In addition to vigilance we need to learn to mind our business and refrain from pointless foreign adventures.
Why are we involved in Syria at ANY capacity? What's wrong with letting Putin and Assad clean up the mess there? Our involvement, especially our eagerness for 'regime change' isn't helping anyone there, and is certainly creating more animosity from some in the muslim community already in our country.
Syria was a Russian client state. Our so-called ME allies that have caused the mess in Syria should be told to stop meddling, otherwise they won't be getting a single dime or weapon from US. That can be our biggest contribution to ending suffering in Syria.
Why are we involved in Syria at ANY capacity? What's wrong with letting Putin and Assad clean up the mess there? Our involvement, especially our eagerness for 'regime change' isn't helping anyone there, and is certainly creating more animosity from some in the muslim community already in our country.
Syria was a Russian client state. Our so-called ME allies that have caused the mess in Syria should be told to stop meddling, otherwise they won't be getting a single dime or weapon from US. That can be our biggest contribution to ending suffering in Syria.
9
According to the editors, we should avoid "adding to the intolerance and suspicion that can foster radicalization, isolation and hatred." In other words, these acts of Islamic terror occur because the perpetrators are radicalized by our treatment of them! It's amazing the Times editors still believe this so many years after 9-11.
25
Too many people think we'll be safe if we call an act of violence Islamic or reject immigrants from certain regions. Or somehow 'extreme vetting' (which only adds some form of loyalty oath) will keep the bad guys out. Or that the police and FBI could do their jobs better if we just said it was Islamic Terrorism at the first hint. All of this might have a shade of truth but is mostly nonsense designed to prey on a poorly informed public. It also has the unfortunate consequence of justifying hatred and random violence against entire communities, which has happened repeatedly and will happen again. Muslim Americans don't know who the terrorists are any more than white people know who's planning to shoot up a Planned Parenthood clinic or blow up a federal building.
These calls by Trump and his supporters prey on poorly reasoned fears and not rationality or fairness to all our citizens. After 9/11 and until Orlando, more Americans were killed by right wing terrorists than jihadists (48 vs 45), and general gun violence slaughtered nearly 3,000 times more Americans than all terrorism combined (420,000! vs 142). They also give very little credit to the excellent jobs done by law enforcement and federal authorities with help from all our communities.
The sky is not falling and we'll all be better off if we proceed with calmness, facts, rationality, and a lack of bigotry. That happens to be the m.o. of only one of our presidential candidates.
These calls by Trump and his supporters prey on poorly reasoned fears and not rationality or fairness to all our citizens. After 9/11 and until Orlando, more Americans were killed by right wing terrorists than jihadists (48 vs 45), and general gun violence slaughtered nearly 3,000 times more Americans than all terrorism combined (420,000! vs 142). They also give very little credit to the excellent jobs done by law enforcement and federal authorities with help from all our communities.
The sky is not falling and we'll all be better off if we proceed with calmness, facts, rationality, and a lack of bigotry. That happens to be the m.o. of only one of our presidential candidates.
17
Jumping to unhelpfully premature conclusions is one of Mr. Trump's few strong suits. That his initial response to the New York blasts turned out to be right in no way absolves him of failing Leadership 101, which would encourage civilian calm while law enforcement awaits conclusive evidence from sober investigation.
Regarding this unhappy development, Mr. Trump has intoned that "we gotta get tough, folks" which begs the question of what he thinks we're already doing in the Middle East. Does he know?" Is it not "tough" enough? Thank heavens that the citizens and leaders of New York City and State are smarter, calmer and more level-heeded than their own unanchored six-shooter, The Donald.
Perhaps Mr. Trump needs to consult the GOP's resident Google researcher, Rudy Giuliani, for inspiration that goes deeper than incoherent railing about what might happen to Hillary Clinton if her security detail were "disarmed" or how "Second Amendment people" might "take care of her" if she gets to appoint justices to the Supreme Court.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
Regarding this unhappy development, Mr. Trump has intoned that "we gotta get tough, folks" which begs the question of what he thinks we're already doing in the Middle East. Does he know?" Is it not "tough" enough? Thank heavens that the citizens and leaders of New York City and State are smarter, calmer and more level-heeded than their own unanchored six-shooter, The Donald.
Perhaps Mr. Trump needs to consult the GOP's resident Google researcher, Rudy Giuliani, for inspiration that goes deeper than incoherent railing about what might happen to Hillary Clinton if her security detail were "disarmed" or how "Second Amendment people" might "take care of her" if she gets to appoint justices to the Supreme Court.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
11
What we have are a lot of people who should have been institutionalized years ago. This individual is going to have a lot more in common with Adam Lanza and the truck driver in Nice, France, than with a terrorist recruited and trained by ISIS. We need to start making a distinction between mass murderers and terrorists. Many of the events now are being carried out by those who just need a convenient cause to adopt to fulfill their desire to become mass murderers. Marlon Brando is asked in his famous scene in "The Wild One": "What are you rebelling against?" His answer: "What'cha got?" That could be the slogan for this new wave of mass murderers. Mass murder is NOT something new. Read your history. It is replete with it.
7
I refuse to live in fear.
9
It's very understandable that the Mayor of the city and the Governor of New York wanted to exhibit leadership and have everybody remain as calm as possible after this terror attack.
However, that does not excuse both of their attempts right out of the gate to spin this as having nothing to do with "international" terrorism before they knew anything at all about it's origins.
It clearly was inspired by forces that originate outside of this country, and everybody understands that.
It's insulting and disingenuous to do verbal back flips in a ridiculously transparent attempt to disavow what everybody knows.
Just say "at this point, we don't know the origin" and leave it at that.
As a democrat who's a little less P.C. than most in my tribe, this type of reality avoidance makes me cringe and does us no good from a practical or political standpoint.
However, that does not excuse both of their attempts right out of the gate to spin this as having nothing to do with "international" terrorism before they knew anything at all about it's origins.
It clearly was inspired by forces that originate outside of this country, and everybody understands that.
It's insulting and disingenuous to do verbal back flips in a ridiculously transparent attempt to disavow what everybody knows.
Just say "at this point, we don't know the origin" and leave it at that.
As a democrat who's a little less P.C. than most in my tribe, this type of reality avoidance makes me cringe and does us no good from a practical or political standpoint.
19
What is going on here? Do you hope by saying the probable has not been proven that the improbable will be the truth? You wrote "There is only the hard work of investigating, deterring and punishing attackers, and meeting the dangers with proportionate measures, courage and calm resolve.". What does that mean? We should wait til after more buildings come down before doing anything? We should only be reactive, not proactive? I just don't understand. Revenge is not the issue. Not dying is the issue. Or much more importantly, not having my family members die is the issue. Of all places, in NYC, your paper's opinion makes no sense. BTW how is it we should deter these attackers? If you have some good ideas, please share.
10
Judging by the suspect's name and appearance, law enforcement officers aren't looking for your average middle America mid 20's guy who goes to a Lutheran church. Everyone's initial gut reaction was correct.
18
New York City was stoic and reacted with calm and composure, as usual. Never forgetting 9/11 their restraint was commendable. The NYPD Blue was at it's exemplary best - cool, calm, collected, efficient, strong, their presence a great comfort for the city's inhabitants. My respects to the NYPD Blue and NYC's citizens.
11
Like flies to ... light, the Left can't help but criticize Trump for (rightfully) stating the obvious -- that a bomb went off -- again.
To quick to rush to judgment, not sober, etc., etc., whine.
And yet, the Democrats (DeBlasio and Cuomo) immediately dismissed the bombing as either terrorism or international terrorism. There's an election coming folks, keep moving along.
Hillary, of course, waited for focus groups and polling before making a statement.
Where is the criticism of the Democrats downplaying terrorism, the hobgoblin of deplorable minds, for political purposes?
The Left are such hypocrites.
To quick to rush to judgment, not sober, etc., etc., whine.
And yet, the Democrats (DeBlasio and Cuomo) immediately dismissed the bombing as either terrorism or international terrorism. There's an election coming folks, keep moving along.
Hillary, of course, waited for focus groups and polling before making a statement.
Where is the criticism of the Democrats downplaying terrorism, the hobgoblin of deplorable minds, for political purposes?
The Left are such hypocrites.
11
It has been interesting to watch many in the news business try to dance around the issue of Muslim terror. Our local Minneapolis paper was quick to run an article about how Somalis face discrimination. The NY politicians and press were quick to talk about no evidence of international terrorism or not use the terrorist word. Look, we all know there is a problem with Muslim terrorism. We all know that it impacts us all, non terrorist Muslims included. And we all are trying to figure out what to do. Verbal gymnastics do not help.
24
I am so impressed how New York officials handled the bombs. How calm they were, how they didn't indulge in speculation. I am so very proud of them.
After 9/11 I went through a period where I wanted to bomb the hell out of all of "them". Over time, I learned that there is no end to "them". We can't stay in a state of anger and fear forever, before there's an end to "us".
Vigilant, yes. But we have to go about our lives.
Find the perpetrators, yes. And it sounds like the FBI and police may already have.
Work to defeat ISIL? We are, but unlike a battle with a country, a battle with an ideology doesn't have a bullseye painted on it.
Most of all, we can't stop thinking. We can't give over to blind rhetoric, hatred, screaming rants of "Revenge! We wants revenge!"
Unfortunately, reason doesn't play well on the evening news.
After 9/11 I went through a period where I wanted to bomb the hell out of all of "them". Over time, I learned that there is no end to "them". We can't stay in a state of anger and fear forever, before there's an end to "us".
Vigilant, yes. But we have to go about our lives.
Find the perpetrators, yes. And it sounds like the FBI and police may already have.
Work to defeat ISIL? We are, but unlike a battle with a country, a battle with an ideology doesn't have a bullseye painted on it.
Most of all, we can't stop thinking. We can't give over to blind rhetoric, hatred, screaming rants of "Revenge! We wants revenge!"
Unfortunately, reason doesn't play well on the evening news.
5
Just another example of New York's effective response to attempts at intimidation. I have long stated and still believe that by the morning of September 12th 2001, the people of New York City had won the war on terrorism, before it ever was declared.
7
I'm sorry, but America is a far safer overall than it was 30 years ago. Let's keep things in perspective and stop fueling misplaced fear.
9
well stated; just look at the British and the Irish reign of terror they unleashed for close to 50 years; you just move on, persevere and try not to make more enemies here and in the world.
5
This editorial has its facts very wrong. The editorial board is risking its credibility by jumping the gun to attack Donald Trump even as it criticizes him for jumping the gun.
Clinton made the exact same comments about "bombing" as Trump did, at the same time.
http://thehill.com/blogs/ballot-box/presidential-races/296521-cnn-edits-...
And the main bombing suspect is a Muslim, clearly linking the incident to international terrorism.
http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/296574-authorities-susp...
Clinton made the exact same comments about "bombing" as Trump did, at the same time.
http://thehill.com/blogs/ballot-box/presidential-races/296521-cnn-edits-...
And the main bombing suspect is a Muslim, clearly linking the incident to international terrorism.
http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/296574-authorities-susp...
12
Someone who causes widespread fear through violent acts is called a terrorist.
What should we call Trump, Christie and others who sow widespread fear an terror through words for political gain?
What should we call Trump, Christie and others who sow widespread fear an terror through words for political gain?
13
No one could every keep me away from NYC. It's the best damned city on earth and the response to this is one of the reasons why it is.
8
"Donald Trump told a crowd there had been a bombing and we had to get tough, folks."
So did Hillary. CNN may have edited her comment out, but that doesn't change the fact that she, too, called it a "bombing".
So did Hillary. CNN may have edited her comment out, but that doesn't change the fact that she, too, called it a "bombing".
10
Operation fetal position continues unabated. This paper ran an editorial last week all but blaming Donald Trump for inciting Islamophobia and terrorism. Now you sound shocked that someone would suggest that our leader's policies of appeasing and rationalizing this religion of violence and shoving it down out throats might have contributed to an ongoing wave of Islamic terrorism. NYT Hypocrites!
12
I wish we could all talk openly about this and come to ways to solve the issues without having to demonize the people and the situation.
I'll tell you what I think we're going to find at the end of this story...a recent immigrant opening a restaurant that he was so proud of that he named it after America...his sons going into the business with him...his restaurant becoming too unruly and neighbors beginning to complain...sons feeling the suspicion and hate that all Islamic teenagers feel right now.....them misinterpreting the complaints as being because of their ethnic background rather than just genuine complaints about the noise. Radicalization.
And then we're off to the races...more about how we need to keep "those people" from coming to the U.S....more isolated/paranoid teenage boys (many of them born here)....more hate...and all done by people trying to prove they're right rather than taking an open-eyed look at the situation.
It's complicated out there, folks. And heartbreaking.
I'll tell you what I think we're going to find at the end of this story...a recent immigrant opening a restaurant that he was so proud of that he named it after America...his sons going into the business with him...his restaurant becoming too unruly and neighbors beginning to complain...sons feeling the suspicion and hate that all Islamic teenagers feel right now.....them misinterpreting the complaints as being because of their ethnic background rather than just genuine complaints about the noise. Radicalization.
And then we're off to the races...more about how we need to keep "those people" from coming to the U.S....more isolated/paranoid teenage boys (many of them born here)....more hate...and all done by people trying to prove they're right rather than taking an open-eyed look at the situation.
It's complicated out there, folks. And heartbreaking.
5
In the middle of all the nonsensical political yak yak, I'd like to thank the police of NYC and NY and all the other first responders for their rapid response and good work...
There were not fatalities, the suspects are being rounded up and our city is being safeguarded.
Having just been in France, and hearing of the lack of rapid response to the possible bombing near Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris following the incident in Nice, makes it clear how lucky we are to be protected by our police and first respondors.
Maybe The Hillz and The Donald should simply confine themselves to saying a heartfelt "thank you" and the NY Times should refrain from making every news story about the election...it isn't.
There were not fatalities, the suspects are being rounded up and our city is being safeguarded.
Having just been in France, and hearing of the lack of rapid response to the possible bombing near Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris following the incident in Nice, makes it clear how lucky we are to be protected by our police and first respondors.
Maybe The Hillz and The Donald should simply confine themselves to saying a heartfelt "thank you" and the NY Times should refrain from making every news story about the election...it isn't.
6
Oh, it's looking like it was a terror cell. And terrorism. Who could of guessed? Apparently not they mayor.
11
How is a bomb with bb's and nails, planted by anyone, not terrorism? There are no exclusions for those who randomly seek to kill and maim innocents.
11
Well, the media is now reporting that the main suspect is an Afghan living in New Jersey. Still not terrorism, Billy boy?
9
Let's get back to Law and Order and get rid of the fifth column that is metastasizing in America.
3
And, aside from liberal obfuscation, it was a "Bomb", it was terrorism and it seems that right now, it was Islamic.
Please stop with the overdone political correctness.
Please stop with the overdone political correctness.
9
Given the info we know now about who the authorities are seeking for questioning at 9:31am, 9/19/16, can we link this to radical Islamic terrorism? Or are we still going to claim that there is nothing to see here? No one is saying an overreaction is justified, but neither is an underreaction. Going out of your way to avoid linking this to radical Islamic terrorism when the evidence suggests otherwise is a disservice to your readers, New York Times.
5
I'm what the NY Times is trying to say. If Christie's reaction was a bit hasty, insinuating a terrorist framework appears to have been the correct path at any rate. At worst it's a lucky gamble on his part.
Though, I have to say I would be more inclined to take this editorial's advice seriously if the NY Times had not led the charge in spreading hysteria that dozens of Dylan Roofs were just lying in wait among Confederate flag bearers, not pounced upon every shooting to denounce "gun culture" in America and not encouraged the line of thought that every confrontation between a white police officer and a black civilian is necessarily animated by racism on the part of the former (a line of thinking which by the way has inspired the murders of a number of police officers over the past year).
Get the plank out of your own eye before pointing the finger at the speck in others'.
Though, I have to say I would be more inclined to take this editorial's advice seriously if the NY Times had not led the charge in spreading hysteria that dozens of Dylan Roofs were just lying in wait among Confederate flag bearers, not pounced upon every shooting to denounce "gun culture" in America and not encouraged the line of thought that every confrontation between a white police officer and a black civilian is necessarily animated by racism on the part of the former (a line of thinking which by the way has inspired the murders of a number of police officers over the past year).
Get the plank out of your own eye before pointing the finger at the speck in others'.
4
I think Cuomo wins the race for quickest to call it.
He almost immediately said there was no indication of any link to international terrorism.
He almost immediately said there was no indication of any link to international terrorism.
3
The election was decided this weekend. It's over for Clinton and the Democrats.
Bye bye.
Bye bye.
4
Whatever happened to Noor Salman, the Orlando terrorist's wife?
Anyway, it's not about revenge. It's about prevention.
We won World War II and fixed two evil cultures.
We "won" the Afghan and Iraq wars. It's time to have a serious conversation about what goes on in many Muslim countries and what to do about it.
A couple of folks mentioned that we bemoan the tragic consequences of Islamic terror in the US and Europe, but turn a blind eye to the terror in most of the Islamic world.
Anyway, it's not about revenge. It's about prevention.
We won World War II and fixed two evil cultures.
We "won" the Afghan and Iraq wars. It's time to have a serious conversation about what goes on in many Muslim countries and what to do about it.
A couple of folks mentioned that we bemoan the tragic consequences of Islamic terror in the US and Europe, but turn a blind eye to the terror in most of the Islamic world.
1
I like the overall tone of the editorial, but my oh my, how we bite our nails and wring our hands over what to do. I don't know what Mr. Trump has in mind with his "get tough" remark, and maybe it was to increase the police state, as the editorial suggests - without clarifying how that would be different from the one we currently live in - but he might have just meant to take action now to address this specific problem, too.
IMO, his remark was the same as saying we need to do something, and I see nothing particularly nefarious about that, and I'm sure Cautious Cathy wants to do something, too, right after she gets done biting her nails and wringing her hands some more.
IMO, his remark was the same as saying we need to do something, and I see nothing particularly nefarious about that, and I'm sure Cautious Cathy wants to do something, too, right after she gets done biting her nails and wringing her hands some more.
1
I agree with many who has commented here and the author of this piece. That many talking heads should just shut up and let the experts do their job. Get the facts and respond accordingly and met out justice and any other measured responses required.
Unfortunately, I'm not sure that the Times is correct in praising the sober and measured responses of Mayor Di Blasio in the early hours after the dastardly Saturday attacks. In light of the latest developments with respect to the capture of the suspect believed to be responsible for all the Saturday's attacks, it is at best premature for the Times to praise any political leaders' actions or, for that matter, for any other leaders to attack said actions, until the facts are fully developed.
2
It's very true that in our all being vigilant, we can help to potentially spot suspicious behaviors, packages, etc. and report them in order to thwart misdeeds and/or lead the authorities to those intending to do harm. Unfortunately however, far too many people are in their own little self-absorbed (i.e., electronic device) bubbles and are incapable of noticing important details that should raise a red flag.
I myself was rather surprised that after my providing very specific details to multiple authorities (911, Homeland Security, etc) about a suspicious person I'd seen on the NYC subway, not one person ever followed-up with me to get further detail. I witnessed a man doing something with two separate cell phones on his lap (while he hid the screen from view with his other hand), and who then pulled a Taped Bundle of Batteries from his backback on the floor, in full view of me sitting directly across from him. We made eye contact..I felt all the color drain from my face...I 'casually' got up and walked to the other end of the car, exited at next stop, went upstairs and immediately reported it to 911, with description of man, subway line, timing, where passenger boarded train, etc. Granted, it was odd that the man did what he did in full view, and then 'nothing' happened, but yet...the mere fact that he did what he did (surely knowing how others might interpret his behaviors..)...shouldn't that alone be cause for investigation? But no, no one ever followed up with me.
I myself was rather surprised that after my providing very specific details to multiple authorities (911, Homeland Security, etc) about a suspicious person I'd seen on the NYC subway, not one person ever followed-up with me to get further detail. I witnessed a man doing something with two separate cell phones on his lap (while he hid the screen from view with his other hand), and who then pulled a Taped Bundle of Batteries from his backback on the floor, in full view of me sitting directly across from him. We made eye contact..I felt all the color drain from my face...I 'casually' got up and walked to the other end of the car, exited at next stop, went upstairs and immediately reported it to 911, with description of man, subway line, timing, where passenger boarded train, etc. Granted, it was odd that the man did what he did in full view, and then 'nothing' happened, but yet...the mere fact that he did what he did (surely knowing how others might interpret his behaviors..)...shouldn't that alone be cause for investigation? But no, no one ever followed up with me.
1
The WSJ reported recently that Mayor De Blasio's prior management experience amounts to leading a team of 12 community organizers. That was among the more eye-opening things I've read in the last several years.
Being a candidate for mayor of NYC should require significant management experience--as a condition of being put on a ballot. That issue need not and should not be left to voters. The mayor's job is more of a management job, not a political job. No board of any for-profit would even consider a CEO candidate with an experience profile similar to the current Mayor's, even to run much smaller entities. In addition, boards of not-for-profit entities are held to higher standards by law; not-for-profit boards would be walking a tight legal line if they chose someone as CEO with the Mayor's management experience, even for non-profits with budgets than are less than the smallest parts of city government.
Being a candidate for mayor of NYC should require significant management experience--as a condition of being put on a ballot. That issue need not and should not be left to voters. The mayor's job is more of a management job, not a political job. No board of any for-profit would even consider a CEO candidate with an experience profile similar to the current Mayor's, even to run much smaller entities. In addition, boards of not-for-profit entities are held to higher standards by law; not-for-profit boards would be walking a tight legal line if they chose someone as CEO with the Mayor's management experience, even for non-profits with budgets than are less than the smallest parts of city government.
3
I discussed the Boston Marathon bombing before it happened with a non-American person that must have been involved because of some of the details she shared with me before the tragic event. I have some insight into her motives and goals and am fairly certain that she has been involved with the recent pressure cooker bombing.
1
Very reasonable points; meanwhile, the thug responsible for these 'bombings' has been caught, and further intelligence/police investigations are ongoing, as they should, in a calm and systematic manner, and trying to deny Trump's histrionics, if not hysteria, in demagoging the issue, to self-aggrandize his already inflated ego and arrogant stance. This is not the time (if there ever was one) to politicize the real threat of terrorism so a charlatan can spread unconscionable fear and hate among us, a paralyzing proposition, and a disservice to those of us trying to understand what's going on.
2
It's way past time for the media to stop glorifying these acts of terror. Women and children live in terror of domestic violence 24 hours a day, and more than 1,000 women die from this every year, far more than terrorism kills - but where are the screaming headlines? Americans kill each other with guns 11,000 times a year, but where are the screaming headlines?
Terrorism needs lots of publicity to work. The massacre of black worshippers in Charleston got screaming headlines, but do Americans now go to church wondering if they will be shot? There's a qualitative difference between how the media report that kind of mass murder and how they report bombings by people of Islamic heritage. As soon as it's known that a Muslim bombed some place in America, the media raise the alarm level exponentially, even though we kill each other with motor vehicles 30,000 times a year and even lightning kills more people a year than terrorism, and the media raise no alarms about that.
Politicians demagogue terrorism for their own purposes, and the media help and encourage them to instill fear of an entire class of people - for no good reason. What will now happen next is Trump sounding off with his diatribes against Muslims, and he'll be shouting to a waiting and expectant media ready to blast his self-serving bigotry to the skies. The media should examine their role in this fear-mongering.
Terrorism needs lots of publicity to work. The massacre of black worshippers in Charleston got screaming headlines, but do Americans now go to church wondering if they will be shot? There's a qualitative difference between how the media report that kind of mass murder and how they report bombings by people of Islamic heritage. As soon as it's known that a Muslim bombed some place in America, the media raise the alarm level exponentially, even though we kill each other with motor vehicles 30,000 times a year and even lightning kills more people a year than terrorism, and the media raise no alarms about that.
Politicians demagogue terrorism for their own purposes, and the media help and encourage them to instill fear of an entire class of people - for no good reason. What will now happen next is Trump sounding off with his diatribes against Muslims, and he'll be shouting to a waiting and expectant media ready to blast his self-serving bigotry to the skies. The media should examine their role in this fear-mongering.
5
Trump is as despicable as they come. Blaming these bombs on Hillary, Obama and the Dems is sickening.
And I can't comprehend that trump apparently has the support of around 40% of likely voters - that's around 52 million, based on the total turnout in 2012 (129 m of 241 million eligible). About 1/4 of those eligible to vote could decide this election.
But what the Time's advocates is often idealistic nonsense too, and amounts to under-reaction.
All policing requires valid, timely information. You have to have a way to gather it to hopefully prevent or deter strikes, yet the Time's basically supports the approach of wait & see; dealing after a terrorist act occurs, then we gather info and pursue the criminals.
The reality is we are in a war with extremists who will never stop killing nonbelievers until they are either all dead themselves, or their side wins.
So we have to be proactive in a mature & sensible way. There has to be a reasonable balance between civil liberties and domestic security efforts.
If we don't figure this out, attacks will worsen and habeas corpus will be suspended. In fact, at some point we'll likely put barricades in front of all of our shops, restaurants, hotels, etc ... & install metal detectors everywhere.
The dilemma is how to maintain our liberties in the face of those that will use them to destroy us. Extreme ideologies will never be fully constrained by force, but we have to try & find the best strategies we can. Hugely challenging.
And I can't comprehend that trump apparently has the support of around 40% of likely voters - that's around 52 million, based on the total turnout in 2012 (129 m of 241 million eligible). About 1/4 of those eligible to vote could decide this election.
But what the Time's advocates is often idealistic nonsense too, and amounts to under-reaction.
All policing requires valid, timely information. You have to have a way to gather it to hopefully prevent or deter strikes, yet the Time's basically supports the approach of wait & see; dealing after a terrorist act occurs, then we gather info and pursue the criminals.
The reality is we are in a war with extremists who will never stop killing nonbelievers until they are either all dead themselves, or their side wins.
So we have to be proactive in a mature & sensible way. There has to be a reasonable balance between civil liberties and domestic security efforts.
If we don't figure this out, attacks will worsen and habeas corpus will be suspended. In fact, at some point we'll likely put barricades in front of all of our shops, restaurants, hotels, etc ... & install metal detectors everywhere.
The dilemma is how to maintain our liberties in the face of those that will use them to destroy us. Extreme ideologies will never be fully constrained by force, but we have to try & find the best strategies we can. Hugely challenging.
4
I don't know if you can really call it a lucky outcome, but it could have been a lot worse. Far more interesting is, what this bomb will mean for New York City in the aftermath. And that depends a lot on whether the police will find the person(s) responsible, and who it is.
Aside from that one can only commend the NYPD and New York City on how the situation was handled, and how quickly the second device was found.
Aside from that one can only commend the NYPD and New York City on how the situation was handled, and how quickly the second device was found.
This is an unbiased assessment of a challenging story. The Editorial Board has shown a restraint, lack of bias and intelligent analysis sadly lacking in the rest of the New York Times.
2
People need to wake up. This "Oh everything is fine" attitude is just heads in the sand.
Three towns... That we know of...were targets of terrorism. Use the word...it's ok to say. That's what they call it when a person or individuals attempts to kill, maim, and strike fear.
Three towns... That we know of...were targets of terrorism. Use the word...it's ok to say. That's what they call it when a person or individuals attempts to kill, maim, and strike fear.
4
Trump's knee-jerk responses are the sorts of things one expects from the leader of a lynch mob. Thank heavens he was not in charge of anything and people have enough sense to let the NYPD and FBI do their work.
2
This editorial is shockingly misleading. What Governor Cuomo actually said was that it was much too early to conclude whether international terrorism was in play or not, not ruling out such a possibility. It's extremely ironic that the the NYT blasts Donald Trump for jumping the gun on that when (1) he did not say a single word about international terrorism, only about a terror bombing, and he was correct about it being a terror bombing and (2) the NYT itself is jumping the gun on it, just in the opposite direction! It's also very ironic that the NYT is praising decisive action by NY authorities when it was Trump who was decisive in his response while Clinton was weak and passive, not the response American voters are looking for.
The subsequent bombing of a NJ train station, which following massive inconvenience for riders, and the 911 call stating that there would be more NYC bombings, show that this editorial is a partisan effort to undermine Donald Trump, not a serious effort to help protect New Yorkers from the brutality of terrorism. If the NYT isn't careful, it's going to say things that will permanently jeopardize its credibility in the eyes of Americans.
The subsequent bombing of a NJ train station, which following massive inconvenience for riders, and the 911 call stating that there would be more NYC bombings, show that this editorial is a partisan effort to undermine Donald Trump, not a serious effort to help protect New Yorkers from the brutality of terrorism. If the NYT isn't careful, it's going to say things that will permanently jeopardize its credibility in the eyes of Americans.
9
After what I read about Trump's campaign manager in The New Republic and after I realized Trump was calling the attack a "bomb" when no one had yet figured it out officially, I think this might be a Trump ploy to scare people into voting for him . . . .
1
The world was always dangerous. We live through periods of apparent calm and peace. We ignore the falling cranes and the out-of-control buses and cabs, and we square our shoulders and tell terrorists to go to hell--when we know they are terrorists.
Unfortunately, we now live in a reiteration of the Tower of Babel. Words are chameleons. Bush gave us the War on Terror. I often wonder what he'd have done to the snarling guard dogs that terrified a couple of us berry-pickers years ago. They certainly caused us terror. Would Bush have shipped them to GTMO and water-boarded them? Terror and terrorism, related, but very different.
Unfortunately, we now live in a reiteration of the Tower of Babel. Words are chameleons. Bush gave us the War on Terror. I often wonder what he'd have done to the snarling guard dogs that terrified a couple of us berry-pickers years ago. They certainly caused us terror. Would Bush have shipped them to GTMO and water-boarded them? Terror and terrorism, related, but very different.
2
Sound reasoning. Sound advice. Red scare in 1920, anarchist fears condemning Sacco & Vanzetti, accompanied by bombings, an overwrought public and overreach by police and politicians. Communists around every corner in 1930s during hard economic times. Briefly relieved by by belief every German-American or Japanese-American was the enemy, then back to Red scares with blacklists, Roy Cohn, Joe McCarthy and John Birchers for 40 years. We have been here many times before. This editorial advice would have been right and proper every time. And, sadly, unheeded each time.
4
My first thought was: oh no this will help Trump. And my second was to wonder if it was the Russians or his local supporters what did it. More reasoned, I later thought: this is the sort of casual violence his rhetoric creates. Then last: how awful that everything is about Trump these days. Can you imagine four years of this ?
1
Meeting the dangers of terrorism with "proportionate measures"? Do you mean that when we identify the perpetrators we should "terrorize" them? How about we take measures that deter future attacks, whatever that may entail?
3
Your editorial properly commends the NYPD, NYFD and EMS for a quick response to the 23rd St. bombing.
Mr. Trump properly notified the American people quickly of this Manhattan bombing, for which he was severely criticized by Mrs. Clinton.
One of the principal roles of the President is Commander-in-Chief. Do we want a Commander-in-Chief who can not instantly recognize the obvious signs of a bombing but must wait to be informed by subordinates?
Mr. Trump properly notified the American people quickly of this Manhattan bombing, for which he was severely criticized by Mrs. Clinton.
One of the principal roles of the President is Commander-in-Chief. Do we want a Commander-in-Chief who can not instantly recognize the obvious signs of a bombing but must wait to be informed by subordinates?
7
As New Yorkers walk the streets today and see the men and women of the NYPD, they should realize how lucky they are to live in a city with the best police department in the world. Many of those same people should be ashamed of their support for, or silence about, hateful anti police groups.
5
This editorial says ".....There is no honesty in promises to crack down and blow up other things and people and have our revenge, and to make everybody safe again. There is only the hard work of investigating, deterring and punishing attackers, and meeting the dangers with proportionate measures...".
This is precisely the problem with how we handled 9/11. Instead of a focused persistent effort at getting those guilty or complicit in that criminal act, i.e., Bin Laden, Al-Qaeda, & any complicit Saudis, we over-reacted and scapegoated our disguised revenge by starting an unnecessary all-out invasion & war in a country that had nothing to do with 9/11, i.e., Iraq, killing & injuring untold hundreds of thousands of innocents, destabilizing the Middle East, ultimately unleashing ISIS & many other hate-filled groups & lone-wolf terrorists to attack us again to now get their turn at revenge.
This is precisely the problem with how we handled 9/11. Instead of a focused persistent effort at getting those guilty or complicit in that criminal act, i.e., Bin Laden, Al-Qaeda, & any complicit Saudis, we over-reacted and scapegoated our disguised revenge by starting an unnecessary all-out invasion & war in a country that had nothing to do with 9/11, i.e., Iraq, killing & injuring untold hundreds of thousands of innocents, destabilizing the Middle East, ultimately unleashing ISIS & many other hate-filled groups & lone-wolf terrorists to attack us again to now get their turn at revenge.
5
At least Hillary is learning. She didn't rush to blame the bombs on a You-Tube video.
5
By definition terrorist attacks have a political purpose – to serve the interests of the terrorists. In this instance I believe it is clear that ISIS is trying to have an effect on the upcoming U. S. election. Further, it is clear to ISIS, and everyone else, that this attack helps the candidacy of Donald Trump. That leaves us with the question, “Why is ISIS interested in enhancing the chances of Donald Trump being elected President of the United States?” To me, that is the issue we should be discussing now.
I wish this editorial had been written after 9/11.
2
Yeah, vigilance. That'll work. Jeez.
3
If someone places bombs in a public location in order to create injury, confusion, and fear, that is terrorism. Let's get past this current politically correct definition of terrorism as only those acts that are perpetrated by ISIS or other Islamic organizations. Before ISIS, there was the IRA, the unibomber, and many other instances of terrorist bombings.
In fact, for those who love conspiracy theories, here's a possibility: the bombs could have been planted by pro-Trump ultra-right advocates who want to perpetuate a climate of fear in order to turn the election. In fact, if you think of it, ISIS would have planted the bombs in Times Square or some other place where they would have been sure of maximum effect.
In fact, for those who love conspiracy theories, here's a possibility: the bombs could have been planted by pro-Trump ultra-right advocates who want to perpetuate a climate of fear in order to turn the election. In fact, if you think of it, ISIS would have planted the bombs in Times Square or some other place where they would have been sure of maximum effect.
2
How about if the media stop whitewashing terrorism?
DiBlasio's spin yesterday was beyond pathetic.
This is why millions of American's don't trust you anymore. How about calling it straight for a change?
DiBlasio's spin yesterday was beyond pathetic.
This is why millions of American's don't trust you anymore. How about calling it straight for a change?
10
Where is the body count? During GW's "illegal invasion of Iraq" the NYT's give us a daily body count...Why is it no such accounting of the number of terrorist blasts, bombings, stabbings and shootings on and off our soil has been forthcoming? Why are you shielding this administration and the state department from such scrutiny?
I remember a common complaint from liberals was that GW was creating a terrorist magnet in Iraq...I frankly don't know what was wrong about that policy..better there than hear or in Europe??
I remember a common complaint from liberals was that GW was creating a terrorist magnet in Iraq...I frankly don't know what was wrong about that policy..better there than hear or in Europe??
5
I am fortunate to live in one of America's great cities. But time and again, New York and New Yorkers show the world why NYC is THE American City, and why "New York Values" are the best that America has. Chicago may be the "... city of broad shoulders," Philadelphia the "city of brotherly love," but New York always comes together to meet great challenges and to get the job done while exhibiting unbelievable grace under pressure.
My heart may be in San Francisco, but I LOVE NY!
My heart may be in San Francisco, but I LOVE NY!
1
Really NYT, you can't resist atacking Trump and Christie or praising Clinton and DiBlasio in an editorial about terror? You guys are part of the problem of the polarization of this country, no better than any partisan group. And no, DuhBlasio is dead wrong and you twisting of words to make it seem like he is calling for vigilance is transparent. He has little clue, Cuomo got it right; it is terrorism and there is a heightened threat in the immediate aftermath.
11
4 cops were shot Saturday, bombs went off in New Jersey and New York, 9 people were stabbed in Minnesota the name of Allah...
Just another weekend in Obama's America.
I don't know but a Law and Order Candidate is sounding pretty damn good right now....And we sure don't need a POTUS who refuses to say 'islamic terror' or the candidate of his party who is forever linked to his disastrous and incompetent policies in the Middle East. Wake up, America!
Trump 16
Just another weekend in Obama's America.
I don't know but a Law and Order Candidate is sounding pretty damn good right now....And we sure don't need a POTUS who refuses to say 'islamic terror' or the candidate of his party who is forever linked to his disastrous and incompetent policies in the Middle East. Wake up, America!
Trump 16
5
Right On, New York Times. The Con Don puts on his "scary" voice and basically says to be afraid. That's the radical right game plan - all of it. Spread fear, anger, hate, violence, distrust, chaos and lies to try to keep us on edge so they can steal more of OUR national taxpayer, resource, 401K and consumer treasure. WE must fight them with every breath because their picture of America is a fairy tale. It is simply not true and we must reject them and their ideas.
5
This stuff is tailor made for Trump, who alone can "keep us safe".
For him, that means lashing out, bombing the heck out of somebody. Who? Where? I would have thought Iraq and even Afghanistan would be a salutary warning against going in with all military guns blazing when diligent, painstaking and international police and intelligence work (along with special forces, where necessary) would be more appropriate and effective.
The last person we need in the White House to keep us safe is an unstable character like Trump throwing tantrums.
For him, that means lashing out, bombing the heck out of somebody. Who? Where? I would have thought Iraq and even Afghanistan would be a salutary warning against going in with all military guns blazing when diligent, painstaking and international police and intelligence work (along with special forces, where necessary) would be more appropriate and effective.
The last person we need in the White House to keep us safe is an unstable character like Trump throwing tantrums.
7
Donald Trump's immediate response to the bombing was to tell the audience he was addressing on Saturday night that "we've got to be very tough." At that point, in those early minute and hours, the explosion could have been the result of a gas-main rupture, for all he knew.
Tough? Sure. Smart and tough? Much, much better.
Tough? Sure. Smart and tough? Much, much better.
11
Yes, and The Con Don's immediate response when the twin towers collapsed on 9-11 was to say his was now the tallest building in New York. Despicable.
7
This editorial is as they say is "something else". Any intellectual gymnastics to protect Hilary is acceptable. Democratic politicians are running saying that this is not an act of "international" terrorism. We're supposed to be terrified by Donald Trump rather than the actions of those whom the FBI and other law enforcement agencies are now investigating or with bombs similar to the one used at the Boston marathon. Did you ever stop to think how this kind of distortion of reality helped fuel the rise of the Loony Tune Donald Trump in the first place.
12
Maybe after watching the Trump Campaign over this election season, people are no longer impressed by one more dumpster fire.
6
How can we be sure this was terrorism? I believe these are isolated acts of workplace violence and overseas contingency operations.
7
The response between the government of NYC and State and that of the Governor of NJ, Christie, is like night and day. That is why the GOP is really unfit to govern at any level. They turn any event into an opportunity to attack their opponents rather than do what's best for the people they govern.
10
We could have avoided this dismal environment today had we not engaged in the 'oil wars' that have defined us as a nation of greed, power. Our empire-building is having tragic consequences at home--we must stop this madness or continue to experience these dark moments. The people need to decide. Terrorism or reconciliation? It is up to us to do what is right if we have the will, courage and strength required.
5
In response to the last paragraph: and there is striving to make a better world for all to live in, so the impetus to inflict terror abates.
misguided post marklee. You really think anti western extremists are going to respond to a better world? Only if there definition of a better world is the sames as ours. Don't think so.
And remember, people thought that the growing economies of Europe in the late nineteenth and early 20th centuries would eliminate the desire for war. Don't think that worked out so well either.
And remember, people thought that the growing economies of Europe in the late nineteenth and early 20th centuries would eliminate the desire for war. Don't think that worked out so well either.
3
These events simply remind us that first and foremost we need to deal with guns or bombs in the hands of our domestic brand of crazies.Having said that,it is unfortunate that while recommending a non partisan thoughtful and reasonable response,the authors of this Editorial cannot resist taking a side swipe at Republicans.
Fear is the tool of the fascism Donald Trump represents. We do not need another drunken president with a bullhorn to goad us into another quagmire.
4
The comments are mostly laudable and true.
Too bad Trumps tactic of prentice over reaction resonate for so much of our citizenry.
KellyAnn is putting wind in the Donald's sails I'm afraid.
Too bad Trumps tactic of prentice over reaction resonate for so much of our citizenry.
KellyAnn is putting wind in the Donald's sails I'm afraid.
1
The NYPD and emergency responders reacted admirably. Our Mayor DeBlasio reacted as a partisan idiot, not able to say that it was terrorism, even though it was a bomb (actually 2). Cuomo seemed to be a bit more realistic and level-headed.
I live in Chelsea, and used to live less than a block from the explosions area on 23rd street. The only thing we've gotten from City Hall are new bike lanes on 6th avenue and a dedicated bus lane on 23rd. Which basically make traffic on 6th even worse, and aren't large enough to accept vehicles (like police cars) so when things are in gridlock, we're all stuck. Side streets around 23rd are now jammed as well with traffic from 23rd.
Once upon a time, the mayors, Giuliani and Bloomberg, cared about how cop cars, ambulances, fire trucks and other 1st responders were able to get to the scene. Thank goodness this wasn't a major attack. But the traffic planning idiocy of DeBlasio, and PC correctness of emasculating the NYPD in doing their job is despicable. All to placate the morons at Transportation Alternatives.
Perhaps we can all learn a lesson from this. The safety and business of NYC take precedence over bike lanes, which only serve to harden the arteries that NYC needs, especially in emergency situations. Rip them out.
This Chelsea resident gives my thanks to the NYPD, the Fire Dept., EMTs and others who actually protect us and take their job seriously. As for the DeBlasio clown - give him a bike and ride him out of town.
I live in Chelsea, and used to live less than a block from the explosions area on 23rd street. The only thing we've gotten from City Hall are new bike lanes on 6th avenue and a dedicated bus lane on 23rd. Which basically make traffic on 6th even worse, and aren't large enough to accept vehicles (like police cars) so when things are in gridlock, we're all stuck. Side streets around 23rd are now jammed as well with traffic from 23rd.
Once upon a time, the mayors, Giuliani and Bloomberg, cared about how cop cars, ambulances, fire trucks and other 1st responders were able to get to the scene. Thank goodness this wasn't a major attack. But the traffic planning idiocy of DeBlasio, and PC correctness of emasculating the NYPD in doing their job is despicable. All to placate the morons at Transportation Alternatives.
Perhaps we can all learn a lesson from this. The safety and business of NYC take precedence over bike lanes, which only serve to harden the arteries that NYC needs, especially in emergency situations. Rip them out.
This Chelsea resident gives my thanks to the NYPD, the Fire Dept., EMTs and others who actually protect us and take their job seriously. As for the DeBlasio clown - give him a bike and ride him out of town.
4
So Obama is in Manhattan as we speak. When we do hear from him I'm sure his words of wisdom will be strictly on environmental issues.
6
"The right response to this constant, unending, low-level threat of sudden violence is to stay vigilant and reasonable, to clean up the damage, care for the injured, look out for one another, and elect leaders who will address the challenge with sanity and good judgment."
"Times have changed, and France is going to have to live with terrorism, and we must face this together and show our collective sang-froid,” Manuel Valls, French Prime Minister following the terrorist attack in Nice.
"Times have changed, and France is going to have to live with terrorism, and we must face this together and show our collective sang-froid,” Manuel Valls, French Prime Minister following the terrorist attack in Nice.
2
When are we going to admit that we are at war? There's nothing too complicated here, we are, and have been under attack. The cotton-wool approach is not working- nowhere near it.
Islamic terrorism is a global franchise and it is clear they have established a hugely significant network, cells, and operatives here in our homeland.
Stop with the political correctness, stop with the wrapping our citizens in cotton-wool, stop with the concern about hurting the feelings of terrorists.
Is it too much to ask that our government treat us like adults and simply tell us the truth?
Stop the games. We are at war.
Islamic terrorism is a global franchise and it is clear they have established a hugely significant network, cells, and operatives here in our homeland.
Stop with the political correctness, stop with the wrapping our citizens in cotton-wool, stop with the concern about hurting the feelings of terrorists.
Is it too much to ask that our government treat us like adults and simply tell us the truth?
Stop the games. We are at war.
12
Yes, a war that requires intelligence and a steady hand looking at all options and not only blunt force.
3
U.S. backing for local forces has pushed back ISIS in Libya, Iraq and Syria. ISIS controls much less territory and has fewer revenues from oil than it did a year ago--so there appears to be something more than cottonwool at work.
" it is clear they have established a hugely significant network, cells, and operatives"
No, it is not clear at all. Most of the perpetrators derived their info from the internet and have certainly been inspired by ISIS but they haven't been shown to rely on ISIS for operational planning or support.
" it is clear they have established a hugely significant network, cells, and operatives"
No, it is not clear at all. Most of the perpetrators derived their info from the internet and have certainly been inspired by ISIS but they haven't been shown to rely on ISIS for operational planning or support.
2
The FBI and our cops are fabulous.
So are New Yorkers and those who live in the Tri-State area. Vigilance, not hysteria, is key.
By the way, according to a related article, the family of the suspect ran a restaurant that neighbors considered a nuisance, attracting the usual crowd of rowdy young men urinating wherever they please. There's no reason for places like that to be open all night, just as there's no reason for places like that in Flatbush. Sometimes they should be shut down altogether. Money-laundering along with drug-dealing in such establishments isn't unheard-of.
When neighbors who practice a live-and-let-live attitude, as most of us do, sense something is fishy, it usually is.
So are New Yorkers and those who live in the Tri-State area. Vigilance, not hysteria, is key.
By the way, according to a related article, the family of the suspect ran a restaurant that neighbors considered a nuisance, attracting the usual crowd of rowdy young men urinating wherever they please. There's no reason for places like that to be open all night, just as there's no reason for places like that in Flatbush. Sometimes they should be shut down altogether. Money-laundering along with drug-dealing in such establishments isn't unheard-of.
When neighbors who practice a live-and-let-live attitude, as most of us do, sense something is fishy, it usually is.
4
Disconcerting and depressing. That's what any normal citizen should feel when a major party political candidate goes on FOX News this morning and calls for unilateral profiling of Muslims in this country. Mr. Trump has no facility in law enforcement, in measured and careful consideration of those inconveniences called 'facts' before opening his mouth. Shoot from the hip. Say anything that grabs sensationalist cheers. One wonders if he ever heard of Rakeem Armani. In July, NYPD Sergeant Armani and his partner were sitting in a van in Times Square when a suspected bomb was thrown into their vehicle. Sgt. Armani put the van in drive and got the device out of area where thousands congregated. In 2000, he emigrated from Afghanistan. He's a naturalized citizen. He's a hero. Mr. Trump's "profiling" is asinine as a solution. The true profiling is to identify and muzzle ignorant lunatics running for offie.
9
The Internet and social media facilitate and feed both the virus of violence for the sake of violence and the means of perpetrating the violence, like bomb-making. Like it or not, our size, power and past history make us a target for violence. And there is no amount of withdrawal from world affairs that will change this.
There are numerous possible responses to this ongoing threat of violence. Accomodating both the need for safety and the need for constitutionally guaranteed liberties is difficult and complex. Vigilant and responsible police and citizenry, strong alliances and cooperation with other countries and a vigorous system of laws and courts will assure safety while protecting... " Liberty and Justice for all".
No system, policy or strategy can guaranty complete safety, without significantly curtailing or eliminating liberties for citizens and non-citizens alike. Anyone promising such safety is a liar and anyone believing it is a fool.
There are numerous possible responses to this ongoing threat of violence. Accomodating both the need for safety and the need for constitutionally guaranteed liberties is difficult and complex. Vigilant and responsible police and citizenry, strong alliances and cooperation with other countries and a vigorous system of laws and courts will assure safety while protecting... " Liberty and Justice for all".
No system, policy or strategy can guaranty complete safety, without significantly curtailing or eliminating liberties for citizens and non-citizens alike. Anyone promising such safety is a liar and anyone believing it is a fool.
Thank you for your good sense and reason during an unreasonable time when panic is the desire and violent reaction seems the most logical assumption. However, finding the culprits and acting with reasoned resolve is the foundation of a great society and a great society we must become if we are to show leadership in the greater world.
1
You write "The right response to this constant, unending, low-level threat of sudden violence is to stay vigilant and reasonable, to clean up the damage, care for the injured, look out for one another, and elect leaders who will address the challenge with sanity and good judgment."
I would have thought the right response is to end it, not live with it. Which is why Trump will win.
I would have thought the right response is to end it, not live with it. Which is why Trump will win.
5
"Stay vigilant and reasonable."
Ok, that makes interesting reading, but what does it mean in practice?
Does it include profiling? Does it include video surveillance? Does it include telephone metadata capture?
What is the balance between methods and words that the editors are proposing?
At what point does vigilance end and "a police-state overreaction" begin?
No, there is no "absolute solace" in this era. But there are useful investigative tools and methods that, properly administered, must be used to prevent, as oppose to respond to, psychopathic (word deliberately chosen for their clinical definitions) terrorists.
The challenge is that imperfect people will need to implement these methods and some innocent people will be affected by the implementation. What do the editors suggest is the proper balance?
Ok, that makes interesting reading, but what does it mean in practice?
Does it include profiling? Does it include video surveillance? Does it include telephone metadata capture?
What is the balance between methods and words that the editors are proposing?
At what point does vigilance end and "a police-state overreaction" begin?
No, there is no "absolute solace" in this era. But there are useful investigative tools and methods that, properly administered, must be used to prevent, as oppose to respond to, psychopathic (word deliberately chosen for their clinical definitions) terrorists.
The challenge is that imperfect people will need to implement these methods and some innocent people will be affected by the implementation. What do the editors suggest is the proper balance?
3
My impression is that "lookey-lou's" flood the scene of an explosion shortly after a blast. Reports from other blast scenes around the world indicate that bombers count on this and time secondary explosions to catch those unaware of the tactic. Stay away.
2
Yes, by all means, let's admit tens of thousands more muslims into the country, none of which, according to every reputable law enforcement official, have been properly vetted. As the events of the past 2 days have shown, the Jihadists are here in force and they are ready to wreak death and destruction. As much as Clinton and her party would love to keep harping on the 'birther' issue, sane and non-delusional Americans understand that is a distraction from a candidate desperate to stop her slide in the polls.
The real issue has always been America's security with a capital S. And as the record shows, that is precisely where Obama and Clinton have shown themselves to be grossly incompetent.
The real issue has always been America's security with a capital S. And as the record shows, that is precisely where Obama and Clinton have shown themselves to be grossly incompetent.
4
With the highest regard for the intrepid citizens of NYC, the emergency first responders, and those who react with measured calm and steely determination, I must take exception to your statement that "Chris Christie has sequestered his reason and decency so that he can flack for Mr. Trump....." Actually, nothing is further from the truth: Chris Christie has demonstrated no "reason or decency" in my memory: so in fact, he is the perfect, fawning, lying sycophant for the pathological liar and bombastic, boorish ignoramus, Drumpf. Let us not forget that Christie will be forced to testify in the impending Bridgegate scandal, engineered by his senior staff, as retribution for Mayor Mark Sokolof's unwillingness to support Christie's reelection bid. "Reason and decency?" His history of abject failed governing of NJ - 9 successive bond ratings downgrades, stealing from the taxpayers to buy his whitewashed faux legal exoneration, attacking teachers, veterans, shutting down investigations of a major donor and firing the Hunterdon County prosecutor instead, failing to disburse Hurricane Sandy relief funds, and much more, do not reflect someone inclined towards "reason or decency." The very fact that he now slavishly supports Drumpf speaks volumes about the guy. Spare us - no platitudes should be wasted upon Chris Christie.
4
The right response to this and to all terror is a long term plan for economic stability and education of everyone, especially in countries that nurture terrorism, on equality, liberty and tolerance.
1
I read some of the comments and wonder what disorder some people are suffering from. First of all, yes, it's great that no one was killed. But -- that just means we got lucky. Someone plants a bomb, they are intending to kill people -- hope that isn't poltiically incorrect -- I'm sure some bomb makers are really nice people and I shouldn't jump to conclusions -- but in general, if you were to profile people who have made bombs historically -- their intent was to kill.
Second -- some people are really stretching this in order to attack Trump. A clear sign of Trump Derangement Syndrome.
Third -- all the false equivalencies with homicides by gun. Yes, at this point we have more people murdered than killed by terrorists. And that is supposed to somehow minimize this kind of attack? Think about it this way -- most murders are committed by someone known to the victim. Or by a member of an opposing gang. Stranger on stranger murders only make up a fraction of murders. Conversely, the purpose of terrorist attacks is to make people afraid to go into public spaces. If Billy Bob does in his wife Mary Sue, or if Mary Sue kills Billy Bob, it doesn't really raise anyone's concerns that their spouse is planning to do them in. However, a terrorist attack is intended to create fear -- particularly of being in public spaces. Create enough fear and you can change how people live -- even if the number of deaths and injuries is relatively small.
Second -- some people are really stretching this in order to attack Trump. A clear sign of Trump Derangement Syndrome.
Third -- all the false equivalencies with homicides by gun. Yes, at this point we have more people murdered than killed by terrorists. And that is supposed to somehow minimize this kind of attack? Think about it this way -- most murders are committed by someone known to the victim. Or by a member of an opposing gang. Stranger on stranger murders only make up a fraction of murders. Conversely, the purpose of terrorist attacks is to make people afraid to go into public spaces. If Billy Bob does in his wife Mary Sue, or if Mary Sue kills Billy Bob, it doesn't really raise anyone's concerns that their spouse is planning to do them in. However, a terrorist attack is intended to create fear -- particularly of being in public spaces. Create enough fear and you can change how people live -- even if the number of deaths and injuries is relatively small.
2
As with any investigation, it takes time to assess evidence and draw conclusions based upon that information. If the FBI and investigators move to quickly, it may jeopardize criminal charges or give suspects the reason to move underground more quickly. Terrorists know that blending in is the best way to go unnoticed and be able to perpetrate more acts of violence.
We have become overly sensitive to use the word terrorism to describe any act of violence. The term terrorism is rooted in "terrorize" which means to coerce by intimidation so terrorism is the act terrorizing ( violence). Originally the term was related to a Government or anti-government movements. But the term also includes perpetrating violence against another person , neighboorhood or grups of people. The "Right" often states in these situations that we are being " politically correct " to not immediatley label these situations as terrorism. That conclusion must be drawn from evidence. Now the talking heads in the media will ratchet up the talk of closing the borders and profiling. Our European allies are trying to deal with the same issue. Terrorsts do not wear a sign, so the answer is not simple. Our best defense is vigilance. That will not come from a fear of being labeled as a racist if we see something out of the ordinary or budget cuts and hiring contractors that are paid minimum wage or slightly better as security. We always seem to think that we can push Government responsibility to private entities.
We have become overly sensitive to use the word terrorism to describe any act of violence. The term terrorism is rooted in "terrorize" which means to coerce by intimidation so terrorism is the act terrorizing ( violence). Originally the term was related to a Government or anti-government movements. But the term also includes perpetrating violence against another person , neighboorhood or grups of people. The "Right" often states in these situations that we are being " politically correct " to not immediatley label these situations as terrorism. That conclusion must be drawn from evidence. Now the talking heads in the media will ratchet up the talk of closing the borders and profiling. Our European allies are trying to deal with the same issue. Terrorsts do not wear a sign, so the answer is not simple. Our best defense is vigilance. That will not come from a fear of being labeled as a racist if we see something out of the ordinary or budget cuts and hiring contractors that are paid minimum wage or slightly better as security. We always seem to think that we can push Government responsibility to private entities.
Spot on editorial.
I do agree with the comment that a essentially said that bombings are always terrorism regardless of the source. When the is not true we will be engaged in our second civil war - God forbid.
Unfortunately, but characteristically Donald Trump will not miss a chance to use such heinous acts to stoke the fears of the American people and promise the impossible — a sweeping solution that will “make everyone safe again.”
Hopefully fear will not win the day, or the election. The stakes are staggering high.
I do agree with the comment that a essentially said that bombings are always terrorism regardless of the source. When the is not true we will be engaged in our second civil war - God forbid.
Unfortunately, but characteristically Donald Trump will not miss a chance to use such heinous acts to stoke the fears of the American people and promise the impossible — a sweeping solution that will “make everyone safe again.”
Hopefully fear will not win the day, or the election. The stakes are staggering high.
1
Yes this is bad, but not that bad. The culprits will soon be found, they will be arrested or killed, they will be discovered to be unimportant guys -- students possibly, with little or no connections to international terrorism, who likely spend too much time on the internet -- and need some outlet for their many frustrations. Luckily, no one appears to have been seriously injured or killed. The much greater danger to this country at the moment is Donald J. Trump.
8
We were immediately west of Nice during the July truck attack, we live a mile from Chelsea and had driven on the block in question earlier on Saturday afternoon, and my fiancee teaches hundreds of middle-school students at a school mere blocks away. But we both agreed last night that we fear a Donald Trump presidency far, far more than terrorism.
Terrorism is a centuries-old problem that has never been and will never be fully solved. Abandoning our core values as Americans, the values that drew our ancestors from foreign shores and that have kept us proudly here, would would be the most disproportionate response of all.
Terrorism is a centuries-old problem that has never been and will never be fully solved. Abandoning our core values as Americans, the values that drew our ancestors from foreign shores and that have kept us proudly here, would would be the most disproportionate response of all.
4
Don the Con has no thoughtful plans to address terrorism or any other major issue. It's all shoot from the lip.
He's in the presidential race to feed his massively weak ego and line his pockets with even more public funds.
The Trumpians do not listen to reason. They will be dancing around the bonfires when a Trump-led country collapses.
He's in the presidential race to feed his massively weak ego and line his pockets with even more public funds.
The Trumpians do not listen to reason. They will be dancing around the bonfires when a Trump-led country collapses.
2
Reason and vigilance have been de riguer for most New Yorker's on a daily basis. Long before 9/11/01 we travel the streets with our own special radar, aware of pan handlers, scam artists and whatnot. That is why we are amazed at how many people across this fruited plain have been taken in by that so obvious con man, the Trumpster. We've had that guy's number for decades. We know if it has the name TRUMP splattered on it, buyer beware.
But I digress. Savvy New Yorker's live in one of the great cities of the world because we choose to accept the bargain we make. With all that a world-class cosmopolitan city has to offer, we, as well as those who live in London, Paris, and other world capitals, take in stride that with so many pluses there are many minuses. We were and remain the prime target for any international or domestic terrorist, or anyone who wants to make their claim to fame in America's foremost city.
So, if we see something we will say something. We know that while Black Lives Matter is a valid counterpoint to question the abuse by a minute fraction of police officers, we are also aware that 99.9% of New York's Finest are just that, the finest. I believe that is a solid case for we New Yorker's to be reasonable and vigilant while also aware that even an almost perfect police force is never completely perfect. That is an impossibility for anyone. Each day we accept that and get on with our daily rituals in this great city.
DD
Manhattan
But I digress. Savvy New Yorker's live in one of the great cities of the world because we choose to accept the bargain we make. With all that a world-class cosmopolitan city has to offer, we, as well as those who live in London, Paris, and other world capitals, take in stride that with so many pluses there are many minuses. We were and remain the prime target for any international or domestic terrorist, or anyone who wants to make their claim to fame in America's foremost city.
So, if we see something we will say something. We know that while Black Lives Matter is a valid counterpoint to question the abuse by a minute fraction of police officers, we are also aware that 99.9% of New York's Finest are just that, the finest. I believe that is a solid case for we New Yorker's to be reasonable and vigilant while also aware that even an almost perfect police force is never completely perfect. That is an impossibility for anyone. Each day we accept that and get on with our daily rituals in this great city.
DD
Manhattan
3
Donald Trump's notion of leadership is to shout and brag. He is like a deranged person in a theater, shouting "Fire," causing a panic, and blaming someone else for the panic. Then he brags that he noted the fired first. His personality and his instincts and his behavior are the last thing we need in the President of the United States in a dangerous world. His gut instincts and reactions will only worsen the problems related to international terror, not make them better.
3
The quick response rather appears to reflect an unfortunate agenda, which the Times seems quite pleased to propagate. A third-party investigation, as in all these programmatic events, is called for. Otherwise, The NY Times especially, employs the journalistic trope, “what we know so far” or “what we know and dont know,” and then goes on to introduce largely scripted insertions that come from “official” sources. Here’s what we know so far: nothing. Here’s what is required: third-party investigation. In events that frighten the public or cause anxiety, these linguistic devices, canned narratives and public press conferences, now reinforced with images and words that have conditioned the public's response as to terror, ethnicity and story plot, are especially effective and readily accepted when cognition and emotion are vulnerable and susceptible. I recall being with a group of college students, discussing similar events. They all chimed in “what we know so far is…” We? It is interesting that the word trope comes from the Greek tropos, to turn, to direct, to alter, to change.
1
I strongly advocate that the administrations in large population centers begin to educate the public about "dirty bombs" which are conventional explosives laced with low-level radioactive components. Someday we need to deal with these, and then it will be too late to educate the public about what they do and how to react.
They are intended to kill more through panic than by explosive blast. As as example, if a "dirty bomb" were detonated on in a crowded place, there might be dozens of people killed by the blast, and hundreds killed by the ensuing panic. The level of radiation in unenriched radioactive material does not merit a deadly stampede and city-wide panic. The public needs to know this.
They are intended to kill more through panic than by explosive blast. As as example, if a "dirty bomb" were detonated on in a crowded place, there might be dozens of people killed by the blast, and hundreds killed by the ensuing panic. The level of radiation in unenriched radioactive material does not merit a deadly stampede and city-wide panic. The public needs to know this.
Wonderful advise and counsel from years past still serves: "Keep calm and carry on." And, it would be well to remember this morning that the despotic cowards of the 1940's are now long gone, buried in their legacies of cowardice, evil and failure.
2
This editorial is severely skewed.
A reasonable response would have been for these leaders to admit, "We just don't know; there's an investigation going on." But instead, they jumped to (politically expedient) conclusions that indeed soon proved to be entirely unfounded.
How is this any different from Donald Trump's rush to conclusions? At least he (coincidentally) got it right.
A reasonable response would have been for these leaders to admit, "We just don't know; there's an investigation going on." But instead, they jumped to (politically expedient) conclusions that indeed soon proved to be entirely unfounded.
How is this any different from Donald Trump's rush to conclusions? At least he (coincidentally) got it right.
6
Now is not the time to respond with fear-mongering and emotion. That merely clouds one's reasoning, and leads to irrational responses.
Jumping to conclusion, as Mr. Trump prefers to do--while always wanting to circle back to a bogus scenario, merely reduces our ability to protect ourselves.
It is much more effective to enable all local and federal authorities to collect the real information, analyze the clues and, only then, carry-out an intelligent response.
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
Jumping to conclusion, as Mr. Trump prefers to do--while always wanting to circle back to a bogus scenario, merely reduces our ability to protect ourselves.
It is much more effective to enable all local and federal authorities to collect the real information, analyze the clues and, only then, carry-out an intelligent response.
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
1
While I agree with the sentiment of this editorial, I disagree with the final analysis expressed in the last sentence, "There is only the hard work of investigating, deterring and punishing attackers, and meeting the dangers with proportionate measures, courage and calm resolve." The authors neglected to mention the need to create conditions whereby no one would not even consider such acts. The effort to prevent any type of crime should always include preventing the conditions by which one chooses to be a criminal.
10
We are now entering into the phase of "soft target" attacks, similar to those which took and take place in France, Israel, Afghanistan and Pakistan signaling our entry into the Third World. These appear, along with random gun violence, to be conducted by Americans or naturalized Americans and, probably, they can't to stemmed without a full-on police state. The motivation of these attacks is, largely, racial and religious discrimination but that they're taking place is hardly novel. Those with a bent for history might remember the 19th and 20th Century industrial bombings, the bombing assassinations in Russia in the 19th Century, the attempted bombing murder of Russell Sage in 19th Century New York to highlight a few incidents. Lest we forget, the Irgun dynamited the King David Hotel in Jerusalem before partition of Palestine. It is not the perpetrators who are solely responsible (though they certainly deserve punishment) but the mindset of difference between people and the evident racism of America and elsewhere.
Economic injustice also plays into this story Ronald Cohen. And this injustice is partly manifested due to discrimination--gender, race, reilgion and politics. Without more equality, we can anticipate more of the same violence--actually, a crying out for help! Will we answer their call or not?
According to news reports last night both Hillary and Trump were briefed by intelligence before they spoke last night so whoever briefed them may have said it was a bomb and it was repeated? What would worry me is the set back and wait attitude. Weakness begets violence. Hillary is a wait and see person, four people are still waiting for her to help in Benghazi. Trump at least is calling for action which infers he would demand a plan to combat this rather than just set back and wait.
18
Nonsense. The Intelligence person who briefed them Saturday night, if indeed that happened before Trunp talked, would not have said bomb because at that point there was just an explosion in a dumpster which could have been many things. Trump just wanted to get the crowd excited and push his adgenda, which hasn't been adverse to pushing violence.
1
George W. Bush called for action, he invaded Iraq, and look what we got. Action without thought can make a serious problem much worse. The greatest danger to the United States today is not Middle Eastern terrorists, but our own citizens who, stirred up by Trump and Murdoch, are convinced that they already understand everything and that further thinking is not required.
3
Do you know what you are talking about. What action can be taken if you do not know the facts.
The NY Times advocates accepting the new normal.
54
No they don't. They said we have to continue the hard work of deterring,capturing and punishing the offenders. While having the resolve, calm and courage to meet the dangers with proportionate measures. Sounds as though that may also include appropriate vengeance if there is such a thing.
2
Charles, New York City is quite different from a quaint town like Tecumseh and a city like Detroit. This is a vibrant, densely populated, complex city with plenty of experience with terrorist events. Our government knew precisely what to do and did it promptly and well, with no loss of life. Our police department has its own terrorism squad, and cooperates well with state and federal officials even though our Governor and Mayor aren't friends. We are returning to normal, and hosting a massive meeting of world leaders this week at the UN, which is proceeding as planned. The frequent visits of Presidents over the years are causes for traffic reports. We don't get hysterical. We respond calmly and efficiently. Rhetoric doesn't help. We demand informed actions from our officials, not swaggering and bluster. And we get it. This is not accepting terrorism. It is dealing with it like adults and not letting the terrorists win. That is also why our former Senator, Hillary Clinton, will win here in November. She knows what she is doing.
1
The new normal? What is the new normal? That every once in a while some nut case makes an amateur bomb and tries to set it off somewhere? It happens. What do you recommend?" Who do you want to arrest?
2
NY City, a New Jersey town, and a mall in Minnesota were the three spots in the US that suffered bouts of violence and terrorism almost simultaneously.
America, yet to get accustomed to regular scattered terrorist violence as in other parts of the world, is trying to figure out who exactly were behind those sinister violent activities.
Right after conclusion of the conventions of the two major parties, experts had predicted if there were terrorist episodes in the US 60 or 90 days close to the presidential election, Trump will surely win as a "Law and Order President."
We will see what America's answer is to this punditry.
America, yet to get accustomed to regular scattered terrorist violence as in other parts of the world, is trying to figure out who exactly were behind those sinister violent activities.
Right after conclusion of the conventions of the two major parties, experts had predicted if there were terrorist episodes in the US 60 or 90 days close to the presidential election, Trump will surely win as a "Law and Order President."
We will see what America's answer is to this punditry.
17
The incidents didn't happen almost simultaneously. The media decided to report them that way.
1
Thanks be that no one was seriously injured or lives lost.
Trump/Christie are trying to score points out of this. It is what Trump does/has done (eg. Orlando).
Whether or not these bombings and stabbings turn out to be ISIS-led or inspired, I believe it incumbent on the moderator of the first debate to point out and ask:
Mr. Trump, you have a "secret plan" which, you have assured us time and again, will eliminate ISIS very quickly. You have chosen not to share that plan with the public in order not to tip off our enemies. You could, however, have had a private meeting with the White House, and laid out your full-proof strategy. Mr. Trump, if you had done this months ago, many lives would have already been saved, and there would not have been two bombings and eight stabbings. Why did you not share your secret plan, Mr. Trump?
Trump/Christie are trying to score points out of this. It is what Trump does/has done (eg. Orlando).
Whether or not these bombings and stabbings turn out to be ISIS-led or inspired, I believe it incumbent on the moderator of the first debate to point out and ask:
Mr. Trump, you have a "secret plan" which, you have assured us time and again, will eliminate ISIS very quickly. You have chosen not to share that plan with the public in order not to tip off our enemies. You could, however, have had a private meeting with the White House, and laid out your full-proof strategy. Mr. Trump, if you had done this months ago, many lives would have already been saved, and there would not have been two bombings and eight stabbings. Why did you not share your secret plan, Mr. Trump?
33
Bravo, absolutely correct and brilliant
1
Trumpishly, I'd like to claim that Trump is the real cause of this attack. It was loud, scary, and did remarkably little damage, so it was created in his image. But his Major Announcement the day before that he'd cracked the case on Barack Obama's citizenship, and in fact our president was born in America, that caused some bombmaking nutjob to blow his top.
I mean, after all these years, Trump sells out and gets bought off by the vast, Hillary-Clinton led conspiracy to cover up the FACT that Barack Obama was born in Kenya, is a Muslim, and is one-fifth North Korean, that's just too disturbing for the average conspiracy theorist.
So this latest sequence of attacks can be nothing but the work of Trump, possibly on Putin's orders. You heard it here first.
I mean, after all these years, Trump sells out and gets bought off by the vast, Hillary-Clinton led conspiracy to cover up the FACT that Barack Obama was born in Kenya, is a Muslim, and is one-fifth North Korean, that's just too disturbing for the average conspiracy theorist.
So this latest sequence of attacks can be nothing but the work of Trump, possibly on Putin's orders. You heard it here first.
31
The Mayor needs to supplement the eyes and ears of the NYPD. So here's a quick solution: The homeless street residents observed all over the city. Reward them with access to the city's sanitation facilities. Provide then vouchers for free fast-food meals. Rewards for protecting The City can come in many ways.
Street people know then the usual becomes unusual. They are self trained profilers of humanity. They are almost invisible in the normal flow of daily activity. The see and remember more than a temporary extra police officer, to whom everything is new.
Street people know then the usual becomes unusual. They are self trained profilers of humanity. They are almost invisible in the normal flow of daily activity. The see and remember more than a temporary extra police officer, to whom everything is new.
24
Most people are terrible witnesses. Eye witness testimony is notoriously unreliable. And the homeless have multiple pathologies that make the average homeless observer even worse than the average Joe as a witness.
AKA, The Baker Street Irregulars of Sherlock Holmes. Not a terrible idea.
1
What are you Sherlock Holmes? They'd have to be sober to testify even if they could remember anything.
I understand that liberal, politcally correct NYT readers are desperate to show in their comments how outraged they are that Trump roiled the waters, and how calming and correct it was for the Mayor to NOT call this a terrorist act.
Sorry to inform Mr Mayor, but a bomb, planted anywhere is an act of terrorism. Domestic terrorism and international terrorism are equal partners in hate. Geography doesn't lessen the horror of being maimed, or the endless suffering over the murder of a loved one.
Just say it Mr. Mayor...it was terrorism. When you don't say it, you appear weak in my eyes. Obviously, NYT readers would disagree with me.
Fed Up Democrat (And, no, just like you, I can't stand Trump)
Sorry to inform Mr Mayor, but a bomb, planted anywhere is an act of terrorism. Domestic terrorism and international terrorism are equal partners in hate. Geography doesn't lessen the horror of being maimed, or the endless suffering over the murder of a loved one.
Just say it Mr. Mayor...it was terrorism. When you don't say it, you appear weak in my eyes. Obviously, NYT readers would disagree with me.
Fed Up Democrat (And, no, just like you, I can't stand Trump)
55
If it was domestic right wingers (they've done things like this many times before) would it still be a terrorist attack?
You would think the Times readers believe that if Ted Cruz or any other Republican were the nominee, none of this would have happened.
Actually, that is exactly what they think.
Actually, that is exactly what they think.
Swing and a miss. He called it a terrorist act exactly by the reasoning that you deem it a terrorist act which coincidentally is also why I call it a terrorist act. Good try, next time read the article please.
The only person downplaying domestic terrorism is you. I've heard nobody else suggest domestic terrorism isn't terrorism.
The only person downplaying domestic terrorism is you. I've heard nobody else suggest domestic terrorism isn't terrorism.
1
No one has yet to 'claim credit' for the attack that shook Chelsea.
But someone will claim responsibility, or maybe more than one person or group, eager to jump on the terrorist bandwagon.
This is terror, whether it is Islamic terror, domestic terror or some isolated nutcase.
Besides, this notion of membership in a terror organization is very outdated.
And that’s a reality we have to live with regardless of the reaction of our leaders.
"The city stayed calm."
I'm glad to hear that and it speaks volumes about New Yorkers and says nothing about the candidates.
What have our 'leaders' accomplished since the War on Terror began? Or the war on drugs, the war on poverty for that matter?
"There is no absolute solace in this anxious era."
You are absolutely right.
But a lack of and/or wrong leadership has led to the rise in terrorism and we are supposed to trust that same leadership "and elect leaders who will address the challenge with sanity and good judgment" when all we have gotten in return so far since 9/11 has been the total surveillance state, the militarization of law enforcement, taking our shoes and belts off at airports, and ever expanding illegal drone wars and regime changes that have only increased the likelihood of terrorism ? And Trump.
I'm all for "Reason and Vigilance After the Blast", but part of the reasoning should be to take a hard look at our current policies and the people that have advocated for those, obviously failed, policies and profited from them.
But someone will claim responsibility, or maybe more than one person or group, eager to jump on the terrorist bandwagon.
This is terror, whether it is Islamic terror, domestic terror or some isolated nutcase.
Besides, this notion of membership in a terror organization is very outdated.
And that’s a reality we have to live with regardless of the reaction of our leaders.
"The city stayed calm."
I'm glad to hear that and it speaks volumes about New Yorkers and says nothing about the candidates.
What have our 'leaders' accomplished since the War on Terror began? Or the war on drugs, the war on poverty for that matter?
"There is no absolute solace in this anxious era."
You are absolutely right.
But a lack of and/or wrong leadership has led to the rise in terrorism and we are supposed to trust that same leadership "and elect leaders who will address the challenge with sanity and good judgment" when all we have gotten in return so far since 9/11 has been the total surveillance state, the militarization of law enforcement, taking our shoes and belts off at airports, and ever expanding illegal drone wars and regime changes that have only increased the likelihood of terrorism ? And Trump.
I'm all for "Reason and Vigilance After the Blast", but part of the reasoning should be to take a hard look at our current policies and the people that have advocated for those, obviously failed, policies and profited from them.
13
No reason and no vigilance. Just dancing around the issues until they find a story that fits their narrative whether it's true or not.,
15
Christie's claim that Clinton is somehow responsible for the bombing in NY is part of a long line of an-democratic behavior in electoral politics. It is Bridgegate over again. The vindictive behavior shown by his administration toward the mayor of Ft. Lee for declining to endorse his election campaign is identical to his slandering of Clinton for having the chutzpah to challenge his preferred candidate for president. In both cases he aims to undermine, through either illegal or immoral, but in both case anti-democratic means, the candidacy of his opponents. Trump has surrounded himself with vile and disgusting people like himself.
38
Try not to discount the impolitic of the Right. A significant faction in our country demands the ability to shoot at will and walk away without a care. One of our candidates whispers the 2nd Amendment remedy against an opponent villified and proven innocent.
The decent and reasonable actions of our city are just one thing. Be assured in basements countrywide the hatred is being wormed into the conversation like gun oil, as those of the party that draws this terrorism to us still continue to speak in blood red terms over every facet of every incident.
Let's not congratulate ourselves as a people too quickly. Anything less than a landslide for Hillary will mean guns drawn in our country over lies and nonsense, built to a crescendo by for-profit propaganda and a culture of resentment.
The decent and reasonable actions of our city are just one thing. Be assured in basements countrywide the hatred is being wormed into the conversation like gun oil, as those of the party that draws this terrorism to us still continue to speak in blood red terms over every facet of every incident.
Let's not congratulate ourselves as a people too quickly. Anything less than a landslide for Hillary will mean guns drawn in our country over lies and nonsense, built to a crescendo by for-profit propaganda and a culture of resentment.
18
The only solution in the long term is for the United States and certain EU nations to STOP interfering in Middle Eastern affairs! ISIS-linked acts of terrorism are nothing but the latest avatar in exported mayhem dating back to the first PLO skyjacking in the late 1960s associated, again, with Western interference in Middle Eastern affairs. I certainly hope the next elected president of the United States shows a bit of innovation and begings the Big Withdrawal from this part of the world. Perhaps the recent floundering in Syria will be the signal for the US to leave-- let Russia or Turkey deal with this unsolvable mess in order for the exported domestic threats to gradually evaporate.
11
NYC can be dangerous. No kidding. Whether it be random crime or a bomb attack. it can be dangerous. No kidding.
Its bigger, and better than this. Let them intimidate away, we are stronger than they.
These punks are a threat, but it is a small one. I don't plan on being scared.
Don't listen to those real wusses, Trump supporters, who say otherwise.
Go about your business as usual.
Screw them!
Its bigger, and better than this. Let them intimidate away, we are stronger than they.
These punks are a threat, but it is a small one. I don't plan on being scared.
Don't listen to those real wusses, Trump supporters, who say otherwise.
Go about your business as usual.
Screw them!
35
. . . until the first nuclear "dirty bomb" is used in Manhattan -- or, heaven forbid, the first clean one. Then let's see anyone "go about their business as usual." New York will become a ghost town, no matter how brave we are today.
End Muslim immigration to the US -- let's not end up like France!
End Muslim immigration to the US -- let's not end up like France!
If we continue our misguided policies, the problem is going to get much bigger, believe me.
Oh and by the way, if you had a loved one injured in the blast, I highly doubt you would be calling it a "small problem."
Oh and by the way, if you had a loved one injured in the blast, I highly doubt you would be calling it a "small problem."
Would there have been reason with all of the violence in the movies and television the last 60 years that was put out there by Hollywood, then violent video games, the internet, and we now have violence or the potential on a daily basis all over the world? Anyone that believes that feeding it to the general public 24-7 with easy access to guns and the potential to use bombs, etc., it matters little to the average politician around the world who all have huge security, that humans are being terrorized, whether in an inner city in America, the factions in Asia, Africa, or the middle east. The disastrous affect of the foray into Iraq and the muddled after affects, and then the lazy, indifferent affect of policies in Africa, the middle east and Asia, have pretty much put tens of millions of refugees into the forefront of all of this, who have taken sides in the wars, both cultural and real, so that in reality the only safe people are those being checked at airports and sporting events. The rest of humanity is left at the mercy of moneyed politicians both here and abroad, that are evil because they are deceptive. The truth is that the people are getting smarter than either the politicians or the media. How it all ends is going to be determined in the near future by both our election in November, and how the female leaders in both Britain and Germany are able to direct intelligent leadership, not only in their respective countries and the rest of Europe, but around the world.
8
@Mary Kay:. It is wonderful and long overdue to have female leaders in Europe. but you may wish to rethink what Angela Merkel has done to her country. Is that " intelligent leadership"?
1
When you do not know, simply state that fact. "We do not know who placed the bomb there nor do we know why the bomb was placed there."
The Norwegians learned that lesson once they started analyzing the early responses to the two events in 2011 referred to in Norway as 22 July. The first event was a car bomb set off outside government headquarters, the second the killing of 69 people on Utøya island. The lesson, do not jump to conclusions.
The killer was Anders Behring Breivik, an ethnic Norwegian who saw himself among other things as a Christian savior who would take on the Norwegian government for its failures, one of them allowing Muslims in Norway.
The lesson learned is well illustrated in a Norwegian television series Ockupation and in a novel by Norwegian author Anne Holt, OnLine, both appearing in 2016. The theme in Ockupation and OnLine is that until investigations have been brought to completion, it is equally likely that the bombing or killing is the work of ethnic Norwegians as of Muslims or other outsiders.
Would that my fellow Americans, notably here in comment land today Richard Luettgen, could learn from the Norwegians.
Only-NeverInSweden.blogspot.com
Dual citizen US SE
The Norwegians learned that lesson once they started analyzing the early responses to the two events in 2011 referred to in Norway as 22 July. The first event was a car bomb set off outside government headquarters, the second the killing of 69 people on Utøya island. The lesson, do not jump to conclusions.
The killer was Anders Behring Breivik, an ethnic Norwegian who saw himself among other things as a Christian savior who would take on the Norwegian government for its failures, one of them allowing Muslims in Norway.
The lesson learned is well illustrated in a Norwegian television series Ockupation and in a novel by Norwegian author Anne Holt, OnLine, both appearing in 2016. The theme in Ockupation and OnLine is that until investigations have been brought to completion, it is equally likely that the bombing or killing is the work of ethnic Norwegians as of Muslims or other outsiders.
Would that my fellow Americans, notably here in comment land today Richard Luettgen, could learn from the Norwegians.
Only-NeverInSweden.blogspot.com
Dual citizen US SE
20
The reaction here in Brussels is edifying. The comments on the local news sites include many who note that the regular NYPD made quick progress on isolating that second bomb, opening it, and handing it over to the Feds. They also note early news that 5 people are being detained as persons of interest. Locals here find that effectiveness quite a contrast to the disorder and bumbling in the first few days of the Brussels attacks by all levels of the Belgian security forces.
Here's hoping that NY's Finest continue to do such solid work.
Here's hoping that NY's Finest continue to do such solid work.
69
The bombing is horrific because it is unusual, and terrible for the 29 injured.
But there are 12,000 murders of Americans by guns a year, and that number has not declined with the general decline in crime in 20 years.
Murder by gun is so commonplace that it generally doesn't get attention unless it is affiliated with an international or domestic terrorist group.
There have been 3,264 deaths by terrorism in the US over the past 20 years according to the Global Terrorism Database, with 2,996 due to the 9/11 attack.
This compares with about 240,000 murders by guns.
The world has always been a dangerous place, with a long history of gruesome wars, bloodshed and murder.
It has actually improved with maturity and civilization, though with 24-hour global news and 7 billion people it doesn't always seem that way.
As a nation and as a global community, we need to put the threat from terrorism in perspective with other threats, from extreme weather-related loss of lives and property from climate-change, the threat of war, gun violence, disease and famine.
Political opportunists like Trump-Pence will Trump up the threat of terrorism as an excuse to take away civil rights and Constitutional protections.
Trump said the Constitution is not a suicide pact.
No, it isn't, it is the nation's most important defense from a would-be tyrant.
"Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety."
Ben Franklin
But there are 12,000 murders of Americans by guns a year, and that number has not declined with the general decline in crime in 20 years.
Murder by gun is so commonplace that it generally doesn't get attention unless it is affiliated with an international or domestic terrorist group.
There have been 3,264 deaths by terrorism in the US over the past 20 years according to the Global Terrorism Database, with 2,996 due to the 9/11 attack.
This compares with about 240,000 murders by guns.
The world has always been a dangerous place, with a long history of gruesome wars, bloodshed and murder.
It has actually improved with maturity and civilization, though with 24-hour global news and 7 billion people it doesn't always seem that way.
As a nation and as a global community, we need to put the threat from terrorism in perspective with other threats, from extreme weather-related loss of lives and property from climate-change, the threat of war, gun violence, disease and famine.
Political opportunists like Trump-Pence will Trump up the threat of terrorism as an excuse to take away civil rights and Constitutional protections.
Trump said the Constitution is not a suicide pact.
No, it isn't, it is the nation's most important defense from a would-be tyrant.
"Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety."
Ben Franklin
83
I agree with you. The terror fear, however, goes beyond the death toll to date. We all know that ISIS has been trying to get dirty bombs and nuclear capability. It is the what may come scenario that worries many.
1
This New York City incident pales in comparison to what happens in major cities in Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan, Yemen, Somalia, Nigeria, Libya and Pakistan. Nor is it comparable to what happened in America in Waco or Oklahoma City. This was not Madrid nor London nor Paris nor Brussels nor Nice.
No one knows the nationality nor faith nor motivation nor training nor bomb making skills of the bomber or bombers. A temperate mature informed competent comprehensive reasonable and vigilant response is essential. Turning 19 men with box cutters and hijacked planes into an existential threat on par with Nazi Germany, Imperial Japan and the Soviet Union made mere "grasshoppers" into giants.
No one knows the nationality nor faith nor motivation nor training nor bomb making skills of the bomber or bombers. A temperate mature informed competent comprehensive reasonable and vigilant response is essential. Turning 19 men with box cutters and hijacked planes into an existential threat on par with Nazi Germany, Imperial Japan and the Soviet Union made mere "grasshoppers" into giants.
7
@ blackmamba IL - I often have wanted to write exactly what you have written in that first paragraph or to see someone at the Times put matters in perspective as you do.
I often cite the best study I know of concerning a single terrorist act, the study made by Åsne Seierstedt of the Norwegian terrorist Anders Behring Breivik, a study published as "One Of Us".
Unfortunately, all too many commenters all over the political spectrum simply use this event to go after one or the other person or party instead of sticking with the subject - what do we know, what do we need to know, what is the historical context in which terrorism has occurred an now occurs?
Seemingly those adjectives you use preceding "response" are unknown to these commenters.
Thanks
Larry
I often cite the best study I know of concerning a single terrorist act, the study made by Åsne Seierstedt of the Norwegian terrorist Anders Behring Breivik, a study published as "One Of Us".
Unfortunately, all too many commenters all over the political spectrum simply use this event to go after one or the other person or party instead of sticking with the subject - what do we know, what do we need to know, what is the historical context in which terrorism has occurred an now occurs?
Seemingly those adjectives you use preceding "response" are unknown to these commenters.
Thanks
Larry
2
Finally, NYT editors and Mr Trump agree on something. Mr. Trump is stated succinctly: "There was a bombing. We have to get tough." NYT Editors wrote a whole verbose piece capped by this: "There is only the hard work of investigating, deterring and punishing attackers, and meeting the dangers with proportionate measures, courage and calm resolve." In college, I have been taught that good writing is succinct and to the point - by all accounts, Donald Trump has learned this and used it well. Hostile media is trying to distort at every opportunity.
21
"When Mexico sends its people, they're not sending their best. They're not sending you,...They're sending people that have lots of problems, and they're bringing those problems with us. They're bringing drugs. They're bringing crime. They're rapists. And some, I assume, are good people." Donald Trump
No distortion there, and succinct too!
No distortion there, and succinct too!
1
Vigilance is all very well, but when there are near simultaneous terrorist incidents in three states, it's difficult to praise Washington. These are a part of a long list that it is difficult to see as isolated incidents.
11
I'm a frequent critic of those police who are predators, preying on the public to make arrests with resulting hikes in pay and promotion, but this time the police did what we pay them for; protect the public.
I note that the bomb was detonated on a very busy Saturday night during which there was a full moon which as you know energizes people to enjoy themselves.
The placement of one sophisticated bomb would have been the work of an amateur maniac, but two bombs, both of which were sophisticated indicates a wave that the city has properly responded to with boots on the ground. The more people that are looking for extraordinary people or packages, the better.
Flooding NYC with additional cops and national guard was the appropriate response given the threat of an obvious serial bomber.
The city police and citizens were all very much strident in coping with the threat. They did everything right.
That's what we pay the cops to do.
I note that the bomb was detonated on a very busy Saturday night during which there was a full moon which as you know energizes people to enjoy themselves.
The placement of one sophisticated bomb would have been the work of an amateur maniac, but two bombs, both of which were sophisticated indicates a wave that the city has properly responded to with boots on the ground. The more people that are looking for extraordinary people or packages, the better.
Flooding NYC with additional cops and national guard was the appropriate response given the threat of an obvious serial bomber.
The city police and citizens were all very much strident in coping with the threat. They did everything right.
That's what we pay the cops to do.
36
I am a New York City resident living not so far from where this awful incident happened. It reminds New Yorkers to be vigilant and the need for continued efforts by police and security officials to curb lone wolf and ISIS inspired individuals. Thankfully there were no worse injuries.
That said, I still feel far safer walking the streets of New York City than traveling by one of those self-propelled contraptions known as a motor vehicle—those things are very dangerous! Sadly, year in and year out statistics show that, motor vehicle crashes are a far greater danger to your average American than this kind of incident.
So I say to those who would try to strike fear through violence, whatever their motives. Not buying what you have to sell. There are many, many other greater dangers to living in the world. Few people will stop using motor vehicles due to their inherent dangers. And I will not stop walking the streets of my beloved NYC. Not afraid. Sorry.
That said, I still feel far safer walking the streets of New York City than traveling by one of those self-propelled contraptions known as a motor vehicle—those things are very dangerous! Sadly, year in and year out statistics show that, motor vehicle crashes are a far greater danger to your average American than this kind of incident.
So I say to those who would try to strike fear through violence, whatever their motives. Not buying what you have to sell. There are many, many other greater dangers to living in the world. Few people will stop using motor vehicles due to their inherent dangers. And I will not stop walking the streets of my beloved NYC. Not afraid. Sorry.
114
Whatever our reaction, we do not need leaders who go off at half-cock. We don't need anxious alarms, threats of retaliation, or menace. We need people who assess the situation, find fact, and then take the appropriate action.
Trump gave us an anxious alarm and spread fear. Christie did the same.
Clinton, on the other hand, exhibited steady calm and withheld judgment. She supported local officials, is waiting for investigators at the city, state, and federal levels, and will then assess the findings. That's how it works (and if that's a little boring, we don't need any more panic).
We hunt down criminals methodically after we find them. The war in Afghanistan didn't kill Bin Laden, let alone the war in Iraq. Slowly, methodically, the administration (Obama and Clinton in the front row) pursued him and meted out justice. That's the advantage of asking questions first and shooting later. Trump shoots from the hip and misses a lot of the time.
Trump gave us an anxious alarm and spread fear. Christie did the same.
Clinton, on the other hand, exhibited steady calm and withheld judgment. She supported local officials, is waiting for investigators at the city, state, and federal levels, and will then assess the findings. That's how it works (and if that's a little boring, we don't need any more panic).
We hunt down criminals methodically after we find them. The war in Afghanistan didn't kill Bin Laden, let alone the war in Iraq. Slowly, methodically, the administration (Obama and Clinton in the front row) pursued him and meted out justice. That's the advantage of asking questions first and shooting later. Trump shoots from the hip and misses a lot of the time.
190
Those who ask for reason while the facts are sorted out are living in the past. Today's tyrannical candidates will not wait for facts when irresponsible tweets of fear and hate are just 140 (or less) letters away. And there are enough deplorables who see these dispatches as six column headlines. Our news sources have been so tranched to the point where voices for good are now sectioned into smaller and smaller echo chambers. With so many voices trying to be heard, only the bully can break through to those lost.
6
Once again the Paper Tiger roars. He who knows better than the generals, (who have been "reduced to rubble"), will fix everything with his "secret plan".
In Texas we call it, "BIG HAT, NO CATTLE".
In Texas we call it, "BIG HAT, NO CATTLE".
35
Way to keep it real, New York Times.
8
I am concerned about our national response or the lack of it. I believe we will find that there is an international connection to a homegrown terrorist. If this is true as a nation we need a strong retaliatory response. One that sends the clear message world wide (similar to what Israel does) you attack us we respond many fold. We need to establish the same reputation as Israel, strong and unrelenting. I am always for diplomacy, always; but, when we are attacked no response or a weak response is no response at all.
10
Retaliation as politicsl theater
1
Mr. Curtis, the mere fact that the New York Times reported this story may cause thousands of Americans to attack Muslims in the streets. Its best not to report on things that might upset people and give Islam a negative image.
"speak softly, and carry a big stick."
-- Teddy Roosevelt
How Obama dealt with bin Laden.
-- Teddy Roosevelt
How Obama dealt with bin Laden.
2
The bombing occurred during a high politicized campaign. Trump has used the threat of terrorism to support his opposition to Muslim immigration. If this were a terrorist attack, it could support the fear-mongering of Trump. The first thing we learned about the case was that it did not involve international terrorism, which we learned from two prominent Democrats. I doubt they lied but I find it curious that that was the first information revealed. It''s hard to deny that there is a very charged political context in which the investigation here is being carried out.
2
"On Sunday morning, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said, as Mr. de Blasio had the night before, that there was no evidence linking the bombing to international terrorism..."
Can't you get the story straight? de Blasio said there was no evidence linking the bombing to ANY terrorism, not just international terrorism, which made him look completely foolish.
It was Cuomo who bailed de Blasio out by stating de Blasio was referring to international terrorism.
You can do better with your reporting.
Can't you get the story straight? de Blasio said there was no evidence linking the bombing to ANY terrorism, not just international terrorism, which made him look completely foolish.
It was Cuomo who bailed de Blasio out by stating de Blasio was referring to international terrorism.
You can do better with your reporting.
13
At this time, we all have to have faith in our government to do all it can to prevent these types of bombings. They have every reason to protect his country against terrorists or deranged individuals. The mayor of NY and presidential candidates are working on an entirely different level to manage the definition of this crisis and spin it to their own purposes, some laudatory and others not so much. What really matters is that we maintain public safety. On the political level, however, we must not allow these types of attacks, whether terrorism or deranged violence, to further divide our country.
23
Unfortunately this is a full plate for Mr.buffoon. Trump with his abusive language against everyone and everything continue to instigate his voters with fear, xenophobia, We need experts to make statements , and not Trump dirty mouth barking and blaming . Thank God the people are better, and nobody had serious injuries . Security is a very relative word. We need to focus in domestic issues , because our foreign policies never worked well. We only had and still feel the bad consequences. Changes need to be done. We can not continue to bomb other places around the globe, keep lying to the ameicanr people thinking that everything will be fine.
2
NY police should at least release the video of the suspect who is still at large so that those of us who work in Manhattan have some sense of who the attacker is. The lack of transparency is at odds with the call to calmly go about our business.
4
The NYPD had a much better response then the PA Police at JFK a few weeks back, thank you.
3
Mealy-mouth response.....as usual
6
New York yesterday was an example of how a civilized society handles an attack on its values, from the inside or the outside. I was in awe how the city handled itself, from the first responders to the local politicians to - especially to- the Citizens of New York, who refused to bow to fear, or hand over their life. It makes the Terrorist, whoever they may be, look very small.
16
A civilized society would prioritise protection of its citizens, not cower, obfuscate (so as not to give offense) and 'turn the other cheek' while the slaughter continues. France has been very civilized as the atrocities have accumulated - how is that working out for them. When some of our re-settled friends perpetrate the next 9/11, we'll show them what we're made off, with candlelight vigils and holding hands! Then the terrorists will feel very small. Don't you find it tiresome to spend your life on your knees?
11
@Richard
As opposed to living life as a chicken with its head cut off?
Proceed with deliberation, not. hysteria.
As opposed to living life as a chicken with its head cut off?
Proceed with deliberation, not. hysteria.
Candidates and politicians should express compassion for the victims and their families and then step out of the way to let law enforcement do their jobs. Making political hay out of this tragedy is disgusting and only compounds the damage.
15
Reason, vigilance, and political correctness. Hoo, boy. "Police state overreaction"? How about "administration under-reaction"?. And some honesty and frankness? And we wonder why Trump rises in the polls.
12
Trump rises in the polls because his adored "poorly educated" supporters believe this blowhard, who has no idea of how the world really works, possesses their modus operandi.
2
And what reaction do you recommend? Invade Iraq?
2
How we respond to threats of terror is imperative. Although there is no clear evidence linking this bombing to international terrorism it still happened and we need to find the source and take measures at punishing the attackers while instilling hope in our country.
2
As a Californian, I look to New York City as a beacon of courage. Your leaders, your police and fire departments, your citizens should be examples to all US cities of the calm, focus, and reason necessary during times of crisis. You know and live reality. You don't need a TV show or a salesman to teach the rest of us about life. You get it. Thank you for being New Yorkers.
28
I'm proud of New York--sounds like this was handled just about as well as it could have been by our first-class city. People helping each other, resisting panic and blame, governing itself maturely, policing effectively and appropriately. This, folks, is what reasonable looks like. What civilization looks like. What progress looks like.
Nice job, New York.
Nice job, New York.
152
Unfortunately "reason" is not being put to the best use by our civic leaders in this case. The night of the bombing, our mayor said that the "incident" was most likely "not terrorism" however it was "intentional". Well. Someone intentionally set off a bomb to celebrate a night on the town? If an intentional detonation of a bomb is not terrorism then what is?
Then, today, the goal posts are moved when Mr. Cuomo said it was not "international" terrorism. Well. That sure makes me feel better.
Our mayor also said last night that the bombings in NJ and NYC were likely not related. Now the latest evidence indicates that they are.
There is a major refusal on the part of our leaders to call a spade a spade, for whatever reasons.
Then, today, the goal posts are moved when Mr. Cuomo said it was not "international" terrorism. Well. That sure makes me feel better.
Our mayor also said last night that the bombings in NJ and NYC were likely not related. Now the latest evidence indicates that they are.
There is a major refusal on the part of our leaders to call a spade a spade, for whatever reasons.
11
What's wrong with waiting until you can see the card to call it a spade?
Umm, it's OK now, officially, for the NYT to refer to the "blasts" as intentional terrorist attacks" because Hillary just came out and said the same thing,
about one day after Donald Trump did.
And that one day delay gave liberals the dignity they require to actually refer to something by its real name, in this case, a bomb.
Now, that wasn't so bad, was it? Why Hillary said the word, "terrorism" (OK, not Islamic terrorism, but who's counting?) and if she says it, then it is OK for those on the Upper West side to face the reality of it.
Unless Trump said it sooner, and then, well, now she looks like she might be a late vascillator on terrorism and tied to PC hesitancy to offend...whomever.
But, I still like Hill's courage in not describing the stabbings and three bombs as "workplace violence." That is a clear break with Obamaism.
I just hate it, though, when Trump is correct. But not politically correct.
about one day after Donald Trump did.
And that one day delay gave liberals the dignity they require to actually refer to something by its real name, in this case, a bomb.
Now, that wasn't so bad, was it? Why Hillary said the word, "terrorism" (OK, not Islamic terrorism, but who's counting?) and if she says it, then it is OK for those on the Upper West side to face the reality of it.
Unless Trump said it sooner, and then, well, now she looks like she might be a late vascillator on terrorism and tied to PC hesitancy to offend...whomever.
But, I still like Hill's courage in not describing the stabbings and three bombs as "workplace violence." That is a clear break with Obamaism.
I just hate it, though, when Trump is correct. But not politically correct.
20
Terrorists want to inspire fear. Trump lives off fear. They are natural allies.
6
Meanwhile, back at the ranch...
More Americans died, yesterday and today, from other Americans shooting them with guns, than died in all three, NYC, New Jersey and Minnesota incidents, combined.
Gimme an amen, praise hayzus and pass the ammunition.
More Americans died, yesterday and today, from other Americans shooting them with guns, than died in all three, NYC, New Jersey and Minnesota incidents, combined.
Gimme an amen, praise hayzus and pass the ammunition.
49
The earth is round; but, we "feel" as though it's level because its curvature is so immense. So it is with America. The nation is so large and so powerful, we can't conceive of its actual demise; in the end, we think, God or American ingenuity will save us. We'll see. I think it's unraveling; after all, the "exercise of democracy" has given us Trump. Win or lose, his hornets remain. As soon as bombs start exploding in the Midwest or the South, Americans will drop the Constitution and the Bill of Rights like a prom dress at midnight.
5
Thank God, everyone who was injured has left the hospital. We in NYC were lucky, blessed. I hate tossing politics into the conversation just a day after an event like last night's bombing. That said, at no time in recent history, has the need for stable leadership been more critical. Both Trump and Clinton's response to the news from NYC is very telling of how they would handle a crisis. Trump is emotional, speaking off the cuff. He calls the explosion a bomb before FBI or NYPD had released that diagnosis. He doesn't seem to understand how reckless his pronouncement was. Trump uses news of the bombing to spook the crowd, to "sell" his "we're going to crackdown" message. Crackdown on what? The crowd he is speaking to in Colorado Springs crows its approval. In stark contrast, Clinton says's it's important to first know the facts. She calls for support of first responders (cops, NYFD, EMT other NYC and fed officials on the ground) and prayers for the victims. With the measured tone of a stateswoman she says they (her campaign) have been in touch with officials in NYC as the investigation unfolds. She says I'll have more to say about it when we know the facts. Her tone/words are meticulous, almost calming and careful. She sounds like a leader.
243
the ideas expressed in this article are a sure recipe for disaster and repeat attacks. Weakness always encourages more attacks and the NYT has been complicit in a strategy of weakness and apology. We are reaping the results of this weakness and ignorance.
14
I think you are confusing strength with hysteria
1
May there be peace in our bodies, minds and hearts. May all beings everywhere be peaceful. May each of us do the inner work necessary- cultivating compassion, patince and love- so that those in our lives will benefit as well as ourselves.
1
Somebody wants Trump to win. This plays to his narrative. The mayor even stupidly jumped out early and claimed it was NOT a terrorist attack. What is wrong with that guy? He couldn't wait? Couldn't he just say, we don't know yet?
It may or may not turn out to be that, but why stumble all over himself to make the claim?
Thanks for nothing, DeBlasio.
It may or may not turn out to be that, but why stumble all over himself to make the claim?
Thanks for nothing, DeBlasio.
6
Wow, what a waste of ink. Please, tell me, a native NYer what or how to think about bombs in Manhattan.
What a pathetic piece of logic.
What a pathetic piece of logic.
13
Some people including officials would like us to believe that detonating a bomb in a public space is something other than terrorism. This is even more offensive than the act itself.
21
@ Suzy Sandor Manhattan - Suzy I agree with you in the following way. it appears to me that US officials at many levels have somehow or other decided that one can only use the word terrorism to refer to events intiated by Muslims or by such as Islamists who claim to be Muslims. After filing a comment - not yet reviewed - I saw a second Times article describing de Blasio's apparently more careful use of language. I would have to see a video to be sure how he handled himself.
It would help if the Times had a Times Guide with keywords defined carefully. The New Penguin English Dictionary - closest at hand - says this: The systematic use of terror and violence for political ends.
As of this moment I think the best first response would be simply to state "An explosion took place at x. We do not yet know the nature of the explosion and therefore do not know if it was accidental - natural gas explosion for example - or was caused by an explosive device ....etc
And especially important, anyone who restricts the use of the word terrorism to events caused only by Muslims should be challenged immediately.
Only-NeverInSweden.blogspot.com
It would help if the Times had a Times Guide with keywords defined carefully. The New Penguin English Dictionary - closest at hand - says this: The systematic use of terror and violence for political ends.
As of this moment I think the best first response would be simply to state "An explosion took place at x. We do not yet know the nature of the explosion and therefore do not know if it was accidental - natural gas explosion for example - or was caused by an explosive device ....etc
And especially important, anyone who restricts the use of the word terrorism to events caused only by Muslims should be challenged immediately.
Only-NeverInSweden.blogspot.com
It's always fascinating to see how the two parties react after an act of terror. The Democrats offer calm, measured, and reassuring approach, while The Republicans are content with peddling fear, paranoia, and hostility.
I am watching Fox News right now, and they are taking about militarising the police, and promoting open carry in malls and shopping centres. If you are wondering why Trump won the primaries, you only need to watch Fox News for an hour. What might seem lunacy to us, is considered normal on the other side of the fence.
I am watching Fox News right now, and they are taking about militarising the police, and promoting open carry in malls and shopping centres. If you are wondering why Trump won the primaries, you only need to watch Fox News for an hour. What might seem lunacy to us, is considered normal on the other side of the fence.
47
"Talk to the hand, beautiful hands by the way." Trump responded.
3
Nicely said. Anybody on the editorial board care to run for president?
There used to be a time when partisan posturing during national tragedies was generally considered "off limits". In the era of reality tv style elections, I'm afraid it's clear that time has passed.
6
"A police-state overreaction would be equally damaging in its own way by adding to the intolerance and suspicion that can foster radicalization, isolation and hatred."
That statement ontradicts what other countries are doing to protect their people and prevent acts of terror.
If you travel to Rome, you will see "L'operazione Strade Sicure", an ongoing, large-scale tactic that deploys police and armed military personnel in public spaces throughout the city. The result is that Italy has almost no acts of terrorism, and people safely enjoy the public spaces in peace. In fact, both tourists and locals enjoy the military personnel because they act in a polite but vigilant way.
The claim that military are, by definition, "intolerant" reflects a prejudice and ignorance that dominates liberal thought today, and that world view is completely disproved by the experience of countries like Italy.
I encourage all the readers to learn for themselves what is being done in other countries, and stop listening to the statements by these biased editors. After all, the editors condemned Trump and Republicans without ever condemning the people who commit these heinous acts!
And nothing is more pathetic than writing "New York City, like the world, can be a dangerous place" and "There is no absolute solace in this anxious era." Those are the statements of hypocrites who hide behind security while writing off the injuries of innocent people!
That statement ontradicts what other countries are doing to protect their people and prevent acts of terror.
If you travel to Rome, you will see "L'operazione Strade Sicure", an ongoing, large-scale tactic that deploys police and armed military personnel in public spaces throughout the city. The result is that Italy has almost no acts of terrorism, and people safely enjoy the public spaces in peace. In fact, both tourists and locals enjoy the military personnel because they act in a polite but vigilant way.
The claim that military are, by definition, "intolerant" reflects a prejudice and ignorance that dominates liberal thought today, and that world view is completely disproved by the experience of countries like Italy.
I encourage all the readers to learn for themselves what is being done in other countries, and stop listening to the statements by these biased editors. After all, the editors condemned Trump and Republicans without ever condemning the people who commit these heinous acts!
And nothing is more pathetic than writing "New York City, like the world, can be a dangerous place" and "There is no absolute solace in this anxious era." Those are the statements of hypocrites who hide behind security while writing off the injuries of innocent people!
6
Your argument that Italy suffers no acts of terror because of the deployment of military personnel in the city is unsubstantiated. Italy counter-terrorism works better for other reasons.
http://asia.nikkei.com/Viewpoints/Viewpoints/Doing-counterterrorism-righ...
http://asia.nikkei.com/Viewpoints/Viewpoints/Doing-counterterrorism-righ...
1
Good editorial and I agree. I'd gone right by the scene of the explosion with family members earlier in the day, and had we been delayed by a half hour, it could have been me hurt by this blast, or far worse, my niece. I was home, as luck would have it, so my windows fluttered from the shockwave right before I heard the boom. Looked outside, suspecting a bomb already, heard no screams, saw no flames, and thought maybe I was mistaken, it'd been a construction accident or something.
Found out what it was when Meet the Press led off with it this morning. Four blocks away and I was one of the last to know what was up.
But I'm not particularly worried. This lunatic will be traced and caught, like the Boston Marathon bombers were, and if he dies instead of getting captured, that's fine too. I'm not going to stay inside for weeks, or walk around wearing a helmet; I just don't feel like it'll happen again quite like this. Some other terrorist attack seems inevitable though, and I'm fairly sure that's what this was; some jihadist of low intellect and boundless hatred.
What I am scared of is the foolish American voters turning into fascism-craving cowards, thinking a police state would save them from this. I'm far more worried about Trump than terrorists.
Found out what it was when Meet the Press led off with it this morning. Four blocks away and I was one of the last to know what was up.
But I'm not particularly worried. This lunatic will be traced and caught, like the Boston Marathon bombers were, and if he dies instead of getting captured, that's fine too. I'm not going to stay inside for weeks, or walk around wearing a helmet; I just don't feel like it'll happen again quite like this. Some other terrorist attack seems inevitable though, and I'm fairly sure that's what this was; some jihadist of low intellect and boundless hatred.
What I am scared of is the foolish American voters turning into fascism-craving cowards, thinking a police state would save them from this. I'm far more worried about Trump than terrorists.
53
@Dan Stackhouse
I have no respect for people who think that republicans are a greater threat to the US than terrorists who detonate bombs
I have no respect for people who think that republicans are a greater threat to the US than terrorists who detonate bombs
8
Dear Surgres,
Well sorry but that's how I feel. Terrorists can only kill a relatively small amount of people at a time; even the largest attack we ever had was under 3,000, a small amount of human lives lost, compared to the tsunami in Indonesia and so on. I'm not afraid of all Republicans, but Trump is a menace to democracy, and would turn America toward fascism. A fascist America is far more dangerous than any ragtag terrorists ever could be.
Well sorry but that's how I feel. Terrorists can only kill a relatively small amount of people at a time; even the largest attack we ever had was under 3,000, a small amount of human lives lost, compared to the tsunami in Indonesia and so on. I'm not afraid of all Republicans, but Trump is a menace to democracy, and would turn America toward fascism. A fascist America is far more dangerous than any ragtag terrorists ever could be.
3
@surgres
I have no respect for people who forget the aphorism that "“Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety”
I have no respect for people who forget the aphorism that "“Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety”
2
"Reason and Vigilance" are certainly needed. So are leaders that can actually accomplish results. The results will be less bombings, stabbings, and shootings -- and eventually none, based upon less people who are determined and evil. Like Hitler was determined and evil. The leaders we now have are useless.
5
Twitter erupted -- sure. Then the writer says "as Twitter does." As a person who has placed faith in the possibilities of cyberspace, this casual stereotype is damaging and false. The bulk of those who are active online are not eruptors but human beings who are glad the world is moving toward more democratic forms of discourse. Anyone with miniscule knowledge can control their online existence to avoid the eruptive forces. I think this attitude hides an ambivalence which is understandable. No one looks over my shoulder when I write. No one evaluates what I do. I am free to succeed and fail as I like. That is worth a lot after a long writing career.
Lesson learned, lesson forgotten. When the Oklahoma bombing occurred the media's talking heads interrupted the regularly scheduled TV programming and quickly assigned the bombing to Islamic/Muslim terrorist when in fact is was an American terrorist.
5
But, by golly, the media then like Trump and Christie now spoke up. So what if they were wrong?
1
I am not understanding why the editors made this, do they mean that "vigilance and reasonableness" reside only with one particular political party? And precisely what do they mean by these terms? NYT is substituting shoddy partisanship for good writing.
8
As someone who lives on the next block to the explosion, I have to dispute your editorial assertion that NYC municipal and law enforcement have handled the matter properly.
The NYPD claims that it “quickly found another apparent explosive device [“around three hours after the explosion” according to Commissioner O’Neill], a rigged pressure cooker, which was safely removed” appear to be more hype than truth.
NPR correspondent Petra Meyer has reported that she and a friend spotted the second device lying on the sidewalk and reported it to 911 at around 10:30, i.e., around two hours after the explosion. And it has been reported extensively that that the bomb squad did not remove that IED until around 2:30 AM, some six hours after the explosion.
Nor do the facts obvious to everyone accord with the claim that NYPD has done a prompt and diligent search of the area. On Sunday morning, when I started from 24th/7th for my jog, I was troubled to see how crowded the sidewalks and curbs were with piles of garbage bags, cardboard boxes, free news paper dispensers, opaque litter baskets, etc, all being left uncollected and unexamined, while dozens of officers sat in squad cars blocking the roadways as if the major NYPD concern was that the bomber would be driving back into the neighborhood.
I agree with your point that NYC needs to respond with calm and reason, but isn’t it even more necessary that our authorities respond diligently, honestly, and effectively?
The NYPD claims that it “quickly found another apparent explosive device [“around three hours after the explosion” according to Commissioner O’Neill], a rigged pressure cooker, which was safely removed” appear to be more hype than truth.
NPR correspondent Petra Meyer has reported that she and a friend spotted the second device lying on the sidewalk and reported it to 911 at around 10:30, i.e., around two hours after the explosion. And it has been reported extensively that that the bomb squad did not remove that IED until around 2:30 AM, some six hours after the explosion.
Nor do the facts obvious to everyone accord with the claim that NYPD has done a prompt and diligent search of the area. On Sunday morning, when I started from 24th/7th for my jog, I was troubled to see how crowded the sidewalks and curbs were with piles of garbage bags, cardboard boxes, free news paper dispensers, opaque litter baskets, etc, all being left uncollected and unexamined, while dozens of officers sat in squad cars blocking the roadways as if the major NYPD concern was that the bomber would be driving back into the neighborhood.
I agree with your point that NYC needs to respond with calm and reason, but isn’t it even more necessary that our authorities respond diligently, honestly, and effectively?
7
Well said: "There is only the hard work of investigating, deterring and punishing attackers, and meeting the dangers with proportionate measures, courage and calm resolve." How would people like Trump or Christie understand that - they have never done a day of honest work in their entire life. Peace to NYC!
4
When you say "today's dangerous world" can you please provide some historical context? Oh, right. You can't. Because life is safer in America (and particularly in NYC) then ever before. Leave the terrorizing to the terrorists.
4
So I figured, at last, I'm finally going to read a New York Times editorial that will not twist itself into pretzels in order to say something bad about Donald Trump...
What is it about that man that makes even an editorial about a bomb blast, of all things, another venue to vent about him? The explosion was one mile from your office. Please stick to the point.
What is it about that man that makes even an editorial about a bomb blast, of all things, another venue to vent about him? The explosion was one mile from your office. Please stick to the point.
11
NYT only brought DT up because HE was crass enough (not surprisingly) to try to score political points off this incident. Please take the blinders off.
I can't resist popping off about what a dangerous jerk Trump truly is. But it's time for us to get smart, not angry, and take chances. Talk to people you may not know well about the candidates. When someone says they're both liars, simply say "Hillary Clinton is a politician, and, whether or not I agree with her I know she's handled high-stress situations with calm and composure her whole life. Donald Trump just lies. Constantly. It worries me sick to think of someone so insecure and nasty representing America."
5
She handles stress by lying and blaming her staff. We had an opportunity to have a really good candidate but the corporatist DNC said: NOOOOOOOOOO!
7
"The city stayed calm."
Perhaps Trump and Chris Christie and others who are all acting as if their hair is on fire, should follow the city's reaction and stay calm.
When 9/11 happened, the city didn't panic either. Republicans who were in charge then--Bush, Pataki and Giuliani--all asked the people to be calm. It is what followed--war in Iraq and the never-ending involvement in Afghanistan which was a subject of another editorial in the Times today, some 15 years after 9/11--that got the country in trouble.
So, it is important to remain calm and rational, instead of taking rash actions that will not solve the problems but only exacerbate them.
Acting tough and saying we have to be tough, whatever that means, will solve nothing either. Politicians who try to score points when tragedy strikes are the worst kind and should be avoided like Ebola.
Perhaps Trump and Chris Christie and others who are all acting as if their hair is on fire, should follow the city's reaction and stay calm.
When 9/11 happened, the city didn't panic either. Republicans who were in charge then--Bush, Pataki and Giuliani--all asked the people to be calm. It is what followed--war in Iraq and the never-ending involvement in Afghanistan which was a subject of another editorial in the Times today, some 15 years after 9/11--that got the country in trouble.
So, it is important to remain calm and rational, instead of taking rash actions that will not solve the problems but only exacerbate them.
Acting tough and saying we have to be tough, whatever that means, will solve nothing either. Politicians who try to score points when tragedy strikes are the worst kind and should be avoided like Ebola.
4
Incoherent. How is "cracking down" different than your preferred "punishing ?" One sounds more civilized?
I for one support violent means to end and deter and "punish" those responsible. And of its one person then fine let's bring them to justice. Otherwise I'm ok with the fate of OBL.
Talking nice won't get the job done.
I for one support violent means to end and deter and "punish" those responsible. And of its one person then fine let's bring them to justice. Otherwise I'm ok with the fate of OBL.
Talking nice won't get the job done.
4
Just imagine what would happen if these " three attacks on the homeland" were put on page three and the presidential candidates ignored them. Already I can see the mass media organs stoking the smoldering embers of hysteria and fear of a nationwide attack on our way of life. It must be christian inspired, a variation of "Repent Sinners! The End is Near!"
2
Even though I thought not calling it a terrorist act at first was a semantics flop, I was glad the mayor did it. If it kept people a little calmer, good. And if it annoyed the person who set off the devices, even better.
2
Yes, reason and vigilance, but more, more commitment to one another and a life worth living. Many of the terrorists, and members of homegrown gangs, come from dire poverty and hopelessness. They feel abandoned by the whole. They see some that have so much, but they have nothing. The ghetto in Paris has been a breeding ground for terror. If we really want to bring peace to this world then we must be vigilant in working and voting for an equality of condition, where human beings are treated with respect. It is the disaffected, the untreated mentally ill, the desperate that commit heinous crime. We have to unite under a banner of humanity.
Yes, the struggle is immense and nations run by violent autocrats and oligarchs are many, but we can do otherwise. We can promote compassion and equality. Poverty is the enemy of humanity. That is where we'll do the most good at fighting terror.
Yes, the struggle is immense and nations run by violent autocrats and oligarchs are many, but we can do otherwise. We can promote compassion and equality. Poverty is the enemy of humanity. That is where we'll do the most good at fighting terror.
2
I sorry poverty is no reason to murder innocent people! Get real. There have been poor people in this country for centuries. They didn't run around blowing people up. By the way, most of the terrorists we know about were not poor at all! The Saudis involved in the 9/11 attack were well educate upper middle class men and their leader was a millionaire and his family very close to the Bushes.
9
The police and investigators must keep a log of what they found and when they communicated to the officials. And these records must be available for FOIA.
This will avoid another Flint or Benghazi type cover up, where politicians kept the public away from the truth.
This will avoid another Flint or Benghazi type cover up, where politicians kept the public away from the truth.
3
I have live in NYC since 1944. I can say to whoever did this they picked the wrong place, wrong time and wrong people to mess with.
17
The right response is to realize that this is like a mosquito bite on an elephant. A crane toppling is a greater hazard. And on this note it's about time that editorialists call out our, "social media outrage hobby" for the stupid brain dead waste that it is, filling the thoughts and taking the time that ought to spent doing some functional, like reading a book. Thank heavens a zoo animal wasn't abused. With a gun. In Chicago!
3
@CK
The right response is to have compassion for those injured, and to demand that more steps are being made to keep people safe.
Your self-righteous attitude proves you really don't care about the people hurt, and that is sad.
The right response is to have compassion for those injured, and to demand that more steps are being made to keep people safe.
Your self-righteous attitude proves you really don't care about the people hurt, and that is sad.
4
We absolutely don't need a President that causes the nation to panic if we are attacked. What Trump said showed us once again why he cannot lead.
5
In implying that Clinton and the Democrats were responsible for the Chelsea bombing, Governor Chris Christie did not, contrary to the Times, "sequester his reason and decency while flacking for Trump." Your not a good and honest man one day and a bad and dishonest man the next. This is not something episodic. Christie showed at Bridgegate that he was a low life and his dark and wrong slander of Hillary is more of the same dirty tricks against his opponents.
7
Didn't they first say this was "not terrorism"?
Now it turns out, they have no clue...
Now it turns out, they have no clue...
5
If these weekend subway constructions are about putting wifi and cellular connections under the ground, I think it is a bad idea (unless I don't know some facts that make them necessary).
Amen. If only Christie had been quiet, at least according to this report, reason would have prevailed completely.
2
The comments from Trump and Christie are telling. If they do get into office as a team, they will squeeze every last drop out of such instances for political gain, while offering nothing in the way of condolences to the injured, much less what a measured response might entail. Just bluster and harping on immigration, when this - like Oklahoma - could just be another domestic yahoo with serious mental health issues.
7
This afternoon, less than a day after a bomb exploded on the streets of New York City and injured 29, a sea of thousands flooded 18 blocks of Columbus Ave, between 68th & 86th Sts, for a street festival. Helicopters flew overhead and police presence was perhaps a bit thicker than usual as precautions, but it was otherwise back to business as usual. Meanwhile, The Standard hotel and other businesses offered free accommodations for those displaced or otherwise affected. Today was New York City exemplifying that 'right response'; whether you call it stupidity or call it stubbornness, this is why the politics of fear have but little purchase here.
166
I completely agree; I was proud of New Yorkers this weekend. The photo of a crowd of onlookers c a l m l y observing the scene was heartening.
Americans are tough. We are tough.
Americans are tough. We are tough.
11
The way I feel about living my life is not affected by acts of terrorism, and perhaps I am speaking for the majority of Americans. But what affects me deeply, is the response to acts of terrorism, and that response is almost always additional layers of security.
So terrorism takes some lives, causes some injuries and destroys some properties. But the response by government is a step by step destruction of our precious liberty and freedom in the foolish pursuit of some theoretical security.
Three times within the past five years, I have been on the receiving end of the security state gone mad. In one case, I looked through a glass door at the FBI HQ, and that prompted a dispatch of four FBI police officers who surrounded me and began asking questions. On another occasion, I was sitting on the wall surrounding the east front of the Capitol. I guess I was too close to some event that was going to take place, or too close to some black SUV transporting an official across the plaza, and so, one Capitol police officer told me I had move back about 20m.
And about five months ago, I took a picture of a sign at one of the entrances to the Capitol Visitors' Center. A Capitol police officer asked if he could speak with me. I reluctantly said yes, but was advised that I did have to. The officer wanted to know my name, where I lived, what kind of work I do, was I armed, do I come to the Capitol frequently, have I ever tried to enter the Capitol with forbidden items and so on.
So terrorism takes some lives, causes some injuries and destroys some properties. But the response by government is a step by step destruction of our precious liberty and freedom in the foolish pursuit of some theoretical security.
Three times within the past five years, I have been on the receiving end of the security state gone mad. In one case, I looked through a glass door at the FBI HQ, and that prompted a dispatch of four FBI police officers who surrounded me and began asking questions. On another occasion, I was sitting on the wall surrounding the east front of the Capitol. I guess I was too close to some event that was going to take place, or too close to some black SUV transporting an official across the plaza, and so, one Capitol police officer told me I had move back about 20m.
And about five months ago, I took a picture of a sign at one of the entrances to the Capitol Visitors' Center. A Capitol police officer asked if he could speak with me. I reluctantly said yes, but was advised that I did have to. The officer wanted to know my name, where I lived, what kind of work I do, was I armed, do I come to the Capitol frequently, have I ever tried to enter the Capitol with forbidden items and so on.
If they call it "terrorism," the Federal Government foots the bill rather than insurance. Powerful motivation.
de Blasio actually said setting off a bomb in the middle of NYC was not an act of terrorism. it was a "intentional act". Cuomo had to come in and try to save de Blasio. In the meanwhile Trump got it right. It was a bomb and an act of terrorism.
13
@ Tom Becker - everybody was wrong. My The New Penguin English Dictionary defines terrorism: The systematic use of terror or violence for political ends.
An explosion occurs in New York City. The source could be a natural gas explosion as in Brighton, New York when I lived there long ago. The source could be an explosive device (bomb). How did Trump know the explosion was a bomb? If the explosion took place in a dumpster then nobody could know the source until the debris had been examined.
That analysis showed what was used thus establishing that the source was made by someone who knew what to use. The political ends are as yet unknown. In Norway in 2011 the political ends of the bomber/shooter Anders Behring Breivik were to send a message to the Norwegian government and to a particular politically based organization that Norway should be kept free of Muslims.
I repeat, nobody has got it right yet, but Hillary Clinton did do something right, tell qualified investigators to carry out the painstaking work required in order to understand.
Only-NeverInSweden.blogspot.com
Dual citizen US SE
An explosion occurs in New York City. The source could be a natural gas explosion as in Brighton, New York when I lived there long ago. The source could be an explosive device (bomb). How did Trump know the explosion was a bomb? If the explosion took place in a dumpster then nobody could know the source until the debris had been examined.
That analysis showed what was used thus establishing that the source was made by someone who knew what to use. The political ends are as yet unknown. In Norway in 2011 the political ends of the bomber/shooter Anders Behring Breivik were to send a message to the Norwegian government and to a particular politically based organization that Norway should be kept free of Muslims.
I repeat, nobody has got it right yet, but Hillary Clinton did do something right, tell qualified investigators to carry out the painstaking work required in order to understand.
Only-NeverInSweden.blogspot.com
Dual citizen US SE
We have a troubled history with Iran, a 15 year occupation and war in Afghanistan, we invaded Iraq [twice], we support Saudi Arabia in a proxy war with Yemen [Interesting fact: Saudi Arabia despises Israel by the way], we regularly assassinate terrorists in Pakistan and everywhere else.. Tet we sit back and wonder.. "Why would anyone do such a thing to us?"
7
Politicizing such an event is another sign of how far we've drifted away from decency, caring and civility.
8
Nothing give me less confidence than seeing Mayor Dumblasio telling the populous that this was an act of terror. If not, what was it? A potato sack race at a Fourth of July picnic? He did state that it was an intentional act? Really? I thought someone merely left the bomb in the dumpster thinking it was garbage pickup day.
12
"Chris Christie of New Jersey, who has sequestered his reason and decency so he can flack for Mr. Trump, used the Chelsea blast to attack Hillary Clinton on Sunday TV, darkly suggesting that she and her party, and the president, were somehow responsible."
Wael . . . Obama is our military Commander-in-Chief charged with protecting us against all enemies, foreign and domestic. If this event proves to be an Islamic (or home grown) terrorist attack, President Obama is ultimately responsible. He failed.
Ask any military commander relieved of/fired from his/her command. All that was really required was his/her commanding officer lost confidence in that officer's ability to command.
Obama, Clinton, Trump or the other contenders ought to be held to a lesser standard?
Wael . . . Obama is our military Commander-in-Chief charged with protecting us against all enemies, foreign and domestic. If this event proves to be an Islamic (or home grown) terrorist attack, President Obama is ultimately responsible. He failed.
Ask any military commander relieved of/fired from his/her command. All that was really required was his/her commanding officer lost confidence in that officer's ability to command.
Obama, Clinton, Trump or the other contenders ought to be held to a lesser standard?
5
How did George W. Bush do on 9/11/01?
Obama got bin Laden, Bush did not.
Obama's eldest brother, Salem, provided the capital that saved Bush's failing company, Arbusto Energy. Bush's daddy and bin Laden's daddy were partners in the Carlyle Group. Sort of like Trump doing business with Putin and his Russian oligarchs.
Obama got bin Laden, Bush did not.
Obama's eldest brother, Salem, provided the capital that saved Bush's failing company, Arbusto Energy. Bush's daddy and bin Laden's daddy were partners in the Carlyle Group. Sort of like Trump doing business with Putin and his Russian oligarchs.
1
This is what I worry about in my darkest dreams. An October surprise that could throw the race to a demagogue. What we voters need to do is, as the editorial said, commit to the hard work of staying safe without throwing gasoline on the fire.
5
Nuts. Screwballs. Religious fanatics. Just plain mean people. Kaczynski ... McVeigh ... Nichols ... Koresh ... Chambliss ... Fawkes ....
Fox and its dimwits will blame it all on Obama.
Move along. Nothing to see here.
Fox and its dimwits will blame it all on Obama.
Move along. Nothing to see here.
4
Around midnight I told my wife that I was greatly encouraged by last nights events, because it showed how extraordinarily competent New York and the federal authorities have become in dealing with the inevitable terrorist incident, whether home grown or foreign inspired.
It didn't take a degree in nuclear physics to spot the second device in Chelsea but it did take a great deal of thought, technology, training and organization to do what New York's police, fire and hospitals, supported by the feds, to handle casualties, defuse a second device and speed the investigation. The nation owes the a debt of gratitude for setting a standard for all of us.
The fact that a great democracy like ours can handle this evil stuff so well should give voters the guts to reject the call of the world's greatest chicken hawk, Donald Trump, to "go after the families" of terrorists, killing their wives and children, water down the Bill of Rights to foster bills of attainder, prohibited by the Constitution, against illegal Hispanic immigrants and Muslim citizens and curb independent journalism out of business by suing journalists into poverty, as was the norm before the Zenger decision.
I'm a veteran and in other circumstances have seen the effects of terrorism. If voters let Mr. Trump turn America into a Republic of Fear, Bin Laden and Al Bagdadi will have won, though the first is dead and the other is evidently losing on the battlefields of Iraq and Syria.
It didn't take a degree in nuclear physics to spot the second device in Chelsea but it did take a great deal of thought, technology, training and organization to do what New York's police, fire and hospitals, supported by the feds, to handle casualties, defuse a second device and speed the investigation. The nation owes the a debt of gratitude for setting a standard for all of us.
The fact that a great democracy like ours can handle this evil stuff so well should give voters the guts to reject the call of the world's greatest chicken hawk, Donald Trump, to "go after the families" of terrorists, killing their wives and children, water down the Bill of Rights to foster bills of attainder, prohibited by the Constitution, against illegal Hispanic immigrants and Muslim citizens and curb independent journalism out of business by suing journalists into poverty, as was the norm before the Zenger decision.
I'm a veteran and in other circumstances have seen the effects of terrorism. If voters let Mr. Trump turn America into a Republic of Fear, Bin Laden and Al Bagdadi will have won, though the first is dead and the other is evidently losing on the battlefields of Iraq and Syria.
221
Regarding Christie's remark that somehow this terrorist act was Obama or Hillary's fault. It's very possible that this was done by a far right group in order to provoke fear and increase Trump's chances of winning the election. The point is, no one knows yet who did this but apparently Christie has ESP and no sense of how a responsible elected official behaves at a time like this.
11
Chris Christie is do desperate for Trump to appoint him to something/anything if Trump is elected. CC will say or do anything to curry favor with DT..
Christie is pitiful. Valet?
NJ will be more than happy to be rid of him.
Christie is pitiful. Valet?
NJ will be more than happy to be rid of him.
15
Calm - because it was a contained explosion with no fatalities. Honestly, NYT. Comparing apples and oranges.
3
New Yorkers set a great example to this country and the world. We take things in perspective, don't overreact and carry on.
I feel virtually no fear of individual terrorism. I consider it another example of the state of mental health of many of our citizens and/or the outcome of fanning the flames and exaggerating fear & hatred in those who are easily influenced.
What DOES terrorize me is irresponsible politicians like Trump on a daily basis and others like Christie piling on...irresponsibly jumping on every event in which there is a "Boom" or "Rat-a-tat-tat" and working it to their political advantage. That is the sickest thing going on in our country. And the media's insatiable appetite to report it, elevate even the stupidest most immature utterance and repeat it over and over and over. THAT is what I consider terrorism and what keeps me up at night--because that kind of mental & emotional abuse by our "leaders" and those who keep us "informed" will be the undoing of our great democracy.
I feel virtually no fear of individual terrorism. I consider it another example of the state of mental health of many of our citizens and/or the outcome of fanning the flames and exaggerating fear & hatred in those who are easily influenced.
What DOES terrorize me is irresponsible politicians like Trump on a daily basis and others like Christie piling on...irresponsibly jumping on every event in which there is a "Boom" or "Rat-a-tat-tat" and working it to their political advantage. That is the sickest thing going on in our country. And the media's insatiable appetite to report it, elevate even the stupidest most immature utterance and repeat it over and over and over. THAT is what I consider terrorism and what keeps me up at night--because that kind of mental & emotional abuse by our "leaders" and those who keep us "informed" will be the undoing of our great democracy.
11
I agree entirely. And congratulations all round to all us New Yorkers who are dealing with this.
4
Could not agree more with the sentiments expressed in this editorial.
4
To write that "Gov. Chris Christie of New Jersey ... has sequestered his reason and decency" is to suggest that he had any to begin with. It's a debatable point. Mr. Trump intones that "we gotta get tough, folks" which begs the question of what he thinks we're already doing in the Middle East. Not "tough" enough?
Then what exactly does Mr. Trump, or Governor Christie for that matter, propose that departs from whatever the US is doing now? Perhaps they need to consult the GOP's resident Google master, Rudy Giuliani for inspiration that goes deeper than incoherent railing about Hillary Clinton and their musings about "what would happen to her if her security detail were "disarmed" or what, they dunno, how "Second Amendment people" might "take care of her."
www.endthemadnessnow.org
Then what exactly does Mr. Trump, or Governor Christie for that matter, propose that departs from whatever the US is doing now? Perhaps they need to consult the GOP's resident Google master, Rudy Giuliani for inspiration that goes deeper than incoherent railing about Hillary Clinton and their musings about "what would happen to her if her security detail were "disarmed" or what, they dunno, how "Second Amendment people" might "take care of her."
www.endthemadnessnow.org
6
The predictable knee jerk attacks on Republicans that are constantly hurled by the NYT might actually have some resonance if they ever criticized a Democrat at all. let alone in such nasty and personal terms. Until that time, their voices are about as important of those of their peers over at Fox News.
8
Bullseye! And the reality is that by not calling this insanity an act of terror, Mr. Mayor has just handed thousands of votes over to Trump. I can't stand the man, but, the truth is, Trump presented his opinion without being shackled by politically correct propaganda. And for a lot of Americans, that's enough to give him their vote.
And while that fact frightens me, I understand why he's been successful.
A Democrat
And while that fact frightens me, I understand why he's been successful.
A Democrat
4
We live in a dangerous world. This has always been true, although the US mainland was spared the most of the carnage or war by the protection of our oceans, with the exception of course of the self-inflicted catastrophe of our Civil War, But the world is also a beautiful place, and most people want only to live in peace. Despite the horror of many of today's conflicts and terrorism, we have made enormous progress in building a more peaceful world. It is up to us to have courage and stay the course.
2
All we have so far is an attack designed to spread terror for which no one has claimed responsibility and all we've had confirmed so far is that Donald Trump isn't one to miss a beat when it comes to making hay out of other's misery. In the midst of Orlando's immediate aftermath Trump said fifty had been slaughtered. Oh, I know the number is forty nine right now, he said, "but that numbers going up. Believe me!" No one has ever found death more useful and delightful than Donald Trump and his sell out minions since the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.
6
Vigilance and calm. Tell the truth. Everyone freaked out
1
Dear Judy,
The truth is, I live four blocks away and the blast rattled my windows and was a rather disturbing type of noise. Then I had a quiet evening at home, found out the next morning what had happened. Family's all safe, I'm safe, didn't really freak out at all. It worries me a bit that I didn't freak out, actually.
The truth is, I live four blocks away and the blast rattled my windows and was a rather disturbing type of noise. Then I had a quiet evening at home, found out the next morning what had happened. Family's all safe, I'm safe, didn't really freak out at all. It worries me a bit that I didn't freak out, actually.
5
Unfortunately there is no way to keep all the people safe all the time but if judging the way NYPD handled Times Square on New Year's eve is any indication, the city is on alert to minimizing the potential for attacks. Bless the officers on the street who take the lion's share of the risks and are certainly going to be the ones who are sacrificed should a coordinated attack occur.
6
"I must tell you that just before I got off the plane a bomb went off in New York and nobody knows what's going on," Trump said, in Colorado Saturday night.
There you go again, Donald, rushing to show that you are in the know, never mind that really do not know anything instructive. This was reminiscent of Trump's self-congratulatory and incendiary speech after the Pulse nightclub killings, in which he did not even question taking the killer's claim to be aligned with ISIS at more than face value.
And words like "nobody knows what's going on" are designed just to incite fear.
Hillary Clinton was right - leave the initial work to our brave first-responders, put your thoughts with the victims, and wait before speaking. Impulsiveness is a terrible trait for a leader.
There you go again, Donald, rushing to show that you are in the know, never mind that really do not know anything instructive. This was reminiscent of Trump's self-congratulatory and incendiary speech after the Pulse nightclub killings, in which he did not even question taking the killer's claim to be aligned with ISIS at more than face value.
And words like "nobody knows what's going on" are designed just to incite fear.
Hillary Clinton was right - leave the initial work to our brave first-responders, put your thoughts with the victims, and wait before speaking. Impulsiveness is a terrible trait for a leader.
11
It's my neighborhood and I'm proud to say I have yet to hear people in the area being driven by fear upon our lives. If anything, we are angry for such acts and toward people hell bent on using fear to alter the course of past accomplishments by reasonable judgment and vigilence into an unwarranted frightening future. There will always be events beyond our control, but calm and reasonable response are the real indications that we've evolved as a society, not blind fear and violent reactions.
2
If anything the Chelsea Manhattan bomb last on Saturday evening in America, and the Pakistan based Jaish-e-Muhammad inspired terror attacks on the Uri army camp the next day in Jammu&Kashmir state of India do suggest, it's the unpleasant reality of the Jihadi terrorism that poses a common threat to the civilised world today. It's not the US, Europe, West Asia, India, only or several other parts of the globe that are exposed to this scourge of global terrorism but we are all in it. The whole human civilisation is under the threat. It's the rapid and commensurate security response as shown by the New York city administration and the reasonable cool and calm as displayed by the public, and the identical reaction to such terrorist incidents to be seen in India also, could be the right response to the by now everyday threat by terrorism. As about the reaction by the irresponsible and opportunist political class, particularly its far right segment, is concerned, it's strikingly similar at both the places, US and India, to be seen in the Trumpian bombast, blame game, and fearmongering in America, and the ultranationaliic outbursts in India. It's really the testing times for the human reason, self-restraint, and commensurate action needed at such shattering moments, the humanity has been forced to confront with today by the enemies of civilisation.
2
“Reason and vigilance” always are good responses that should be supported. However …
As horrible as this weekend was for Americans generally, particularly New Yorkers, and most particularly the people who were injured, it remains that Donald Trump’s poll numbers likely will rise as a consequence. It may be that no evidence as of this writing has been uncovered that points to Islamist-inspired terrorism in NYC, few really doubt that soon enough such evidence will appear.
Pressure-cooker bombs? TWO of them (that we know of so far), where one mercifully didn’t go off? Shades of the Boston Marathon.
Trump would do himself and America immense good right now to respond by repeating his intended policy as president to double-down on screening visitors from Islamist states and to better surveil those who are here while they’re here. Americans, INCLUDING Muslims, have a right to expect that government will do whatever it can to protect us from threats, purely external AND internal.
As horrible as this weekend was for Americans generally, particularly New Yorkers, and most particularly the people who were injured, it remains that Donald Trump’s poll numbers likely will rise as a consequence. It may be that no evidence as of this writing has been uncovered that points to Islamist-inspired terrorism in NYC, few really doubt that soon enough such evidence will appear.
Pressure-cooker bombs? TWO of them (that we know of so far), where one mercifully didn’t go off? Shades of the Boston Marathon.
Trump would do himself and America immense good right now to respond by repeating his intended policy as president to double-down on screening visitors from Islamist states and to better surveil those who are here while they’re here. Americans, INCLUDING Muslims, have a right to expect that government will do whatever it can to protect us from threats, purely external AND internal.
29
Yeah, just get Sheriff Trump (aka "Deferment Donald") out there and he'll show those terrorists what a real man can do. We'll give those extremists some extreme vetting (as opposed to the unextreme kind that they're currently getting even as old women and children hang around the refugee camps for over a year until they've been approved to enter the land of liberty). And the rest of them will be lucky to get extreme unction as our Crusader in Chief sends them off to the celestial abode of seventy virgins. And just to make certain that they don't tunnel under the U.S. taxpayer-financed Great Wall of Donald in the manner in which the Palestinian Arabs have tunneled under the border in Gaza, our fearless leader will go on to build a big beautiful wall around the whole Middle East while dispatching American troops to fight every Muslim nation whose sailors dare give them the finger. Yeah, maybe he'll keep on picking up votes as he continues to exploit every terror attack, real or imagined, that comes down the pipe. Two questions, however: why doesn't Hillary pick up votes on days when such attacks don't occur? And why is it that Americans kept on reelecting FDR after the Japanese attacked Hiroshima (let alone Dubya winning in 2004 following the events of 911)? It seems to me we've become a nation of wusses (with or without the NRA).
76
Stu:
Not all of us are of an age to have barely escaped the draft because it died the year I turned 18 (1973). Bill Clinton, for example, is notorious for his avoidance of the draft -- that some still call nefarious. Me, I don't bring up the subject of Bill's draft-dodging because I believe in statutes of limitation on things other than murder and really bad ideology.
It's less likely that a President Trump would send large numbers of U.S. ground troops into combat than a President Clinton (redux), and this is a serious bone of contention with many Republicans who believe that we should be FAR more forward-leaning than we have been for the past eight years. One of the reasons for that likelihood is that he'd probably find a path to a deal that would avoid the need than a Hillary Clinton who is a far more linear thinker.
We HAVE become a nation of wusses -- but I'm not absolutely convinced that we fix that with brigades of boots on the ground.
Of late you've become far less thoughtful in your responses to my comments, and in your own comments generally, and far more dependent on an overactive spleen. I can only conclude from this that the increasing likelihood of a Trump victory on Nov. 8 is unhinging you.
I can only express concern for your health in advance of the first debate if Trump romps all over Hillary, and do hope that you stock an adequate supply of nitroglycerin (not for pressure-cooker bombs, of course, but to regularize heart function).
Not all of us are of an age to have barely escaped the draft because it died the year I turned 18 (1973). Bill Clinton, for example, is notorious for his avoidance of the draft -- that some still call nefarious. Me, I don't bring up the subject of Bill's draft-dodging because I believe in statutes of limitation on things other than murder and really bad ideology.
It's less likely that a President Trump would send large numbers of U.S. ground troops into combat than a President Clinton (redux), and this is a serious bone of contention with many Republicans who believe that we should be FAR more forward-leaning than we have been for the past eight years. One of the reasons for that likelihood is that he'd probably find a path to a deal that would avoid the need than a Hillary Clinton who is a far more linear thinker.
We HAVE become a nation of wusses -- but I'm not absolutely convinced that we fix that with brigades of boots on the ground.
Of late you've become far less thoughtful in your responses to my comments, and in your own comments generally, and far more dependent on an overactive spleen. I can only conclude from this that the increasing likelihood of a Trump victory on Nov. 8 is unhinging you.
I can only express concern for your health in advance of the first debate if Trump romps all over Hillary, and do hope that you stock an adequate supply of nitroglycerin (not for pressure-cooker bombs, of course, but to regularize heart function).
10
Good for you, Richard, for seeing a bunch of people injured as an opportunity to boost Mr. Trump. We know he'll not only make America great again, but safe too. Such a wise and wonderful man. One in a million.
7
I don't live near NYC as I did on 9/11 watching Tower 2 fall from my office in Secaucus, NJ.
But having experienced the Boston Marathon bombing along with the very scary manhunt in the town right next to mine, I know how critical it is not to make wild accusations until all the facts are known.
I read the comments made by NYC residents today over the latest incident, and was impressed with the sober, rational response to stay calm and not jump to conclusions.
At times like these, the last thing we need is folks like Christie shooting off his mouth about how this is all the President's and Hillary's fault. That comment, along with Trump's, shows how crass it is to politicize events that have everyone on edge.
Christie and Trump are the last people I'd want to have around in any kind of crisis. Trump is a loose cannon, but Christie has no such excuse: as a former prosecutor, surely he knows the folly of reckless statements before all the evidence is in.
But having experienced the Boston Marathon bombing along with the very scary manhunt in the town right next to mine, I know how critical it is not to make wild accusations until all the facts are known.
I read the comments made by NYC residents today over the latest incident, and was impressed with the sober, rational response to stay calm and not jump to conclusions.
At times like these, the last thing we need is folks like Christie shooting off his mouth about how this is all the President's and Hillary's fault. That comment, along with Trump's, shows how crass it is to politicize events that have everyone on edge.
Christie and Trump are the last people I'd want to have around in any kind of crisis. Trump is a loose cannon, but Christie has no such excuse: as a former prosecutor, surely he knows the folly of reckless statements before all the evidence is in.
232
Considering the political capital unscrupulous people like Christie and Giuliani want to make of this, calm and slow detective work are what is needed.
6
I'm curious to know who this dumpster of a presidential candidate thinks we need to get tough on, before we even know who did it. Drumpf is clearly one of these shoot first and ask questions later types. He wants us all to be as scared as he must be when confronted with the prospect of actually having to both govern and obey the Constitution, lest he end up impeached and in the prison system at his presidential scam's conclusion.
183
trump has no intention of paying any heed to no constitution
9
@Matthew Carnicelli
Obama thinks that a few injured people is not a big deal, but enhancing security is an existential threat to the US.
And instead of condemning Trump, why don't you condemn the terrorists who injure these people?
Obama thinks that a few injured people is not a big deal, but enhancing security is an existential threat to the US.
And instead of condemning Trump, why don't you condemn the terrorists who injure these people?
7
@surgres
Your first statement is simply silly and groundless. There is also a difference between enhancing security and authoritarian demagoguery.
Your first statement is simply silly and groundless. There is also a difference between enhancing security and authoritarian demagoguery.
3
Whatever it is that this person wanted people to fear or die for, he should not be given the satisfaction of watching people fight amongst themselves. Any such animosity should be directed squarely at the perpetrator and any accomplices.
100
I am totally confused by this comment. Clearly, Trump and his panderer Christie did not direct the animosity at the perpetrator, but rather at Hillary Clinton. So you may be addressing your comment to them. On the other hand, you might be addressing your comment to the New York Times for calling out Trump and his panderer Christie.
Given that we do not know yet who is the perpetrator, where should we address or animosity?
Given that we do not know yet who is the perpetrator, where should we address or animosity?
2
"....there's something going on...."
Take
Refuge
Under a
Mendacious
Panic-Peddling, Pumpkin-like Panderer
TRUMP 2016
Grand
Old
Panic
GOP 2016
Take
Refuge
Under a
Mendacious
Panic-Peddling, Pumpkin-like Panderer
TRUMP 2016
Grand
Old
Panic
GOP 2016
208
Trump and Dick Cheney...sisters under the skin.
6
Better Trump than President Mass Immigration or the Enabler in Waiting. There's a reason why the US public has not elected a former secretary of state to the presidency since 1856.
6
Unlike the Bush/Cheney national security defense intelligence apparatus om the morning of 9/11/01 the American people had no reason to fear for their safety or to be vigilant. But alas our leadership miserably failed to deter, detect and defeat the attacks.
Since 9/11/01 we have again relied on our national leadership to protect us from threats domestic and foreign with relative success.
Donald Trump was not responsible for either state of affairs involving experienced professional national security defense intelligence operatives. Trump knows nothing about nor has any experience in any of these areas.
Since 9/11/01 we have again relied on our national leadership to protect us from threats domestic and foreign with relative success.
Donald Trump was not responsible for either state of affairs involving experienced professional national security defense intelligence operatives. Trump knows nothing about nor has any experience in any of these areas.
2
Time to address the issue