, politics is the only process we have to negotiate the master social contract that underlies all the rest of the contracts we negotiate though life.
A Constitutional Convention is long overdue in the US. I think this country has been deliberately made stupid to preclude it.
A Constitutional Convention is long overdue in the US. I think this country has been deliberately made stupid to preclude it.
1
Is it really wise to give out your debate strategy before the debates or is that the strategy to give out your strategy before the debates? Is the Clinton team that cleaver or is it possible that no one can keep a secret?
1
Trump goes into the debate with a significant advantage: abysmally low expectations. If he manages to string together a single complete sentence, the Times, CNN, et al will be going on and on about his newfound "poise," "leader's demeanour" and "ability to stay on message."
6
These media companies like to keep the bar low for their own commentators.
4
Aside from the debates, this shows a big difference between the candidates in how they handle an unknown situation. Trump has always been a "seat of the pants", "shoot from the hip" type, while Clinton gathers information. I'd rather have a president that analyzes facts before making decisions. I suspect Trump doesn't spend much time reading and has poor comprehension.
13
The more you know, the more resources you have to address any particular situation.
6
..which increases chances of coming up with a good solution
Typical dirty Democrat. Clinton cannot discuss the issues so she continues to utilize gutter arguments and personal attacks. Her TV ads have the redolence of LBJ's "Daisy ad" from 1964 and his attacks on Goldwater's mental state.
Clinton is a pathological , lying, sociopath who makes Nixon look like a choir boy. Her supporters , including felons, illegals , dope dealers, foreign governments and illegal stock traders represent the dregs of society.
Clinton hides from the media and relies on the networks to campaign for her. She is an avowed disciple of Harry (KKK) Byrd, and she continueus to sing the praises of Margaret Sanger. But because she is a Democrat she gets a free pass.
Seriously, what would the media coverage be like if Trump announced his admiration for a woman who advocated the extermination of the black race? Trump gets pilloried because he receives unsolicited and unwanted endorsements from some obscure local KKKLucker, yet Hillary gets a free pass despite receiving actual KKK endorsements and endorsing racial purification.
Spo here is what we have: Trump is spezking on t he issues and Hillary avoids the media and has her people digging dirt.
Clinton is a pathological , lying, sociopath who makes Nixon look like a choir boy. Her supporters , including felons, illegals , dope dealers, foreign governments and illegal stock traders represent the dregs of society.
Clinton hides from the media and relies on the networks to campaign for her. She is an avowed disciple of Harry (KKK) Byrd, and she continueus to sing the praises of Margaret Sanger. But because she is a Democrat she gets a free pass.
Seriously, what would the media coverage be like if Trump announced his admiration for a woman who advocated the extermination of the black race? Trump gets pilloried because he receives unsolicited and unwanted endorsements from some obscure local KKKLucker, yet Hillary gets a free pass despite receiving actual KKK endorsements and endorsing racial purification.
Spo here is what we have: Trump is spezking on t he issues and Hillary avoids the media and has her people digging dirt.
6
You might want to look into this, sir: https://www.amazon.com/Electro-Deflecto-Unisex-Foil-Size/dp/B01I497JAM
9
I like these posts, because they tell me exactly what Rush was screaming about the previous week.
8
This is quite funny. Take a look at Trump's lineup of thugs and bullies and make sure you include sexual predator Mark Foley.
7
These aren't debates. These are heavily choreographed high-school civics quizzes where the most studious wins--and we all lose.
5
What is the matter with studiousness?
6
it's all showbiz, don't kid yourself.
1
DT is obsessed with his tour de force during the Republican primary campaign where his Don Rickles with hair (sort of) delighted his minions who craved more Apprentice and less Leader. If he still can't determine the difference between primary season and general election season, what else is he incapable of comprehending? My prediction? He'll be obliterated by Hillary in November, Halperin and Heillmann will do an even better TV movie ala the Sarah Palin grabber and then....buh-bye.
4
What about planning for the moderators? Whose playing those people? And what about Mr. Roger Ailes, the king of turning a sow's ear into a silk purse?
Given why Ailes got booted from FOX, not the best choice of folk sayings.
4
Here's what I want. I want Hillary to answer the moderator's questions, first with a ten word answer and then with more detailed info. I want her to dismiss Trump's juvenile attacks with a dismissive statement like "there you go again" and then display her mastery on the subject. Don't engage him on the playground level and don't scold him like a mother. Limit attacks to his policies' generalities and inconsistencies.
I want her to explain her planned debate approach to the audience and refer them then to her website where she has bullet points and details, and then not mention it again. I want her to demonstrate how a real President prepares and deals with issues. People have seen Trump, know what to expect from his shoot-from-the-hip glibness, but I think the Jerry Springer horror/laugh fest is over. This is real reality.
And then I want the moderators to not let Hillary or Trump slide with non-answers.
Trump's endless stream of idiotic statements has allowed Hillary to sit back with folded arms. Those who are undecided but don't really know or like her are the ones to win over. They are intelligent people who have doubts about her or simply don't like her face. But adult humans can put aside those inexplicable aversions when they know it's in their best interests and for the good of the country. As for Trump's true believers, they're just too far gone. But she can tell them that she understands their concerns and that she will address them when she's President.
I want her to explain her planned debate approach to the audience and refer them then to her website where she has bullet points and details, and then not mention it again. I want her to demonstrate how a real President prepares and deals with issues. People have seen Trump, know what to expect from his shoot-from-the-hip glibness, but I think the Jerry Springer horror/laugh fest is over. This is real reality.
And then I want the moderators to not let Hillary or Trump slide with non-answers.
Trump's endless stream of idiotic statements has allowed Hillary to sit back with folded arms. Those who are undecided but don't really know or like her are the ones to win over. They are intelligent people who have doubts about her or simply don't like her face. But adult humans can put aside those inexplicable aversions when they know it's in their best interests and for the good of the country. As for Trump's true believers, they're just too far gone. But she can tell them that she understands their concerns and that she will address them when she's President.
91
I think she can just nod and say "Interesting" to whatever muddled mumbo-jumbo he spouts and then calmly proceed to her own response. I can see "Interesting" becoming shorthand for "You know-nothing, incompetent, ill-informed and not-very-bright fool" in pop culture, in record time.
6
Very good advice in all but how do you address the concerns of a white supremacist? Perhaps instead of secession we should consider expulsions. Texas would make a fine Republic don't you think?
Hillary cannot run on her record so her only course of action is to attack Trump!
1
If only the Brown Recluse Spider aka the Hillary could get into mutual "death grip" stalemate socioeconomic political educational fight with the Bark Scorpion aka the Donald then America and Americans would be spared the looming disaster from two different diabolical perspectives if either of them occupy the Oval Office in the American people's White House. We know both of these scalawags all too well.
3
You don't know what affect you have had on them.
"Mr. Trump asked a battery of questions about debate topics, Mrs. Clinton’s skills and possible moderators, but people close to him said relatively little had been accomplished."
If Mr. Trump's inquiry about debate topics and moderators stoked his narcissistic ego, then the exercise accomplished a great deal. I suspect that's exactly what happened. Any playbook relying on rational thinking doesn't apply here.
If Mr. Trump's inquiry about debate topics and moderators stoked his narcissistic ego, then the exercise accomplished a great deal. I suspect that's exactly what happened. Any playbook relying on rational thinking doesn't apply here.
4
Al Franken and Chris Rock could tag team...
2
Contrary to Trump's hopes, the moderators will not permit him to go off-topic and constantly interrupt as he did at the Republican debates.
Not a chance. Not a chance. The debates are meant to be spectacles, not intelligent discussions. Surely you don't believe that sponsors will pay for intelligent discussion and critical analysis! No . . . moderators will see that spectacle prevails.
1
If she gives him her profile, it might stun him into submission (and then, who knows). The DNC must have a lot of needy relations in the social sciences to spend donor money on schemes like this. Whats wrong with an honest, good old fashioned pie throwing contest. It would be more entertaining than any "debate".
3
Not pie. Mud. Mud wrestling contest.
1
Don't worry about Trump treating it as a serious discussion.
3
L.P. 41deg -- you illustrate precisely the problem at the level of the voter: disengaged from substance, keening instead for fireworks and mud-slinging. Sadly, you represent a great many voters, part of the problem, not the solution. If more voters demanded wisdom and probity from candidates, we wouldn't be in this awful pickle that we're in, faced with having to choose between the better of the worst.
2
Why worry about "ruffling" Trump?
Just talk about ISSUES and force him to respond. THAT'S what voters care about in terms of how they'll vote!
For starters:
• Healthcare?
• Price-gouging varmints like Mylan and Valeant?
• Saving Social Security and Medicare
• Who to appoint to the Supreme court
• Raising taxes on fatcats and off-shoring companies...
• Sane financial regulation
• Preserving the environment
• Acknowledging climate change as a fact, not a speculation
• Sane gun control legislation
Those issues -- and more -- and the candidates' positions -- speak for themselves!
Just talk about ISSUES and force him to respond. THAT'S what voters care about in terms of how they'll vote!
For starters:
• Healthcare?
• Price-gouging varmints like Mylan and Valeant?
• Saving Social Security and Medicare
• Who to appoint to the Supreme court
• Raising taxes on fatcats and off-shoring companies...
• Sane financial regulation
• Preserving the environment
• Acknowledging climate change as a fact, not a speculation
• Sane gun control legislation
Those issues -- and more -- and the candidates' positions -- speak for themselves!
10
Clinton loses on the issues, she is essentially a third Obama term and the country has rejected that with poll after poll showing Americans saying the country is on the wrong track.
3
Jobs. People with decent jobs that pay the bills don't really care that much about the rest.
poll after poll showing Americans saying the country is on the wrong track"?
Actually, the polls(absurdly general to the point of semi-meaninglessness) indicate that most people are sick of the right-wing agenda: endless guns, war on working class, healthcare and Social Security, etc... THAT'S "the wrong track"!
Actually, the polls(absurdly general to the point of semi-meaninglessness) indicate that most people are sick of the right-wing agenda: endless guns, war on working class, healthcare and Social Security, etc... THAT'S "the wrong track"!
3
Keep your friends close and your enemies closer
"Prep too much"
or "not at all".
or "not at all".
This presidential election is her story in the making, not history as usual.
Hillary Clintons story that is and its hers to win or loose.
Yet, the ultimate test of any candidate or president is leadership and the qualities of a man or woman who fills that awesome role.
The presidential debates may reveal the candidates Clinton and Trump to the electorate in new and entertaining ways.
Still, the real test of either candidate as leader lies ahead, after the election is won, by one or the other.
Hillary Clintons story that is and its hers to win or loose.
Yet, the ultimate test of any candidate or president is leadership and the qualities of a man or woman who fills that awesome role.
The presidential debates may reveal the candidates Clinton and Trump to the electorate in new and entertaining ways.
Still, the real test of either candidate as leader lies ahead, after the election is won, by one or the other.
2
Hillary might think about holding a press conference--it been almost 300 days since her last one.
4
What is the point of a press conference for people who will only want to grandstand about Benghazi and e-mails?
6
"Hillary might think about holding a press conference..."
She has thought about it, Tonsant. That's why she's not interested in having one. The very idea frightens her...
She has thought about it, Tonsant. That's why she's not interested in having one. The very idea frightens her...
1
Mrs. Clinton should try Ann Coulter as a debate stand in. She is probably worse than The Donald. She is definitely meaner, annoyingly thoughtless, will say anything to get a reaction and doesn't use a normal thought process.
5
It is a sad state of affairs when Presidential debates have to be dumbed down to grade school level because one of the candidates has no substance at all other than ad hominem attacks to showcase his "leadership" abilities. The bar is set so low that Trump will be said to have a good debate if he could come up with couple coherent sentences. Clinton should attack his vulnerabilities relentlessly because Trump with all his bluster is essentially a very insecure person. He should be completely humiliated all the way till election day and after so that it becomes an example that would deter all the fringe elements on the right who ever thought they could have a shot at high office.
12
Clinton has been under a magnifying glass for decades. We don't even know what we don't know about Trump. He has gotten a huuuuuge free pass...very little investigative journalism (what about his seditious ties to Russia, Trump U., ripped-off contractors and tradespeople , retirees in failed condos and...). There are tons of stories about his inane quips.. but what about those tax returns?
10
So, I guess I should prepare myself to not learn anything of value from either candidate but expect to have loads of entertainment.
4
So, rather than providing the American voter with substantive policy positions and an intelligent fact-based debate, Hillary Clinton is working hard to devise personal insults and little mind-games with which to personally attack Trump. Clearly, we deserve better than what Hillary is doing and planning to do.
4
But...what about the issues?
4
Issues? Issues? In a Presidential debate with Donald Trump? What a quaint idea.
1
Then Trump is already the winner. Either Clinton was already derailed or he has successfully derailed her into spending inordinate amounts of time trying to attack him, while a real presidential candidate would hardly concern themselves, would seek to conduct a "fair fight" and would accentuate their positives, rather than go for what amounts to ad hominem undermining of their opponent.
6
Hillary Clinton wants to destroy Trump. Not merely show that she is the superior candidate. Of course Clinton will have to control her well known defensiveness and truth challenged statements. This seems to be a important factor about Clinton. This seems to be the same way she thinks about politicians like Vladimir Putin.
3
Hillary is wonderful, when she maintains a sense of calm, plus a sense of humor.
She is a brilliant woman, and we already know Trump is a buffoon. I think if she just stays calm and keeps it simple, he will completely unravel. During the GOP debate, he did a good job maintaining center stage and upsetting the other candidates (I still remember the expressions on Jeb Bush's face!). For some reason, his crudeness (mistakenly taken as a sense of humor) helped him get to where he is. (Lots of shock value got him votes!)
But he is an empty barrel making a lot of noise, and if she keeps her wits, and I am sure she will, perhaps he will roll off the stage.
She is a brilliant woman, and we already know Trump is a buffoon. I think if she just stays calm and keeps it simple, he will completely unravel. During the GOP debate, he did a good job maintaining center stage and upsetting the other candidates (I still remember the expressions on Jeb Bush's face!). For some reason, his crudeness (mistakenly taken as a sense of humor) helped him get to where he is. (Lots of shock value got him votes!)
But he is an empty barrel making a lot of noise, and if she keeps her wits, and I am sure she will, perhaps he will roll off the stage.
13
Or after he loses it, blows up beyond all repair, and is rolled off the stage by the Secret Service detail never to return.
3
Trump's challenge will be how to most effectively handle Hillary's smooth, significant, and seemingly totally truthful, huge lies about herself her war hawk record and the transition team evidence of more war action if she is elected.
4
Dog bites man. This would only be news if she wasn't prepping.
2
She needs to add good advertising gurus to her debate team to figure out a short list of responses to his insults and crazy comments. Shouldn't be too hard.
3
Are props permitted at these debates? I suggest that if Hilary brings a Pinocchio doll with a nose that extends an inch each time Trump lies, the protuberant proboscis will be long enough to dance the limbo under by debate's end. Memorable optics, don't you think?
1
How about policy discussion instead? Trump wouldn't stand a chance.
4
"Mr. Trump said in the interview that he would “rather not” attack Mrs. Clinton on personal grounds, including Bill Clinton’s extramarital affairs."
Oh sure donald - you're just saying that hoping she spends less time preparing for the personal attacks that are central to your dealings with others.
Worst of luck in the debates Mr. trump
Oh sure donald - you're just saying that hoping she spends less time preparing for the personal attacks that are central to your dealings with others.
Worst of luck in the debates Mr. trump
3
Some good homework for Hillary might be to study the WikiHow article on "How to Deal With an Overly Immature Person". See http://www.wikihow.com/Deal-With-an-Overly-Immature-Person
In particular, Hillary should focus on the article's discussion on "Reacting to Aggressively Immature Behavior." It recommends the following five responses: 1) Ignore the person and disengage; 2) Ask the person to leave you alone; 3) Inform the person of her actions; 4) Resist the urge to fight fire with fire; and 5) Get help.
Regarding the last response (get help), the article notes that if the person is aggressive and won't stop bothering you, "consult with a lawyer or the police, since no one is allowed to harass or touch you. These people need outside influences to stop bothering you, and they probably won't until someone is able to exert influence they can't deny." This sounds like sound advice to deal with the reckless, loose cannon called Trump.
The article clarifies that "Harassment includes threats; repeated telephone calls, texts, email, leaving notes or other contact; following someone; blackmail; slashing car tires." Hopefully, Hillary's staff will be instructed to keep an eye out for such behaviors coming from Trump or his ilk (particularly the part about the slashing of their car tires), and then follow the 'get help' suggestions noted above if they see such activity occurring and have evidence indicating a strong suspicion that such shenanigans are coming from Trump's camp.
In particular, Hillary should focus on the article's discussion on "Reacting to Aggressively Immature Behavior." It recommends the following five responses: 1) Ignore the person and disengage; 2) Ask the person to leave you alone; 3) Inform the person of her actions; 4) Resist the urge to fight fire with fire; and 5) Get help.
Regarding the last response (get help), the article notes that if the person is aggressive and won't stop bothering you, "consult with a lawyer or the police, since no one is allowed to harass or touch you. These people need outside influences to stop bothering you, and they probably won't until someone is able to exert influence they can't deny." This sounds like sound advice to deal with the reckless, loose cannon called Trump.
The article clarifies that "Harassment includes threats; repeated telephone calls, texts, email, leaving notes or other contact; following someone; blackmail; slashing car tires." Hopefully, Hillary's staff will be instructed to keep an eye out for such behaviors coming from Trump or his ilk (particularly the part about the slashing of their car tires), and then follow the 'get help' suggestions noted above if they see such activity occurring and have evidence indicating a strong suspicion that such shenanigans are coming from Trump's camp.
I can't help but think that the information in this article was leaked to the Times reporters for the purpose of mis-directing attention from Clinton's real planned strategy. Which is, I'll wager, to do exactly what she did during the nine-hour Benghazi marathon: answer questions, no matter how convoluted or just plain stupid, to come across as measured, steady and confident.
Trump will be prepped by Roger Ailes to attack Clinton every chance he gets, and on any topic that possibly could be raised, from Benghazi to Weiner to the Clinton Foundation.
The likely result: not many minds will be changed.
Trump will be prepped by Roger Ailes to attack Clinton every chance he gets, and on any topic that possibly could be raised, from Benghazi to Weiner to the Clinton Foundation.
The likely result: not many minds will be changed.
7
Good point. And if it isn't true then I'd say it's Trump who has successfully mis-directed Clinton if her attention is really so focused on attacking him.
1
Trump says that by doing research, "You can sound scripted or phony — like you’re trying to be someone you’re not.”
So we have been seeing the real Trump all along. I thought so.
So we have been seeing the real Trump all along. I thought so.
3
It seems clear that neither of these candidates is interested in policy questions. The game rather -- very much supported by the "news" media -- is one of mutual attack. When was the last time we had a presidential campaign in which the chief argument in favor of voting for X is that would at least do less harm than voting for Y?
2
So Hillary wants to play mind games with her opponent in the presidential election instead of calmly and rationally debating their stances on important issues? This seems childish and immature. Unfortunately, in the "approved" press narrative of this election, it seems that those adjectives can only be applied to Trump despite the fact that they often fit his opponent.
What many of us out here in middle class America see is an election with two badly flawed candidates, leaving us with the feeling that it doesn't matter who wins - we in the middle class will lose either way.
A corrupt, greedy liar or a thin-skinned egotist without a plan - what a choice we have before us. America must do better.
What many of us out here in middle class America see is an election with two badly flawed candidates, leaving us with the feeling that it doesn't matter who wins - we in the middle class will lose either way.
A corrupt, greedy liar or a thin-skinned egotist without a plan - what a choice we have before us. America must do better.
2
It is demeaning for Hillary to have to debate with this man, but her best tactic in this inevitable debate is to avoid being condesending. No eye rolls, please Hillary. Just respond to his behavior honestly.
2
Battle of the Sexes (tennis) 1973
In this weird election the most apt comments attend to the weirdness, such as why is the nyt running this kind of hype more appropriate for Mohammad Ali's sport. And it's quite reminiscent of the Battle of the Sexes (tennis) where Riggs was invested in show and profit, and far less in the actual game. If it worked for women in '73, why not repeat it in 2016?
In this weird election the most apt comments attend to the weirdness, such as why is the nyt running this kind of hype more appropriate for Mohammad Ali's sport. And it's quite reminiscent of the Battle of the Sexes (tennis) where Riggs was invested in show and profit, and far less in the actual game. If it worked for women in '73, why not repeat it in 2016?
3
More voters are closer to Trump's ADHD than Clinton's IQ. Presidential elections are decided on emotion not intelligence. Having said that, Trump cannot contain himself so voters will see just how unstable he is and he will lose the election.
7
Is it naive to think that the debates should be about policy issues? I'd especially like to know what the candidates think about foreign policy issues and what would be their thinking on how to respond to them since that is the area where the president has the most influence. I'd also like to know what initiatives they would like to take to move this country towards more equal income distribution and if they have any plans to develop new income streams and become a peaceful nation without the heavy dependence on military arms selling to other countries.
1
"Mr. Trump, a supremely confident communicator..."
I beg to differ. If you listen to Donald Trump's non-scripted speeches, he talks in half sentences and uses elementary school style language and spices them with superlatives and lies. He is no Martin Luther King, Winston Churchill or Abraham Lincoln, who were all great communicators.
I beg to differ. If you listen to Donald Trump's non-scripted speeches, he talks in half sentences and uses elementary school style language and spices them with superlatives and lies. He is no Martin Luther King, Winston Churchill or Abraham Lincoln, who were all great communicators.
10
If the debate moderator keeps a tight line on questions and answers and limits comments from one candidate to another, then Mrs. Clinton might do pretty well. But if the debate is loose and off-the-cuff remarks and statements are not managed, then Trump will rule the night. His penchant "one-liners" will no doubt put Hillary on the defensive and if she sticks to scripted answers to those comments, it will only make her appearance look more like the establishment machine that Trump wants to crush.
1
“This is a special challenge for Hillary, who is deeply rooted in the fact-based world,” said Paul Begala......."
What a fabulous line Mr. Begala! Do I take from this that residing in the fact-based world is now not seen as a requirement for office, but as some sort of a personal preference or quirk?
What a fabulous line Mr. Begala! Do I take from this that residing in the fact-based world is now not seen as a requirement for office, but as some sort of a personal preference or quirk?
10
Either way, it doesn't apply to her.
Not one mention as to the fact that Gary Johnson will most likely reach the 15% needed to get into the debate. This is a clear advantage for Gary, as he will be the only candidate on stage who has actually solutions to the issues facing our country while the other two are concerned with bashing each other. Love it. Soon America will get to see that instead of voting for unbalanced spending or an unbalanced mind, they can actually vote for someone who is sane and logical in reasoning.
2
No, Ugly Gary is dropping.
Down
down
down.
Down
down
down.
4
Talk about how Don Trump leads by generating hatred and anger like a devil.
2
And after the debates, will the political press focus on substantive policy proposals regarding plans for governing?
Of course not. We will be hearing about gotcha moments for a week afterwards.
Will any reporter rise to the occasion, or will it continue to be the case that in- depth knowledge of policy gets a zero score, enabling an ignorant font of insults to gain the Republican nomination and compete for the Presidency.
Of course not. We will be hearing about gotcha moments for a week afterwards.
Will any reporter rise to the occasion, or will it continue to be the case that in- depth knowledge of policy gets a zero score, enabling an ignorant font of insults to gain the Republican nomination and compete for the Presidency.
5
Show him how you above the law
1
"No such thing as too much preparation" for Mrs. Clinton........except for that Iraq War vote.
1
Ladies and gentlemen start your engines!
Approaching the summit of leadership in the most wasteful, over-rated and under-informed country on Earth, I guess we are all prepping for, and writing/reading about, the most useless political debates EVER. Maybe in 2020 we'll get real. Nah.
2
They both make up things as they go along. So, the winner will be who can talk as little as possible. Clinton main attack will be to show that Trump is mentally unstable. Trump main attack is to reinforce the belief that Clinton is a liar. In conclusion, each candidate should focus on how to make other candidate talk more.
1
Chances are that Forrest Trump will not formally prepare for the showdown with Hillary. I do admire his courage which is likely cloaked in stupidity. How many people can get up in front of perhaps 500 million world wide viewers and run the risk of being skinned alive from head toe. Does he have the mental acuity to understand, that whatever he may think of Hillary, she is uber smart. College valedictorian, Yale Law School and a proven track record of surviving under heavy incoming fire (see Benghazi hearings) she poses a real existential threat to his ego and candidacy.
It takes a certain form of arrogance, entitlement and a delusion of super human powers that he alone is exempt from the rules and rigors of solid debate preparation. He believes he is exceptional and grandiose.
All of which can be found in the DSM -----and the Twilight Zone.
It takes a certain form of arrogance, entitlement and a delusion of super human powers that he alone is exempt from the rules and rigors of solid debate preparation. He believes he is exceptional and grandiose.
All of which can be found in the DSM -----and the Twilight Zone.
10
If a crying baby can "rile" Trump, why enlist the consultants? It ain't exactly rocket-surgery on how to get to him.
First off, it's even money that Trump never attends the debates. He, and his handlers, realize how exposed he would be as a consummate con-man who just doesn't haven't a clue when pressed to give real-time answers. Trump is like the out of town home-improvement scam artist, who takes payment up-front, and has no answers as to when the siding and workers will arrive. The banks know this, that's why none of them will lend to the Donald.
Trump will use some lame excuse that the media is biased against him, the football game is on, the sun is in his eyes or his grandmother died, to keep far away from any one-on-one debate against a battle-tested woman who will be taking names and kicking butt on that stage.
First off, it's even money that Trump never attends the debates. He, and his handlers, realize how exposed he would be as a consummate con-man who just doesn't haven't a clue when pressed to give real-time answers. Trump is like the out of town home-improvement scam artist, who takes payment up-front, and has no answers as to when the siding and workers will arrive. The banks know this, that's why none of them will lend to the Donald.
Trump will use some lame excuse that the media is biased against him, the football game is on, the sun is in his eyes or his grandmother died, to keep far away from any one-on-one debate against a battle-tested woman who will be taking names and kicking butt on that stage.
11
the dog ate his homework.
1
@rl - Has Donald ever been known to have a pet?
1
Why are the tactics of each side being blabbed in NYT, and elsewhere?
I think each candidate should keep their machinations close to the vest, and bring them up on the debate stage.
Now each candidate knows how the other plans to attack, er, debate, the other.
I think each candidate should keep their machinations close to the vest, and bring them up on the debate stage.
Now each candidate knows how the other plans to attack, er, debate, the other.
1
A real leader can win on composure and factual information.
No contest. She's already won............
No contest. She's already won............
3
Donald Trump is making up excuses for not being as smart as Hillary Clinton. Hillary can remember more names and related facts than Trump. She has already proven that she is able to understand complex topics, such as social and international relationships. Her response to criticism is not like Donald--"I'm going to sue you." Hillary can think more accurately and faster than Donald. Donald is better at sarcasm, exaggeration, bigotry, dishonesty, and lying about his past, and what he doesn't know or understand. Donald's just a good old rich boy that will not show his tax return.
6
Expectations of Trumps performance are so low that he is likely to be seen as the winner of the first debate if he doesn't faint live on air.
4
This is the political equivalent of Mayweather vs McGregor. Unfortunately for Trump, it's actually going to happen. She may even go Ali/Terrell on him and torture him: “A clean knockout is too good for him.” Not sure how she'll fit in "what's my name!!?"
1
"Donald, you really don't know what you're talking about."
Wash. Rinse. Repeat.
Wash. Rinse. Repeat.
8
Trump talking about ethics to anyone must be the biggest example of blind arrogance imaginable. If there is an economic sector which joins bribes, corruption, abuse of regulations and degradation of landscapes, it is precisely Trump's chosen field, and he has participated in all of them.
Isn't he the one who repeatedly warns you about political bribes because, as he says, while giving a knowing nod, "I should know". Yes, Donald, you do know.
Clinton has one sure liner which I hope she will use: "Donald, until you release your income tax declaration, you have absolutely no right to question any one."
Isn't he the one who repeatedly warns you about political bribes because, as he says, while giving a knowing nod, "I should know". Yes, Donald, you do know.
Clinton has one sure liner which I hope she will use: "Donald, until you release your income tax declaration, you have absolutely no right to question any one."
4
All she has to do is refer to him as a oompa loompa and she is good to go.
4
Politics as farce, life as make-believe, and the future as the promise of continued mindless distraction. Well, well, well.. what is new?
1
If Donald Trump dares to resort to bringing up Bill Clinton's infidelities during his debate with Hillary Clinton, Mrs. Clinton should not be afraid to strike back by bringing up Mr. Trump's own infidelities -- particularly his bitter, headline-grabbing, multimillion-dollar divorce from his first wife, Ivana -- to expose his hypocrisy.
Yes, Mr. Clinton was unfaithful to his wife -- but the Clintons are still together after 40 years. The same cannot be said of the twice-divorced Mr. Trump, who cheated on his first wife by having an affair with Marla Maples.
After his divorce from Ivana, Mr, Trump married Ms. Maples -- only to have yet another extramarital affair that ultimately led Ms. Maples to divorce him.
If Mrs. Clinton doesn't bring that up in response to Mr. Trump's personal attack on the former president, then the debate moderators certainly should (Especially if Megan Kelly of Fox News is one of the moderators). I despise hypocrisy, and Mr. Trump is absolutely a hypocrite for making Mr. Clinton's past indiscretions an issue in this campaign.
Yes, Mr. Clinton was unfaithful to his wife -- but the Clintons are still together after 40 years. The same cannot be said of the twice-divorced Mr. Trump, who cheated on his first wife by having an affair with Marla Maples.
After his divorce from Ivana, Mr, Trump married Ms. Maples -- only to have yet another extramarital affair that ultimately led Ms. Maples to divorce him.
If Mrs. Clinton doesn't bring that up in response to Mr. Trump's personal attack on the former president, then the debate moderators certainly should (Especially if Megan Kelly of Fox News is one of the moderators). I despise hypocrisy, and Mr. Trump is absolutely a hypocrite for making Mr. Clinton's past indiscretions an issue in this campaign.
8
The real question in dealing with a narcissist like Trump is what is “what is your goal in interacting with him”? Is it to connect and communicate with him or is it to break him down and play against his fears.
Narcissists fear that people will find them lacking and live with the paralyzing fear that they’ll somehow be deemed unworthy or unlovable, but when this becomes a horrifying reality narcissist have learned to ignore, suppress, deny, project, and disavow their vulnerabilities in their attempts to change “who they are” in their interactions (Trump being different people on the phone) in an attempt to gain acceptance. Narcissists need people to be attracted to their actions not to themselves and they are frozen with fear when people aren't attracted to their actions anymore leaving them with the belief that they are flawed. Their fear is usually expressed as anger, in intense, bold, intimidating ways, while blaming others but without them actually realizing that they are acting this way. Narcissist’s constant anger about their mistakes causes them to have numerous failed relationships (Trump has been married three times with ex-wife stating that he raped her). To Narcissists, people are things. “Playing people” is what narcissists do whenever they are not sleeping.
I would behaviorally modify Trump by only acknowledging his actions that support Hillary. His greatest fear is being poor. Mention anything about him losing his money.
Narcissists fear that people will find them lacking and live with the paralyzing fear that they’ll somehow be deemed unworthy or unlovable, but when this becomes a horrifying reality narcissist have learned to ignore, suppress, deny, project, and disavow their vulnerabilities in their attempts to change “who they are” in their interactions (Trump being different people on the phone) in an attempt to gain acceptance. Narcissists need people to be attracted to their actions not to themselves and they are frozen with fear when people aren't attracted to their actions anymore leaving them with the belief that they are flawed. Their fear is usually expressed as anger, in intense, bold, intimidating ways, while blaming others but without them actually realizing that they are acting this way. Narcissist’s constant anger about their mistakes causes them to have numerous failed relationships (Trump has been married three times with ex-wife stating that he raped her). To Narcissists, people are things. “Playing people” is what narcissists do whenever they are not sleeping.
I would behaviorally modify Trump by only acknowledging his actions that support Hillary. His greatest fear is being poor. Mention anything about him losing his money.
7
I don't even know why they bother with a debate with a man who answers nothing in any substantive way. Since he changes his mind on everything that he claims he believes in his answers are useless. All his supporters seem to want is the irrelevant insult, the self serving whining that accompanies everything he says, or a threat of violence to non-supporters. If this is all he seems to deliver what's the point?
7
Your headline could have been, "Clinton attempts to learn how to deal with a loose cannon, Trump says he will continue to wing it and free associate. "
7
I saw today that 35% of those polled (Monmouth) did not favor either candidate. 35%! - between five and seven times the percentage in each of the elections going back to '96 and more than the percentage of all those who favored neither candidate put together since 1992 (for some reason, excluding 2008 - I presume they did not ask the question that year).
Partisans will always blame the other side, but both are to blame. People can vote for a dishonest egomaniac with less knowledge of policy that an fifth grader but available candidate, or, a knowledgeable but dishonest and ambitious, I think likely corrupt politician who is afraid to even be asked questions by a supportive press. How many people are going to say - I don't want her policies but I don't know what his will be - before we realize what a mistake we've made by letting these two parties select our candidates.
We need a better way.
Partisans will always blame the other side, but both are to blame. People can vote for a dishonest egomaniac with less knowledge of policy that an fifth grader but available candidate, or, a knowledgeable but dishonest and ambitious, I think likely corrupt politician who is afraid to even be asked questions by a supportive press. How many people are going to say - I don't want her policies but I don't know what his will be - before we realize what a mistake we've made by letting these two parties select our candidates.
We need a better way.
2
Richard Nixon initiated the tone of modern character-assassination politics way back in 1950, painting Helen Gahagan Douglas a commie pinko in the campaign for one of California's Senate seats.
Roy Cohn 's evil spirit lives on in the Republican Party of today.
When you let psychopaths dominate anything, all you will get is tears and travails.
Roy Cohn 's evil spirit lives on in the Republican Party of today.
When you let psychopaths dominate anything, all you will get is tears and travails.
2
Has there ever, in the history of the universe, been a political candidate who was not ambitious? Why is this considered a character flaw for Clinton? Does it have anything to do with the fact that ambition is generally perceived as a negative thing in a woman, while being considered a good thing in a man?
I don't mind answering your questions. Has there ever been a political candidate who is not ambitious. I am sure the answer is yes. There are some candidates who are truly in it for the public service? But, really, it is a relative thing and it is about personal ambition. John Kasich, Jim Webb, Bernie Sanders, Eliz. Warren, Gary Johnson, Jill Stein and others may have public ambition, but I do not think they have the kind of personal ambition she does. I didn't always feel that way (voted for her husband and don't regret it). I did not rush to judgment on it either, and defended both of them throughout the '90s. It is not the kind of thing you can prove. But, we vote based on our opinions and that is mine. Her actions and reactions tell me if it was not so when she was younger, it is now. But, perhaps it was always the case.
As to your inquiry whether I think ambition is a negative thing in a woman and a good thing in a man - I didn't say that nor do I believe it. But, thanks for asking rather than insisting.
As to your inquiry whether I think ambition is a negative thing in a woman and a good thing in a man - I didn't say that nor do I believe it. But, thanks for asking rather than insisting.
It's worth noting that possible stand-in for Hillary practice debates, Mark Cuban, has made it his business to warn fellow billionnaires, the business community, and the rest of us that Trump is categorically unfit for the presidency and is likely to start World War III.
http://www.businessinsider.com/mark-cuban-donald-trump-world-war-2016-8
http://www.businessinsider.com/mark-cuban-donald-trump-world-war-2016-8
4
Why cant she just debate Trump using her accomplishments and her policies?
Oh snap.......never mind..........
Oh snap.......never mind..........
2
NYT, please reply: How is this a "news story"? If you are impartial, as a news organization is supposed to be, the story MIGHT be "Clinton and Trump dig up dirt to use at debate.". While not much of a news story, it would at least be neutral. You are pulling one HEAVY wagon up an icy/muddy hill, desperately trying to make Clinton look even mildly appealing to low information voters. One negative Trump story after another, while you ignore Clinton's 3 clear perjuries and violations of Federal record keeping laws. She has not taken questions from the press since before the primaries began, which is 3/4ths of a year so far. One need not even get into the nitty gritty of her violating national security laws and procedures. Do you want to know the REALLY sad part? I think Trump is a disgrace. Perhaps you could look into some "big words" like honesty, character and journalism.
2
Senior advisors have no reason to divulge debate strategy except for strategic reasons, so either they're lying or they're deliberately revealing one small element in a larger plan. Perhaps they want Trump to go into the debate expecting Clinton to attack him, so that he's on edge and primed to attack her first.
If instead this is really the primary strategy, I think they're way off base. There's no need to study up on his triggers -- she baits him just by existing.
Yes, Clinton should be prepped to respond to specific attacks, but the real concern should be the essential vulnerability underlying them: she's a woman running for president in a discriminatory culture. No matter how she behaves, she'll be scrutinized more critically than he will.
Ironically, Clinton should probably follow Trump's debate preparation advice. What she needs to do is show up in great good humor and try to relax, even though these debates are probably her personal version of the ninth circle of hell.
In a debate, the candidate should appear to be informed and authoritative, yet approachable. If Clinton's not careful, Trump might win on the basis of the second two alone. (He's not capable of the first.)
If she's calm, good-humored, friendly to the moderator(s) and to Trump, clear and succinct, and if she doesn't get visibly angry or roll her eyes when Trump interrupts/lies/boasts/attacks her, she'll not only win the debate, but also be lauded for her civility to an unworthy opponent.
If instead this is really the primary strategy, I think they're way off base. There's no need to study up on his triggers -- she baits him just by existing.
Yes, Clinton should be prepped to respond to specific attacks, but the real concern should be the essential vulnerability underlying them: she's a woman running for president in a discriminatory culture. No matter how she behaves, she'll be scrutinized more critically than he will.
Ironically, Clinton should probably follow Trump's debate preparation advice. What she needs to do is show up in great good humor and try to relax, even though these debates are probably her personal version of the ninth circle of hell.
In a debate, the candidate should appear to be informed and authoritative, yet approachable. If Clinton's not careful, Trump might win on the basis of the second two alone. (He's not capable of the first.)
If she's calm, good-humored, friendly to the moderator(s) and to Trump, clear and succinct, and if she doesn't get visibly angry or roll her eyes when Trump interrupts/lies/boasts/attacks her, she'll not only win the debate, but also be lauded for her civility to an unworthy opponent.
120
The best communicator tends to listen actively and completely. Listening is not in Trump's repertoire.
Can anybody believe 1 of these clowns is going to be POTUS
2
HRC is an accomplished stateswoman and in that regard yes I believe she is going to be POTUS. Referring to her as a clown is ignorant and absurd. If the actual clown Donnie becomes POTUS our days are numbered.
4
One is a real clown and the other is a clown as defined by the real clown.
Who do you believe? I will take the perceived clown any day.
Who do you believe? I will take the perceived clown any day.
1
Yup, heres Hillarys credentials:
First ever student commencement speaker at Wellesley College.
Distinguished graduate of Yale Law School.
Editorial board of the Yale Review of Law and Social Action.
Co-founded AK Advocates for Children and Families.
Faculty member in the School of Law at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville.
Former Director of the AK Legal Aid Clinic.
First female chair of the Legal Services Corporation.
First female partner at Rose Law Firm, the oldest and one of the largest law firms in AK.
Twice named by The National Law Journal as one of the 100 Most Influential Lawyers in America.
Former First Lady of AK
AK Woman of the Year in 1983.
Chair of the ABA's Commission on Women in the Profession.
Instrumental in passage of the State Children’s Health Insurance Program.
First Lady of the United States.
Worked to investigate reports of an illness that affected veterans of the Gulf War (now recognized as Gulf War Syndrome).
Helped create the Office on Violence Against Women at the Department of Justice.
Initiated and shepherded the Adoption and Safe Families Act.
Member of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe.
Leading role in investigating the health issues faced by 9/11 first responders.
Worked with Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York on securing $21.4 billion in funding for the World Trade Center redevelopment.
Former US Secretary of State.
Brokered a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas in 2012.
This is the short list. She is not a clown.
First ever student commencement speaker at Wellesley College.
Distinguished graduate of Yale Law School.
Editorial board of the Yale Review of Law and Social Action.
Co-founded AK Advocates for Children and Families.
Faculty member in the School of Law at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville.
Former Director of the AK Legal Aid Clinic.
First female chair of the Legal Services Corporation.
First female partner at Rose Law Firm, the oldest and one of the largest law firms in AK.
Twice named by The National Law Journal as one of the 100 Most Influential Lawyers in America.
Former First Lady of AK
AK Woman of the Year in 1983.
Chair of the ABA's Commission on Women in the Profession.
Instrumental in passage of the State Children’s Health Insurance Program.
First Lady of the United States.
Worked to investigate reports of an illness that affected veterans of the Gulf War (now recognized as Gulf War Syndrome).
Helped create the Office on Violence Against Women at the Department of Justice.
Initiated and shepherded the Adoption and Safe Families Act.
Member of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe.
Leading role in investigating the health issues faced by 9/11 first responders.
Worked with Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York on securing $21.4 billion in funding for the World Trade Center redevelopment.
Former US Secretary of State.
Brokered a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas in 2012.
This is the short list. She is not a clown.
3
Well Gee when you can't win on the issues you get desperate and start looking at foolish stuff like this. She must have a lot of money to burn to put this much effort into foolish stuff like this.
3
she can't win on the issues because people from Tennessee like trumps theatrics, since when is the presidency foolish?
2
Yes, because this worked really well for the Republican presidential hopefuls in the primary. Unfortunately, issues alone won't win when large swaths of the electorate are angry and disenfranchised, and social media picks up sound bites instead of actual policy. To ignore Donald Trump's bluster is to risk coming off looking like a weak chump. The only question is whether HC will effectively counter punch...
2
she will slaughter him...... he is bringing a knife to a gun fight.
The Putin connection is potentially dangerous for Trump.
It is the center of his snakeoil-maonship.
If Hillary can be precise about the information on his financial connections to Russia, particularly, bank loans from people linked to Putin, Trump's attempt to mask duplicity can be unveiled.
It is the center of his snakeoil-maonship.
If Hillary can be precise about the information on his financial connections to Russia, particularly, bank loans from people linked to Putin, Trump's attempt to mask duplicity can be unveiled.
7
Yes. And she should also be precise about her sale of U.S. Uranium rights to a Russian client state in exchange for "donations" to the "foundation."
1
She needs to tread lightly there. Even Bernie Sanders hammered her on the connection between Boeing's $1 million contribution to the Clinton Foundation and her subsequent advocacy for Boeing's deal with Russia's state owned airline.
Probably a mere coincidence though.
Probably a mere coincidence though.
Ivanka seems to be Trumps answer for everything!
9
It's best for Madam Secretary to just argue the issues. Recall how Al Gore, instead of rigorously sticking to arguing the issues on their merits—and leading in the polls through early October 2000—fatally tried to invite viewers into his disdain for GWB. First, that's not making an argument. Worse, in an instant, after months of persuading voters to forget Al Gore's flaws, we were reminded why and how he could be personally annoying. Sufficient number of voters then changed their minds to allow Bush to get close enough for the Florida recount shenanigans to happen. No games, Sect. Clinton, just push Trump on the issues.
10
There is only one actor who has the range to "do Trump", Bryan Cranston.
2
She should have a distracting little prop. A fork would be good. Just a salad fork. She should have it on the podium, and every now and then just tap it with her forefinger.
Trump will not be able to think about anything else once he notices it and he'll be all like " Why is that fork there? What's she doing with that fork? " He won't be able to think clearly.
If questioned she can just say it's her good luck pizza fork from a place she likes in Brooklyn.
Trump will not be able to think about anything else once he notices it and he'll be all like " Why is that fork there? What's she doing with that fork? " He won't be able to think clearly.
If questioned she can just say it's her good luck pizza fork from a place she likes in Brooklyn.
3
I have been watching Trump now for quite a while. I also know a substantial amount about Aspergers/High Functioning Autism (5 family members on my husbands side, including my husband and son). If the Clinton Campaign does not figure out that there is a high chance that Trump is on the spectrum, they will fail. You can not approach this man like most people. He is extremely intelligent and cannot be underestimated. He is able to keep himself focused (although he is often incorrect on exactly what to focus on) in a way neuro-typical people are unable to - which is extremely powerful. If he does win the election, in my mind, there is about a 95% chance his presidency will be an unprecedented disaster, and a 5% chance it will be an unprecedented success. (My estimates are about Trump, not all people on the spectrum).) People on the spectrum don't usually roll in the middle ground. And yes, he is capable of great compassion, unfortunately, he literally is not grasping the situations which he shows so little compassion for. Its not a matter of lack of compassion, it is a matter of just not being able to see something...from his current viewpoint. He can be made to understand, but most likely, his laser-like focus on his goal makes it difficult to get through to him. Once the Clinton campaign discovers how he is put together, it will be easy to take him down.
2
Why call these scheduled events debates?
You have one mature adult who is experienced and competent. You have another person who appears to have raised by wolves - an emotionally crippled 2-year old in the body of an adult bully, who has neither experience nor the requisite temperament to fill the role this tot wants to play.
It's an affront to the electorate!
You have one mature adult who is experienced and competent. You have another person who appears to have raised by wolves - an emotionally crippled 2-year old in the body of an adult bully, who has neither experience nor the requisite temperament to fill the role this tot wants to play.
It's an affront to the electorate!
13
Speaking of Jon Stewart...What is the last day that he can throw his hat in the ring. Speaking as a Canadian looking into the fish bowl with my jaw on the floor, Jon is far better President material than any of the previous or existing candidates.
Come on Jon, you know you can do it!
Come on Jon, you know you can do it!
4
Okay so now it seems like it's Ms. "Left-Brain" - rational, arguments marshalled, thinking, thinking, thinking versus Mr. "Right-Brain" sock-it-to 'em Donald Trump. He doesn't think well on his feet because he's too lazy to actually educate himself on issues, history, information, facts. If Hillary and her team THINK that they can outsmart him, they're barking up the wrong tree. Donald Trump is a visceral guy, unpredictable, aloof and arrogant. He's not addressing HER in the debates, he's looking to make points with the TV camera. So what do you do to prepare for THAT?
6
I gather the 'debates' will be about personality and about character and not about issues. Are there any potential voters who don't already have more than enough data about the personality and the character of each candidate? Perhaps the audience will be smaller than expected, but larger than the exhibition deserves.
2
You can't defeat Trump without using the law and the Constitution, and reversing the stances the Democratic Party has taken. Trump is a throw-back to a world that predated and later refused to follow the Bill of Rights (including immigrants to the US, like both his and Clinton's ancestors, who have refused to follow the law here), but Clinton's own failure to deal competently with legal issues (not just on her emails but on a whole host of issues), particularly with the US Constitution and international treaty issues, puts her at a disadvantage.
If the battle is to be the lawless blood-feuding of both their ancestry, Trump will win.
If the battle is to be the lawless blood-feuding of both their ancestry, Trump will win.
1
That we're even having this discussion speaks to the importance of having an excellent moderator, which is always important with presidential debates, but now, more than ever. I doubt with all the baggage that these two carry that we'll get any type of earnest policy discussion. It would be refreshing to see the debates presented Oxford-style with adherence to those guidelines; there is even a Change.org petition to that effect. But, I don't expect these debates to change and the real losers will be the voting public.
3
"I doubt with all the baggage that these two carry that we'll get any type of earnest policy discussion."
Really? Hillary is much more capable of having an earnest policy discussion than Trump could ever be.
Really? Hillary is much more capable of having an earnest policy discussion than Trump could ever be.
1
The key to winning a debate against Donald Trump is to invite him to participate and then simply let him speak. Any rational person with greater than an eight grade education will get the picture.
8
You are right. No teleprompter to keep him on track. Have him pick a topic from a list of topics and just talk. Then analyse what he said in terms of how, how much and when. You will probably hear one statement on what and the rest will focus on Hillary's emails.
It wouldn't surprise me if Trump boycotted the debate, saying the rules are rigged. That's the kind of thing he'd do and I doubt his supporters would hold it against him.
12
... but the electorate will.
1
Maybe this isn't Clinton's debate strategy at all and it's just a ploy to keep Trump guessing . . .
3
It will be hard to prepare Hillary for a contest against a chimpanzee armed with a machine gun. Perhaps taking a bunch of bananas to the podium and throwing them around like clay pigeons may help. The Donald may hit the moderator, the camera people, much of the audience and both of his feet before he aims his machine gun at Hillary. The key is to distract the beast with something he likes and to stay out of the line of fire until he runs out of ammo, and finish him off with an aerosol can of whipped cream to his body. The visual of the Donald eating the whipped cream with his fingers will cinch the victory.
6
If Hillary shouts at the debate, as if she's at a campaign event, she will immediately lose the debate and perhaps even the election.
She also needs to learn, practice and master "great timing,"
She also needs to learn, practice and master "great timing,"
2
Is Trump allowed to shout at the debate, as if he's at a campaign event?
2
She proved all that in the 11 hour Gowdy fiasco marathon session in spades. No question.
3
Hillary, ignore Trump, please. Don't waste yourself responding to his idiocy, giving him attention. Let him rattle on, again displaying his ignorance and unfitness for public office, while you deal with the real issues concerning Americans. Please.
7
Shouldn't be too much of a challenge. He's easily the most insecure man on the planet Earth. Go after his small hands.
4
Another Real Estate speculator, richer than The Donald, was once in a similar situation where he sought to distinguish himself in an arena for which he had little experience and less understanding.
He sought to use his wealth to crush an inferior-sized foe and gain even more real estate and, at the same time, outshine his rivals.
Substantial supporters and knowledgeable consultants advised caution and gave good advice, but he trusted his intuition more and insisted on direct confrontation using a brute force attack on a numerically inferior opponent.
But that opponent was far more experienced, better prepared, and nimble. Undissuaded, he engaged. Soon, arrows rained down on him. His men deflected them, but still they came. His men pleaded. He persisted. Eventually, his opponent won the field in a lop-sided victory with negligible losses.
Did he give up? That Real Estate speculator, master of the deal, thought he could negotiate his way out of anything. In the process, he revealed his thirst for gold and for fame, which his captors satisfied by pouring molten gold into his mouth and by using his head as a stage prop in the production of a Greek play.
It all happened in Turkey in 53 BC following the Battle of Carrhae.
The Real-Estate speculator was Marcus Crassus.
Crassus had strongly influenced Rome's transition from Republic to Empire.
Fortunately, the consequences of poor judgment are less severe today.
Donald's best move would be to step aside -- and make history.
He sought to use his wealth to crush an inferior-sized foe and gain even more real estate and, at the same time, outshine his rivals.
Substantial supporters and knowledgeable consultants advised caution and gave good advice, but he trusted his intuition more and insisted on direct confrontation using a brute force attack on a numerically inferior opponent.
But that opponent was far more experienced, better prepared, and nimble. Undissuaded, he engaged. Soon, arrows rained down on him. His men deflected them, but still they came. His men pleaded. He persisted. Eventually, his opponent won the field in a lop-sided victory with negligible losses.
Did he give up? That Real Estate speculator, master of the deal, thought he could negotiate his way out of anything. In the process, he revealed his thirst for gold and for fame, which his captors satisfied by pouring molten gold into his mouth and by using his head as a stage prop in the production of a Greek play.
It all happened in Turkey in 53 BC following the Battle of Carrhae.
The Real-Estate speculator was Marcus Crassus.
Crassus had strongly influenced Rome's transition from Republic to Empire.
Fortunately, the consequences of poor judgment are less severe today.
Donald's best move would be to step aside -- and make history.
3
I don't think there is much to debate here - Hillary will carve Mr. Trump up like the Thanksgiving turkey; she barely need speak, just nod politely as she defers and he shoots himself in the foot, rambles on and can't integrate anything into approximating a sensible answer. Nope, no sense in tuning in unless... both candidates articulate platforms and policies clearly articulating how, when and what they will do to address the following pressing issues that concern all Americans: immigration reform, the economy, foreign policy, climate change, gun control, inner city violence, race relations, etc. I don't know about you but even though there will be tremendous hype in anticipation of this 10 rounder, it seems more appropriate for both to address issues rather than watch the character bashing that Mr. Trump seems to revel in and should l be of little interest or benefit to Hillary to condescend to his pathetic level - like I said above, he will undoubtedly in a very short period of time make a fool of himself.
5
There isn't much for Trump to say about Hillary, other than trusted public servant turned criminal, that's all he needs to say.
2
Are you suggesting that all he needs to do is insult Hillary? You don't expect any policy discussions from him? (newsflash: he doesn't have any detailed positions!). My, such a low bar you have set.
3
Criminal? ... on what indictment, charge. or conviction?
2
Best stand-in for Trump in Hillary's debate prep: Keith Olbermann. He's smart, fearless, and was fairly relentless in his criticism of her during the 2008 primary season.
4
@LS - And Mr. Olbermann makes for a pretty good candidate for debate moderator as well.
1
Considering this is a 90-minute gig, time will not be on Trump's side. Hillary, on the other hand, withstood an 11-hour inquisition by Trey Gowdy and Co. and didn't break a sweat. In the primary debates you could see Trump wilting after an hour, and he had a dozen people onstage with him. One-on-one, I suspect he won't be able to stay coherent more than 20 minutes. He will start lashing out wildly and saying crazy things.
10
When all is said and done, this is no more than a public relations popularity contest--not just the debates; the entire election process. The incredulity is that this has nothing whatsoever to do with the issues, the candidates' experience, their qualifications, or otherwise any sober examination of facts which hold actual authenticity. This is a sad, sad demonstration of our complete lack of reason and effectiveness as human beings at a moment when these qualities are most cardinally required, and, perhaps demonstrate more than anything else, the tenuous nature of our collective hold on simple survival.
65
True. Especially when one considers that neither President that has occupied the White House for the last sixteen years wound up doing the policy based things they "swore" they would do to effect positive change if elected. The election process is a farce, with lies and promises based upon currying favor and votes as opposed to putting America, and her citizens first. Which is why I will vote for Trump. At least he's an outsider to all this. And if he winds up being just like the rest, we'll throw that insolent bum out in four years too.
How clintonesque! Ironic, that the rabid attack dog sicced on Nixon, so rabid that she had to be put down temporarily has earned the Nixonesque "-esque" sobriquet.
The limitation of political discourse to the parimutuel horse-race commentariat has destroyed what was once called Political Philosophy. For once, truth is served by renaming: Political Science is the precise term. Science is merely descriptive and predictive, and unconcerned with either the Good, the Beautiful nor Eternal. PoliSci is all about the horse race.
Political Philosophy ought be the realm in which political debate occurs. But that would not be possible in a dumbed down, low information electorate. The New Intilektchuels and Academentia as typified by the NY Times writers, editors and readers will wax "philosophic" over the comparative tactics of the horses.
Hillary will try to get Trump to say something stupid. Then with the connivance of the commentariat his words will be twisted, taken out of context and used as ad hominem ordnance.
Why? Because HRC represents the political theory that has for so long plagued mankind: the Platonic Philosopher King. All the elitist leaders "bravely" showing the "masses" the Way Forward are Plato's totalitarian children.
Will the candidates argue their political philosophy? Will they demonstrate how their every position is based upon the application of a their philosophy to a particular issue?
No.
The limitation of political discourse to the parimutuel horse-race commentariat has destroyed what was once called Political Philosophy. For once, truth is served by renaming: Political Science is the precise term. Science is merely descriptive and predictive, and unconcerned with either the Good, the Beautiful nor Eternal. PoliSci is all about the horse race.
Political Philosophy ought be the realm in which political debate occurs. But that would not be possible in a dumbed down, low information electorate. The New Intilektchuels and Academentia as typified by the NY Times writers, editors and readers will wax "philosophic" over the comparative tactics of the horses.
Hillary will try to get Trump to say something stupid. Then with the connivance of the commentariat his words will be twisted, taken out of context and used as ad hominem ordnance.
Why? Because HRC represents the political theory that has for so long plagued mankind: the Platonic Philosopher King. All the elitist leaders "bravely" showing the "masses" the Way Forward are Plato's totalitarian children.
Will the candidates argue their political philosophy? Will they demonstrate how their every position is based upon the application of a their philosophy to a particular issue?
No.
1
Uh, Hillary Clinton never got anywhere close to Richard Milhous Nixon. And as for Plato's Philosopher King, walking Phoenix's summer pavement in 1964 hardly suggests it.
Are there they going to shake hands at the start of the debate?
This article is indicative of what has gone wrong with our campaigns. Getting someone's goat is not the same as presenting a logical proposal for leadership.
Having said that, I also recognize the value of bringing his real and abusive personality out into the open. I would ask him to apologize to those families who's housing applications were marked "C" for colored and then discriminated against or to the black casino workers who had to leave the floor to yield to his racial preference for white employees. To assist him with foreign affairs, I would gently remind him that his pal Putin has already invaded at least one country that Trump has said he could keep him out of.
Having said that, I also recognize the value of bringing his real and abusive personality out into the open. I would ask him to apologize to those families who's housing applications were marked "C" for colored and then discriminated against or to the black casino workers who had to leave the floor to yield to his racial preference for white employees. To assist him with foreign affairs, I would gently remind him that his pal Putin has already invaded at least one country that Trump has said he could keep him out of.
3
"Donald J. Trump is confident that he can box in Mrs. Clinton on her ethics."
Now that is a laugh. Mr Trump is famous for his business bankruptcies and thousands of suits against him for non payment of his business debts. If anyone can be called out for lack of ethics it's Mr Trump.
Now that is a laugh. Mr Trump is famous for his business bankruptcies and thousands of suits against him for non payment of his business debts. If anyone can be called out for lack of ethics it's Mr Trump.
5
His own background is full of scandals that he used to boast about. He liked the whole Playboy image, the hot models, the Miss Universe beauty pageant, the casinos, etc. Once more stones are turned over, no doubt the Russian and Chinese ties will become even more apparent. The evangelical support of this person just reveals the hypocrisy and lack of true Christianity.
Perhaps his tax returns will magically become public, then his whole faux facade crumbles.
Perhaps his tax returns will magically become public, then his whole faux facade crumbles.
1
Get used to it.
Maybe we can get Caesar Flickerman to moderate.
Trump will bury her.
2
Thanks for the laugh.
5
"Rarely are debate preparations as illuminating about the candidates as a debate itself". True, but it is so sadly the story of so many professional women that it feels like a cliche - especially to us older gals. Ms. Clinton knows better than anyone that she has to be twice as good to get half the credit.
6
Well, here we are and September is about to arrive and with a little more than two months to the election, yet, all that essentially been written about is which candidate has come up with the best "gotcha" line. Will there be a time when the mainstream corporate media will start redirecting their energy and vast resources focusing on, critiquing and fact-checking the policies of the candidates and is that really too much to ask?
4
Clinton will win if she is not dragged into his game of yelling and name calling.
5
Trump already sounds phony because he's an empty suit. Knowing little to nothing seems fine with him. Substance, relevance and facts are not his thing. He has plans but no details. His confidence would be admirable if it was't for the fact he's a pathological narcissist and thus utterly clueless in his self-obsessed confidence. That makes him a loser, and it's not even November.
Eclectic Pragmatist — http://eclectic-pragmatist.tumblr.com/
Eclectic Pragmatist — https://medium.com/eclectic-pragmatism
Eclectic Pragmatist — http://eclectic-pragmatist.tumblr.com/
Eclectic Pragmatist — https://medium.com/eclectic-pragmatism
5
Here's my suggestion to Clinton...
Give away a cool $100,000,000.00 of your family fortune.
No worries, you will soon get it back, I'm sure. Meanwhile, you'll still be in the 1%. Plus, you'll be President of the USA. The best part is that you'll no longer be just another rich hypocrite, like Trump.
Give away a cool $100,000,000.00 of your family fortune.
No worries, you will soon get it back, I'm sure. Meanwhile, you'll still be in the 1%. Plus, you'll be President of the USA. The best part is that you'll no longer be just another rich hypocrite, like Trump.
5
Someone needs to make sure that when Trump brings into play his views on Bill Clinton's extra-marital activities, that Hillary very simply points out that they have been married for over 30 years. She can say they've been over rough spots, and believed in each other, putting work into the marriage to overcome the hard times and stand by each other.
He won't have an answer for that. He's not qualified to.
He won't have an answer for that. He's not qualified to.
8
Just like that Patsy Cline song.
"Hard times"--like when they were "dead broke" and helping themselves to White House furniture, you mean?
Clinton should use comedian Lewis Black as Trump.
5
NO on-the-ground RESULTS to prove that she (nor Trump) is a leader, regardless of all the insulting, sophomoric, and feeble attempts to make it appear to the contrary. The problems of this country are increasing in numbers and depth, getting WORSE more quickly every year, and none of you do anything about it. Personal attacks are all these puppets of the "childish-wealthy" have to offer, and the magnitude of the money being wasted (when it could be used to do good) is staggering. This is ALWAYS the case, and will continue until all of you are so poor that YOU (and/or your children) will be the new "immigrants" seeking help from OTHER countries. Maybe you will get the guts to stand up and fight for this country, and get rid of these pawns for the rich, but from what I see you are becoming even MORE weak, naive, obsequious, and cowardly. There is so much that needs to be done for this country, that CAN be done, that is NOT impossible (except for the embarrassing weaklings we have in leadership positions in the White House, Cabinet, Congress, state capitals, etc.), and in fact is EASY to solve - poverty, violence, unemployment, as examples - but requires having REAL leaders in charge, and it is up to ALL of you to stop being so lazy, uninvolved, selfish, and cowardly, to make it happen. You better start thinking about seriously helping others in need, and doing what is important instead of wasting your insecure and selfish lives on gadgets and gossip.
4
She needs to always refer to him as "Donnie." He's a baby at heart and being treated as a little boy will throw him. At some point she should say, as a throw away, "you really do have short fingers." Must be done in a sotto voce way, not as a loud bluster.
2
I hope Mrs. Clinton is preparing a response to fantasy and conspiracy theories as well.
2
The debates are likely to be entertaining, but I don't think they'll have that much impact on the election results unless Trump goes off the rails. Mostly the people who have already decided will be looking for their candidate to score points. Not much new will be learned about their positions on the issues.
I really hope that Trump won't drag out Bill's infidelity issues from 20 years ago. It's irrelevant and unseemly for as presidential debate. Unfortunately, it's right up Trump's alley.
I really hope that Trump won't drag out Bill's infidelity issues from 20 years ago. It's irrelevant and unseemly for as presidential debate. Unfortunately, it's right up Trump's alley.
3
Entirely appropriate--this is the (second) 2-for-1 presidency, remember? After all, he's going to be "in charge of" the economy--voters are entitled to know about his character (or lack thereof)--whether they want to or not.
1
Should he also ignore Benghazi, Asia fundraising, Whitewater, Travelgate. Pardongate: the disappearance and re-discovery of Hillary’s Rose Law Firm records, the Clinton use of FBI files to dig for dirt on their enemies, the resignation and imprisonment of Hillary's law partner Web Hubbell, the coincidental $1 million contribution to the Clinton Foundation and subsequent Boeing contract to sell aircraft to Russia, cattle futures, Chinagate, and the fact that her husband was impeached?
Hillary Clinton should take all the money she is spending on preparation and CIA style Psych profiles and give it to the poor. The American people don't trust here because she is and seems so packaged. Better a free wheeling Hillary to show that she is not some inhuman wonk robot.
5
I guess one would be a poor sportsman to suggest that trump be fitted with an electronic collar that sends a very humane shock, believe me, every time he hurls a juvenile insult, tells a tall tale, uses phony statistics, presents conspiracy theories as confirmed events, feigns ignorance when confronted with video evidence or proposes policies that are not only prohibitively expensive but require the agreement of other branches of government the candidate never acknowledges. Ok, make it a a crawl across the bottom of the podium.
It's very hard to confront an "authentic" fabulist who has no allegiance to the truth or even particular ideological stances. Trump's entire career has been about selling himself as a brand leaving him free to shrug off and/or pass along any mistakes, failures, bankruptcies, lawsuits or positions when they become inconvenient.
Perhaps his greatest skill is convincing a rotating set of audiences attached to an assortment of ventures that they are in on the "joke" or the scam or the "revolution" or the exclusive deal, wink, wink -- "just go along with everything I say and my prosperity will be yours!" His evidence to investors or employees or "university" students or voters, "Hey, look at my plane, my tower, my beautiful wife." ... all of which you could have and deserve if you believe in me, Santa.
What Hillary Clinton needs to do is remind the sane that the guy in the North Pole does not actually exist.
It's very hard to confront an "authentic" fabulist who has no allegiance to the truth or even particular ideological stances. Trump's entire career has been about selling himself as a brand leaving him free to shrug off and/or pass along any mistakes, failures, bankruptcies, lawsuits or positions when they become inconvenient.
Perhaps his greatest skill is convincing a rotating set of audiences attached to an assortment of ventures that they are in on the "joke" or the scam or the "revolution" or the exclusive deal, wink, wink -- "just go along with everything I say and my prosperity will be yours!" His evidence to investors or employees or "university" students or voters, "Hey, look at my plane, my tower, my beautiful wife." ... all of which you could have and deserve if you believe in me, Santa.
What Hillary Clinton needs to do is remind the sane that the guy in the North Pole does not actually exist.
5
Why on earth is Mrs. Clinton announcing her strategy in advance? My heart sinks to read that she and her advisors are giving up the game so easily. Why not come to the debate prepared to shock Trump, and let voters see it in real time?
For his part, Mr. Trump seems unflappable, and his supporters will be behind him no matter what. If he has any self control, which seems doubtful, he will sit down and watch President Obama's debates with Hillary Clinton in 2008. In those are clues about how to rattle her. I hope he can't be persuaded to.
It's all such a farce. I personally am looking forward to the day after election day, when we have moved on to the next stage of this carnival.
For his part, Mr. Trump seems unflappable, and his supporters will be behind him no matter what. If he has any self control, which seems doubtful, he will sit down and watch President Obama's debates with Hillary Clinton in 2008. In those are clues about how to rattle her. I hope he can't be persuaded to.
It's all such a farce. I personally am looking forward to the day after election day, when we have moved on to the next stage of this carnival.
4
Maybe they hope he'll plead annoyance that the debates are not "fair" - and take his bat and go home, leaving Hillary holding the ball.
I don't agree. I think Mr. Trump will be flapped just by knowing that Secretary Clinton is out to flap him. She is the unflappable one, and will surely be prepared for th lowest of low attacks from Trump. She's also the only debater on this stage with a working brain, and it's an exceptional one. And a working heart and soul.
Cheer up, Trump doesn't read and he doesn't listen to anyone around him. All this will go right over his head.
2
Gawd. Does anyone actually believe that that woman will not eat that man alive in the debates? People, we are talking about Hillary Clinton vs. Donald Trump.
11
All Clinton needs to do is remain her calm, cool intelligent self as she did during the marathon Benghazi inquisition and let Trump rail, insult, and be his usual obnoxious self.
Clinton needs to just answer the debate questions and not rise to the bait Trump throws her way. His modus operandi during the Republican debates was to not really answer answer any questions, but become Don Rickles - with apologies to Mr. Rickles.
I am betting on Secretary Clinton to shine in the debates, and Mr. Trump to be taken down by his own lack of decorum and lack of knowledge about important issues. I am hoping that those in charge of the debates will maintain control, and not allow Trump to become the circus master he did during the Republican debates, which became merely venues of entertainment at the other candidates expense. This election is far too important and serious for that to be allowed to happen.
Clinton needs to just answer the debate questions and not rise to the bait Trump throws her way. His modus operandi during the Republican debates was to not really answer answer any questions, but become Don Rickles - with apologies to Mr. Rickles.
I am betting on Secretary Clinton to shine in the debates, and Mr. Trump to be taken down by his own lack of decorum and lack of knowledge about important issues. I am hoping that those in charge of the debates will maintain control, and not allow Trump to become the circus master he did during the Republican debates, which became merely venues of entertainment at the other candidates expense. This election is far too important and serious for that to be allowed to happen.
9
In the Trump bubble is a frightened man who wants to be president with no qualifictions whatsoever except those of a con artist who knows that there will be two things that would be fatal to his election to the presidency.
The first is the release of his tax returns which will show that he pays no taxes, he is not a billionaire and that he is indebted to some really nasty foreigners and that he is no better off than if he invested the million dollar loan from his father is a fund based on the state of the stock market.
Since he keeps his returns a secret we are entitled to assume that he is hiding something really bad and we can assume anything we wish.
The second thing that would be fatal is to debate Hillary Clinton which right now he is twisting and turning to find a excuse to avoid. Should he debate the most corrupt person in America unless she dismantles the Clinton Foundation? Or she agrees to some other non negotiable demand to give her the privilege of debating Trump, a debate which she needs and he doesn’t?
Wait for the last minute refusal to debate crooked Hillary. If he fails to avoid a debate he will enter as a lion and leave a whipped dog.
The first is the release of his tax returns which will show that he pays no taxes, he is not a billionaire and that he is indebted to some really nasty foreigners and that he is no better off than if he invested the million dollar loan from his father is a fund based on the state of the stock market.
Since he keeps his returns a secret we are entitled to assume that he is hiding something really bad and we can assume anything we wish.
The second thing that would be fatal is to debate Hillary Clinton which right now he is twisting and turning to find a excuse to avoid. Should he debate the most corrupt person in America unless she dismantles the Clinton Foundation? Or she agrees to some other non negotiable demand to give her the privilege of debating Trump, a debate which she needs and he doesn’t?
Wait for the last minute refusal to debate crooked Hillary. If he fails to avoid a debate he will enter as a lion and leave a whipped dog.
3
Sheldon,
"qualifictions".....voted most appropriate typo of the year.
Thank you for that
"qualifictions".....voted most appropriate typo of the year.
Thank you for that
1
I suspect these campaign "revelations" are ploys to confuse the other. Hillary is so beyond Donald's league, it is amazing he has gotten this far. In my mind the moderators will be highly relevant. If they ask "inflammatory negative" questions, rather than issue based, it will be to Donald's favor. In the republican debates he was allowed to interrupt, name call and dominate. It isn't Hillary's responsibility to engage in a "fight" with him, but the responsibility of the moderators. The best and fairest moderator in the primaries was Rachel Maddow. She was neutral and had follow up questions. Those suggested for this task so far are less than adequate.
4
I will vote for Hillary - however the debates turn out! BUT, during the debates I do hope Hillary can somehow stop her head bobbing - and definitely no smirking. I know, I know....she is extremely intelligent and a policy wonk, but sometimes small things like body language can be irritating to the observer!!
6
“This is a special challenge for Hillary, who is deeply rooted in the fact-based world,” said Paul Begala
Pure comedy gold.
Quote of the week for sure.
Pure comedy gold.
Quote of the week for sure.
17
Exactly.
Open borders and Globalism. If Trump slams hard on those two issues, he will win. Clinton has never met an International Conflict anywhere in the world she didn't support and promote. Clinton, the darling of neocons is the war monger and Trump is the candidate for peace. Clinton can "needle" Trump all she wants. If he sticks a hard landing on those two issues, and promotes himself as the builder he is who wants to rebuild America First, the debate is his.
10
BAV, Trump can bring up all those wars the Clintons started between 1992 and 2000!
She needed time to come into her own. Like with the Iraqi war, which Hillary was gung ho for as NY Senator. She couldn't wait until she could get a bite of her own Nation Building acumen as Sec of State.....in Libya, Egypt, Iran,Syria, etc. Many of those globalist gatekeepers of past era's are now "with her".
Now she is ginning up her base with a new potential conflict bulls eye that endears her to the neocons and ups their support. Russia/Putin. Forward March!
Now she is ginning up her base with a new potential conflict bulls eye that endears her to the neocons and ups their support. Russia/Putin. Forward March!
1
Not true about Iraq. She, like Kerry, Biden and other Democrats, believed Bush when he promised wthe vote was to give him more leverage for inspections, and he did not plan to go to war. She was NOT "gung ho" for war -- just read the statement she made when she voted.
As to the other countries, civilians were being mass murdered, and the question was about whether to intervene and help. (Ghosts of Rwanda...) I'd like to think she'd have been the one urging Roosevelt to bomb the railway lines leading into Auschwitz.
She's more hawkish than I like, but no Dr. Strangelove, despite your wish to paint her that way.
As to the other countries, civilians were being mass murdered, and the question was about whether to intervene and help. (Ghosts of Rwanda...) I'd like to think she'd have been the one urging Roosevelt to bomb the railway lines leading into Auschwitz.
She's more hawkish than I like, but no Dr. Strangelove, despite your wish to paint her that way.
Month ago on Real Time, Michael Moore suggested that he and Bill Maher do HRC's debate prep.....boy, would that be fun. All she needs to do is just get a little under his skin and watch him explode.
3
Given Trump, the debates will accomplish nothing. He's not a serious candidate so we won't get any insight into issues, any discussion of important policies, any view to how the country will be governed and what are the most important concerns and ideas of Hillary.
What a terrible disservice the Republicans have wrought on this country! It's time for them to go away to be replaced by competent people who are interested in governing and public service.
What a terrible disservice the Republicans have wrought on this country! It's time for them to go away to be replaced by competent people who are interested in governing and public service.
4
Hi, I have really enjoyed diving in this article. But Honestly I got confused with a specific paragraph whether because of my English as it's a second language or this is how it works as presidential campaign practices or entertainment, please see the following paragraph:
"Around the Clinton campaign, the question of whom to cast as Mr. Trump has become something of a running parlor game. Mrs. Clinton’s allies have floated several options: Representative Joseph Crowley of New York, who is from Queens, where Mr. Trump grew up; James Carville, Mr. Clinton’s chief strategist in 1992, who has a gift for lacerating banter; or Mark Cuban, another billionaire businessman. All three are viewed as unafraid to say some humiliating things to Mrs. Clinton’s face, as Mr. Trump may."
From my understanding, it totally puzzled and confused me as the paragraphs stated it clearly that Mrs. Clinton's allies want to pick actors or commentators who are behaving like a Trump to insults and make a foolish theories about her? it's contradictory right? otherwise please give me a hint or brief explanation. Thank you :)
"Around the Clinton campaign, the question of whom to cast as Mr. Trump has become something of a running parlor game. Mrs. Clinton’s allies have floated several options: Representative Joseph Crowley of New York, who is from Queens, where Mr. Trump grew up; James Carville, Mr. Clinton’s chief strategist in 1992, who has a gift for lacerating banter; or Mark Cuban, another billionaire businessman. All three are viewed as unafraid to say some humiliating things to Mrs. Clinton’s face, as Mr. Trump may."
From my understanding, it totally puzzled and confused me as the paragraphs stated it clearly that Mrs. Clinton's allies want to pick actors or commentators who are behaving like a Trump to insults and make a foolish theories about her? it's contradictory right? otherwise please give me a hint or brief explanation. Thank you :)
1
You read it correctly, it's for practise. Crazy, yes, that this needs to be done and crazy that American's would even consider a person that would insult, make up facts and support conspiracy theories about the opposition.
1
I'm not sure where you see the contradiction, but the debates have one or more moderators, who are usually journalists. The paragraph you quoted lists people who could act like Trump. In a debate practice session, there also needs to be someone in the role of the moderator, but the article doesn't discuss that role at all.
This article goes into more detail about a debate practice session:
She Plays Hillary Clinton as Bernie Sanders Prepares to Debate
By JASON HOROWITZ
JAN. 17, 2016
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/17/us/politics/she-plays-hillary-clinton-...
This article goes into more detail about a debate practice session:
She Plays Hillary Clinton as Bernie Sanders Prepares to Debate
By JASON HOROWITZ
JAN. 17, 2016
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/17/us/politics/she-plays-hillary-clinton-...
1
Thank you
2
Trump is right about one thing: politicians do sound too scripted. I stopped watching debates and speeches long ago, because the obvious evasion of honest answers from nearly every politician was so irritating. I'd rather read transcripts and analyses afterward.
Mr. Obama has been the only politician I've taken any recent pleasure in listening to, as he is sure to say something intelligent, heartfelt, honest, and witty. Ms. Clinton is also an intelligent speaker, although I don't always find her ideas as good as she thinks they are. She desperately needs a good vocal coach, as she often sounds strained, and there are vocal exercises she could be doing to improve that drawback.
As for The Donald (which is how he was known back in the old days), he is a grating, irritating speaker whose mere physical presence on any stage disgraces it. Any words coming out of his mouth are essentially meaningless, because he will backtrack on them the next day, when someone tells him that his poll numbers are down. He has no consistent policy, no heart, and few ideas worth considering. Anything that comes out of his mouth is gas. No wonder, with the unhealthy way he eats.
Mr. Obama has been the only politician I've taken any recent pleasure in listening to, as he is sure to say something intelligent, heartfelt, honest, and witty. Ms. Clinton is also an intelligent speaker, although I don't always find her ideas as good as she thinks they are. She desperately needs a good vocal coach, as she often sounds strained, and there are vocal exercises she could be doing to improve that drawback.
As for The Donald (which is how he was known back in the old days), he is a grating, irritating speaker whose mere physical presence on any stage disgraces it. Any words coming out of his mouth are essentially meaningless, because he will backtrack on them the next day, when someone tells him that his poll numbers are down. He has no consistent policy, no heart, and few ideas worth considering. Anything that comes out of his mouth is gas. No wonder, with the unhealthy way he eats.
9
Clinton is at a disadvantage. She is tethered to a passable version of reality.
The Donald is free to create conspiracy theories on the fly.
The Donald is free to create conspiracy theories on the fly.
7
Sickening to read about: Disgusting Candidates: Tabloid Low Brow ...like
low class wrestling match..
Too Bad the Media is aiding and abetting these unpopular candidates...
Well the media greed has stoked the low brow disastrous 2016 campaign...for
the entertainment of viewers.....and our nation loses more and more respect
from the entire world....media machinations...for money...like football...
just disgusting !!!!
low class wrestling match..
Too Bad the Media is aiding and abetting these unpopular candidates...
Well the media greed has stoked the low brow disastrous 2016 campaign...for
the entertainment of viewers.....and our nation loses more and more respect
from the entire world....media machinations...for money...like football...
just disgusting !!!!
4
Clinton and debate moderators will have a difficult time keeping Trump honest. Trump and his campaign have been spreading gossipy rumors as if they were factual. He spreads the rumor himself in the morning, and then quotes himself that evening as if were factual. Why not have someone from FactCheck there too?
13
Why even hold the events? It won't be a debate. But more of a job interview for an experienced professional woman, seeking a leadership position but asked to babysit a troubled tot - on national tv. Give me a break!
1
Sen. Al Franken should be Clinton's Trump stand-in! I can't think of any better preparation for it than comedy on Saturday Night Live.
4
Hillary is looking for ways to get Trump to say something that will cause him to lose the debate. That strategy didn't work well for the other Republican candidates. Trump is a counterpuncher and a good one! Now he's has managed to polish his basic message about illegal immigration, trade and jobs and has a clear, if not too detailed, plan of action. Hillary, on the other hand, has her own weak spots and is not a good political debater. Her message is so wishy washy as to be non existent. Trump already has her in a "you are the status quo candidate" chokehold. Now he's sharpening his attack on the Democratic Party's inability to serve the need of African American voters! He has stood up and spoke his unfiltered mind and taken the full brunt of the attacks against him and is still standing and worse, learned from them! Hillary is in hiding! Memo to Hillary: Calling Trump names doesn't work. Why don't you spend your time putting together a few good reasons why we should vote for you that don't include anything about being not as bad a choice as Trump. What's you plan for illegal immigrants? How are you going to promote better jobs or relieve student debt or lower medical costs? If you want to be President you might want to hedge your bet that Trump will self destruct by doing a little campaigning. Oh, and you might want to have a few polished comments about all that email fuss everyone is talking about and maybe also a few remarks about your charity would be reassuring also.
3
Yes, he has polished himself by becoming Obama on immigration.
Obama has deported more illegals that the last few Republican Presidents. I don't think there ever was a real difference between the two except Obama is quiet about it.
Hillary Clinton will prevail like the pro that she is....The best will help her to prepare and she will destroy him at that time..
9
Feeding Into a Bully over actually working on what she will do to Help The Majority of Americans! What will she do about the Huge break in favors for the wealthy rather than favors for Us! What will she do to break the gigantic gap between the top 5% and the rest of us the Americans?
Digging up trumps dirt is not going to help her deal with OUR ISSUES in addition to having a current president who represents the world long before US! Will she represent US or Not. and what will she do for Us!
Digging up trumps dirt is not going to help her deal with OUR ISSUES in addition to having a current president who represents the world long before US! Will she represent US or Not. and what will she do for Us!
2
How about during the debates she holds her head in dread and says, 'Oy, I can't believe I have to debate this nasty man with the brain of an 8 year old in front of millions of people. How humiliating.'
9
Trump's campaign works on reverse psychology:
1) Trump knows his tax returns are big liability, so what does he do. He goes aggresively after Hillary's health
2) Trump knows his campaign is all about Bigotry, so what does he do. He calls Hillary a Bigot!!
3) Trump knows he ran one of most crooked campaign during primaries, so what does he do, he calls Hillary Crooked
4) Ted Cruz was known to stick to his ground on policy matters with his own leadership, So Trump takes him down by calling Lying Ted.
5) Trump wants to fight to free DC of corruption, guess what he has 100s of lawsuits pending against him for the same. He calls Hillary a corrupt but refuses to release his tax returns
6) Trump calls Hillary to be in Jail for Pay for Play stuff but guess what he also donated to Clinton Foundation. Now if we apply Trump's logic, he should also be in jail for obtaining favors and bribing an Federal official. Can Trump disclose what favors he obtained else he should appreciate the good work of Clinton Foundation
7) Who ever criticizes Trump, he will get a response back with name shaming and insults.
List is endless but choice is clear!! This is how I will prep Clinton for Debates!
1) Trump knows his tax returns are big liability, so what does he do. He goes aggresively after Hillary's health
2) Trump knows his campaign is all about Bigotry, so what does he do. He calls Hillary a Bigot!!
3) Trump knows he ran one of most crooked campaign during primaries, so what does he do, he calls Hillary Crooked
4) Ted Cruz was known to stick to his ground on policy matters with his own leadership, So Trump takes him down by calling Lying Ted.
5) Trump wants to fight to free DC of corruption, guess what he has 100s of lawsuits pending against him for the same. He calls Hillary a corrupt but refuses to release his tax returns
6) Trump calls Hillary to be in Jail for Pay for Play stuff but guess what he also donated to Clinton Foundation. Now if we apply Trump's logic, he should also be in jail for obtaining favors and bribing an Federal official. Can Trump disclose what favors he obtained else he should appreciate the good work of Clinton Foundation
7) Who ever criticizes Trump, he will get a response back with name shaming and insults.
List is endless but choice is clear!! This is how I will prep Clinton for Debates!
12
"So, if she hits me...."
Donald has gone through his long and privileged life afraid of getting hit? That explains quite a lot.
Donald has gone through his long and privileged life afraid of getting hit? That explains quite a lot.
7
I wish the Clinton camp can keep quiet about how they intend to handle Trump.
There is no need to fuel the enemy and give the press more stupidity to talk about.
We all will be watching the debates not because we are interested in issues---that ship sailed when Trump became the nominee--but to see the circus.
America is looking like a circus act to the rest of the world as well thanks mostly to the incessant media coverage of Trump.
And Hillary spokespeople.....don't turn the tables on questions about the emails on Russia. It feeds into Hillary's negatives. Americans are sick and tired of both sides turning the tables when asked a direct question whether it's on Trump's tax returns or the emails. Sooner or later someone will leak Trump's tax returns. Fingers crossed!!!
There is no need to fuel the enemy and give the press more stupidity to talk about.
We all will be watching the debates not because we are interested in issues---that ship sailed when Trump became the nominee--but to see the circus.
America is looking like a circus act to the rest of the world as well thanks mostly to the incessant media coverage of Trump.
And Hillary spokespeople.....don't turn the tables on questions about the emails on Russia. It feeds into Hillary's negatives. Americans are sick and tired of both sides turning the tables when asked a direct question whether it's on Trump's tax returns or the emails. Sooner or later someone will leak Trump's tax returns. Fingers crossed!!!
4
I wish the NY Times wouldn't feel like it needs to report these things, regardless of what the Clinton campaign makes known. This kind of reporting doesn't add to anyones' necessary understanding of the issues and only adds to the information overload we're already all suffering from.
2
The Clinton aides who disclosed these details about Hillary's debate preparations should have their heads examined. Maybe they're playing mind games with Trump by telegraphing their punches. I guess sometimes candidates just can't help themselves. Long before the VP debate between Lloyd Bentsen and Dan Quayle I knew that if Quayle said anything in any way comparing himself to John F. Kennedy the Democrats would pounce with a prepared zinger. Quayle would have to have been a complete dunce not to realize that. Nonetheless, Quayle made the comparison, Bentsen recied his prepared bon mot and Quayle was destroyed.
1
One Trump vulnerability amongst many is his vaunting mealymouthed pitch for vets. It's clearly on record that he was a Vietnam war draft dodger, has never risked anything for his country while carrying on a hedonistic privileged lifestyle. The hypocrisy of it all sticks out like the festering sore thumb it is. I really hope Clinton skewers him on this one.
4
Clinton be smart to chuck the briefing books and get a good nights sleep before instead.
3
There's one thing that drives the giant ego we call Trump right off his hinges - an intelligent, patient, thoughtful, woman. It doesn't matter how prepared Donald is, his emotions will take over and he will show his true colors when Mrs. Clinton debates him.
9
Trump is not a very bright man but he's bright enough to know not to debate Hillary Clinton.
She will absolutely slaughter the spouled little rich kid and he knows it which is why he is ducking the devates.
Soft elites like Trump and Bush and Romney always run from a fight...See Vietnam...so a straight up Trump Clinton debate ain't happening.
Little Hands is afraid of a girl.
She will absolutely slaughter the spouled little rich kid and he knows it which is why he is ducking the devates.
Soft elites like Trump and Bush and Romney always run from a fight...See Vietnam...so a straight up Trump Clinton debate ain't happening.
Little Hands is afraid of a girl.
9
Donald Trump, a man with a void in ethics, will grill Mrs. Clinton on her ethics? This must be a joke.
13
You can't be void of ethics if you don't know what ethics are. Its like the difference between immoral and amoral.
Yes, Trump is amoral--Billary falls into the other category.
If the moderators don't ask stupid questions there will be no contest. A debate on issues will reveal with glaring transparency the man's utter ignorance.
7
I'd love to see Gary Johnson included in the debates. He's geeky and awkward, and has a slight speech impediment. He'd lose on style points and zingers to either of the mainstreamers. However, his policies have appeal: small, honest government, no wars, and letting people do what they want with their lives. Why should we choose between two corrupt demagogues?
1
And there is also Dr Jill Stein, who has an equally important message. This is a three-way race: Clinton, Johnson, Stein. The Donald Duck Trumpet and his Pensive Pawn will not be on the ticket......mark my words. Taking bets..........
Have you ever hosted a party of school teachers? I am shocked at the personal secrets of parents, students, and teachers that I hear. Politicians have an even lower standard of secrecy. Need I say more, a politician like Mr. Weiner has obtained access to EVERYTHING that Mrs. Bill Clinton has done for twenty years, will do, and can't do directly from his political spouse/advisor/horse's mouth. This is a grave problem...Mrs. Weiner cannot be fired by Hillary and neither can Mrs. Lynch for that matter. I'm concerned...especially hearing the pleads of privacy made in vain. Please Mr. Weiner let us stay in our delusions a while longer as Hillary tries to run down the clock to Election Day!
Do you really think Trump isn't telling everyone in his family about the secrets he learns in the Presidential briefings? It makes him look big, so of course he tells them.
Let's see. An attorney and former secretary of state VS. an egomaniacal huckster. I know who I'm placing MY money on.
7
Columns like this one are why so many people don't trust Hillary, and are an example of how the Media shapes our politics. The Headline is misleading...the column is about Trump as much as Hillary about their different campaigning styles.
However, back to the tone. This is a subjective evaluation (adjectives and presentation of facts) of the mechanics of preparing for any debate. It should have appeared in the Opinions/Editorial section. I know why photos are used in print newspapers...they either provide a visual adding something to the story, or are placed to draw readers' eyes to the story. I don't think anyone in America does not know what Donald and Hillary look like at this point, and I've gotta say, the photo of Hillary is not very flattering (or "trustworthy").
I keep hoping reporters will dig into the FACTS of this election: Trump's business practices, what the actual details are to back up his claims of how he will make America great, how he plans to implement the outrageous claims he uses to arouse crowds, the extent that he is involved in shell companies and overseas manufacturing and how his kids' operating his "empire" will not compromise his role if he is president. On the Hillary side, instead of headlines suggesting "pay for play" with the Clinton Foundation, how much she is involved in the foundation's operation, what her thrust was in the speeches to Wall Street operators - not focus on Weiner having "access" to top secret documents.
Enough said.
However, back to the tone. This is a subjective evaluation (adjectives and presentation of facts) of the mechanics of preparing for any debate. It should have appeared in the Opinions/Editorial section. I know why photos are used in print newspapers...they either provide a visual adding something to the story, or are placed to draw readers' eyes to the story. I don't think anyone in America does not know what Donald and Hillary look like at this point, and I've gotta say, the photo of Hillary is not very flattering (or "trustworthy").
I keep hoping reporters will dig into the FACTS of this election: Trump's business practices, what the actual details are to back up his claims of how he will make America great, how he plans to implement the outrageous claims he uses to arouse crowds, the extent that he is involved in shell companies and overseas manufacturing and how his kids' operating his "empire" will not compromise his role if he is president. On the Hillary side, instead of headlines suggesting "pay for play" with the Clinton Foundation, how much she is involved in the foundation's operation, what her thrust was in the speeches to Wall Street operators - not focus on Weiner having "access" to top secret documents.
Enough said.
2
Mr. Trump is very smart in playing dumb. Why would you believe whatever his advisors said? It might be a misinformation ploy.
2
Isn't this a sad state of affairs when the so-called leader of the free world might be chosen from the Miss Congeniality winner in a game of shares meets reality show. Personally, I would prefer to watch how they might respond to hypothetical Oval Office dilemmas,
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
4
Comedy Central move over for the Great Non-Debates!....
Moderator: Issue statement...
Hillary: 3 minutes of policy and facts demonstrating an amazing grasp of the subject, its intricacies and proposed solution(s)
Trump" "You know all those facts and figures but they're wrong and you know they're wrong and that's why your solutions never work. They'll never work. I'll provide leadership. When I'm President you'll love the solutions. And everything will work just fine. Win:win.
Hillary: You really don't know what you're talking about do you? You're ignorant of the facts. You didn't even bother to learn the basics. Or maybe you just don't care about facts? Or couldn't focus long enough or remember any? You were asked a serious question and we get self-serving political blather as an answer. Are you going to continue to blather or can we expect some informed observations tonight --if you're even capable of that?
Trump: (the sound of a flatulent implosion and disjointed soundbites...."crooked Hillary", "infidelity", "long fingers", "Ivanka"....)
Comedy Central move over for the Great Non-Debates!....
Moderator: Issue statement...
Hillary: 3 minutes of policy and facts demonstrating an amazing grasp of the subject, its intricacies and proposed solution(s)
Trump" "You know all those facts and figures but they're wrong and you know they're wrong and that's why your solutions never work. They'll never work. I'll provide leadership. When I'm President you'll love the solutions. And everything will work just fine. Win:win.
Hillary: You really don't know what you're talking about do you? You're ignorant of the facts. You didn't even bother to learn the basics. Or maybe you just don't care about facts? Or couldn't focus long enough or remember any? You were asked a serious question and we get self-serving political blather as an answer. Are you going to continue to blather or can we expect some informed observations tonight --if you're even capable of that?
Trump: (the sound of a flatulent implosion and disjointed soundbites...."crooked Hillary", "infidelity", "long fingers", "Ivanka"....)
Comedy Central move over for the Great Non-Debates!....
4
Hillary is to busy to interact with the public or the press because she is too busy memorizing her lines.
How inspiring.
How inspiring.
5
At least she is smart enough to be able to memorize them.
5
She prepares and assumes her enemy is formidable while bringing on a team of experts to search for weaknesses. He says he is perfect already (most of us think the opposite). Who would make the better President?
1
Demonstrating once again that Clinton is a nothing more than a manipulator, personally unethical, as she has always been. A sick woman. Our next president.
5
So preparation, including looking at who your opponent is, is manipulative/unethical.
Okay.
Okay.
3
How exactly is debate prep sick and manipulative?
2
How best to needle Donald Trump? Ask him to tell a joke, while he thinks of one remind us that he is a joke.
10
This is what I fear most..personal attacks from both sides. What we the voters want is hard hitting policy questions which Clinton will answer in a well prepared, detailed,mature manner while Trump sputters about how his plan is great and we'll love it. Then he'll start in on the personal attacks while the moderator implores him to answer the question. Then he'll holler something about it all being rigged,stomp off the stage and never return for another debate.
Keep it classy,Hillary,stay on message, and that will get under his skin more than getting down in the sewer with him where he reigns supreme.
Keep it classy,Hillary,stay on message, and that will get under his skin more than getting down in the sewer with him where he reigns supreme.
13
The debates sadly will be a gladiatorial contest in the virtual Coliseum. Can we all the a Thumbs Up/Thumbs Down app installed in time?
3
Trump boxing Clinton in on ethics... that is a laugh. Trump has zero ethics. Clinton will clobber him. Of course the press including the NY Times plays it differently. They lash Hillary over mole hills to make them seem equivalent to Trumps corrupt mountains. I hate the media.
16
tell her talk to all the contractors and suppliers who have been stiffed by donald.
11
Ms Clinton needs only to conduct herself in a rational, adult manner during the debates to unhinge Trump. He does'nt do well with rational and adult.
36
If she is attacked on the Clinton Foundation, Hillary should respond, "Oh, Mr. Trump. I plead guilty to getting lots of people, including foreigners, to donate money to support services and treatment to half of the adults and three-quarters of the children in the world with AIDS, without ever accepting any money for myself from The Clinton Foundation. That's supposed to be corruption? Will you plead guilty to repeatedly cheating your contractors, excluding people of color from your rental properties, and looting your creditors with repeated bankruptcies while getting rich on failed companies? Will you come clean about still owing millions to Chinese banks and Goldman Sachs? Will you be soft on them the way you have been soft on Russia?"
If he tries to attack her on Bill Clinton's behavior in the 90s, she should say, "Oh, Mr. Trump. I don't think you want to question my marriage to Bill after you have gotten divorced to marry your mistress, not once but twice."
If he tries to attack her on Bill Clinton's behavior in the 90s, she should say, "Oh, Mr. Trump. I don't think you want to question my marriage to Bill after you have gotten divorced to marry your mistress, not once but twice."
58
Hillary should just give Trump a long, penetrating look and then just say: Really,? You're married for the third time. Really?
I think the outcome of debate will depend upon the moderators. A moderator can throw out all preparations made by the candidates by simply asking an unanticipated question. That would be the real test.
Case in point Mr Romney was waiting for a question on Benghazi from the CNN moderator. He got the question but when the moderator cited Mr Obama's prior response to Benghazi Mr Romney was confused and looked unprepared and could not come back. What was supposed to be slam dunk for Mr Romney in fact became a slam dunk for Mr Obama.
Unfortunately based on the prior debates in the Primary process today's moderators feel intimidated by Mr Trump and may not have the guts to follow up and that is what Mr Trump would look for.
In one sense Mr Trump is right, he does not want tp prepare for the debate because he is not sure what will come out of his mouth anyway, preparation or no preparation
Case in point Mr Romney was waiting for a question on Benghazi from the CNN moderator. He got the question but when the moderator cited Mr Obama's prior response to Benghazi Mr Romney was confused and looked unprepared and could not come back. What was supposed to be slam dunk for Mr Romney in fact became a slam dunk for Mr Obama.
Unfortunately based on the prior debates in the Primary process today's moderators feel intimidated by Mr Trump and may not have the guts to follow up and that is what Mr Trump would look for.
In one sense Mr Trump is right, he does not want tp prepare for the debate because he is not sure what will come out of his mouth anyway, preparation or no preparation
4
Nobody, including many who have posited their opinions here (including myself) have NO IDEA what the outcome will be. Trump is a wild card, hence, the futility of trying to predict what he will say or how he will react. In the end, who cares? I suspect most voters have already decided who is less objectionable than the other anyway...
3
Hilary should boycott the debates, and insist that if Republicans provide a credible candidate, she will return to them.
Mike Pence should resign from the campaign, in protest and out of respect to his supposed moral bearings.
Paul Ryan should either resign, or face up to this bully.
3
Think of the TV debates as the "Donald Trump Amateur Hour." These presidential debates are his to lose. Hillary just needs to appear calm, competent, and confident for the job. Trump is none of these things and is nothing but a limelight- seeking lightweight and ill prepared to be the President of the United States.
So given Trump's record of uninformed, insulting, and backfiring statements, give him enough rope, and he is sure to hang himself.
Plus, as the debates unfold, Trump is likely to get more tiresome to listen to, and his total lack of fitness for the job of POTUS increasingly revealed.
So given Trump's record of uninformed, insulting, and backfiring statements, give him enough rope, and he is sure to hang himself.
Plus, as the debates unfold, Trump is likely to get more tiresome to listen to, and his total lack of fitness for the job of POTUS increasingly revealed.
4
The Republican Party has been stuck with a Presidential candidate with so few Presidential qualifications and no grown up or substantive serious policy agendas for the United States Republican's have been reduced to promoting a smoke screen of petty faux scandals and personal attack diversions not worthy of the "Hollywood Reporter" or "National Inquirer". How about talking about national economic policy, national defense policy, foreign policy? Does your candidate have any knowledge of any of those serious subjects, and if he did would any of your new majority that elected him understand them or is America going to become the worlds mindless grade school reality show nation?
5
It's interesting there are always these "insiders" who speak anonymously about the inner workings and plans of a campaign to curry favor with reporters. Unless they're trying to throw a feint, I'm not sure why they think it's a good idea to telegraph to the opposition the campaign inner workings of Mrs Clinton, the candidate they presumably want to win.
2
I have already watched this debate over the past 12 months. Winner by a landslide: Hillary Clinton.
1. Clinton respects the election process. Trump does not. He 'calls it rigged' - sounding awfully like he's in league with Vladamir Putin to attempt to tamper with our democracy and stage a coup for his 'reign,' the word he repeatedly uses to describe his ambition.
2. Clinton bothers to study what doing the job of presidency entails and has for decades. Trump only studies himself and how to attract attention.
3. Trump has resorted to racial divisiveness and hate. Clinton has sent out a message of unity, and even during the most contentious encounters in the primary process maintained civility and comity with others. She can lead. Trump can only bully.
4. Trump has a history of hiring criminal and mob affiliated people intentionally. Again the worst of the worst of values. Clinton has been courted by all sorts, but she has always had the judgement capacity to discern when a backer has bad motives and problems and has backed them off. Trump the opposite, he ''doubles down.''
5. Trump thinks that yelling others are guilty of sins we've heard come out of his own mouth convinces listeners that 'truth doesn't matter.' Clinton is always specific and provides citations in her arguments. It's the difference between the b.s. con artist and the ''A student.''
6. Trump basks in his ignorance. Clinton believes in finding solutions.
1. Clinton respects the election process. Trump does not. He 'calls it rigged' - sounding awfully like he's in league with Vladamir Putin to attempt to tamper with our democracy and stage a coup for his 'reign,' the word he repeatedly uses to describe his ambition.
2. Clinton bothers to study what doing the job of presidency entails and has for decades. Trump only studies himself and how to attract attention.
3. Trump has resorted to racial divisiveness and hate. Clinton has sent out a message of unity, and even during the most contentious encounters in the primary process maintained civility and comity with others. She can lead. Trump can only bully.
4. Trump has a history of hiring criminal and mob affiliated people intentionally. Again the worst of the worst of values. Clinton has been courted by all sorts, but she has always had the judgement capacity to discern when a backer has bad motives and problems and has backed them off. Trump the opposite, he ''doubles down.''
5. Trump thinks that yelling others are guilty of sins we've heard come out of his own mouth convinces listeners that 'truth doesn't matter.' Clinton is always specific and provides citations in her arguments. It's the difference between the b.s. con artist and the ''A student.''
6. Trump basks in his ignorance. Clinton believes in finding solutions.
13
Trump will view this as an opportunity to hold the spotlight for as long as possible. He will behave as deplorably as possible to ensure the audience is fixed on him. As disgusting as he has been to date-we have yet to see the depths he can sink into.
9
Agree - he never disappoints.
Nearly everyone would like to see a debate on substance and the future of this Country. That however would call for grown-ups to be debating this year. Since we are in the mist of the most juvenile campaign in history , we should treat the debate like an unruly teen event. I would suggest that the moderators check the candidates for spitballs, crib notes, and have a firm rule that any undue name calling will immediately result in a time out and the offending candidate facing the corner for one minute.
4
Well, just an observation: Given the grilling by the multitude of hired mouthpieces that Secretary Clinton has had to endure over her 30 plus years on the front lines of the Progressive movement, my guess is is that fragile ego of The Donald will get all that it can handle during the debates...
5
I think her campaign has focused in on his vulnerabilities - net worth, intelligence. In fact one of his more recent tweets insulted her brainpower. He doesn't realize that an confident, intelligent person doesn't really react to this type of insult - he would though. Also, lack of respect antagonizes him - Meghan Kelly's question regarding insulting women. His complaint was that no one else was asked this - he wasn't really bothered by the fact that he insults women. It seemed not to matter to him that no one else insults people the way he does.
Clinton has a calming tone (speech where she talked about his self-proclaimed "very good brain") which is a contrast to when she tries to project her voice. When she uses this tone she is very effective. I don't think it will take much to get him unhinged.
Clinton has a calming tone (speech where she talked about his self-proclaimed "very good brain") which is a contrast to when she tries to project her voice. When she uses this tone she is very effective. I don't think it will take much to get him unhinged.
6
Clinton could abstain from all of the debates and she'd still mop the floor with Don.
Poor GOP. Utterly, finally consumed by that which it has fomented for the last 30 years.
Poor GOP. Utterly, finally consumed by that which it has fomented for the last 30 years.
18
This whole campaign season has devolved to the infotainment level of tweeting and clickbait. While Hillary has gotten off some good zingers (The Art of the Deal ends at Chapter 11...), she can take higher ground and not just be the grownup in the room (boring) but speak for positive, progressive values. Read linguistics/cognitive scientist George Lakoff's analysis of Trump's appeal and how to combat it: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/george-lakoff/understanding-trump_b_111449...
His three suggestions: 1) Give a positive truthful framing to undermine claims to the contrary. Use the facts to support positively-framed truth. Use repetition; 2) start with values, not policies and facts and numbers. Say what you believe, but haven’t been saying. For example, progressive thought is built on empathy, on citizens caring about other citizens and working through our government to provide public resources for all, both businesses and individuals. 3) Keep out of nasty exchanges and attacks. Keep out of shouting matches. One can speak powerfully without shouting. Obama sets the pace: Civility, values, positivity, good humor, and real empathy are powerful. Calmness and empathy in the face of fury are powerful. Bill Clinton won because he oozed empathy, with his voice, his eye contact, and his body. It wasn’t his superb ability as a policy wonk, but the empathy he projected and inspired.
His three suggestions: 1) Give a positive truthful framing to undermine claims to the contrary. Use the facts to support positively-framed truth. Use repetition; 2) start with values, not policies and facts and numbers. Say what you believe, but haven’t been saying. For example, progressive thought is built on empathy, on citizens caring about other citizens and working through our government to provide public resources for all, both businesses and individuals. 3) Keep out of nasty exchanges and attacks. Keep out of shouting matches. One can speak powerfully without shouting. Obama sets the pace: Civility, values, positivity, good humor, and real empathy are powerful. Calmness and empathy in the face of fury are powerful. Bill Clinton won because he oozed empathy, with his voice, his eye contact, and his body. It wasn’t his superb ability as a policy wonk, but the empathy he projected and inspired.
8
Is that what the debates have sunk down to? The art of personal attack rather than substantive issues? Even if Hillary manages to smear or embarrass trump should we really care about such victories? I mean after all, Hillary has skeletons in her closet also and I don't want to watch a street fight, I want to hear what the candidates are going to do. By attacking Trump this way it simply distracts from the real issues and avoids them completely.
6
Most people who describe themselves as "liberal" are actually apolitical. They have no core beliefs or convictions It's simple virtue signaling. They will say the things that sound the most altruistic because they know that is what will receive positive validation. Modern American liberalism is unknowingly professing collectivist principles purely to benefit the ego of the individual. It's remarkable only in its current utter uselessness and potential future danger.
4
I describe myself as liberal, am anything but apolitical, have very definite core beliefs which I am more than willing to defend. One belief I hold at the moment is that your reading of what constitutes a liberal is pure unadulterated rubbish.
10
I wonder if I would be insulted, were I to understand the buzz words in your response? Being nothing but an ignorant and blind liberal, I guess I don't know what "virtue signalling" or "positive validation" might look like. I suppose I'll just have to keep professing my "collectivist principles" to benefit my ego, then.
Good thing my ego is fed by altruism.
Good thing my ego is fed by altruism.
1
Ask for details. Demand specifics. Don't let him off the hook for a second.
Trump has gotten away with weaseling, claiming that "I don't know." Well, Mr. Trump, if you don't know at this point, how can you possibly expect us to vote for you?
And keep demanding the tax returns.
I also suspect that one of his greatest vulnerabilities is about his "manhood" and appearance. Ask him how many pounds overweight he is. Does he get his testosterone from a bottle these days? He simply doesn't understand higher concepts, like integrity, so it's no use trying to attack there.
Trump has gotten away with weaseling, claiming that "I don't know." Well, Mr. Trump, if you don't know at this point, how can you possibly expect us to vote for you?
And keep demanding the tax returns.
I also suspect that one of his greatest vulnerabilities is about his "manhood" and appearance. Ask him how many pounds overweight he is. Does he get his testosterone from a bottle these days? He simply doesn't understand higher concepts, like integrity, so it's no use trying to attack there.
2
Without the presence of the Green and Libertarian Candidates, this is a show, not a debate.
2
Typical of those with Narcissistic Personality Disorder - they think they are the smartest person in the room and everyone else is just a "dummy".
2
His resistance should cause alarm amongst his supporters who are inly there for the "party" yet privately despise him at the helm. Flee, rebuild your party and let it fall o Trump. You have your out, enough is enough. It's time to lose the crazies that have destroyed the Republican Party. It started innocently with Regan using the Religious Right to get votes. But the monster has grown. The party is so far out of touch with Mainstream Americans of both parties. Save the House if you can, forget the Presidency, it's lost. You are in danger of losing both. Democrats should hope for good sense. We need a healthy Republican Party. The lunacy going on harms all of us. It's dangerous stuff. Trump manipulates uninformed people, and the party has been at this game for 30 years now. Outright lies to sway votes through fear, exploiting ignorance. How shameful. How desperate.
4
She can needle Donald Trump because she can't win on the issues. She has pandered and promised too much to too many and is not believable. She also plays identity politics, at a time when many are looking for leadership and uniting of the country. Identity politics, which are naturally divisive, are her only tool at this point.
She can't research her way out of this. And her "smarts" can't help her either. She looks elite because she is, finally, part of the elite. And she's out of touch with many of her voter's issues. And it shows. She holds fundraisers while Louisiana recovers from flooding.
Finally, her judgement is seriously impaired. She knew she would run for the presidency years ago, yet she set up conditions and made bad decisions as Secretary of State, and with her husband in her relationship with the Clinton Foundation during that time.
If Donald Trump stays composed, she will flounder. She is a mess. Her campaign is a mess. And most of it is self-inflicted. She will lose. And deservedly so.
She can't research her way out of this. And her "smarts" can't help her either. She looks elite because she is, finally, part of the elite. And she's out of touch with many of her voter's issues. And it shows. She holds fundraisers while Louisiana recovers from flooding.
Finally, her judgement is seriously impaired. She knew she would run for the presidency years ago, yet she set up conditions and made bad decisions as Secretary of State, and with her husband in her relationship with the Clinton Foundation during that time.
If Donald Trump stays composed, she will flounder. She is a mess. Her campaign is a mess. And most of it is self-inflicted. She will lose. And deservedly so.
7
When did hard work and a life of public service suddenly become a bad thing - a member of the "elite."? Everything this comment says is true of Trump. Ever since he called Hillary a bigot we know that he's finally lost his grip on reality and has become transparently desperate. Louisiana is recovering from flooding not because Donald flew down to distribute Play Dough but because of President Obama's swift federal response. Finally Donald is incapable of composure. Her campaign is a well oiled machine to Donald's band of clueless handlers who cannot reign him in.
4
I would suggest to you that a "life of 'public service'" that magically puts a few hundred million dollars in one's pockets (a) makes one a member of the "elite" and (b) is, yes, at the very least, *looks* very bad and is 99.99% probably bad in actuality. The WaPo just ran a story detailing how, while First Lady of Arkansas, Billary made her first fortune in cattle futures--with money that she didn't actually have.
1
Make no mistake about it. Clinton is going for the Triple Crown. She is combat ready. The Republicans have helped her prepare well.
4
Oh, c'mon! The Republican clown show was not a debate, it was a gang fight, with insults and snipes, but no substance. Donald Trump is such an ignorant dumbbell, that I don't think I'll be able to watch Hillary cut him down. What a fool.
3
What I have noticed in the past is that moderators don't often insist that their questions are answered, much less addressed. The supporters of the candidate who rants his one liners walk away quite satisfied with their candidate's responses. In 2008 Sarah Palin failed to answer any of the questions. She used the talking points that she had used at her rallies. She ended up with favorable reviews of her performance. I would imagine that Trump will do the same.
4
Clinton should live tweet while Donald is talking and then watch him implode-
3
Why does she need needles? My guess is that she can't even mend straight.
5
For years the GOP and their legions of shrill extreme right wing pundits have been waging a veritable war of attrition on the Clintons ... their legacy and their character. It is one of the most ugly persistent prolonged smear campaigns in US political history, and is the only reason Clinton has a high unfavorability rating. They have used every propaganda trick and legislative gimmick deliberately designed to literally destroy her ... code-words, dog whistles. endless congressional investigations and widely publicized kangaroo-court-style hearings, and even pointless impeachment proceedings ... all based on contrived lies and obfuscations ... ultimately going no where. The charges made and the evidence offered up invariably through prolonged 'due process' slowly dissolved into nothing but unfounded scurrilous gossip and innuendos as both the GOP concocted Benghazi and email server episodes so poignantly demonstrate. Yet the GOP drumbeat goes on with the never ending spewing of exaggerated notion's of Hillary Clinton's being "untrustable" (sic) and baseless unfair one sided attacks on her record.
9
Deep breaths, Mrs. Clinton. Shoulders back, head held high. Your debate opposition functions like a school yard bully. Like all bullies, deep insecurity lurks beneath a nasty surface. Regardless of what you say, his retorts will be childish and insulting. Smile and don't take the bait. Real people are counting on you not to allow our country to dissolve into thuggery land. His audience wants a fight. Their reactions have been carefully stoked and their anger and fear are at the ready. Try responding with "AW, gee. That's a mean thing to say….so let's just answer the questions as that's what the people expect of us." He can't answer the questions and that's your strength.
14
No, she just says: wouldn't you rather use your time to answer the questions? Of course, she has to answer the questions herself, rather than following the practice of using the time to expound on a talking point.
Rule number 1, from Confucius in his Art of War: never underestimate your opponent. Do not assume Trump can be thrown "off his game." Assume, instead, that he will act in his normal and customary manner: confident, smiling, blissfully unaware of what he doesn't know, and ready to call names in lieu of substantive responses.
Therefore, focus on your own answers to the questions. As for any needling by Trump, the stock response should be "Perhaps Mr. Trump will enlighten us with an example from his long and distinguished career in public service." Say it at least 5 times, so the audience can start to repeat it.
When Trump talks about jobs, your answer should include his opposition to the auto bailout and 4 bankruptcies. "Talk is cheap" might be a useful refrain here. "Leaving creditors and investors holding the bag" is another. When he turns to foreign policy, remind the audience that Trump has no experience whatsoever, although his fired campaign manager might have some useful insights into Russia, at least.
Most of all, remind viewers that a man who questions the integrity of an American citizen/federal judge because his parents are immigrants, attacks Gold Star families, ridicules decorated prisoners of war, and bans reporters from covering him, is not a man to be trusted with world's largest economy and its largest military force. All Donald knows how to do is to separate people from their money, while hiding his own tax returns.
Therefore, focus on your own answers to the questions. As for any needling by Trump, the stock response should be "Perhaps Mr. Trump will enlighten us with an example from his long and distinguished career in public service." Say it at least 5 times, so the audience can start to repeat it.
When Trump talks about jobs, your answer should include his opposition to the auto bailout and 4 bankruptcies. "Talk is cheap" might be a useful refrain here. "Leaving creditors and investors holding the bag" is another. When he turns to foreign policy, remind the audience that Trump has no experience whatsoever, although his fired campaign manager might have some useful insights into Russia, at least.
Most of all, remind viewers that a man who questions the integrity of an American citizen/federal judge because his parents are immigrants, attacks Gold Star families, ridicules decorated prisoners of war, and bans reporters from covering him, is not a man to be trusted with world's largest economy and its largest military force. All Donald knows how to do is to separate people from their money, while hiding his own tax returns.
10
An interesting observation in this article was Mr. Schwartz's comment that Hillary Clinton can't come off like a "know-it-all". But, isn't that what we should want in a president? Especially as opposed to a "know-nothing".
22
She is studying how to needle him?
Who cares? Ask about his hair....
But thats not what anyone really wants to hear. She has a lot to say about why we should vote for her. The blind faithful really dont have to watch: They will out of some sick sense of enjoyment at watching ...the Manatee...
But for the doubters...worried that she is nothing more than a lying, Wall-Street lackie and war-monger ... see her track record)...
I really hope she is going to do more than try and get under his skin, because Im sure she will do that just by showing up.
Who cares? Ask about his hair....
But thats not what anyone really wants to hear. She has a lot to say about why we should vote for her. The blind faithful really dont have to watch: They will out of some sick sense of enjoyment at watching ...the Manatee...
But for the doubters...worried that she is nothing more than a lying, Wall-Street lackie and war-monger ... see her track record)...
I really hope she is going to do more than try and get under his skin, because Im sure she will do that just by showing up.
6
“Clinton has to be careful — she could get everything right and still potentially lose the debates if she comes off as too condescending, too much of a know-it-all.”
As much as I want to disagree with this statement, in today's America it is very sadly true. That is because we are an overly consumer society wherein many are hooked on celebrity and shallowness (when rock stars get larger and more enthusiastic crowds worldwide than, e.g. Jesus or Buddha). I hope that there are still many of us that wish the "media" officers and workers would look at this (in the mirror). They could actually follow another commentator's sage advice (Robert, Seattle) to really run (at least) Presidential debates more like real debates, schooled by centuries of learning what is needed, what is omitted and judged. This would increase respect for America, and make America great again, much more than what we are presently doing in this election cycle.
We, as a community, are allowing the lowest common denominator to overcome our highest capabilities. Why is the media deciding how debates are conducted? Why is there not a commission that at least has some humble knowledge of what is needed? It already is biased to showmanship and good buddy feelings to a degree that has given us several disastrous Presidencies. "When will we ever learn.?" And, better, do something about it.
As much as I want to disagree with this statement, in today's America it is very sadly true. That is because we are an overly consumer society wherein many are hooked on celebrity and shallowness (when rock stars get larger and more enthusiastic crowds worldwide than, e.g. Jesus or Buddha). I hope that there are still many of us that wish the "media" officers and workers would look at this (in the mirror). They could actually follow another commentator's sage advice (Robert, Seattle) to really run (at least) Presidential debates more like real debates, schooled by centuries of learning what is needed, what is omitted and judged. This would increase respect for America, and make America great again, much more than what we are presently doing in this election cycle.
We, as a community, are allowing the lowest common denominator to overcome our highest capabilities. Why is the media deciding how debates are conducted? Why is there not a commission that at least has some humble knowledge of what is needed? It already is biased to showmanship and good buddy feelings to a degree that has given us several disastrous Presidencies. "When will we ever learn.?" And, better, do something about it.
9
I suspect that even a moderately passable debate performance by Trump will prevent the recent hemorrhaging of his less strident followers. As for his strident followers, he could do anything on stage, including serious criminal acts and they would flock to polls for him.
That group of strident, ardent and to me belligerent Trump supports is why we are all gonna have troubles down the road. He doesn't have to win the presidency; all the angry, perhaps violent gimme gimme Right-wingers have been crawling to the surface since Oklahoma City up to the Malheur Wildlife Refuge Takeover.
In a way, this creep has already won the debate. The debate over whether that group of belligerent, mostly white men right-wingers are going quietly into the night. The answer is not yet.
That group of strident, ardent and to me belligerent Trump supports is why we are all gonna have troubles down the road. He doesn't have to win the presidency; all the angry, perhaps violent gimme gimme Right-wingers have been crawling to the surface since Oklahoma City up to the Malheur Wildlife Refuge Takeover.
In a way, this creep has already won the debate. The debate over whether that group of belligerent, mostly white men right-wingers are going quietly into the night. The answer is not yet.
9
She would be better off doing press conferences as preparation for tough questions. I also don't think she should be giving away that much of her strategy. She can seem too stilted and rehearsed so I hope she is just herself and not too programmed. She does have a sense of humor and should let it loose. By the way, who are the moderators? I haven't seen anything on that yet.
3
Only in America would the news media act like being prepared is bad and being the guy who is fun to have a beer with is the guy to run this country. Bush two should have shown us the problem. Gore really won but the press pushed for Bush. We ended up with an invasion of Iraq and thousands of thousands of people dead and Isis and the biggest mess in the middle east. We have a very prepared President and a showman with no knowledge and one who will say anything without regard of the consequences.
19
And Reagan profited greatly with the inane "There he goes again."
3
Correction: tens to several hundred thousand people dead (why does no one every count the carnage in Iraq??).
On a per capita basis, Iraqis have already lost proportionately more than the U.S. did during WWII.
On a per capita basis, Iraqis have already lost proportionately more than the U.S. did during WWII.
1
I just hope that somewhere in these debates the candidates will spend a little time focusing on the needs of the public.
12
You mean, the candidates should talk about the issues?! What a novel idea! From your mouth to God's ears!
3
I think it could be a good debate if Donald can stay focused on real issues. All he has to ask is - Are the citizens better off now compared to 8 years ago referring to
- Obamacare
- poverty rate
-people on food stamps
-home ownership rate
-Median household income
-employment participation rate
- New college graduate unemployment rates
- Situation in middle east
And then let Hillary explain how continuing Obama's policies would work,
- Obamacare
- poverty rate
-people on food stamps
-home ownership rate
-Median household income
-employment participation rate
- New college graduate unemployment rates
- Situation in middle east
And then let Hillary explain how continuing Obama's policies would work,
10
And let Trump explain how the common.voter will benefit from eliminating the estate tax vs how he will benefit.
4
PJ has the talking points to the dark lining down in what is otherwise quite a turnaround from the Bush era. But I'd be careful if I were PJ as many of those dark clouds were put there by the Republicans refusal to work or by caring for no one but the 1%.
2
It seems rather short-sighted, not to mention naive, to divulge much of a candidate's debate strategy in advance --unless the candidate is providing deliberate misinformation, which is a whole other can of worms. Particularly with an opponent like Trump, saying too much can have unpredictable consequences.
3
Let's call it "The Great Unnerving". Media coverage such as this is the perfect place to start!
2
Hillary is no BILL CLINTON, she is good at what she rehearses for. But come at her with what she doesn't know or want to discuss and she becomes rattled.
I expect to see he whimper and wipe away some tears during the first debate. She will be ill for the second one,
I expect to see he whimper and wipe away some tears during the first debate. She will be ill for the second one,
5
False. I expect her to be like she was at the Benghazi"hearings", cool, calm and collected.
2
liwop, you must not have watched the ten-hour Benghazi hearing. No whimpering, no tears. Just a bunch of partisan witch hunters looking cranky and stupid.
2
In full lemon-sucking mode.
Does anyone else see this "leak" as part of the Clinton strategy to unnerve Trump?
As far as Clinton is concerned, if Trump raises one of her scandals, she should shrug him off with a "I'm not going to engage in that kind of mud slinglng with someone who [list of Trump scandals])." If the moderator asks, Clinton should say "I was wrong, but its a complicated subject, and if you want, I'll be happy to sit down with you for a couple of hours and you can ask me whatever you want"
As far as Clinton is concerned, if Trump raises one of her scandals, she should shrug him off with a "I'm not going to engage in that kind of mud slinglng with someone who [list of Trump scandals])." If the moderator asks, Clinton should say "I was wrong, but its a complicated subject, and if you want, I'll be happy to sit down with you for a couple of hours and you can ask me whatever you want"
2
Alec Baldwin. Perfect choice! He could do a better Trump than Trump himself!
2
Just focus on his "flip-flopping." Trump constantly changes his mind and contradicts himself. Just look at his record. Focus on what he doesn't know - which is virtually everything. And just wait - Trump is such a narcissistic bloviating windbag he'll just dig his own hole. After that, Hillary, bury him!!!
6
Hillary stood up to an 11-hour grilling from the Benghazi committee. She can handle Trump.
20
This is going to glorious to watch because FINALLY we'll see an educated, experienced politician expose Trump his complete and utter dearth of political know-how. She's going to annihilate him and it's a beautiful thing!
We've listened to this sexist blowhard for months and now we'll witness the bully on the playground getting plowed down and exposed. Does anybody think he really stands a chance? This is Hilary's playground, not his...never was. She might as well be debating a child with ADD.
We've listened to this sexist blowhard for months and now we'll witness the bully on the playground getting plowed down and exposed. Does anybody think he really stands a chance? This is Hilary's playground, not his...never was. She might as well be debating a child with ADD.
9
Nobody wants a "experienced" politcian for President, you're out of touch.
2
Dee: I want someone an experienced politician for President. At least someone who knows how many articles there are in the Constitution.
1
Is it just me, or does anyone else think it isn't such a good idea for the Clinton campaign to be publicizing all of this?
9
Don't worry. It's not for real, just a diversion to make Trump think that she's really found out something so devastating that he will have to withdraw his candidacy.
Hillary must hammer home repeatedly the fact that Trump has been the party to over 3,500 lawsuits, the majority of which he is the plaintiff and has sued the very subcontractors to which he now seeks votes from. But most importantly, this should be Hillary's main focus...
"Donald, why are you so AFRAID, and I repeat, AFRAID to release your tax returns. Is it because you are not nearly worth as much as you've claimed? Is it because you paid very little in taxes, using every conceivable loophole and tax avoidance scheme which you have derided this year? Oh, you can claim that you're being audited, but even Warren Buffett and other extremely wealthy persons have said that's just a pathetic excuse as have former IRS officials. Donald, you're just another loud, bombastic bully without a shred of honor. Donald, what are you AFRAID of...? RELEASE you tax returns now!
"Donald, why are you so AFRAID, and I repeat, AFRAID to release your tax returns. Is it because you are not nearly worth as much as you've claimed? Is it because you paid very little in taxes, using every conceivable loophole and tax avoidance scheme which you have derided this year? Oh, you can claim that you're being audited, but even Warren Buffett and other extremely wealthy persons have said that's just a pathetic excuse as have former IRS officials. Donald, you're just another loud, bombastic bully without a shred of honor. Donald, what are you AFRAID of...? RELEASE you tax returns now!
8
I wouldn't approach it in that manner. I'ad ask questions: Why have you been involved in 3500 lawsuits? If I were to say anything about tax returns it might be: are you afraid to release your tax returns because you might have legally been able to pay no taxes, unlike the rest of us? And only if the moderator asks questions. Let Trump self-destruct without goading by Hillary.
Hillary, please, do not needle him. Use him to get at republicans who will be washed up on shore after Trump election disaster. Don't point fingers at The Don, he's done. AGREE WITH TRUMP and simply bring up everything he has complained about republicans since the beginning of his campaign. Be nice to him, there is no reason to try to beat up on this little Tammany brat.
4
I'm amazed at articles like this, why would you reveal your strategies to the other side? The Bush 2004 campaign said they read in the newspapers what the next Kerry attacks would focus on, and prepared for them. Now Trump knows what he's up against and has time to plan how to respond.
4
He's had plenty of time, but, as the article points out, he's not interested in planning. His ghostwriter said his attention span is short (like his fingers).
He believes "you can prep too much for these things."
He believes "you can prep too much for these things."
2
Why doesn't this article mention when the debate(s) are to take place?
5
I cannot wait until September 26 to see Hillary call out, "Don the Con"! Don the Con forgot the first rule of conning; do NOT try to con someone who is 50 times more smarter than you. After the first debate debacle, Don the Con will try to get out the remaining 2 debates!
7
Clinton won't get 'rattled'. She will remain utterly humorless and uninspiring. Trump, as ever, will polarize: those who like him will like him more and those...well you get the point.
In the end, Clinton will 'win' by a mudslide.
In the end, Clinton will 'win' by a mudslide.
2
Today from other news sources. There is news about the Governor or Maine. There is news from NASA about the climate. There is news from the Department of Justice. What do we get on Times page one? Old stories, or more "background" about the election (Hilary's debate prep). The Apple tax story appears in two links. What's up with that? Is the Times cutting staff? Is this a business strategy? Do you still report current news?
6
Utterly stupid people keep making the same mistakes over and over. Mr Trump is one of those. Good luck versus Hillary smart guy.
4
Funny, that is EXACTLY the strategy I had hoped Sec. Clinton would take in the debates. Bait Trump, get him to lose his temper, infuriate him into rants, and stay relentless.
Know the policy--but remember it's the parsley, it's just decoration. She has to make Trump show that he'll be a crazy man with his finger on the button, as crazy as the loony psychopathic dictators he praises and admires.
And, if she infuriates him enough to physically attack her, then it's all over.
Know the policy--but remember it's the parsley, it's just decoration. She has to make Trump show that he'll be a crazy man with his finger on the button, as crazy as the loony psychopathic dictators he praises and admires.
And, if she infuriates him enough to physically attack her, then it's all over.
4
Hilary Clinton needs to 'let Donald be Donald. She needs to get out of the way and let that vile creature expose himself on national television.
Having an intelligent woman who doesn't need a single thing from him will terrify Donald Trump. When Donald's scared he gets ugly.
Fans of Donald Trump and people who hate Hilary Clinton will love his 'zingers' and his face-making. But people who love America and are concerned about their children's future will be sick with shame and grief at what America has come to.
Having an intelligent woman who doesn't need a single thing from him will terrify Donald Trump. When Donald's scared he gets ugly.
Fans of Donald Trump and people who hate Hilary Clinton will love his 'zingers' and his face-making. But people who love America and are concerned about their children's future will be sick with shame and grief at what America has come to.
8
Hillary is toast - because Donald Trump "has a very good brain" and has "said lots of things."
3
And he has the best words. Some even have more than one syllable.
Most lies.
Trump's speeches are great but he has no clue how to make it reality. Visionary with out a clue about inception, follow through or cost. A world with out Illegals, Muslims, gun violence, unemployment, pregnancies, debt and curing the white angree syndrome. What the cure Trump? How much costs? It's the same as his hotels being built with 14% loans. Every one in the world saw the mistake but Trump. Dreams with out real solutions and numbers that work. Unpresidential
Trump's speeches are great but he has no clue how to make it reality. Visionary with out a clue about inception, follow through or cost. A world with out Illegals, Muslims, gun violence, unemployment, pregnancies, debt and curing the white angree syndrome. What the cure Trump? How much costs? It's the same as his hotels being built with 14% loans. Every one in the world saw the mistake but Trump. Dreams with out real solutions and numbers that work. Unpresidential
Experience is the name everyone gives to their mistakes. Trump has no experience in government, zero (0), nothing. His mistakes as president would be at the experience of the American people.
Can the economy withstand Trump's mistakes? Can our security withstand Trump's mistakes? Can our sanity withstand Trump's mistakes?
The only thing we have to fear is ... Donald Trump's mistakes!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Can the economy withstand Trump's mistakes? Can our security withstand Trump's mistakes? Can our sanity withstand Trump's mistakes?
The only thing we have to fear is ... Donald Trump's mistakes!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
8
Use the word softening early and often. It seems to trigger a visceral reaction from him.
8
"...reflects his belief that the debates will be won or lost not on policy points and mastery of details, which are Mrs. Clinton’s strengths, but on the authenticity, boldness and leadership that the nominees demonstrate onstage." Sad that Trump is probably right. Americans, with their poor level of education and attention span of gnats aren't interested in hearing issues.
4
The interesting question is how you debate someone who simply makes up everything he says. Will the moderators indulge him? Will it be something like: "Mr. Trump says the world is actually flat - what say you Mrs. Clinton? Can you prove its not?"
How does she responded to breathtaking madness?
How does she responded to breathtaking madness?
5
Mrs. Clinton is not a warrior and should not try to be. Methodical will do just fine for her. Exploring Trump's deepest insecurities and trying to crush him is way out of character. She won't win the debates by trying to be someone new. When you're way ahead in the polls, a decent showing is fine. Why risk disaster.?
2
Relax he will fold like a cheap suit when you ask him to measure his tiny fingers.
5
the tapes of Hillary dropping f-bombs and glimpses of radically crass behavior and treatment of exec support should provide all the personal insight the electorate will need to help make a decision... coupled with outright lies and a public service record of shamble as underpinning... Mrs Clinton's true colors will show thru day by day .. the more she stays in view -- the clearer the image shall become.. hers is not the voice America needs to have fall on their ears
3
Not for nothing, as they say in Brooklyn, BUT why advertise your plan for a debate? The idea of digging up dirt on The Trumpster and then unloading it would would be to leave him speechless, we can only hope. Advertising this digging would only encourage his side to do the same. Understand there won't be any Truth-o-Meter to sound buzzers....On second thought, Cream Pies could be at the ready. How appropriate for this campaign.
1
I hope Hillary prevails. These debates may be critical. Will Donald strike below the belt, i.e. Huma Abedin?
5
This debate will embarrass America even further. But perhaps it will be part of the catharsis required to cleanse us of this little bug called Trump.
My advice would be for HRC to keep focusing on his failures on a business level and avoid the personal such as the attempted rape charges and his history of sexism. It should be easy to crush his reputation as a "great businessman". And the failure to release his taxes....oh, such an opportunity. "Why Mr. Trump, are you the only presidential candidate in modern history who refused to release your tax returns? What are you hiding? Perhaps you have not paid enough in taxes? Are you, perhaps, not as rich as you claim? If you are being audited, what are they looking for that you are terrified of sharing?"
My advice would be for HRC to keep focusing on his failures on a business level and avoid the personal such as the attempted rape charges and his history of sexism. It should be easy to crush his reputation as a "great businessman". And the failure to release his taxes....oh, such an opportunity. "Why Mr. Trump, are you the only presidential candidate in modern history who refused to release your tax returns? What are you hiding? Perhaps you have not paid enough in taxes? Are you, perhaps, not as rich as you claim? If you are being audited, what are they looking for that you are terrified of sharing?"
3
Dear Hillary Clinton,
Just be yourself: The informed, knowledgeable, and caring adult. And don't react to the inevitable bait from the least qualified candidate ever to be nominated by a major party. By any objective standard, you will win the debates.
Just be yourself: The informed, knowledgeable, and caring adult. And don't react to the inevitable bait from the least qualified candidate ever to be nominated by a major party. By any objective standard, you will win the debates.
12
Several comments were made wondering why "insiders" from both sides were freely sharing strategies. The simple answer is that Trump doesn't read the NYT, and that he won't listen to his people that do.
5
Is it national elocution competition who is the best at public speaking and who beat whom with their speeches ? If this is the scenario of debate of presidential candidate of USA ,It seems the election are more like the 3rd world developing nation where leader fights only for their benefits but not for the people of the nation.The constitution of USA says "We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America." The presidential debate should be the agenda of policies let the people of USA know who is giving the best policies in terms of economy and the social welfare of ALL THE PEOPLE of USA. Presidential debate must give the prospective future landscape of USA.This debate in not between MRS.Clinton and Mr.Trump .It is between people of USA vs USA concerning the public assistance , prosperity, success of people of USA with regard to strategical approach and plans to satisfy and promise the people of USA.
3
Interesting strategy: candidate Clinton will try to rattle candidate Trump. We'll see how that works. If she takes this approach, her dirty laundry list is so long that it might actually work: Trump may in fact confuse her scandals and show that he is not as clear headed on his feet as he claims to be. Trump should hammer Clinton on these points: she is crooked, she is not honest, she is not transparent; her state department created the mess in the Middle east; she supports Iran's development of nuclear weaponry; her strategy to win is to divide the country. Trump is far from a perfect candidate and indeed does make voting for him difficult to choose. It is quite possible that a President Clinton will undergo impeachment proceedings as more and more documents get discovered. What a choice we have!
3
The establishment on both sides is coming out hard against the Donald. If you expect a fairly moderated debate, forget it. It will likely be a HRC fix from the moderator to the commentators masked as journalists. The stories and talking points are probably already being drafted at the Hillary Clinton Times. Heck, they've been working on them for the last year: racist; bigot, Nazi, sexist. Always division through race, religion, gender, and class. Always identity politics.
A bit off topic: If we don't start working together we are doomed. If anyone is paying attention to the latest in the Obamacare drama, and the general health of our economy, we need to listen to one another and learn to live in a truth based world. We need to work together if we expect to share one country.
A bit off topic: If we don't start working together we are doomed. If anyone is paying attention to the latest in the Obamacare drama, and the general health of our economy, we need to listen to one another and learn to live in a truth based world. We need to work together if we expect to share one country.
4
DecliningSociety - This is really funny. Trump is the one who is forever targeting people based on race, sex etc.
2
Globalism or Nationalism.
Both representatives are flawed.
Both representatives are flawed.
2
Trump downs mock debate with Laura Ingrham playing Hillary. He can't even tolerate criticism from his own people in a hypothetical setting. It's over, Donnie.
3
Trump is going to win the debates and the election and will clean up America for the best. Pray that all of Hillary's horrific crimes be exposed and she be properly prosecuted.
(Oh you have to read my comment first? I guess you won't publish this truth but oh well at least you know what the future will be. Thanks.)
(Oh you have to read my comment first? I guess you won't publish this truth but oh well at least you know what the future will be. Thanks.)
2
Whomever moderates the debate has their work cut out for them in avoiding the fate of the Republican primary debates....descending into a mean spirited and uninformative spectacle.
2
Uh huh. Were I advising Mrs. Clinton, I would be concerned about her ability to respond to unscripted questions. Is it a year yet since her last press conference?
2
NPR had a story on this. She's done about 300 interviews and public appearances. She has answered plenty of questions.
4
I hope Hillary takes the advice of our brilliant First Lady. "When they go low, we go high."
5
As SoS and having all access pass, who paid for Hillary's dirt digging research? Secret clearance and political ties - IRS (Lerner) = political financial arm of the Oval office; FBI (Comey) = political investigative arm of the Oval office; DOJ (Lynch) = political prosecutorial arm of the Oval office; all dancing to the tune of FBR or be foreclosed on (remember Geitner).
3
Imagine… a little quid pro quo, and favoritism by the former Secretary of State and foreign donors exceeding $240 million dollars to the Clinton Foundation. You have to shake your head wondering when a fair and balanced oversight committee might investigate the sorted actions of the Clintons and their ilk. Or when a special investigator might be appointed to study the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act as a mechanism to harness the lies and corrupt practices of Bill and Hillary.
Imagine… we’re all waiting the next email footfall of the Clintons’ via Julian Asssanges’ Wikileaks latest fashion show of legible emails as opposed to the deleted email faux we get from the F.B.I. I don’t know about you, but it all seems so deceptive; I could be wrong, but it seems our political gamesters are busy protecting one another, in lieu of We the People and or this Nation. Has anyone given any thoughts to term limits, impeachment or imprisonment!
Imagine… we’re all waiting the next email footfall of the Clintons’ via Julian Asssanges’ Wikileaks latest fashion show of legible emails as opposed to the deleted email faux we get from the F.B.I. I don’t know about you, but it all seems so deceptive; I could be wrong, but it seems our political gamesters are busy protecting one another, in lieu of We the People and or this Nation. Has anyone given any thoughts to term limits, impeachment or imprisonment!
4
It is a bit disturbing to read this. A debate shouldn't be about riling up and ruffling your opponent, it should be about presenting your vision to the audience - and therefor your future employer.
Imagine you'd be in a job interview and only talk about how bad all the other applicants are, not providing any credentials (tax returns, medical records...) and then threaten the potential employer with burning down the company if you don't get hired. Hyperbole? Not really...
Imagine you'd be in a job interview and only talk about how bad all the other applicants are, not providing any credentials (tax returns, medical records...) and then threaten the potential employer with burning down the company if you don't get hired. Hyperbole? Not really...
140
A debate is as much about showing the audience the personality and competence of your opponent as it is about showing them your strengths. It is perfectly acceptable to show the world that Trump can be manipulated and baited at will and is therefore unfit for the Presidency.
1
Well tax returns are not credentials, and Obama could order the audit to be canceled if he wants to see those records.
Yes, well ... a presidential candidate "should be" someone with gravitas, intelligence, the ability to weigh information and exercise good judgment, and both the will and ability to lead a nation with . And one of these two candidates has none of these qualities. So it seems the rules of presidential elections, including what a debate "should be" about, are kind of out the window this year.
1
I dont get it. Shouldn't the Clinton campaign keep their debating strategy secret? I mean, if your opponent knows what your strategy is, than he can counter it effectively. This is so stupid.
1
If Trump goes through without doing any debate prep he is bathing in gasoline and will show up to the debate and hand Hillary a match.
2
I supported Bernie, but support Hillary now. I agree with Sarah Silverman, that Bernie supporters are being ridiculous.
Check out Hillary's website for her platforn.
Check out Hillary's website for her platforn.
2
Make an issue about Trump's love for Putin and Russia. Talk about his flip-flops on undocumented immigrants. Ask him why is it important to him to talk about his hands. Bring up the fight with Khan family. Trump has built enough pitfalls for himself to be in a cage.
5
Uh, she's the one that happily sold off a yuge chunk of the U.S. uranium reserves to a Russian client state. But don't let the facts get in the way of your comforting narrative.
I'm hoping for pauses as the moderator and HRC wait for Trump to actually answer a question. He can't handle criticism; how does he do with silence?
5
Is anyone shocked that Trump's preparation for the debates is so lacking? It shows that he will not do "the homework" that the job requires. President Obama spends most night reading and studying briefings. Trump has already indicated that he prefers verbal updates.
In other words, he is lazy. Not the kind of person who should be leading our country.
In other words, he is lazy. Not the kind of person who should be leading our country.
9
Hillary will lie like a rug, and after the lying and playing the victim to this chauvinistic, bigoted man, she will cry like the weak pathetic self serving she is.
Be prepared, the writing is on the wall.
Be prepared, the writing is on the wall.
1
You must have missed her appearance at the Benghazi hearing.
3
Predictions are always risky, but if Donald is being coached by Ailes, expect a rerun of Fox "news", featuring Whitewater, Vince Foster, Benghazi!, Monica Lewinsky, Obama is really a Kenyan commie, and Hillary's emails. Not a word about where the US is going, why the infrastructure is lousy, not "Make America great again" or the other nonsensical "Donald themes". But the debates will be as exciting as "Apprentice" shows.
4
The bar is so low for Trump that if he just shows up and keeps his mouth shut he'll exceed expectations.
4
I object strongly to the term "needle"Is it possible for your writers to use neutral words about Hilary Clinton? What about "rattle" or "disconcert"or "confuse" or"surprise" etc. It sickens me day after day to wade through the code words.
3
To effectively debate Trump, Hillary Clinton must be able to see the world from the perspective of a psychopath. This is extraordinarily difficult to do. A psychopathic mind is free from the barriers of morality and ethics that unconsciously condition and constrain our behavior. Debating a pathological narcissist is like playing a game where the rules only apply to one of the two players. Hillary Clinton faces a much larger obstacle than she or her advisers are able to grasp.
7
Agreed on substance, and no offense meant on this wonky point. But technically Trump is a sociopath, not a psychopath. (That's armchair diagnosis by a non-professional, to be sure.) The two terms are often used interchangeably, but they don't refer to exactly the same psychology.
Not for her. Takes one to know one.
Hillary and/or her advisers should a book called The Sociopath Next Door. It would give her some insight in how to respond in a way that makes him self-destruct without appearing to have been attacked. Pure logic won't do the trick
I wished the NYT would pose a question for the readers to respond to - who will play Clinton or Trump in debate prep? I'm trying to figure this out myself, a bit of levity in an otherwise nasty and dead serious campaign.
I think of John Kerry playing Mitt Romney for Obama's debate prep and that makes sense - a 'patrician' demeanor with the same 'arrogance.' Nice choice.
For Trump, Carly Fiorina whose physical appearance and yammering drive him nuts (he need to learn how to keep his cool).
For Clinton, oddly enough I'd say someone like Barney Frank, who is quick, sharp and can be devastatingly insulting.
But there have got to be better choices than these two hypothetical ones. For now, we can only speculate!
I think of John Kerry playing Mitt Romney for Obama's debate prep and that makes sense - a 'patrician' demeanor with the same 'arrogance.' Nice choice.
For Trump, Carly Fiorina whose physical appearance and yammering drive him nuts (he need to learn how to keep his cool).
For Clinton, oddly enough I'd say someone like Barney Frank, who is quick, sharp and can be devastatingly insulting.
But there have got to be better choices than these two hypothetical ones. For now, we can only speculate!
Good idea about Barney Frank. He could play Trump perfectly, ask the most insulting questions, and still drop the act after the rehearsals.
2
Hillary just needs to watch Obama's blistering take-down of Donald at the Correspondents Dinner about 50 times - which some say humiliated him so deeply he ran for president to get his revenge.
4
Let's imagine Trump and his team take a group field trip to a quarry, and have all the rocks removed from their heads, even if this is possible.
HRC still eats their lunch and cleans their clocks.
The truth is his fringe core of 33% or so, will still vote for him.
So what's new Darwin?
HRC still eats their lunch and cleans their clocks.
The truth is his fringe core of 33% or so, will still vote for him.
So what's new Darwin?
3
Robert,
You ask, "So what's new Darwin?" The real question is whether Hillary will show up if Trump refuses to comply with her standard requirement of a donation to the Clinton Foundation as the "key" to a meeting...
You ask, "So what's new Darwin?" The real question is whether Hillary will show up if Trump refuses to comply with her standard requirement of a donation to the Clinton Foundation as the "key" to a meeting...
2
Hillary needs to wear a color that does not make her look "tough" because that is exactly how DT would like her to appear. She needs to bear in mind that in spite of all the people DT steps on and insults he isn't any taller and still takes his pants off one leg at a time.
I say in all seriousness that I would not engage him in a debate. He cares nothing about the facts of an issue. He only wants to "shock" his brain-dead followers and having a serious conversation with him is absolutely impossible There is NO CHOICE between the 2 Anyone that would for one iota of a second contemplate voting for that filth isn't going to care about genuine issues and solutions. I honestly think that since the GOP have chosen to nominate a man with zero integrity and decency that pretending it's "business as usual" and debate him.......? Absolutely not. It's an insult to Clinton and her followers of which I am a proud one.
8
You know, much as I am looking forward to the theater of the absurd, I have to agree with this. Trump isn't fit to lick her shoes, let alone debate HRC. It's rather beneath her to even share a stage with such a bombastic, ill-informed, anti-intellectual buffoon.
7
I cannot understand what the Clinton campaign is thinking when they share this "preparation" story with the media. I will vote for Hillary, but I consider this another of her blunders. This is just TMI.
2
Mr. Trump might hand over his tax returns and show us what he's got "down there" all in the first half hour. Mrs. Clinton should be prepared to see just about anything on that stage.
4
Here's a novel idea. Debate the issues and avoid the psycho mumbo jumbo from the so called psychological experts.
3
Perhaps Ms Clinton's focus on Trump, rather than pushing what she will do for the country, exposes just how inept she really is. Picking on Trump is low hanging fruit. He is an idiot. But it sounds like she is doing her best to confirm she is one too.
2
America you know large segments of your population is racist when this birther racist is the Republican nominee. If he can have freedom of speech to spew his garbage, Kapernick has every right to protest folks and a system like this by not standing for the national anthem. Dont tell me about other countries. I have plenty of passport stamps. Also I am Seneca Indian and Black. So the racist on here can self deport.
4
I really want Hillary to respond to Trump's inanity with the blank stare and the slow blink, a la Jon Stewart. Trump looks the most ridiculous when people treat what he says as too absurd to warrant a response and just let him hang himself.
5
Regardless of anyone's political persuasion it will be the highest rated debate in history.
I watched the Republican 'debates' as comedic theater but only hope the Presidential debates can be about the issues. We need to get beyond platitudes like "Make American Great Again" and hear about actual plans.
All parties agree that we need to rebuild and modernize our infrastructure but it's going to be an expensive investment. Have you put your money where your mouth is, Mr. Trump? Let's see those tax returns!
All parties agree that we need to rebuild and modernize our infrastructure but it's going to be an expensive investment. Have you put your money where your mouth is, Mr. Trump? Let's see those tax returns!
5
All the moderator has to do is ask ask each candidate to name a state capital - any state capital.
Trump will dumbfounded.
Trump will dumbfounded.
7
Hillary's advisors are trying to figure out how to make Trump stumble? I'll save them days of preparation. Just ask him a simple policy question, any one at random. Give him about 2 minutes to answer. Then let Ms. Clinton pick apart his answer just from her knowledge of the topic. She has forgotten more about policy, foreign and domestic, than Trump has learned in a lifetime.
2
Mr Trump will do much better if he wings it. I wouldn't want it any other way.
1
One of the most important things to remember is never to let a lie go by without pointing it out as a lie. One of the reasons, in my opinion, that Obama lost one of his debates with Romney was because he appeared a little listless and let Romney spew some lies without countering them vigorously.
Donald is going to say a lot of lies. Never let a lie go buy without countering it with facts.
Donald is going to say a lot of lies. Never let a lie go buy without countering it with facts.
5
An important part of campaigning on the part of any Democrat has to be the ability to respond and respond forcefully to the low blow, because that is the only way republicans can win. They are dirty and they are stupid. We saw this with Mr. Kahn, he alone took down Donald Trump.
How did he do it? He was the Mahatma Ghandi attack dog. To be pristine and above it all at the same time that you are trying to eviscerate your adversary is not an easy thing to do.
His soul was clean, and that is why is was able to level such a forceful blow.
Now in Hillary's case, she must be aware of her moral virtue and her moral force. She is on a crusade to save America. And she must bring down the great Satan Donald Trump. That's what she must convey.
How did he do it? He was the Mahatma Ghandi attack dog. To be pristine and above it all at the same time that you are trying to eviscerate your adversary is not an easy thing to do.
His soul was clean, and that is why is was able to level such a forceful blow.
Now in Hillary's case, she must be aware of her moral virtue and her moral force. She is on a crusade to save America. And she must bring down the great Satan Donald Trump. That's what she must convey.
4
She needs voice training so that claxxon alarm horn of hers doesn't make devout progressive True Believers change the channel.
She is morel likely to ditch this first debate than Trump is to not want the office of President. The more people who vote without her facing a REAL question about her criminal activity scrounging for millions, the better for her.
The media - even a hundred Candy Crowells - can't save her if Trump does ANY part of what he can do with truth. Hillary is the most corrupt person to ever run for the Presidency.
She is morel likely to ditch this first debate than Trump is to not want the office of President. The more people who vote without her facing a REAL question about her criminal activity scrounging for millions, the better for her.
The media - even a hundred Candy Crowells - can't save her if Trump does ANY part of what he can do with truth. Hillary is the most corrupt person to ever run for the Presidency.
2
What Mrs. Clinton says about Mr. Trump is mostly true.
What Mr. Trump says about Mrs. Clinton is mostly true.
The only way to have a real debate is to have Gary Johnson on the stage with tweedle dee and tweedle dum.
What Mr. Trump says about Mrs. Clinton is mostly true.
The only way to have a real debate is to have Gary Johnson on the stage with tweedle dee and tweedle dum.
1
The sword has two edges. Live by it, die by it.
If the Progressive Media would drill down just one of Hillary's scandals like they do Trump 24/7, she'd be in prison within a week.
3
Hillary will sling a lot of mud, but she cannot defend against the fact that she is a lying criminal. Why people would consider voting for her is a mystery to me.
1
I assume this is no surprise to Trump, but still, why give him such a specific heads-up?
2
I fully expect Trump to say something like 'give me your best shot Hillary!' and then wait until she is speechless. At that point he will try and take her down point by point on her many faux scandals.
If Hillary gets sucked into such a tit-for-tat she will lose.
She needs to stay cool, and tell the joke about why it isn't good to wrestle with pigs: you'll get dirty, and the pigs like it.
If Hillary gets sucked into such a tit-for-tat she will lose.
She needs to stay cool, and tell the joke about why it isn't good to wrestle with pigs: you'll get dirty, and the pigs like it.
3
By now most people should have realized that Trump doesn't really want to become the president - it's a tough job, and he'd have to work! n all that.
2
Trump is a comedic genius. No matter how much thinking and analyzing the Dems will do, he will remain steps ahead of them. He sees the large picture, she is buried in details. She doesn't stand a chance.
2
Preparation is important . For example, like when you are across the table from Putin negotiating a nuclear weapons agreement. I would be uncomfortable with any candidate who doesn't prepare for a big event.
1
Interesting headline and revealing of the current Clinton campaign. Not "question Trump's positions", "reach out beyond her base to broaden her appeal", "outline her vision for moving the country forward", "make her case to Trump supporters"... Just more of the same. Needle the guy to death with innuendo and staged revulsion.
2
Hillary Clinton piles up research in bid to needle Donald Trump at first debate. Not much research is needed to (Nail Donald).
His life is an open book, just follow the tweets. On the other hand why clue him? Telling a slippery opponent what to expect
Is like having the fox guard the hen house.
His life is an open book, just follow the tweets. On the other hand why clue him? Telling a slippery opponent what to expect
Is like having the fox guard the hen house.
2
Having sat in a lot of meetings where some people are not prepared, don't know what is going on, and believe that they can just wing it, I treasure Clinton's prep work. That is how you get anything/everything done.
PS. How did we get to the point that we have to state, in print, that we have a candidate "who is deeply rooted in the fact-based world,”?
PS. How did we get to the point that we have to state, in print, that we have a candidate "who is deeply rooted in the fact-based world,”?
5
Alas, I feel the debates ( as well as the campaigns) have become the gladiator spectacles of the 21st century. A fight to the death. Thumbs up or thumbs down. The media, which used to provide serious journalism now dispenses to the masses "Bread and Circuses" Are the Barbarians at the gate? and is the the Fall of the Empire?
4
What does it say about her, that after nearly a billion spent on her behalf on ads etc., the polls are still close against the worst candidate in history, and she still has to study with 'experts'?
The only thing this election has evoked in voters is utter disgust. A clown running against the most corrupt, secretive sellout.
The only thing this election has evoked in voters is utter disgust. A clown running against the most corrupt, secretive sellout.
1
Amazing. All that work on the debates, but not to enlighten the citizenry. Instead the goal is to stick an ice pick in the other debater's head.
1
Because that's so mature of her.
I see more bashing of Trump than what Clinton is about.
People are so blind.
I see more bashing of Trump than what Clinton is about.
People are so blind.
2
"When you ain't go nothing - you've got nothing to lose"
Assuming Trump actually shows up -
Be prepared for him to be extraordinarily nasty.
Assume there is no depth of rudeness, act of incivility, nor shockingly inappropriate comment or name calling epithet that he won't use.
As he is attacked like all Bullies he will attempt to lash out likely at the weakest person on the stage which is very unlikely to be Sec. Clinton. Think Megan Kelley here.
i.e. The Donald can make an outrage comment or use any word he feels he has to and the person there on the stage is not free to tell him what they'd really like to...
Trump knows this and he further knows that good TV is not some wonky policy debate thus the reason (one of many) he will not prepare for as a "normal" candidate would.
He will swing wildly and uncontrollably from the start.
Hoping to land one hay-maker out of 50 thrown 48 of which are offensive to any ones ears and one of which is likely to be truly outrageously offensive to women, minorities, Muslims, Jews, Gold Star Familys etc etc.
The counter to him is to stick with a condescending almost mocking tone and attitude towards him. Don't let your anger go.
Wait for it...
When the super outrageous comment comes and it will.
Sec Clinton should ask if they can go to commercial because she needs to tell that ignorant S.O.B. something that children shouldn't hear... She wins by 7-8 pts going away.
Assuming Trump actually shows up -
Be prepared for him to be extraordinarily nasty.
Assume there is no depth of rudeness, act of incivility, nor shockingly inappropriate comment or name calling epithet that he won't use.
As he is attacked like all Bullies he will attempt to lash out likely at the weakest person on the stage which is very unlikely to be Sec. Clinton. Think Megan Kelley here.
i.e. The Donald can make an outrage comment or use any word he feels he has to and the person there on the stage is not free to tell him what they'd really like to...
Trump knows this and he further knows that good TV is not some wonky policy debate thus the reason (one of many) he will not prepare for as a "normal" candidate would.
He will swing wildly and uncontrollably from the start.
Hoping to land one hay-maker out of 50 thrown 48 of which are offensive to any ones ears and one of which is likely to be truly outrageously offensive to women, minorities, Muslims, Jews, Gold Star Familys etc etc.
The counter to him is to stick with a condescending almost mocking tone and attitude towards him. Don't let your anger go.
Wait for it...
When the super outrageous comment comes and it will.
Sec Clinton should ask if they can go to commercial because she needs to tell that ignorant S.O.B. something that children shouldn't hear... She wins by 7-8 pts going away.
The biggest mistake Clinton is making is to worry about Trump. Don't bother countering or refuting him. Don't try to ruffle him. Just talk issues and policy and let the people decide the rest. Trying to whack Trump makes her look petty and desperate,
2
“Trump will bring nothing but his bluster to the debates. He’ll use sixth-grade language, he will repeat himself many times, he won’t complete sentences, and he won’t say anything of substance.”
That is why people vote for him. He says nothing, but his broken sentences make memory joggers that stick.
Watch out.
That is why people vote for him. He says nothing, but his broken sentences make memory joggers that stick.
Watch out.
1
I've got a good starting question for her to ask: What would you call someone who is so degraded and rotten to the soul that they would openly mock and disparage, with both verbal abuse and a physical demonstration, a person who has a physical disability?
1
The ongoing attempt to separate policy from character is a false lead; in the case of both candidates, character and policy are inextricably linked.
Clinton's aura of well prepared and "safe" are part and parcel of her core persona, and are directly connected to her various policy positions over the years and cover everything from insider trading, private email servers, and waffling on same sex marriage and crime policy, to her support for the financial and military elite and their proposals. She plays things safe, to a fault. This is both an asset and a liability.
Trump is the opposite. Nearly all instinct and unchecked id, he distrusts others, eschews preparation, and adapts in the moment. This too is a strength and an asset, which leads him to reject what the military, financial, political and media elite have been telling all of us, to distrust parties like the Chinese, Islamists, and those who advocate for undocumented immigrants, and to often speak or tweet before thinking.
So if both choose to stick to the personal in the debates, I really don't think we'll suffer for it. The risk to Clinton is that Trump will turn some of his more outrageous id moves into rope-a-dope moments; so his selection of Ailes and Bannon (potential misogynists), will bait Clinton into inviting an attack on her and Bill's own record of hurting women, and Trump's attack on Khan will open the door to examining the war that lead to his son's death.
This is an id vs. ego election. Crazy.
Clinton's aura of well prepared and "safe" are part and parcel of her core persona, and are directly connected to her various policy positions over the years and cover everything from insider trading, private email servers, and waffling on same sex marriage and crime policy, to her support for the financial and military elite and their proposals. She plays things safe, to a fault. This is both an asset and a liability.
Trump is the opposite. Nearly all instinct and unchecked id, he distrusts others, eschews preparation, and adapts in the moment. This too is a strength and an asset, which leads him to reject what the military, financial, political and media elite have been telling all of us, to distrust parties like the Chinese, Islamists, and those who advocate for undocumented immigrants, and to often speak or tweet before thinking.
So if both choose to stick to the personal in the debates, I really don't think we'll suffer for it. The risk to Clinton is that Trump will turn some of his more outrageous id moves into rope-a-dope moments; so his selection of Ailes and Bannon (potential misogynists), will bait Clinton into inviting an attack on her and Bill's own record of hurting women, and Trump's attack on Khan will open the door to examining the war that lead to his son's death.
This is an id vs. ego election. Crazy.
1
What does this have to do with the actual issues we should be focusing on as we prepare to vote? Nothing. The debates are nothing but political theater to begin with, and the strategies the candidates are crafting in preparation are that much less meaningful. Articles like this are prime examples of how our political process has become a farce, a pure media circus. This is not a sporting event! To the extent you continue to cover it that way exposes you for the tabloid rag you have become in many ways.
5
This is a joke. A capable person versus a kook. And the first female leader of the USA. Lets only hire women for the next couple decades.
1
I predict an A+ score for Clinton; and a C- for Trump. But here's the rub: White C- boys are more acceptable than whatever-color A+ girls. Thus behold the ceiling, wall, and floor we must break through this election year. Personally, I would far rather have a person who has read every document, studied every angle, and readied herself in every way to be my next president.
1