The Trump supporters need to remember that he did not elaborate on how he was going to make things great. Just a bunch of vague sound bites that they believed and took to heart. But most of his campaign was a wave of racism, bigotry and hate about which he was more informing. If the believe all the vagaries they should also believe his hate filled tirades. If you walk the walk you own all the talk.
18
I personal don't like the man,I think he is a pimp,.That being said I will give him full support till he doesn't deserve it anymore.
What concerns me the most is what happens if he decides that he doesn't like or want the job anymore.He comes from the private sector and has never served any kind of elected term.What is he going to do then,just pull the plug and let his lawyers take care of the loose ends. He is also use to getting his way,.that doesn't work all the time when your the President,hows he going to handle that,by firing everyone including Pence,.That would make for a great reality show !!
One way or another he will unite this country,lets just hope its done in good ways,.
What concerns me the most is what happens if he decides that he doesn't like or want the job anymore.He comes from the private sector and has never served any kind of elected term.What is he going to do then,just pull the plug and let his lawyers take care of the loose ends. He is also use to getting his way,.that doesn't work all the time when your the President,hows he going to handle that,by firing everyone including Pence,.That would make for a great reality show !!
One way or another he will unite this country,lets just hope its done in good ways,.
27
Donald Trump the elected leader of our country? What a joke! At this point I am willing to refer to have him as "His Royal Donaldness". But absent his undergoing a total public persona makeover I just can't call him President.
102
This election has short-circuited the evolving collective consciousness, borne of the still new ability to see and hear one another in real-time, which has steadily shown us that we are all dependent upon Maslow's basic needs and that when met, we each and all flourish to the best of our individual capacities. We've learned from seeing one another more fully that cultural differences are ancestral inheritances that further our understanding of the depth and breadth of our common humanity, and make us all deeper and larger in spirit.
We were collectively moving toward the understanding that humanity is one organism. We were choosing in this new light to see a future in which we were united for the well-being of a new world. Hillary said it pretty well, "We're stronger together."
But this growing vision was usurped by those who have yet to see themselves in others, who still live in the old world of secondary differences that separate and frighten them. It's fitting that a narcissistic ego-driven fear-monger would spark the dry tender of hatred that has been at the heart of America since it's inception. Those still living in the dark have their ersatz champion.
Instead of choosing the new evolving world of cooperation on mutual interests and collective unity the old pains will be magnified, for the near future.
The tipping point for collective consciousness of humanity as a single organism will now evolve as a result of suffering, rather than by conscious choice.
We were collectively moving toward the understanding that humanity is one organism. We were choosing in this new light to see a future in which we were united for the well-being of a new world. Hillary said it pretty well, "We're stronger together."
But this growing vision was usurped by those who have yet to see themselves in others, who still live in the old world of secondary differences that separate and frighten them. It's fitting that a narcissistic ego-driven fear-monger would spark the dry tender of hatred that has been at the heart of America since it's inception. Those still living in the dark have their ersatz champion.
Instead of choosing the new evolving world of cooperation on mutual interests and collective unity the old pains will be magnified, for the near future.
The tipping point for collective consciousness of humanity as a single organism will now evolve as a result of suffering, rather than by conscious choice.
42
"Within the durable strength of the Constitution are many options — peaceful, legal, effective countermoves......" really Mr Egan? And what might they be? The courts? Can you say "Citizens United?" Can you say - "not a single Wall Street crook went to jail for crashing the world economy in 2008"? How about unions? Right. Used to have them here, not much anymore. Or maybe the free press that is mentioned in the Constitution? Those daring, brave muckraking journalists? Sure. Wake me up if you find any. And elections? Gerrymandered, bought and paid for by the wealthy, easily hackable, hopelessly broken by a corrupt two party system, featuring a "choice" between two unworthy, hated candidates, packaged and sold to us by the same "news media" that used to be a real fourth estate but which is now just a propaganda tool for the elite? Elections where people are denied the ability to vote by voter ID laws, where people are saturated with negative media advertisements to the point of near suicide, and they don't even get the day off work, and everyone wonders why half the registered voters don't show up at the polls? Those elections Mr Egan? What exactly do you propose people, peacefully, do to change things? I'm listening. Please be specific. Because everything I listed, everything we were told that used to make us the greatest democracy in the world has been broken, corrupted, or rigged.
116
Congress is not stupid.
All Representatives face re-election in 2018 and now know that if they do not
do what is good for America, they can be defeated as was Hillary.
The Senate is not deeply beholden to Trump, they will not follow along on
anything that threatens their re-election.
Given the American people some respect.
All Representatives face re-election in 2018 and now know that if they do not
do what is good for America, they can be defeated as was Hillary.
The Senate is not deeply beholden to Trump, they will not follow along on
anything that threatens their re-election.
Given the American people some respect.
18
Not sure which Trump article this comment is on-point for. Extrapolating the logic on illegal immigrants, there should be a First Peoples' movement and class-action or other lawsuits against the US and any accomplices. These would be the parties which perpetrated or benefited from theft, homicide or ethnic cleansing, treaty violations and other malicious acts against the First Peoples collectively and individually. On the principle that no subsequent party should benefit from the illegal acts of its predecessor, any penalties and forfeitures found to be appropriate would apply to current beneficiaries of the earlier malevolence.
8
As I see our current situation -- and I mean this in no sense an exaggeration -- we find ourselves in the moral equivalent of Germany in 1933. We have elected a man who has promised to round up and deport about 3 percent of the population (not all of whom by any means are of Mexican origin); who has vowed to ban the entry into the country of all members of a certain religion from at least some areas of the world; who has promised to take away health care coverage from some 20 million of our fellow citizens; who unashamedly calls for the use of torture (and worse) in violation of domestic and international law; who promises to annul or ignore both the Iran Nuclear and the Paris Climate agreements, making the world a much more dangerous place for us and our children; and much, much more.
I cannot be a "Good German." As I see it, there are only three options: collaborate, resist, or emigrate. I will not collaborate; I cannot. And, unfortunately, I cannot now see any viable, effective means to resist with Mr. Trump and his supporters in control of all branches of government. I would be grateful to any who might have useful suggestions in this regard.
As of today, currently exploring emigration options.
I cannot be a "Good German." As I see it, there are only three options: collaborate, resist, or emigrate. I will not collaborate; I cannot. And, unfortunately, I cannot now see any viable, effective means to resist with Mr. Trump and his supporters in control of all branches of government. I would be grateful to any who might have useful suggestions in this regard.
As of today, currently exploring emigration options.
61
Please stay. There are many like minded, courageous people who are doing great grass roots work for positive change. The people united can never be defeated. This was perhaps the most astringent wake up call we could ever have. It will not kill us when we bond together and make sure civil rights and environmental justice are protected.
7
The question is what will his followers do once they realize they have been conned? They will be even more angry and more desperate. We need to address the issues of the dispossessed white men in this country or we will all end up on their pitchforks.
41
I don't expect anything honorable or measured from Mr. Trump. No jobs are going to return to the US; if you move all the illegal immigrants from the US, there will be no jobs for the middle of the country; if you push through tariffs to restrict overseas trade the jobs still won't come. Shifts in the economy are evolutions; global revolutions of creativity, technology and science. The world moves on, and Mr. Trump has looked desperate people in the face and told them he can push it back. How soulless. How utterly cruel.
206
Has anyone considered the possibility that there might be two Republican senators who might be sufficiently unwilling to tow the party line on extreme legislation to block some of the worst possibilities. After all, even if basic decency and concern for the under priviledged were not enough, they will have to get re-elected. And in many communites, those who drank the Kool-Aid of change will soon bear the brunt of the coming loses to the <1%
9
Trump already looks dazed and confused.
Just the way Paul Ryan likes it, as his smug grin confirmed yesterday.
Trump---you are Paul Ryan's puppet now.
Just the way Paul Ryan likes it, as his smug grin confirmed yesterday.
Trump---you are Paul Ryan's puppet now.
73
Yes, we survived Nixon and Reagan and much more in the past. But Trump legitimized open, blatant hatred. Now we have to deal with that.
82
Thanks -- you don't want to hope bad things happen, but the naive, undereducated blue-collar workers who believe in fairy dust will be sorely disappointed. Their self-appointed God is like the dude behind the Wizard of Oz curtain. Or the Emperor who wore no clothes. Need I go on? The charalatan is in way over his head. He does not have the temperament, patience, or intellect for this job and will be the worst most unprepared Pres in history.
I am sorry for climate change and minority rights, but you know what -- can't wait to see all the disappointed minions he leaves in his wake. Couldn't happen to a better group. Meanwhile, I voted against my economic interests for HIllary because I care. Yet, I will benefit from Trump far more than his addled voters because I'm a top earner. We will benefit -- not the middle class.
I am sorry for climate change and minority rights, but you know what -- can't wait to see all the disappointed minions he leaves in his wake. Couldn't happen to a better group. Meanwhile, I voted against my economic interests for HIllary because I care. Yet, I will benefit from Trump far more than his addled voters because I'm a top earner. We will benefit -- not the middle class.
55
The primary "check and balance" come January will be the Permanent Government, the often-derided mass of career professionals that staffs the agencies and Congressional Committees, plus the Founders' insistence on making change slow and difficult, in anticipation of just such a situation as will prevail come January.
11
it is obvious they not only didn't expect to win, they didn't want to. Their do whatever they want, when they want, how they want life is over. They have not had to be transparent but now they will be forced to be. Now they are no longer private citizens but public servants who will be expected to be accountable. For everything. Including turning the country around for their supporters. Harder job than he made it seem. The weight of that is obvious, since there will be no excuses and no one to blame since it's all Republicans in every position of power.
41
Mr. Egan, if the factory and fossil fuel jobs do not return, as they probably will not, due to automation in those industries, the white working class will not turn on President Trump. They will turn their fury on whatever unfortunate group their president scapegoats for any failures to fulfill his campaign promises.
In Donald Trumpworld, he is never, ever wrong or responsible. There is always, always someone else to take the blame and punishment.
In Donald Trumpworld, he is never, ever wrong or responsible. There is always, always someone else to take the blame and punishment.
129
The only way to get people to understand truth, sometimes, is to let them fail (just as a parent sometimes must allow a child to fail).
We must all allow Trump to fail, in order for his vast shortcomings to be adequately demonstrated to his followers, and to his GOP government.
We are in for a very harsh "lesson" and I hope that those who voted Trump in, the ones least likely to benefit from his Presidency, will learn from it.
We must all allow Trump to fail, in order for his vast shortcomings to be adequately demonstrated to his followers, and to his GOP government.
We are in for a very harsh "lesson" and I hope that those who voted Trump in, the ones least likely to benefit from his Presidency, will learn from it.
50
There you go again, Mr. Egan. `Old Bernie Sanders".
He's 5 years older than Trump. Big deal.
I used to like your columns, until you joined the crowd led by the
NYTimes in denigrating Bernie Sanders. This was a very stupid thing
to do. He could have done much better against Trump than the
career politician picked by the DNC.
He's 5 years older than Trump. Big deal.
I used to like your columns, until you joined the crowd led by the
NYTimes in denigrating Bernie Sanders. This was a very stupid thing
to do. He could have done much better against Trump than the
career politician picked by the DNC.
21
Someone I think already commented on this factor but I wanted to repeat it so that maybe the NYT and the DNC notices:
When people are scared or confused, trying to provide rational professorial lessons do NOT work. I stated this point 2 YEARS ago but, as usual, people who are more important and with more money (although on hindsight NOT SMARTER) than me ignored me and they went down the same way they always do: run a campaign like a long boring series of business meetings.
It obviously did not work. Now, as the shock stage is starting to wear off, the denials and then the anger starts up (see riots in the streets). Perfectly normal and to be expected. Let me know when you get to bargaining and acceptance.
Maybe at that point, we can discuss reality.
When people are scared or confused, trying to provide rational professorial lessons do NOT work. I stated this point 2 YEARS ago but, as usual, people who are more important and with more money (although on hindsight NOT SMARTER) than me ignored me and they went down the same way they always do: run a campaign like a long boring series of business meetings.
It obviously did not work. Now, as the shock stage is starting to wear off, the denials and then the anger starts up (see riots in the streets). Perfectly normal and to be expected. Let me know when you get to bargaining and acceptance.
Maybe at that point, we can discuss reality.
4
Is is nice that we3 getr to comment in this article
BUT
Once again an incredibly biased article does not invite or allow us to coomment..
I mean "For Europe, Trump’s Election Is a Terrifying Disaster"
Since when did CLEMENS WERGIN have trhe right to speak on behalf of Europe? Presumably he means the "EU". And when and how did he aquire the right to speak on behalf of those of us who are called its "citizens" when we regard ourselves as its prisoners?
We were denied our vote on the Lisbon Treaty. The French President is reported as saying that Cameron could ignore the result of our referendum on "membership". The Austrian Prime Minister is reported as ignoring the opinion of his own party and the Austrian people on CETA. The German people got ignored on the introduction of the Euro.
Dangerous Herrr van der Bellen, one of the two remaining candidates for the Austrian presidency, is quoted as saying he would not swear in an FPOe government or PM. That could lead to a civil war.
Please could the NYT become more even-handed?
BUT
Once again an incredibly biased article does not invite or allow us to coomment..
I mean "For Europe, Trump’s Election Is a Terrifying Disaster"
Since when did CLEMENS WERGIN have trhe right to speak on behalf of Europe? Presumably he means the "EU". And when and how did he aquire the right to speak on behalf of those of us who are called its "citizens" when we regard ourselves as its prisoners?
We were denied our vote on the Lisbon Treaty. The French President is reported as saying that Cameron could ignore the result of our referendum on "membership". The Austrian Prime Minister is reported as ignoring the opinion of his own party and the Austrian people on CETA. The German people got ignored on the introduction of the Euro.
Dangerous Herrr van der Bellen, one of the two remaining candidates for the Austrian presidency, is quoted as saying he would not swear in an FPOe government or PM. That could lead to a civil war.
Please could the NYT become more even-handed?
6
Guess that Republicans are furious that Obama took out big Laden.
14
In all, I thought the polls were pretty accurate, if you understand what polls are, what they can and can't do, how tight the race was, and the variables affecting polling in the current environment. The real question is, why in God's name were there so many of them?
Say a stripped-down, state-level poll costs $20k or more, if they just look at the horse race, then count up at all those the media commissioned this cycle. Now, imagine if that money had instead been spent on paying reporters' salaries to investigate candidates up and down the ballot, or perhaps to report on the vast array of important, under-reported issues that don't seem to make the cut in the clickbait-era media culture. That would have been a much better use of the money.
I'd be happy if the media polling culture entirely ended. Too much is read into it by amateurs and what professionals glean from polls, they tend to keep to themselves.
Say a stripped-down, state-level poll costs $20k or more, if they just look at the horse race, then count up at all those the media commissioned this cycle. Now, imagine if that money had instead been spent on paying reporters' salaries to investigate candidates up and down the ballot, or perhaps to report on the vast array of important, under-reported issues that don't seem to make the cut in the clickbait-era media culture. That would have been a much better use of the money.
I'd be happy if the media polling culture entirely ended. Too much is read into it by amateurs and what professionals glean from polls, they tend to keep to themselves.
12
The whole polling business makes me think of the sport of Curling, which involves a pair of athletes with brooms influencing the path of a weighty stone laid down on slick ice by a third athlete by a technique resembling bowling.
1
Why would your thesis be true, Mr. Egan.
As Krugman has shown, Bush's tax cuts for the wealthy didn't make last decade anything greater than an economic ruin.
But without so much as batting an eye, Republicans are right back to enacting more tax cuts without even so much as providing a theory why "this time will be different".
Sorry, Trump will engage in old school Keynesianism (apparently, infrastructure and defense spending) and the economy will get the demand that it has lacked over these last 8 years. Obama will get his stimulus that he kept begging the GOP Congress to pass - it'll just be the Trump stimulus (but represented as the miracle of tax cuts and deregulation - just like Reagan).
As Krugman has shown, Bush's tax cuts for the wealthy didn't make last decade anything greater than an economic ruin.
But without so much as batting an eye, Republicans are right back to enacting more tax cuts without even so much as providing a theory why "this time will be different".
Sorry, Trump will engage in old school Keynesianism (apparently, infrastructure and defense spending) and the economy will get the demand that it has lacked over these last 8 years. Obama will get his stimulus that he kept begging the GOP Congress to pass - it'll just be the Trump stimulus (but represented as the miracle of tax cuts and deregulation - just like Reagan).
12
When something does not work, they just prescribe more of it. This includes religion.
2
"HRC has 85% chance of winning" ~ NYT, November 8, 2016
Yeah, I will be reading my horoscope.
Yeah, I will be reading my horoscope.
23
Resistance is the wrong word to use. Liberals only protest because they are too afraid to actually make a commitment to resistance.
Conservatives have like 1000 different militias that will resist if anything goes too badly for them. If they reach a breakinf point, they will resist and defend their lives. They train every month. The NYT did a smug article on a militia they called racist even though a black guy was a key member who they seemed to treat as any other brother in arms.
We need a liberal militia. I am going to start forming one right now just in case, but not start resisting until Trump has a chance to prove himself. I have 10 guns, so I can share (Lol Id love to see some of my liberal friends fire my AR or my new custom Colt Commando Im lining up to buy). Im going to buy as many 5.56 rounds and shotgun shells I can get. Get maybe 20 people together and start training in platoon and squad level offense and defence.
Im a Transgender woman, so I have no walls in front if my eyes. I know most of America hates me and thinks Im a sexual predator. With Pence as VC, who know what kind of horrible things will happen to Transgender people in the next 20 years? Im going to make sure that if things get too bad, I can at least resist. If that means dying, well then I can be proud I refused to live in a time of hatred and bigotry.
Thats resistance. If you arent willing to do what Im ready to do, then call yourself what you are. A protestor.
Conservatives have like 1000 different militias that will resist if anything goes too badly for them. If they reach a breakinf point, they will resist and defend their lives. They train every month. The NYT did a smug article on a militia they called racist even though a black guy was a key member who they seemed to treat as any other brother in arms.
We need a liberal militia. I am going to start forming one right now just in case, but not start resisting until Trump has a chance to prove himself. I have 10 guns, so I can share (Lol Id love to see some of my liberal friends fire my AR or my new custom Colt Commando Im lining up to buy). Im going to buy as many 5.56 rounds and shotgun shells I can get. Get maybe 20 people together and start training in platoon and squad level offense and defence.
Im a Transgender woman, so I have no walls in front if my eyes. I know most of America hates me and thinks Im a sexual predator. With Pence as VC, who know what kind of horrible things will happen to Transgender people in the next 20 years? Im going to make sure that if things get too bad, I can at least resist. If that means dying, well then I can be proud I refused to live in a time of hatred and bigotry.
Thats resistance. If you arent willing to do what Im ready to do, then call yourself what you are. A protestor.
12
Brilliant op ed, Tim. Sobering, saddening. All of us who are horrified at the cheapening of American democracy must, as Superman does, fight for TRUTH, JUSTICE and THE AMERICAN WAY.
17
Yes, we must resist in every possible way--by getting involved --volunteering and donating to causes that can fight his agenda, by staying informed and speaking up when he tries to implement his despicable agenda but also very importantly instilling in our children and grandchildren ,through our words and actions , the values that will ensure that they will reject the deplorable rantings of a Donald Trump. Get involved and get your children involved so they understand the value of diversity, the core values of our country and the importance of protecting our planet. They are our hope. AND--on inauguration day RESIST by wearing BLACK --as well as on NOV 8 for the next 4 years. Send the subtle message--NOT MY PRESIDENT!
19
In a highly complex world of geopolitics, military treaties, large businesses, legacies, history the Democrats forgot the most basic thing, there are no good jobs in a lot of states, and a lot more good jobs are going to H1-Bs, L1Bs, B1s or H4s or going offshore. No amount of education is going to get a 45 year old formed blue collar worker a decent paying job (no one hires a fresh 45 year old programmer or nurse). It is the responsibility of the governing powers to ensure employment opportunities for all people, not just some. While Trump may not deliver on most of his promises, Hillary promised she was not even going to try for the displaced anyway. Maybe, next time the Democrats will pay attention to reality on the ground.
9
The one thing they WON'T be able to say is they weren't WARNED! I posted on forums and told everyone I came in contact with who said they were voting for trump, that they were casting their vote for a man they knew nothing about. A man who wouldn't know TRUTH if it slapped him in the face, had more business FAILURES than successes, a man who was bigoted, petty, vindictive, and TOTALLY unfit to lead.
21
Let us not so easily dismiss that Trump won thanks to the working class, white or otherwise, alone... yes, there were many that were conned into thinking that this guy would actually do anything to help them... what put him over the top in the electoral votes (WE KNOW WHO WON BY THE POPULAR VOTE)... are these additional whites that nobody took under consideration who simply just don't like the various colors of the country... and in Trump they thought they had their knight in shining armor on their side...
11
Well, folks that voted for trampolini, you got your wishes. Now we must all pay the price. I hope you are happy with what you won't get. No health care, no social security, on and on. Unfortunately, those of us, who saw the light, must suffer with you, for a long time.
20
Tim, you predicted a landslide victory for the Times' twice-anointed candidate. Your prediction about the election turned out to be ever so slightly incorrect.
Now, you are making varied and grandiose predictions again. I have as much trust in your latest round of predictions as you have in anyone in the pollster industrial complex, including those at your own newspaper.
Gosh, Tim, you don't even know the definition of a majority, and you are stereotyping millions of Americans as uneducated.
Now, you are making varied and grandiose predictions again. I have as much trust in your latest round of predictions as you have in anyone in the pollster industrial complex, including those at your own newspaper.
Gosh, Tim, you don't even know the definition of a majority, and you are stereotyping millions of Americans as uneducated.
9
Thank you.
5
Thank you. This helps me see a way forward.
1
Timmy,
It was YOUR GOP that enthroned him, and now you are attempting to distance yourself. You are the company you keep. Shame on you and the GOP Axis. You are a disgrace to our nation.
It was YOUR GOP that enthroned him, and now you are attempting to distance yourself. You are the company you keep. Shame on you and the GOP Axis. You are a disgrace to our nation.
3
Mr. Egan - I recommend that you spend some time reflecting on the possibility that you and your cohorts at NYT, Inc. may have gone with the wrong candidate. And maybe it wasn't Comey, the Russians, wiki leaks, Bernie Bros. or any other lame excuse you've managed to dream up along the way.
To suggest, as you have, that Wall Street bankers would be any worse off with HRC in command is beyond laughable.
Who we in the "American family" should never trust again are those within the media industrial complex. For all the ways that Donald Trump is wrong, he at least got that one right.
To suggest, as you have, that Wall Street bankers would be any worse off with HRC in command is beyond laughable.
Who we in the "American family" should never trust again are those within the media industrial complex. For all the ways that Donald Trump is wrong, he at least got that one right.
6
Ever hear of the Wizard of Oz, folks? Meet Donald Trump!
15
Respect is not an entitlement. It is earned by showing respect to others. As I watched last nights news, I heard the Republican Party asking us to respect the office of the president and to give Donald Trump a chance. The Republican Party gave President Obama no such courtesy or respect; they treated him with total disdain for being black. Why In the world am I being asked to respect an outright bigot and racist.
HEALING CAN BEGIN WITH AN APOLOGY FOR THE PRESIDENT ELECT.
HEALING CAN BEGIN WITH AN APOLOGY FOR THE PRESIDENT ELECT.
40
Tim, if you had bothered to stop, get out of your Subaru, and talk to folks on one of your many trips from Seattle to a trail head, you would have seen this coming. You might also realize that even if:
"steel mills fail to return to Youngstown, or when new trade deals produce no more magic than the old ones"
The working class Americans who came out in drives for Trump knew this all too well. They also knew that the worst case scenario under Trump looked like the best case scenario under Clinton.
"steel mills fail to return to Youngstown, or when new trade deals produce no more magic than the old ones"
The working class Americans who came out in drives for Trump knew this all too well. They also knew that the worst case scenario under Trump looked like the best case scenario under Clinton.
7
For all the Trump supporters out there: You should have been more careful what you wished for because you just got it. And it won't be good.
20
When Trump fails to provide what the voters want, he will just ratchet up the hate and blame others as a distraction. Like his recent campaign, but on steroids. Rather like W was just about 9/11 in the 2004 campaign to cover his incompetence. It won't be pretty....
20
He will do major damage and his supporters will cheer. It will be years before they realize that they are much worse off. They want to break the system regardless of the consequences and will try and find a way to blame the Democrats when reality hits. If you only get your news from Facebook and Fox News, you're drinking the Kool Aid. DJT = Jim Jones.
18
The richest part of the last few days is the Trump camp expecting Obama and Clinton to tamp down the demonstrations that Trump agitated to the extreme. Obama and Clinton should remain on the sidelines and let our new "leader" figure out how to defuse this with his great brain. This is his first challenge and as expected, he blames others and runs away. NOT FAIR!
20
You all were afraid of Reagan. You called him a cowboy, derisively. You said he lacked intellectual curiosity. Reagan consistently ranks among our most popular ex-presidents.
You continue to impugn any Republican that dare run for president. You called McCain old. You suggested that he never recovered from serving our country and being a POW. You called Romney out of touch. Harry Reid admittedly lied about Romney not paying his taxes. He did this on the Senate floor.
Now you come here and want me to be afraid of Trump. You've cried wolf too often. I'm afraid of this media. I've read this paper for 30 years. I don't trust this paper anymore.
You continue to impugn any Republican that dare run for president. You called McCain old. You suggested that he never recovered from serving our country and being a POW. You called Romney out of touch. Harry Reid admittedly lied about Romney not paying his taxes. He did this on the Senate floor.
Now you come here and want me to be afraid of Trump. You've cried wolf too often. I'm afraid of this media. I've read this paper for 30 years. I don't trust this paper anymore.
8
Trump is doing, and has done, many more nefarious things than the stuff he accused Hillary Clinton of doing, particularly in the financial area. He's a thief, with the combination to the national safe. And his cabinet? Rudy Guliani? Chris Christie? Newt Gingrich? Sarah Palin? They are all greedy sociopaths, and they are all smacking their lips at the huge prospect of a beyoootiful payday, at your expense. You have to be kidding me!! And yes, soon YOU will be paying a higher percentage of your taxes than corporations, and the wealthy. That deficit will have to be made up SOMEWHERE. Where do you think the cuts will be made? Really nice going, Trumpsters.
23
The steel mills will never come back,we are in a different global economy,the country that stays back from these changes will just stay behind,Trumpeta is not going to change anything,the ghost town in Detroit will stay the same unless its people get educated in new trade, education something trumpeta is not too kind to is what is needed,just look a Germany with all these global trades they are moving forward,why because they support higher education for the German youth,but in the meantime we stay behind,we spend our money in wars,and trying to establish democracies all around the world,instead of educating our youth,they are drowning in debts and college is just out of the reach of most poor and midle class students.
13
Mayor Bloomberg said it at the DNC convention, "I know a con when I see one." Many, and many have been saying Trump was deceiving the electorate for votes. All his businesses cater to the ultra-rich, and in luxury. He has spent his whole life and career looking down on the common person. You are black, you will not get be able to rent. You are contractor, sorry you won't get paid. And now of all of a sudden, he cares about rural America. He can possibly bankrupt the nation, as he did with his 6 previous bankruptcies, and he will just walk away laughing and saying "suckers."
33
You're kidding, right? They'll find a way to blame the people they always have.
7
"never trust anyone from the pollster industrial complex" Of course you meant to say: "never trust an American to tell you the truth when they secretly plan to vote for a bigot."
11
It's gonna be a wonderful presidency: a yuuuge success! And if not...it's Obama's fault, emirate, Republicans?!
5
Mr. Egan,
How do you know this man is dangerous? I am so, so thoroughly tired of you and the rest of your little 30 person crew of writers huddled in the newsroom telling everyone how to feel and think. This election was, in the end, not at all - at ALL - about misogyny and racism. Those are simply Clinton campaign talking points. Open your eyes. This was about the economy, the lies of Obamacare, and the Clintons and Obama forcing themselves to elect someone we didn't want. Totally lost respect for this newspaper.
How do you know this man is dangerous? I am so, so thoroughly tired of you and the rest of your little 30 person crew of writers huddled in the newsroom telling everyone how to feel and think. This election was, in the end, not at all - at ALL - about misogyny and racism. Those are simply Clinton campaign talking points. Open your eyes. This was about the economy, the lies of Obamacare, and the Clintons and Obama forcing themselves to elect someone we didn't want. Totally lost respect for this newspaper.
3
Neweryorker: You would do well to open your own eyes. I and everyone I know wanted the Clintons and Obama as leaders. We did not want anything the Republicans were or are offering because they represent regression and fantasy- promising a return to a time that never existed. And they have no idea how to govern- as evidenced by what happened under the Bush/Cheney regime. Trump's behavior has nothing to do with anyone's talking points- we can read the Twitter messages that come directly from his deluded mind. If you're worried about the economy you may need to wrap your head around some objectively verifiable facts that show unequivocally that the economy boomed during Bill Clinton's watch and that Obama pulled the economy out of the great recession and that recovery is still very much under way (look at the latest figures on the unemployment rate and recent hiring numbers). I'm embarrassed for you and your friends that you've been conned by Trump's abject demagoguery. Like moths flittering around an irresistible flame, you're all going to get burned- and unfortunately we're going to get burned along with you. Thanks for nothing.
6
The sad part is that Sanders probably would have won. He was the better protest candidate but the DNC and mainstream media, including the NY Times, imposed a news blackout on him and gave Trump 24/7 free publicity. I hope to hear some confessions and atonement from you folks.
14
Already predicting failure before his term begins! Isn't that just like a writer for the New York Times. You can voice your opinion on what has happened but you have no ideal what will happen just like the rest of us. So you sit down and write negatively about the man who won hoping that your predictions come true. This reminds me of some of the things that were written about Reagan when he was taking office none of which turned out to be right. How very arrogant of you folks who preach about giving people a chance but refuse to give our newly elected President the same courtesy!
5
This article assumes most people will rationalize and reflect on the outcomes. When things don't work out for Trump he will just blame the failures on the previous Obama administration, and of course will need an additional 4 years to fix things.....
Hang on for the long ride and keep helping your neighbors.
Hang on for the long ride and keep helping your neighbors.
10
Better be careful what you think and say- dissent will not be tolerated.
8
I would like to point out the difference between you and "President-elect" Trump, Tim. You know something about our country. He doesn't. You care about our country. He does not. You are a truth-teller - he is a liar. You also believe in the basic goodness of the American experiment, whereas his avarice, self-centeredness and cynicism would never allow such feelings.
We can take solace, from the long arc of American history, in the fact that Tim Egan's point of view will be vindicated eventually, while Donald Trump will be discarded to the ash-heap of of the stale past.
We can take solace, from the long arc of American history, in the fact that Tim Egan's point of view will be vindicated eventually, while Donald Trump will be discarded to the ash-heap of of the stale past.
17
You and your paper have been wrong about everything.
Why should I pay attention to you now?
Why should I pay attention to you now?
7
Just wait and see.
9
Trump's lawyers are entering negotiations to settle the first of the two Trump University lawsuits. The public has an interest in the terms of the settlement; do the suckers get their money back?
Those who voted for Trump -- you aren't going to get anything back. If you thought Trump was going to "drain the swamp:" Christie, Giuliani, Gingrich ... the swamp. Trump isn't even in office yet and it's all swamp, and getting worse.
Meet the new boss, worse than the old boss. You just got taken, and took all of America along on what will be a real disaster, for everybody but the rich.
The old steel mills will never come back.
Coal mining is dead in the Appalachians -- the coal is mostly gone: what's left is in thinner seams with poorer coal and a lot harder to get at. Columbia delivers coal to the eastern seaboard cheaper. And natural gas and renewables are killing coal. You want a job? Frack natural gas wells or work on renewables. Coal is dead, Trump can't change it and won't try, but he got your vote.
Trump is laughing at you now,. He's going to make the bankers richer, and you even poorer ... and he will make America poorer and weaker and far more polarized than it was.
Those who voted for Trump -- you aren't going to get anything back. If you thought Trump was going to "drain the swamp:" Christie, Giuliani, Gingrich ... the swamp. Trump isn't even in office yet and it's all swamp, and getting worse.
Meet the new boss, worse than the old boss. You just got taken, and took all of America along on what will be a real disaster, for everybody but the rich.
The old steel mills will never come back.
Coal mining is dead in the Appalachians -- the coal is mostly gone: what's left is in thinner seams with poorer coal and a lot harder to get at. Columbia delivers coal to the eastern seaboard cheaper. And natural gas and renewables are killing coal. You want a job? Frack natural gas wells or work on renewables. Coal is dead, Trump can't change it and won't try, but he got your vote.
Trump is laughing at you now,. He's going to make the bankers richer, and you even poorer ... and he will make America poorer and weaker and far more polarized than it was.
20
A pitch perfect column!
7
Calm down, Tim. BTW, why should anyone trust your opinion, since you so badly misread the appeal (or lack thereof) of the candidates? Hillary was as uncharismatic as Romney. She was under investigation for two major scandals (emails and Foundation). She took huge amounts of money from the bankers and the elites. And your surprised that she got 6 million fewer votes than Obama?
5
Donald Trump will NEVER be my president.
Never. Ever.
Period.
Never. Ever.
Period.
21
And still the NYT has to remind everyone that Sanders is "old" as if Trump and Hillary are a generation younger. Get over it for heaven's sake. Hillary was a deeply flawed candidate who was never generally liked or trusted. You could not be objective because you are all in bed together: the NYT, DNC, Wall St., WaPo and CNN connection. You all "knew" it was Her turn. Well, she blew it and so did you. Sanders would have beaten Trump, but you preferred Trump. He will upset your apple cart less. Live with it. Your stocks are rising. Really, how bad is that?
You all get to live the life you want regardless of what goes on in Washington. Main Street does not. When people are scared, haven't got two nickels to rub together, and fear another lay-off, they vote their pocketbook. Talk all you want about your other theories. Wring your hands and ask how this happen until the cows come home. It changes nothing.
If you want to win again, get your uninformed, self-interested thumb off the primary scale and listen! Like Hillary and her crowd (of which you are a part) you are so busy talking at the public that you can hear nothing from it.
This is a blessing in disguise, but not for you.
You all get to live the life you want regardless of what goes on in Washington. Main Street does not. When people are scared, haven't got two nickels to rub together, and fear another lay-off, they vote their pocketbook. Talk all you want about your other theories. Wring your hands and ask how this happen until the cows come home. It changes nothing.
If you want to win again, get your uninformed, self-interested thumb off the primary scale and listen! Like Hillary and her crowd (of which you are a part) you are so busy talking at the public that you can hear nothing from it.
This is a blessing in disguise, but not for you.
6
You've been suckered, rural America. By a big city huckster. Familiar story.
The lobbyists are deliriously happy. This will be the biggest K Street power grab in history.
The lobbyists are deliriously happy. This will be the biggest K Street power grab in history.
28
Third party leaders Johnson & Stein made the difference just like Nader before them.
6
Add in the millions of Dems and Independents who voted for Trump and maybe you'd have a point.
4
We need a free press, so thank you Mr. Egan for saying it because you can.
Last night I saw that Omarosa had said that Trump has an enemies list and his memory is long. On such threads our future depends.
Because it is a fact that Trump knows cameras and production values and marketing, but little else, and his enormous ego does not allow him to acknowledge what he doesn't know.
His choices of colleagues are a dangerous bunch for Democracy.
Republicans seem to feel that they have the sole right to rule, and are willing to do anything and everything to make it so. Mr. Comey is a sorry example of this rule: I'm OK if I'm a Republican. There's voter suppression of the kind that can't be stopped: a shortage of polling places and voting hours, and restrictive voter ID measures that allow rejecting even voters who have showed up for every election for years. There's the Supreme Court.
There's the weird commercial variety of religion, which is hardly Christian, since it ignores the teachings of Jesus as shown in the Gospels, in favor of a rigid exclusionary policy that regards success as a sign of god's favor, no matter how exploitative that success is. Those oily televangelists are a long way from a spiritual leader worthy of respect: they're mostly in it for the money.
Tax cuts for the rich. Hurting and condemning the poor. Taking away health care. Letting the planet burn up.
None of this is OK. But thanks for trying.
Last night I saw that Omarosa had said that Trump has an enemies list and his memory is long. On such threads our future depends.
Because it is a fact that Trump knows cameras and production values and marketing, but little else, and his enormous ego does not allow him to acknowledge what he doesn't know.
His choices of colleagues are a dangerous bunch for Democracy.
Republicans seem to feel that they have the sole right to rule, and are willing to do anything and everything to make it so. Mr. Comey is a sorry example of this rule: I'm OK if I'm a Republican. There's voter suppression of the kind that can't be stopped: a shortage of polling places and voting hours, and restrictive voter ID measures that allow rejecting even voters who have showed up for every election for years. There's the Supreme Court.
There's the weird commercial variety of religion, which is hardly Christian, since it ignores the teachings of Jesus as shown in the Gospels, in favor of a rigid exclusionary policy that regards success as a sign of god's favor, no matter how exploitative that success is. Those oily televangelists are a long way from a spiritual leader worthy of respect: they're mostly in it for the money.
Tax cuts for the rich. Hurting and condemning the poor. Taking away health care. Letting the planet burn up.
None of this is OK. But thanks for trying.
25
The nytimes upshot gave Trump a 1/6 chance. If you thought those odds meant it was safe, let me introduce you to a little game called Russian Roulette.
3
Resist, we will. Donald Trump is not now, nor will he ever be my president. No one who has legitimized the worst instincts among our fellow Americans deserves respect. With the likes of Steve Bannon, Rudy Giuliani, Newt Gingrich, Chris Christie and maybe even Sarah Palin by his side, Trump will bring to the highest office in the land the far right radical thinking that was once dismissed as the crazy ramblings of the most paranoid and deluded people among us (think, John Birchers, KKK). History will not be kind to Trump, nor to his supporters. When asked 20 years from now by their grandchildren how they voted in 2016 during Trumpism's rise to power, current Trump supporters will mumble denials of ever having helped that awful man unleash the era of "chaotic and cruel" national decline that will be Trump's everlasting legacy.
17
Trump supporters, it would be good to keep in mind the old adage, "Be careful what you asked for, you might get it."
13
Thank you for your reality based column and everyone should join Not My President in their city.
7
You say we should ignore the polls. I'm going one step further. I have cancelled my subscriptions to news organizations in America. You can earn my money and my support by dogging that man every single step he makes, by calling out LOUDLY his treasonous collusion with Russia, his dangerous hate-filled followers who he says nothing about (and neither do you) as they harass decent Americans, beat them up, call them names, deface their property, by denouncing his ridiculous list of cabinet members, by headlining the planet and the harm he wants to inflict. YOU, New York Times, should be the guardian of Democracy - act like it!
16
Your last paragraph says do not trust the NYT pollsters. That is not the problem. The media hugely influences elections. The NYT was Trump, Trump, Trump every doggone day ad nauseum, month after month. Like Leslie Moonves' over at CBS, Ka-Ching goes your register and Trump gets his name everywhere.
Meanwhile, at the NYT, is was "Bernie who?" You anointed Hillary even before the Democratic primaries. Look in the mirror, NYT!
Meanwhile, at the NYT, is was "Bernie who?" You anointed Hillary even before the Democratic primaries. Look in the mirror, NYT!
11
In the aggregate the election of Trump might be much worse than 9/11 . The loss of health care , climate destruction , decimation of the social safety net , the uptick and acceptance of hate and bigotry and all the other proposed changes would make 9/11 look like a walk in the park on a sunny day !!!
13
This is the closest thing to an apology or mea culpa from the NYT that I have found yet. That this august, self-satisfied paper of record got it so wrong, for so long is the story of our country writ small. And the fact that you - the Times - have largely been reduced to doing these sort of pathetic, CNN-style "covering the coverage" stories now is heartbreaking. Maybe show us yet another obvious but somehow still impenetrable graphic that explains why so many voters migrated right. What happened? When will you give a full accounting? When will you admit that you were so blinded by your own politics, you missed the biggest political story maybe ever? This is on par with the CIA missing all the signs presaging 9-11. Why is it only in an op-ed that you come anywhere near the sort of self-scorn you should be heaping atop yourselves?
4
Good luck, America.
3
Prepare for 2018. None of Trump's promises will have come to pass. It will be time to take back the house and defend the senate. But it's an "off year". Will we have enough sense to get out and VOTE?
Let's start planning and mobilizing TODAY.
Let's start planning and mobilizing TODAY.
16
Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia are toast!
Putin will test Trump the minute after he is sworn in as President. It will be in the Baltics, specifically in Latvia's province of Latgale whose population is
over 50% thanks to Josef Stalin. Putin will test NATO's resolve by sending in his "green men" to save the ethnic Russians from Latvian harassment (LOL). The tanks will roll into Daugavpils, the capital of Latgale. Trump will tell NATO to stand down. After all, this is Putin's territory. NATO and Latvia's so called army won't fire a shot. After all what's the point. After the Baltics. Putin will go after Poland. There he will get his nose bloodied by the Polish Army that will fight to the death. Trump will look the other way. The world has been turned upside down by Trump. The elites will do even better. Billionaires always stick together no matter where they live!
Putin will test Trump the minute after he is sworn in as President. It will be in the Baltics, specifically in Latvia's province of Latgale whose population is
over 50% thanks to Josef Stalin. Putin will test NATO's resolve by sending in his "green men" to save the ethnic Russians from Latvian harassment (LOL). The tanks will roll into Daugavpils, the capital of Latgale. Trump will tell NATO to stand down. After all, this is Putin's territory. NATO and Latvia's so called army won't fire a shot. After all what's the point. After the Baltics. Putin will go after Poland. There he will get his nose bloodied by the Polish Army that will fight to the death. Trump will look the other way. The world has been turned upside down by Trump. The elites will do even better. Billionaires always stick together no matter where they live!
5
Trump has already given a response to you from his newly revived Twitter account, Tim. That's "so unfair!"
4
Rejoice in the moment Trumpsters. You got what you wanted. But now you and the Republican party do own it all. Now every bankruptcy, every job loss, every climate disaster that is worse for the global warming you deny, every tragic battlefield death, every public health calamity--they are yours. Since you possess every part of the political system you also possess every tragedy.
10
And when he fails he will blame "The conspiracy of International Bankers" (a la Bannon) & you know who they are.
3
Thank you for the reality check, Timothy. This ol' hope junkie needed a delusional fix or a 12-step meeting; your essay was the latter... one day at a time we shall overcome.
Messaging is the only power left to Democrats. And it is not one of our strengths.
More importantly, how do you 'message' when facts do not matter?
Trump lies shamelessly and it does not matter.
I do not know how to fight this.
More importantly, how do you 'message' when facts do not matter?
Trump lies shamelessly and it does not matter.
I do not know how to fight this.
8
I almost don't care about Trump's anti-everything rants. The issue for me is that Clinton was experienced, knowledgeable, politically savvy, open to ideas. And DJT......is not. I hope he proves me wrong. I hope I am wrong.
5
Are you somehow suggesting that abolishing the inheritance tax for families worth over 10 million bucks won't infinitely improve the lives of average struggling Americans?
Egan, sometimes I wonder where you get these crazy ideas ;)
Egan, sometimes I wonder where you get these crazy ideas ;)
10
Well Tim,
In case you didn't notice, which you clearly have, Trump was elected because the working class has been betrayed and taken advantage of for decades. Mostly by Democrats but there is plenty of blame for Repunlkcans as well.
You liberals shafted them on healthcare in 2000, remember!!! If you like your doctor, you can keep your doctor? The average family will save $2500 dollars!!! That wasn't Trump.
Oh, and then there's the red line in the sand in Syria. After that it was back to leading from behind. That wasn't Trump.
TPP? Astonishingly not Trump. NAFTA? Wait that was the co-presidency of guess who? No, wrong again. Not Trump.
And those bankers. Those greedy terrible bankers. It WAS Trump who gave speeches to Goldman Sachs, right! Right!?! Right? Not Trump.
So here we are, Trump is the last man standing. Time to give him a chance.
In case you didn't notice, which you clearly have, Trump was elected because the working class has been betrayed and taken advantage of for decades. Mostly by Democrats but there is plenty of blame for Repunlkcans as well.
You liberals shafted them on healthcare in 2000, remember!!! If you like your doctor, you can keep your doctor? The average family will save $2500 dollars!!! That wasn't Trump.
Oh, and then there's the red line in the sand in Syria. After that it was back to leading from behind. That wasn't Trump.
TPP? Astonishingly not Trump. NAFTA? Wait that was the co-presidency of guess who? No, wrong again. Not Trump.
And those bankers. Those greedy terrible bankers. It WAS Trump who gave speeches to Goldman Sachs, right! Right!?! Right? Not Trump.
So here we are, Trump is the last man standing. Time to give him a chance.
7
Has Nancy Pelosi asked Mitch McConnell to send over his "we will do everything to obstruct this President" meeting outline? Has he granted her his now-cancelled reservation on the meeting space to hold the only-one-term-for-this-president meeting?
Has the Donald cancelled his law suits to stop a fixed election? Does he still plan to direct Jason Chaffets and Trey Gowdy to crank up hearings on Hillary's emails, and has he asked the Secret Service to "put her in jail?"
Why are Mr. Obama, Ms. Obama, and Ms.Clinton being so civil as to ask for a civilized handover to Trump and his devil-worshippers, who don't believe in such things?
Could it be there really is a difference between Crooked Hillary, Bernie Sanders and their followers and the screaming Trumpistas, and not the false equivalence that the MSM kept claiming?
Has Trump shredded his concession speech to fire up his fiery-eyed followers to storm the barricades?
Will the True Believers have Trump on a short leash to bring back all those jobs, stop Chinese imports, deport millions of rapists, build The Wall, stop-and-frisk every muslim? When he doesn't will they turn on him like the mad dogs that they are?
Maybe the Democrats' biggest mistake was ignoring what has become Mob Rule America and tailored their campaign to Big Lies, Big Promises, Three-word mantras, rowdy demonstrations?
As many others have said, buckle your seat belts, and if you're the praying kind, do a lot of that.
Has the Donald cancelled his law suits to stop a fixed election? Does he still plan to direct Jason Chaffets and Trey Gowdy to crank up hearings on Hillary's emails, and has he asked the Secret Service to "put her in jail?"
Why are Mr. Obama, Ms. Obama, and Ms.Clinton being so civil as to ask for a civilized handover to Trump and his devil-worshippers, who don't believe in such things?
Could it be there really is a difference between Crooked Hillary, Bernie Sanders and their followers and the screaming Trumpistas, and not the false equivalence that the MSM kept claiming?
Has Trump shredded his concession speech to fire up his fiery-eyed followers to storm the barricades?
Will the True Believers have Trump on a short leash to bring back all those jobs, stop Chinese imports, deport millions of rapists, build The Wall, stop-and-frisk every muslim? When he doesn't will they turn on him like the mad dogs that they are?
Maybe the Democrats' biggest mistake was ignoring what has become Mob Rule America and tailored their campaign to Big Lies, Big Promises, Three-word mantras, rowdy demonstrations?
As many others have said, buckle your seat belts, and if you're the praying kind, do a lot of that.
5
Once again, Mr. Egan, you nailed it. "I haven’t felt this way since the nuns told our second-grade class that John F. Kennedy had been assassinated." Then Martin Luther King, Jr. Then Robert Kennedy when he was running to be President.
The 40+ year war on democracy in America now continues unfettered.
BIG democracy-destroying money masters dream, and our nightmare, is now possible and only grassroots protests and constant harassing of their operatives in Congress, judicial authority and state and local governments can slow their progress until we rescue OUR U.S. House and Senate and every other government from them in 2018. Two years. Let's all get to work.
The 40+ year war on democracy in America now continues unfettered.
BIG democracy-destroying money masters dream, and our nightmare, is now possible and only grassroots protests and constant harassing of their operatives in Congress, judicial authority and state and local governments can slow their progress until we rescue OUR U.S. House and Senate and every other government from them in 2018. Two years. Let's all get to work.
16
Oops, sorry, that's Barnum. (But what is spelling, anyway, but a mere convention? ;-)
"Millennials will learn the hard way that failure to turn out in sufficient numbers at election time could cost their children a habitable planet."
Oy, oldhead. Millennials DID turn out. And the polls prove: we voted overwhelmingly for Clinton.
This one's on y'all.
Oy, oldhead. Millennials DID turn out. And the polls prove: we voted overwhelmingly for Clinton.
This one's on y'all.
7
What are you talking about, Brandon? Remember Bernie or Busters, third party voters. and the young people who vowed to sit this election out? They wanted punish us for daring to reject Bernie Sanders, and they have. Only problem is, they're going to be punished too. Or maybe not. Maybe they don't have to worry about health care or social security. If that's the case, they're even more selfish than I thought.
5
They turned out but not in numbers like for Obama. Many young ones don't understand that slow is steady is better than supporting those whose promises can never be fulfilled. You have to live a while to get that.
Also -- Blacks did not come out in the number as for Obama.
And Hilliary is a woman. Uneducated women do not like successful women. I have hit that every step. Older men don't like us either. Can you say resentmen?
Also -- Blacks did not come out in the number as for Obama.
And Hilliary is a woman. Uneducated women do not like successful women. I have hit that every step. Older men don't like us either. Can you say resentmen?
12
Yes, this age group percentage wise voted overwhelmingly for Clinton. The issue, young-head, is that not a large enough percentage actually voted.
3
We are all Kansans now.
7
We are all Kansas now.
12
The good (or the bad) always flows from the top.
Anyone that's had a bias knows that.
Trump will be a disaster for the USA.
Anyone that's had a bias knows that.
Trump will be a disaster for the USA.
12
I yearn for the days of "Camelot" when we had the Bay of Pigs, the Cuban Missile crisis followed by the Viet Nam war.
We have never had predictability Mr. Egan. We survived John Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson, Richard Nixon, Jimmy Carter and George Bush Jr. We will survive Donald Trump. We won't have Jackie Kennedy to make it seem pretty but we will survive.
We have never had predictability Mr. Egan. We survived John Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson, Richard Nixon, Jimmy Carter and George Bush Jr. We will survive Donald Trump. We won't have Jackie Kennedy to make it seem pretty but we will survive.
5
Trump's surprise victory reminds me of the sick feeling I got as the stock market crashed in the fall of 2008, or the shock I felt on 9/11. It's that bad.
18
No, this is even worse. Much worse.
12
Well, I'm sure happy that the NYTimes spent so much column space discussing Hillary's emails and temperament.
9
OK, those of us who are old enough to have lived through Nixon's terms know that you can survive. It is not pleasant--the enemy's lists, etc. There may be some hope--we really do need a lot of money spent improving infrastructure.
Those of us women who remember the Reagan era recall only too well how our rights were backpedaled in that time. This has happened before, though perhaps with candidates who were not as blatantly bigoted.
We should concentrate on working hard to change the next Congress in the mid-term elections. Frankly, the folks who so wanted change should have done that. Congress is where the corruption really lies.
Those of us women who remember the Reagan era recall only too well how our rights were backpedaled in that time. This has happened before, though perhaps with candidates who were not as blatantly bigoted.
We should concentrate on working hard to change the next Congress in the mid-term elections. Frankly, the folks who so wanted change should have done that. Congress is where the corruption really lies.
21
Funny thing about the Nixon era. LONG gas lines. Interest rates skyrocketed and put two of my small business friends out of business. The dollar lost value, I believe because he took us off the gold standard. And he was finally impeached as a crook after he had been reelected.
Worked well for the top 1% global financial elite though. That nightmare is going to be repeated unless WE vigorously, loudly, repeatedly protest right now. The damage is going to be done in the next two years unless we stop it.
Whistle-blowers inside government and in every segment of society must come out publicly, with our crowd-sourcing protection if necessary, to let us know when the robber barons start trying to dismantle OUR governments and social safety net. They will try to enforce it with unfettered police and military violence against those of us who protest. This is like no other time because WE know about it and WE can stop it. But only if we act now.
Worked well for the top 1% global financial elite though. That nightmare is going to be repeated unless WE vigorously, loudly, repeatedly protest right now. The damage is going to be done in the next two years unless we stop it.
Whistle-blowers inside government and in every segment of society must come out publicly, with our crowd-sourcing protection if necessary, to let us know when the robber barons start trying to dismantle OUR governments and social safety net. They will try to enforce it with unfettered police and military violence against those of us who protest. This is like no other time because WE know about it and WE can stop it. But only if we act now.
8
Oh, I forgot to say that the best thing about the NYT is the comment sections in the Opinion pages... all of them. They are informative, give many sides to an issue, mostly well written, a few are brilliant, a few are just stupid, but even those carry information. The comment section is the only reason I have not cancelled my subscription. Hurrah for free speech, Hurrah for the NYT to carry on with at least this bit of its real purpose.
22
Nobody is ever sure of anyone. We do not know real people beyond what we see and hear. Some of the most destructive people have been thought to be the best the world has to offer. No matter who won, a tremendous amount of people would not be happy. So, take your good and bad thoughts and tuck them away and start living your life like a new era and figure out what you can do to make the world better. Hating doesn't accomplish anything. And if you hate, you are no better than either person who ran for president. Each and everyone of them threw hateful remarks around. I believe it should be called a smear campaign instead of an election. Please set an example and don't be like either one of them. Prove you a better person. I would just like to see them at the podium and say I want to make this country better. No slander, no threats, no hatred. But that is not what happens. Be better than our politicians and set an example for them.
22
Every time Trump and/or Paul Ryan shoves a part of their agenda through that hurts average Americans, Democrats and Independents need to call them on it, loudly and publicly.
Let's say they repeal the ACA (Obamacare). Then run web and tv spots showing actual people who lost their badly needed health insurance. Those 50-somethings who lost their jobs in the Great Recession and haven't been able to find full-time-with-benefits work and are making do with part-time work and no benefits, but are too young to get Medicare, for example. Make sure the faces are white, so Trump's bigoted supporters can't see and blame "the other".
When they cut taxes on the rich, and they will, run ads and publish blogs that make public exactly how much Jamie Dimon, Lloyd Blankfein, and all their Wall Street cronies will get from the cuts, while average Americans get a few hundred dollars if anything. If they start a trade war with Mexico, show small businesses that fail because of it.
Above all, put a human face on the suffering. Trump's "low information voters" don't respond to abstractions, statistics, and talking points. They respond to emotions and images. So give them images of their neighbors suffering. In spades. The GOP stoked the anger, let's see how they like it when that beast turns against them.
Let's say they repeal the ACA (Obamacare). Then run web and tv spots showing actual people who lost their badly needed health insurance. Those 50-somethings who lost their jobs in the Great Recession and haven't been able to find full-time-with-benefits work and are making do with part-time work and no benefits, but are too young to get Medicare, for example. Make sure the faces are white, so Trump's bigoted supporters can't see and blame "the other".
When they cut taxes on the rich, and they will, run ads and publish blogs that make public exactly how much Jamie Dimon, Lloyd Blankfein, and all their Wall Street cronies will get from the cuts, while average Americans get a few hundred dollars if anything. If they start a trade war with Mexico, show small businesses that fail because of it.
Above all, put a human face on the suffering. Trump's "low information voters" don't respond to abstractions, statistics, and talking points. They respond to emotions and images. So give them images of their neighbors suffering. In spades. The GOP stoked the anger, let's see how they like it when that beast turns against them.
27
"Trump's "low information voters" don't respond to abstractions, statistics, and talking points. They respond to emotions and images. So give them images of their neighbors suffering. In spades. The GOP stoked the anger, let's see how they like it when that beast turns against them."
Thank you for the excellent comment.
Thank you for the excellent comment.
7
"A New Generation"
Too many of my fellow citizens
Felt ignored and left behind
Technology stole their jobs away
And alternatives were hard to find
Their hardships must go heeded
Their concerns adequately addressed
For despite our apparent differences
We all should expect no less
But uniting should not cost us
Some fundamental rights
We fought for equality, civility
Blood was shed in those fights
So a new generation of leaders
Must rise and right our ship
Before too much damage is done
And our rights from us are stripped
Too many of my fellow citizens
Felt ignored and left behind
Technology stole their jobs away
And alternatives were hard to find
Their hardships must go heeded
Their concerns adequately addressed
For despite our apparent differences
We all should expect no less
But uniting should not cost us
Some fundamental rights
We fought for equality, civility
Blood was shed in those fights
So a new generation of leaders
Must rise and right our ship
Before too much damage is done
And our rights from us are stripped
3
I'm a Wall Street, bulge bracket investment banker, and I can tell you that people at my firm and on Wall Street in general did not vote for Trump nor are we excited about his future presidency. To provide some context, approximately 100 people sit on my floor, and after speaking with most of them over this past week, I've met two only individuals who voted for Trump (strangely both female analysts about 22 years old).
The vast majority of us are mortified at the results of this election. Despite what you read on the New York Times, most bankers are actually decent people who deeply care about the future of this country. With that being said, I do anticipate that Trump's fiscal policy will push do little to help struggling Americans, and if any gains are seen at all, they will be concentrated to the top 1%.
The vast majority of us are mortified at the results of this election. Despite what you read on the New York Times, most bankers are actually decent people who deeply care about the future of this country. With that being said, I do anticipate that Trump's fiscal policy will push do little to help struggling Americans, and if any gains are seen at all, they will be concentrated to the top 1%.
176
This is good to hear, Ben. Please help keep the rest of us informed as the robber barons start their dirty tricks so we can react immediately. I know Carl Icahn left The Con Don victory party to bet $1 BILLION on the stock market when it sunk and could have bet more but they either froze the markets of other BIG investors were doing the same thing.
Average Americans retirement is at great risk. WE must do everything to stop the train wreck that is coming.
Average Americans retirement is at great risk. WE must do everything to stop the train wreck that is coming.
7
Thank you. Exactly. I'm not a banker, but in the 1%, and I got there on my own. To all the working class Trump supporters gloating over us "liberals" who just want a "hand-out", let me tell you: I'll be getting more of a handout under a Trump presidency, when my taxes go down, than I will under a Hillary presidency, where my taxes would have gone up. And even if Trump's trade policies are as disastrous as people expect and we all lose our jobs, I have the resources to survive. I will be just fine in a Trump presidency. You are the ones who should be afraid. And I take no satisfaction in saying that.
14
This reads like a not so subtle attempt at suggesting mob rule. Mr. Egan, you are the driving reason why subscriptions and readership at the NYT are falling. Perhaps you should give Morning Joe a listen.
This country needs a little optimism now, we need to feel that we are swimming together at least for a few laps so that we can get to know each other again. This divide serves no one but the media, the elite and our enemies.
This country needs a little optimism now, we need to feel that we are swimming together at least for a few laps so that we can get to know each other again. This divide serves no one but the media, the elite and our enemies.
1
We have elected a dangerous clown to lead our country. Maybe he should be called President Ronald McDonald.
7
Trump once bragged he could shoot somebody in the middle of Times Square and not lose votes. When he doesn't deliver on his promises (otherwise known as lies) they will blame everyone --- Democrats, the media, political correctness, sneaky foreigners especially the Chinese --- but never him.
12
Absolutely. Like their hero Trump believes, it's always someone else's fault. How could the working class vote for the man who stiffed the working class, has illegal aliens working for him, and no respect for women? His cabinet will run the country while Trump goes in search of more cheering crowds. And the people he's picking bode ill.
6
can't blame the Dems anymore - the GOP controls the House too.
5
Sir, give Trump a chance. We all knew that his 'wall' was symbolic, not physical. And, it really was not about Mexicans. It was about Mexico letting in gang members and criminals from Central America. Chris Christie and Rudy Giuliani have solid relationships with Mexican officials. We'll be alright.
Sure. Is that how they taught students to think at Trump University?
9
No, we won't.
7
The media had a field day with him, NYT included. All we as a reader saw of Hillary was negative, Emails, distrust etc. why can't we get away from sensational journalism. Hillary deserved better.
15
It wasn't journalism that made the difference. It was how media works. Trump speaks in billboards. The Democrats speak in paragraphs. Billboards work better in media. In fact, even TV campaigns begin as billboards. First you get the billboard right -- the core claim and the core visual. Then you can do a hundred commercials and ads that elaborate the billboard. In Trump's case, it was "Make America Great Again," with a red ball hat. His secondary claim was "Crooked Hillary." Yes, the Democrats had a slogan: "Stronger Together." Great. To be slightly politically incorrect for the sake of the truth, it sounds like what an Indian chief in an old western movie might say to a rival chief in broken English. Couldn't the Democrats think of a complete thought -- one that might have had some impact? Or they could have at least had the sense to do the slogan as a take-down of Trump's, as in "Greater Together." But we can only save so many people and causes, right?
The billboard/paragraph comparison also explains why Trump failed in the longer-formats of the debates, while he did better in the town hall meeting. In the longer debates, he ran out of content after 20 minutes or so, because there's no other content under the billboards. In the town hall meetings, the answers were short, so he could get by with billboards.
The billboard/paragraph comparison also explains why Trump failed in the longer-formats of the debates, while he did better in the town hall meeting. In the longer debates, he ran out of content after 20 minutes or so, because there's no other content under the billboards. In the town hall meetings, the answers were short, so he could get by with billboards.
3
Wrong, Mr. Optimist Egan. The white working class bigots and morons who voted for Trump won't ever blame him when his policies fail to help them. They will blame their favorite targets: the Democrats, people of color, Muslims, Jews and immigrants.
19
All of the blame cannot be pointed at the disenfranchised working class for voting the way they did. Let's face it folks, the DNC did no favors to the voters when they had decided that HRC would be the presumptive nominee way back in 2012.
Sending a flawed candidate to run against another flawed candidate(s) is not a winning proposition, no matter if it's "her turn" to run.
The voters didn't have any good choices. Throughout this election I heard the phrase "lesser of two evils" or some variation. I'm sure you heard it too. Was the DNC too arrogant to hear or believe those voices? Well they hear them now.
Would the outcome be different if The Bern ran instead? Hard to say, however his campaign did have a similar grassroots base that was energized as Trumps. Cannot say that about the people who voted for HRC/against DJT. Winning the popular vote by a slim margin is not much of a moral victory,
It's hard to look in the mirror when you have a raging hangover. This hangover will last four years.
Sending a flawed candidate to run against another flawed candidate(s) is not a winning proposition, no matter if it's "her turn" to run.
The voters didn't have any good choices. Throughout this election I heard the phrase "lesser of two evils" or some variation. I'm sure you heard it too. Was the DNC too arrogant to hear or believe those voices? Well they hear them now.
Would the outcome be different if The Bern ran instead? Hard to say, however his campaign did have a similar grassroots base that was energized as Trumps. Cannot say that about the people who voted for HRC/against DJT. Winning the popular vote by a slim margin is not much of a moral victory,
It's hard to look in the mirror when you have a raging hangover. This hangover will last four years.
6
What I worry about are the young women who will be more vulnerable than ever. Clearly the old-fashioned way of keeping them down, but yet a target shown by the example of DJT is way out there in our view. Groping, rape, etc. which are crimes, can be got away without repercussions. Trust no one.
7
And we will continue to ignore the decay of our institutions and the erosion of our democracy. Ms. Clinton won the popular vote but is denied the White House, becoming the second candidate in SIXTEEN YEARS to be so blocked by an archaic, unnecessary, unjust glitch in our law. Mr. Obama nominated a new justice to the Supreme Court in March - eight months ago - and the Republican Senate, defying centuries of tradition, has refused even to consider that nominee. So now we face the real prospect that GOP gamesmanship with the Constitution will be rewarded, unless Mr. Obama grows a spine and puts Garland on the court anyway. The Senate's had eight months to decide whether to consent and I think silence is a form of consent after that much time has gone by.
We see a rise in racism yet again, we see the lobbyists drooling over their imminent return to control (no swamps are getting drained, people), and we see the religious right all smiley-faced because they expect their extremist dogma, unsupported by a majority of this country as it is, to be imposed by the all-Republican government we will have.
The oil industry will make the rules about protecting the environment, fast-moving climate change be damned, and treasonous ranchers who vandalize government property will be given decision-making power over our precious public lands.
Welcome to Hell, America.
We see a rise in racism yet again, we see the lobbyists drooling over their imminent return to control (no swamps are getting drained, people), and we see the religious right all smiley-faced because they expect their extremist dogma, unsupported by a majority of this country as it is, to be imposed by the all-Republican government we will have.
The oil industry will make the rules about protecting the environment, fast-moving climate change be damned, and treasonous ranchers who vandalize government property will be given decision-making power over our precious public lands.
Welcome to Hell, America.
11
Maybe George Orwell's 1984 is finally a reality
6
"Finally, all of us in the American family should never trust anyone from the pollster industrial complex, including those at my own newspaper. Never. Read your horoscope; it’s far more likely to be accurate."
Sure. Blame it on the pollsters.
The fact is that after the historic collapse of journalism that we just witnessed every silo inside The New York Times organization can no longer be trusted, so you could shorten that sentence to read "Finally, all of us in the American family should never trust anyone from...my own newspaper. "
Sure. Blame it on the pollsters.
The fact is that after the historic collapse of journalism that we just witnessed every silo inside The New York Times organization can no longer be trusted, so you could shorten that sentence to read "Finally, all of us in the American family should never trust anyone from...my own newspaper. "
2
Thank you, Mr. Egan. I am too grief stricken by the outcome of this election to speak about it. You are my voice.
12
All I can say Mr. Egan is "Lord, I hope you are right."
8
Thank you, Mr. Egan. I look forward to voices like yours, in the coming 4 years, as we all resist the Trump years.
9
Reading Leonard Cohen's eulogy elsewhere in these pages, I was struck by the appropriateness of his lines:
Now you can say that I’ve grown bitter, but of this you may be sure
The rich have got their channels in the bedrooms of the poor
And there’s a mighty judgment coming, but I may be wrong
You see, you hear these funny voices in the tower of song.
Now you can say that I’ve grown bitter, but of this you may be sure
The rich have got their channels in the bedrooms of the poor
And there’s a mighty judgment coming, but I may be wrong
You see, you hear these funny voices in the tower of song.
7
Thank you, Timothy, for your eloquence and good sense. I have come to expect both from you, and I'm never disappointed. Trump voters elected a con man who cannot be trusted, period. Personally, I don't separate out his racism from his scams. People voted for him because they like the sound of his racist rhetoric, and they want to believe his lies. We are in trouble, but we will resist.
10
Everything that doesn't work out will be someone else's fault. Haven't you been listening to Donald or at leas thave a ten year old of your own? The anger the Donald deftly touches will cause those angry people to believe him.
8
I lived in New York City for more than 25 years and I can spot a "street hustler" immediately. They come up to you with a sad story and try to con you out of all your money. Donald Trump is a "street hustler." He conned poor, hard-working people (the "Forgotten Man") that he was going to bring back good, paying jobs to their states. Those jobs are gone forever due to free trade, computerization and robotics and never coming back. But Donald Trump, along with his rich friends on Wall Street, are going to walk away billionaires. If you sue him, he counter-sues you for millions of dollars (an old trick he learned from Roy Cohn ) and ties you up in court for years. I would advise the Federal Reserve to hold on to its money!
10
I smell civic violence, political schizophrenia, and impeachment.
7
Is the President-elect immune from prosecution on criminal matters like Attempted assault? seriously, I would like to know the answer. What is the law?
5
Ask Bill Clinton, he might know a thing or two about it.
"these economic exiles will wonder how they got betrayed."
Yeh, but history shows, these guys always increase their call for more policies that hurt them. How does that trend with these guys ever stop? What if it doesn't?
We know what policies work and what don't. History has all the evidence we need. The problem is humans aren't able to connect to policy on a emotional level. You can implement better policies, but we will always vote by who we identify with.
Keeping a society in tact is very hard. You must make life livable, keep the elites from manipulating identity politics and bay and somehow get the right policies in place. We may find out that in the end, we have only survived during periods of easy growth.
Yeh, but history shows, these guys always increase their call for more policies that hurt them. How does that trend with these guys ever stop? What if it doesn't?
We know what policies work and what don't. History has all the evidence we need. The problem is humans aren't able to connect to policy on a emotional level. You can implement better policies, but we will always vote by who we identify with.
Keeping a society in tact is very hard. You must make life livable, keep the elites from manipulating identity politics and bay and somehow get the right policies in place. We may find out that in the end, we have only survived during periods of easy growth.
3
Let’s get a few thing straight. What we know from the last 16 years tells us that most Americans do not want from a President Constitutionally questionable signing statements or executive actions, and they do not want from Congress the majority party steamrolling its way over the minority party. Trump did not run on Paul Ryan’s “conservative” agenda in the primary. Similarly, Democrats rejected Bernie Sanders’ progressive agenda in their primary. Trump won the general on a slightly right-of-center quasi-populist plan. Americans don’t want from ideologues any surprises that they didn’t vote for. Personally, I’d leave the Medicaid expansion as is, and require the states that didn’t expand to cover the same population by whatever means they choose. The people covered are more or less satisfied. The people not satisfied are those who are actually paying for insurance (or cannot afford what’s offered); they are the ones who need relief now: that should be the focus, and they were the focus of Trump’s campaign about the ACA.
The task before us is nothing less than reuniting the American family, whether they like it or not, so it will be loud at times, but it’s important for all of us to keep on the strait and narrow. We don’t need more epic (and futile) battles about the wrong things.
The task before us is nothing less than reuniting the American family, whether they like it or not, so it will be loud at times, but it’s important for all of us to keep on the strait and narrow. We don’t need more epic (and futile) battles about the wrong things.
1
Oh enough with the whining already! Your views on Trump, sir, like most of your other co-opinionators here, have been resoundingly rejected. Sooth-say all you want, but consider also, that it's not just irrelevant, but also awfully tired now. Besides there's at least five others like you who who post the same MP3 for the same paper weekly.
Why not win new admirers, instead of recycling the same angry stuff with the same verified crowd? So many topics to choose from. Nature, the environment, heck nirvana even? Look forward to it.
Why not win new admirers, instead of recycling the same angry stuff with the same verified crowd? So many topics to choose from. Nature, the environment, heck nirvana even? Look forward to it.
2
And don't forget, the state of New Jersey voted NO on the ballot initiative for casinos in north Jersey. We've seen first hand what the "successful businessman" has done in Atlantic City, and are horrified.
6
The system is rigged, all right -- against the majority.
4
Maybe I will just read horoscopes instead of rosy outlooks in opinion pages of the NYT. Maybe there's a way to delete the whole section from my phone app. Maybe "they" were right about "the elite" of progressive thinkers being out of touch. Yes! Horoscope page, please.
Last week, I would have agreed with this article without reservation. But Trump's victory makes me wonder if he was correct about other things. He was the ONLY person in the world who thought that he would win the election. He was the ONLY person in the world who thought that a rustbelt strategy (instead of a southern strategy) would be productive. He was the ONLY person in the world who thought that the electorate would care more about Hillary's emails than his bullying a POW and a disabled reporter.
I remain highly skeptical of Trump. But today it is just slightly more possible that Trump's economic plans have merit.
I remain highly skeptical of Trump. But today it is just slightly more possible that Trump's economic plans have merit.
The election of somebody you don't like is as bad in your heart as the murder of our president Kennedy? Are you really that depraved? This really is what is wrong in our country. There is no sense of perspective or reason. A moron idiot narcissist was elected to the presidency. I didn't want him and you didn't want him... but he is the president. Nobody died. He has not threatened to murder anybody. I am disappointed too, but I think comparing this sadness to the national grief of the Kennedy assassination is sick.
I thought the article was going to be on how we can resist, like going on strike. I think there should be active discussions and organizing NOW on how we-the-people can protest and disrupt the legislation we know is coming.
5
what is truly upsetting will be the people that bought into "make america great again" will be told it was the democrats fault it is not great and they will believe it... how do you show them the what really happened when they live by slogans not evidence?
6
Sadly, you offer me little hope. The forms of resistance that you outline are a pea shooter versus a battleship. We will lose a generation or more of progress on everything we care about and there is absolutely nothing we can do about it.
11
Mr. Egan, did you write a similar column in 2008 about how African-Americans were destined to be disappointed by Obama? That their hopes were unrealistic and that they were suckers? I doubt it.
I didn't vote for Trump but I certainly hope he does a good job for our country. He hasn't even taken office yet and already the sky is falling. It's like the Tea Party in reverse. Good grief.
I didn't vote for Trump but I certainly hope he does a good job for our country. He hasn't even taken office yet and already the sky is falling. It's like the Tea Party in reverse. Good grief.
Our expectations are tempered by past experience, and everything Donald Trump has ever said and done indicates that he will be a disastrous president. Sure, he could prove us all wrong. But the time to believe that is when there exists some evidence to indicate such.
5
This is tribal. Trump is the man who sticks it to city folk and his supporters are going to back him up come hell or high water We are going to have a lot of both.
He is a fraud, of course, and the worst kind of entitled elitist, but that does not matter. He delivers a steady FU to urban and coastal "elites" and people who do not live in such places eat that up. That sells like hotcakes.
He is a fraud, of course, and the worst kind of entitled elitist, but that does not matter. He delivers a steady FU to urban and coastal "elites" and people who do not live in such places eat that up. That sells like hotcakes.
5
I have been thinking of joining a local mosque today.
I am not a Muslim but fear "We must, indeed, all hang together or, most assuredly, we shall all hang separately." Benjamin Franklin
If he comes for the Muslims first "Donald J. Trump, who earlier in the week said he was open to requiring Muslims in the United States to register in a database, said on Thursday night that he “would certainly implement that — absolutely.” NYT
When will he be coming for me?
I am not a Muslim but fear "We must, indeed, all hang together or, most assuredly, we shall all hang separately." Benjamin Franklin
If he comes for the Muslims first "Donald J. Trump, who earlier in the week said he was open to requiring Muslims in the United States to register in a database, said on Thursday night that he “would certainly implement that — absolutely.” NYT
When will he be coming for me?
9
Your first paragraph says it all for me.
This man has been described by at least half of the population as repugnant, a demagogue, a sexual predator, repulsive, ignorant, racist, an extreme narcissist, and the list goes on.
To me, each and every one of the terms is beyond dispute backed by a lengthy well documented history. I can not recall a single moment of kindness, genuine, to be recounted by anyone during this campaign. His daughter, who has come closest to trying to so describe him, devolves into something so vague and without real feeling. He is a man without a single close personal friend, by his own admission. There is no one from his past who speaks of him as person with integrity and compassion.
This man is a failure as a human being.
He may occupy the White House, for now, but there are powerful forces that will not allow him to destroy this country, and if allowed to, he will.
He represents nothing about this country which is good.
As to his supporters, half of them are in for rude awakening. As to the rest, they are people I never wish to encounter.
Washington DC will become more corrupt than ever before. The lobbyists are already openly celebrating. They are ending up with the plum assignments in his transition team and in his administration.
And, he will be led around by these folks and he will have no idea what is happening. He is not evil. He is ignorant, base and frankly a moron.
And, these sentiments are being held all across this country.
This man has been described by at least half of the population as repugnant, a demagogue, a sexual predator, repulsive, ignorant, racist, an extreme narcissist, and the list goes on.
To me, each and every one of the terms is beyond dispute backed by a lengthy well documented history. I can not recall a single moment of kindness, genuine, to be recounted by anyone during this campaign. His daughter, who has come closest to trying to so describe him, devolves into something so vague and without real feeling. He is a man without a single close personal friend, by his own admission. There is no one from his past who speaks of him as person with integrity and compassion.
This man is a failure as a human being.
He may occupy the White House, for now, but there are powerful forces that will not allow him to destroy this country, and if allowed to, he will.
He represents nothing about this country which is good.
As to his supporters, half of them are in for rude awakening. As to the rest, they are people I never wish to encounter.
Washington DC will become more corrupt than ever before. The lobbyists are already openly celebrating. They are ending up with the plum assignments in his transition team and in his administration.
And, he will be led around by these folks and he will have no idea what is happening. He is not evil. He is ignorant, base and frankly a moron.
And, these sentiments are being held all across this country.
17
Like the song says, "Meet the new boss, same as the old boss."
We can only hope.
We can only hope.
1
What is needed now is a Million Millennial March on Washington on January 20th. And let their songs and chants of resistance drown out the sorry spectacle of the Inauguration.
7
The white working class Trump voters included ones who voted for Obama both times so not every one who voted for him did so out of racism but because they felt abandoned by the Democratic Party.But they might be interested that my state where we voted to substantially increase the minimum wage is one of the bluest,Hillary carrying it easily; our Democratic Senator,Patty
Murray receiving 61% of the vote.The WWCT voters might begin realizing the mistake they made when Trump and his GOP Congress repeal Dodd-Frank so banks can once again choose how to rip us all off.
But the Democratic Party which I still belong to has work to do beyond just resisting Trump, starting with changing how we nominate our Party Presidential nominee;by doing away with the Super Delegates who gave Hillary a delegate lead at the starting line that Bernie Sanders ,who without Trump's bigotry is more in tune than Hillary with the white working class ,could not overcome.It's time for the Democratic Party to practice democracy again.
Murray receiving 61% of the vote.The WWCT voters might begin realizing the mistake they made when Trump and his GOP Congress repeal Dodd-Frank so banks can once again choose how to rip us all off.
But the Democratic Party which I still belong to has work to do beyond just resisting Trump, starting with changing how we nominate our Party Presidential nominee;by doing away with the Super Delegates who gave Hillary a delegate lead at the starting line that Bernie Sanders ,who without Trump's bigotry is more in tune than Hillary with the white working class ,could not overcome.It's time for the Democratic Party to practice democracy again.
2
What will these people who voted for Trump do when those factories and jobs don't come? As they always do, they won't blame Trump,no they'll blame the"others" Hispanics, Muslims, Jews etc. you get the picture. Then meanwhile Trump new friends in the House/senate, Ryan and McConnell will be working to dismantle all the New Deal/Great Society progressive acts Social Security, Medicare etc. Meanwhile Trump will be demonizing one group or another. The Trump supporters will blame the others for that too.
I blame sc
I blame sc
4
Being a journalism grad and now a welder for Halliburton in the local oil patch outside of Denver the source for ALL of this illogical thinking of the white working class is Fox "News". They control the message and just hammer it away. It reminds me of the history of Hitler's rise and how they used to run patriotic short films in the movie houses.
11
The angry rusted folks are unlikely to find true happiness under the newly elected bankrupter in chief.
4
Much of the post election talk is centered around, "maybe he won't be so bad"
Judging by the recent tweet that the protestors are "professionals" it would appear that is is going to be "that bad" Something that the trump supporter does not seem to have thought about is, what comes after you "burn it down"?
The old world manufacturing jobs are not coming back. Robotics will
continue to make assembly line work a thing of the past. I am no big fan of globalization but the genie is out of the bottle and it is not going to be put back in. White middle class....(which includes me by the way)
America just shot itself in the foot. This would be fun to watch except I have to live here.....
Judging by the recent tweet that the protestors are "professionals" it would appear that is is going to be "that bad" Something that the trump supporter does not seem to have thought about is, what comes after you "burn it down"?
The old world manufacturing jobs are not coming back. Robotics will
continue to make assembly line work a thing of the past. I am no big fan of globalization but the genie is out of the bottle and it is not going to be put back in. White middle class....(which includes me by the way)
America just shot itself in the foot. This would be fun to watch except I have to live here.....
8
It is not a matter of if it is a matter of when Congress will impeach Donald Trump, for he is essentially in the sprinters block on his way to his unethical reign of error. Those Trumpistas are going to get a dose of reality, but they'll just blame the press, minorities, and women. Trump's disastrousness Is going to be so yuuuuuge that you'll need a separate channel to illuminate the corruption and corrosiveness of this idiotic administration in waiting.
4
But then we'll have Pence. Pence who said repeatedly on the campaign trail his Christian religion is first and foremost to him, with his country 2cnd, party 3rd.
Pence who supported laws requiring verification and (Christian) services for every miscarriage.
He is far more dangerous than Trump, he's a true believer who will happily prioritize Christianity over country.
Trump's son already said Pence will be delegated the day to day governing while Trump focuses on making white America great again.
Pence who supported laws requiring verification and (Christian) services for every miscarriage.
He is far more dangerous than Trump, he's a true believer who will happily prioritize Christianity over country.
Trump's son already said Pence will be delegated the day to day governing while Trump focuses on making white America great again.
4
This is how uncomplicated it was for Trump voters. A woman I work with said, way too casually, "I voted for Trump. Did you?" as if she was telling me she liked chocolate better than vanilla. Aghast, I started to feed her facts; about the GOP not caring about middle class people like us, about Obamacare likely to disappear if she lost her job ( she is 61 and our company is in dire straits), about all the crazy things he said, and did, what a liar he is.
She stopped me and asked "but what about her emails?"
She stopped me and asked "but what about her emails?"
15
Trump is just a symptom of something much bigger, Americas embrace of fascism. It happened pre-WWII and it's happening again but in a much bigger way.
9
Funny. The premise of your article is not to put our faith in prognosticators and yet you prognosticate. Ironic. Wake up people and have a little faith be an example to the kids boohooing in the streets, put on your big boy boots, stop the id politics, and start putting forward some sound ideas we can back and fight for, like health care for all , term limits (one of Trumps goals which is already violently opposed by the entrenched Republicans and Democrats alike), and so many others! Nobody likes a sore loser, so let's get over it already.
1
I do agree with your last paragraph. Has the NYT apologized to its readers yet for their oh-so-accurate prediction of the election results? All that micro-data, all the angles they took into consideration, fat lot of good that did us.
2
Important to remember 2 things: (1) "[W]henever any form of Government becomes destructive of these ends [of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness], it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it ... " and (2) the American Revolution was not fought with spitballs and harsh language.
6
Last night, I switched between CNN and Fox for a few minutes. Sean Hannity and Rudy were having a fine time gloating over Trump's victory; CNN showed people marching in the streets. The disconnect continues.
Our presidential choices weren't good, but Trump should heed the old saying "be careful what you wish for."
Our presidential choices weren't good, but Trump should heed the old saying "be careful what you wish for."
4
The white working class doesn't read your column, I'd bet, so they won't be offended that you called them suckers. But they are offended that you and your followers see them like homeless people -- there but not there. That's a big reason we now have Trump. If the techie Democrats like you don't get a handle on this, we'll have many more Trumps. The culture wars are over. The one we have now is real.
5
Yet when Obama proclaimed that the seas will recede I bet you were all giddy. He said he would bring back manufacturing not necessarily steel mills but maybe them also. We use a tremendous amount of steel in this country. Why not here?
1
You know that alll those factories are well, automated, right. How much unskilled labor do they need. Of interest Trump properties are looking for help. There'll be tips!
3
I do know that but they still require people to run them. Why not here? Why not American citizens?
So now that he is elected, he will offer up his tax return, right? Wasn't that his claim? So when do we get to see his enormous wealth?
6
Thank you Mr. Egan. Your commentary is reassuring to those of us who want to believe that there are still good people out there in the world who care about little people like me.
2
The fact is that his suggestions for fighting back will be disregarded as if it is nothing the Republicans have won the golden ticket and they will never let go unless there is a civil war. I'm listening to the remembrance day ceremony from Ottawa canada 11th hour on the 11th day on the 11 month and I fear for what is to come with this man and his team of bigots and thugs. Simply telling them they can't do something will be like you are just a pesky house fly that will be swatted away and squashed.
4
"The Wall will not be built". Of course the wall will be built. Legislation was passed in 2006 that allowed Walls to be built along the border with Mexico. Currentlly, there is over 500 miles of wall running across the southern border. Trump is just picking up where other Republicans have left off. What you need to say is: The Wall, like the policy it is based on, will be useless.
3
Get over it Tim. You and the Dims.
And stop the talk about the popular vote. The margin that HRC got was about 200k out of over 120 million. Almost all of that margin came from NYC, Boston, Chicago and coastal Califronia. For the rest of the country Trump won by pretty much a landslide. Moreover, he won 33 states. He is going to win the electoral college by a large margin. I don't like the electoral college, but it is the way we've handled the election for 200+ years. And candidates know that. Further, if we went strictly by the popular ballot then it is very likely more people would have turned out to vote. You can't take a vote taken under one set of rules and assume you'd get the same outcome with a different set of rules.
And -- the Repubs won the House and kept the senate even though they had more seats being challenged in the senate.
So, why don't you and yours quit whining, marching in the streets, etc. Get it together and let's all work to make things better. Your accusations of racism etc. aren't helping anything.
And stop the talk about the popular vote. The margin that HRC got was about 200k out of over 120 million. Almost all of that margin came from NYC, Boston, Chicago and coastal Califronia. For the rest of the country Trump won by pretty much a landslide. Moreover, he won 33 states. He is going to win the electoral college by a large margin. I don't like the electoral college, but it is the way we've handled the election for 200+ years. And candidates know that. Further, if we went strictly by the popular ballot then it is very likely more people would have turned out to vote. You can't take a vote taken under one set of rules and assume you'd get the same outcome with a different set of rules.
And -- the Repubs won the House and kept the senate even though they had more seats being challenged in the senate.
So, why don't you and yours quit whining, marching in the streets, etc. Get it together and let's all work to make things better. Your accusations of racism etc. aren't helping anything.
Ralphie says:
'The margin that HRC got was about 200k out of over 120 million.'
Folks, these are exactly the sort of lies we will need to challenge relentlessly over the next four years.
HC won the popular vote by more than 2 million votes and more than 1.5 percentage points, more than Nixon and Kennedy's margin.
My family's been in country since before the Revolutionary War; our signature's on the the Constitution; we've served in its military since the Revolutionary War. We started as the most authentic of all Americans, namely immigrants, and we're still as American as any new citizen fresh off a boat.
This country's seen some great leaders and some terrible ones, the latter especially after President Grant and before the first President Roosevelt.
There are honest and dishonest people on both the right and the left. What we need to fear most right now is the lies of the right: fact-checking takes time and care, but lies will muddy our thinking irretrievably.
Don't believe what you are told, especially by the party currently in power. Verify it yourself, tedious though it may be. Then decide.
'The margin that HRC got was about 200k out of over 120 million.'
Folks, these are exactly the sort of lies we will need to challenge relentlessly over the next four years.
HC won the popular vote by more than 2 million votes and more than 1.5 percentage points, more than Nixon and Kennedy's margin.
My family's been in country since before the Revolutionary War; our signature's on the the Constitution; we've served in its military since the Revolutionary War. We started as the most authentic of all Americans, namely immigrants, and we're still as American as any new citizen fresh off a boat.
This country's seen some great leaders and some terrible ones, the latter especially after President Grant and before the first President Roosevelt.
There are honest and dishonest people on both the right and the left. What we need to fear most right now is the lies of the right: fact-checking takes time and care, but lies will muddy our thinking irretrievably.
Don't believe what you are told, especially by the party currently in power. Verify it yourself, tedious though it may be. Then decide.
Republicans are decidedly NOT interested in trying to "make things better." Unless, that is, you are referring to their personal bank accounts.
Republicans are interested in imposing theocratic rule, destroying the environment on which we all depend, and enriching their lobbyist friends. That's all.
There's no one on that side with whom any thinking, compassionate, decent person can work because there are no decent Republicans, no compassionate Republicans, and precious few thinking Republicans. There are only reactionaries, racists, homophobes, and fraudsters who are selfish, greedy, arrogant, and intolerant.
No, we are two countries and the sooner we accept that reality and separate from each other, the better. If we don't, civil war is going to happen.
Republicans are interested in imposing theocratic rule, destroying the environment on which we all depend, and enriching their lobbyist friends. That's all.
There's no one on that side with whom any thinking, compassionate, decent person can work because there are no decent Republicans, no compassionate Republicans, and precious few thinking Republicans. There are only reactionaries, racists, homophobes, and fraudsters who are selfish, greedy, arrogant, and intolerant.
No, we are two countries and the sooner we accept that reality and separate from each other, the better. If we don't, civil war is going to happen.
5
Interesting how the conservatives all want to get together and sing kumbaya whenever they win but are the first to take their toys and go home when they don't. I actually think the Dems need to get some spine and forget trying to work with the Republicans, just as Repubs pretty much opposed everything Obama wanted to do. Clearly, the Dems can learn something from the people with all the power now.
5
'When Trump takes away people’s health care'
Health insurance is not health care! When those who are forced to purchase it can't afford to take anything but the lowest coverage with the highest deductible, and premiums and providers' bills ratchet up to the point where you can't afford to use it because the co-pay, deductible, and 20% remaining costs are still beyond your ability to pay, and when you get punished with a tax if, choosing between your rent and your premium, you choose the former ... it's not even insurance.
Good grief, you people don't even read your own paper. Why should you? The NYT pundits have a union (the Newspaper Guild) with bennies and a tidy salary. They - you - are part of the 1%, telling us to eat cake.
The sad thing is, we will never get single-payer now; but we wouldn't have gotten it under the Democrats either, as they are stuck with the signature program of the Obama presidency - possibly his sole 'accomplishment' if you can call it that - and cannot dismantle the legacy of the 'first black president' without being the 'racists' they accused Obamacare's critics of being. (Because there's no other reason you could possibly have.)
Trump won't abolish Obamacare, though. Its mandate is a windfall for the private for-profit insurance companies. They won't give up their captive customer base, and they have good lobbyists. So be assured we will be dragging this dead horse for a very long time.
Health insurance is not health care! When those who are forced to purchase it can't afford to take anything but the lowest coverage with the highest deductible, and premiums and providers' bills ratchet up to the point where you can't afford to use it because the co-pay, deductible, and 20% remaining costs are still beyond your ability to pay, and when you get punished with a tax if, choosing between your rent and your premium, you choose the former ... it's not even insurance.
Good grief, you people don't even read your own paper. Why should you? The NYT pundits have a union (the Newspaper Guild) with bennies and a tidy salary. They - you - are part of the 1%, telling us to eat cake.
The sad thing is, we will never get single-payer now; but we wouldn't have gotten it under the Democrats either, as they are stuck with the signature program of the Obama presidency - possibly his sole 'accomplishment' if you can call it that - and cannot dismantle the legacy of the 'first black president' without being the 'racists' they accused Obamacare's critics of being. (Because there's no other reason you could possibly have.)
Trump won't abolish Obamacare, though. Its mandate is a windfall for the private for-profit insurance companies. They won't give up their captive customer base, and they have good lobbyists. So be assured we will be dragging this dead horse for a very long time.
3
"In red and blue states, a hefty raise in the minimum wage was instituted through the ballot box."
That's your answer? Increase the minimum wage?
It was the manufacturing base that drove the middle class prosperity Democrats liked to take credit for. They claimed it was an outgrowth of New Deal policies. For years the Democrats joyfully accepted the support of groups like the UAW. Many good paying non-production jobs like electricians, pipe fitters and millwrights were also generated by the manufacturing base. You won't have that effect by raising the wages of burger flippers. Stronger laws supporting unionization won't do the trick either.
For years the same party has been telling the workers it's the Republicans who are off-shoring jobs and bringing in imports. Now during the last election cycle it's the Democrats who are telling the UAW members that the "Buy American" slogan is regressive and outdated.
Those jobs won't be coming back I know that and you know that. But many former loyal followers of the Democratic Party feel betrayed.
At least you've distilled down Hillary's proposition to those folks: Hey, I'll raise the minimum wage.
That's your answer? Increase the minimum wage?
It was the manufacturing base that drove the middle class prosperity Democrats liked to take credit for. They claimed it was an outgrowth of New Deal policies. For years the Democrats joyfully accepted the support of groups like the UAW. Many good paying non-production jobs like electricians, pipe fitters and millwrights were also generated by the manufacturing base. You won't have that effect by raising the wages of burger flippers. Stronger laws supporting unionization won't do the trick either.
For years the same party has been telling the workers it's the Republicans who are off-shoring jobs and bringing in imports. Now during the last election cycle it's the Democrats who are telling the UAW members that the "Buy American" slogan is regressive and outdated.
Those jobs won't be coming back I know that and you know that. But many former loyal followers of the Democratic Party feel betrayed.
At least you've distilled down Hillary's proposition to those folks: Hey, I'll raise the minimum wage.
Right, JP. Those jobs aren't "coming back." They're gone, but they're also gone from the places they went. They've been automated -- tech'd out. So what will your man Donald do for his (appropriately) tee'd off base? They can't afford decent health insurance (even under the ACA - a bad deal from the start), they can't afford to send their kids to even state colleges. Precisely what pixie dust will Donald come up with? We know the answer. More dough in the pockets of the oligarchs, who will embrace, seduce and use Donald as they wish. The answer is for progressive populists to arise - either in one of the nearly moribund current national parties or in a new one - with an actual program and a leadership that can sell it.
1
I don't know if he is a bigot and a racist and ignorant, but those were his words. People responded to his words - they liked his words.
It's not that complicated.
It's not that complicated.
6
When mills fail and workers feel betrayed, they'll have a go-to answer for "why?" - those freedom-hating libruls! It's convenient.
2
"not the burn-it-all down schemes of the Trumpsters"
Apparently you haven't been in Oakland, CA the last few nights, a place near where I live and work.
It is the Clinton supporters burning things down, defacing the very communities in which they live. This is how "progressives" protest?
Keep a lid on the hypocrisy.
Apparently you haven't been in Oakland, CA the last few nights, a place near where I live and work.
It is the Clinton supporters burning things down, defacing the very communities in which they live. This is how "progressives" protest?
Keep a lid on the hypocrisy.
More about Youngstown. They were an open town when the Mob came around. Philly and the Detroit/Cleveland families were always sparing for their bee's wax. The Irish, Jewish and Lebanese mobs got their backs up against it, too.
I think my Gpa came out to Tucson with the Licavoli crew after there was nothing left to do during the Depression but find better routes to carry product to markets in even faster hot rods. Those freaking fascists had disrupted the old lines of pharma commerce, so the Orient express was established in the SouthWest to keep the opiods flowing.
The people of Youngstown always understood their labor unions were pawns to the mob families and the mill owners. Eternal losers trying to find a crack to hide a dime in just in case you needed to make a call to your local fixer.
These people know graft and extortion. They have been tossed by it their entire lives. Perhaps Trump is their family man. but if he fails them, they will give him the same send off they gave Jack White Licavoli.
I think my Gpa came out to Tucson with the Licavoli crew after there was nothing left to do during the Depression but find better routes to carry product to markets in even faster hot rods. Those freaking fascists had disrupted the old lines of pharma commerce, so the Orient express was established in the SouthWest to keep the opiods flowing.
The people of Youngstown always understood their labor unions were pawns to the mob families and the mill owners. Eternal losers trying to find a crack to hide a dime in just in case you needed to make a call to your local fixer.
These people know graft and extortion. They have been tossed by it their entire lives. Perhaps Trump is their family man. but if he fails them, they will give him the same send off they gave Jack White Licavoli.
2
I was with you down to the part about the pollsters (and I am not one). They don't claim to be sibyls, though that's how the fickle media treated Nate Silver 4 years ago, which got him is own duchy. It's up to the one who reads the polls to recognize the limitations. A poor map will be better than no map, unless you put entire trust in it. Then it will deceive you.
Great post. Also haven't felt this way since Sister Joanne announced over the P.A.: "boys and girls, President Kennedy has been shot". The kickball games stopped and we said Our Fathers and Hail Marys right there on the playground.
Reckon we should crank up the Hail Marys again; my 6 week old grandson will be living with the choices made this week well into his early adulthood.
I hear you on the resistance, but I think we'll just be able to chip away at the edges. This isn't about Trump - hell, he may be gone in 4, maybe sooner. This feels more like a huge sea change taking us deeper into the red zone for a long time. For the first time I'm thinking secession. CA, OR, WA - why should we live our lives under this Republican Taliban? What's in it for us to continue to have people like Mitch McConnell and Newt Gingrich running our lives, when we'd be the 6th largest economy on earth on our own?
Nothing lasts forever, and we've had a pretty good 240 year run. Let's try something different, since out here we're already different...
Reckon we should crank up the Hail Marys again; my 6 week old grandson will be living with the choices made this week well into his early adulthood.
I hear you on the resistance, but I think we'll just be able to chip away at the edges. This isn't about Trump - hell, he may be gone in 4, maybe sooner. This feels more like a huge sea change taking us deeper into the red zone for a long time. For the first time I'm thinking secession. CA, OR, WA - why should we live our lives under this Republican Taliban? What's in it for us to continue to have people like Mitch McConnell and Newt Gingrich running our lives, when we'd be the 6th largest economy on earth on our own?
Nothing lasts forever, and we've had a pretty good 240 year run. Let's try something different, since out here we're already different...
10
Can Minnesota tag along? Please? And some of those nice New England states too?
4
Spot on, Mr Egan! Our biggest challenge now is to go beyond accusing Trump supporters.
Dear Trump voter,
As you probably realize, this election was unlike any other election. Many of us are justifiably shocked and traumatized by this assault on all that we hold dear - the rights of all, respect for differences, etc. Election day for many of us was the new 9-11! Except this time the enemy is not from a foreign land; it is right here in our midst. Family members, friends, and neighbors were deliberately or unwittingly all part of this attack, and many people right now understandably feel unsafe. Unfair as it may be, we do judge people by the company they keep - the KKK, the Nazi Party, and the Religious Right all supported Trump and are now emboldened to make us "One Nation under White Jesus". So if people accuse you of being sexist, racist, or a bigot, please understand - you have cast your lot with his unholy Coalition of the Willing. It is guilt by association and complicity. And if those are not your values, consider doing what you can through your actions in these next 4 years to demonstrate otherwise. You gambled on a complete unknown (no, being a Reality TV star isn't being known!) with no political experience to run this country, so own it - he is yours to monitor and hold accountable. Meanwhile, give us some time to grieve, unfreeze, and return to some semblance of equilibrium - we are ALL going to need it in these uncertain times ahead!
Love,
A fellow American
Dear Trump voter,
As you probably realize, this election was unlike any other election. Many of us are justifiably shocked and traumatized by this assault on all that we hold dear - the rights of all, respect for differences, etc. Election day for many of us was the new 9-11! Except this time the enemy is not from a foreign land; it is right here in our midst. Family members, friends, and neighbors were deliberately or unwittingly all part of this attack, and many people right now understandably feel unsafe. Unfair as it may be, we do judge people by the company they keep - the KKK, the Nazi Party, and the Religious Right all supported Trump and are now emboldened to make us "One Nation under White Jesus". So if people accuse you of being sexist, racist, or a bigot, please understand - you have cast your lot with his unholy Coalition of the Willing. It is guilt by association and complicity. And if those are not your values, consider doing what you can through your actions in these next 4 years to demonstrate otherwise. You gambled on a complete unknown (no, being a Reality TV star isn't being known!) with no political experience to run this country, so own it - he is yours to monitor and hold accountable. Meanwhile, give us some time to grieve, unfreeze, and return to some semblance of equilibrium - we are ALL going to need it in these uncertain times ahead!
Love,
A fellow American
11
If the election of Reich's Chancellor trump wasn't so dangerous it would be hysterical. It proves how remarkably uneducated a large swath of the country is. There is a reason that, historically, you don't put stupid people in charge - because they're stupid. Both the far left, the far right and everywhere in between are responsible for this mess. The populations of states with Democratic populations are especially to blame - here's looking at you Pennsylvania and Michigan. Well, you reap what you sow and those that elected this fool have sown a catastrophe.
5
I get it. Trump and his gang will screw everything up, then it will be up to the Dems to put everything back together while being blocked every step of the way by the Reps. Sounds familiar.
4
The problem is that when Trump's policies fail to bring back jobs, he will not admit error. He will scapegoat and turn one group against another. I don't think he is a racist or an anti-Semite. He just is completely comfortable with hurting anyone or any group to get his way.
2
For both of W's terms, his mistakes were always Clinton's fault. What do you want to bet that everything that goes wrong for Trump (not that I expect any of his great, yuge, winning, and wonderful plans to fail, of course), it will be Obama's fault. Logic is so last century.
2
Thank you, a terrific op-ed for the morning after, the morning after that, and so on for everyone who did not vote for Trump, and that would add up to millions and millions of people.
1
If you look at the people Trump has surrounded himself with, believe the reports of his contacts already with K Street, and if you believe early reports about who who might fill a Trump cabinet, it becomes clear that nothing much will really change. It's looking more like the 3d term of George W Bush. The question is how Trump's supporters will react. They knew they were taking a chance and were hoping against hope for a payoff. How long before they realize it's just business as usual?
5
He'll just tell'em he's making American Great Again and they'll yell and cheer and prayerfully say, "Thank you jesus," and apply for unemployment or go cash their social security checks. Now, you and I will probably find this grating, but what ya gonna do, he's the big cheese, now.
I can't believe I just read this: "When he looks the other way while Russia takes a small country..."
So what, exactly, has Obama been doing to thwart Russia? The Ukraine has been invaded, Syria invaded, our government hacked, yet Obama sits by doing essentially nothing to fight back against the power grabs made by Putin. To those iutside the Beltway and not under the Barrack-trance, Obama looks like the Russian plant in the US government.
So what, exactly, has Obama been doing to thwart Russia? The Ukraine has been invaded, Syria invaded, our government hacked, yet Obama sits by doing essentially nothing to fight back against the power grabs made by Putin. To those iutside the Beltway and not under the Barrack-trance, Obama looks like the Russian plant in the US government.
Alas, so many people rejected Hillary because she was allegedly hawkish towards Russia.
1
Come on.
Trump and the most rabid Republicans will not have total control.
The 48 Senator caucus can become a firewall, joined not just by my own state's Susan Collins in opposing unsuitable appointments, but by other thoughtful Republicans (not an oxymoron); Alexander, Flake, Graham, Murkowski come to mind first.
Underneath the grandiosity, the drooling lust, the obsession with winning and the frenetically sleazy businessman, Donald Trump has been a classic New York limousine liberal. He already looks quite frightened and ten years older than he did Tuesday afternoon.
Keep calm and carry on.
Dan Kravitz
Trump and the most rabid Republicans will not have total control.
The 48 Senator caucus can become a firewall, joined not just by my own state's Susan Collins in opposing unsuitable appointments, but by other thoughtful Republicans (not an oxymoron); Alexander, Flake, Graham, Murkowski come to mind first.
Underneath the grandiosity, the drooling lust, the obsession with winning and the frenetically sleazy businessman, Donald Trump has been a classic New York limousine liberal. He already looks quite frightened and ten years older than he did Tuesday afternoon.
Keep calm and carry on.
Dan Kravitz
5
Everyone who thinks about it at all KNOWS the steel mills will not be coming back. All those folks who voted for Trump because they lost their manufacturing jobs because of NAFTA or EPA regulations or because the Dems abandoned the unions are going to realize they've been duped (well, they might, but they believe Trump will build a wall so they'll believe anything, won't they). They didn't lose their jobs to Mexicans (here or there), they lost them to robots. The Dems didn't abandon the unions, the Republican party and their conservative justices on the Supreme Court eviscerate the National Labor Relations Act in order to bust up unions. They just voted for the specific kind of person representing the specific party that did all of this to them. I can't wait for them to whine and moan when they get shafted again. They did this to themselves.
3
I picture the author of this piece a a 68 year old man-baby, tantruming because he's been pulled off the teat. Grow up old man; your guy lost. Predicting doom and gloom doesn't help move the country forward.
I remember the administration of George W. Bush, to this point the worst President in US history. Practically every week, I was amazed at just how incompetent and fanatical the Republicans were. Climate change doesn't exist - drilll baby drill! Let's invade Iraq and make everyone love us! Let's drain the swamp of terrorism! Let's let Israel annihilate the Palestinians - it's all the Arabs' fault anyway! Let's threaten our allies if they don't do what we want and punish them for their defiance! Bush's White House was a nightmare - every gross stereotype about the venality of American conservatives, brought to life. I fear that all indications are the Trump WH will be even worse - Bush on steroids, except the swamp he is drawing from is filled with even more venal, ignorant people. During the Bush era, the Democrats rolled over and played dead or played along. They were annoying in their weakness. I hope that what is coming now is not a repeat of that time. If there is one good thing that comes out of this, it needs to be Democrats organizing, fighting back, and making sure that Trump is a one term President.
3
I actually prefer tea leaves.
1
The Russians probably did interfere with the election. Odd isn't it how all the polls got it wrong? Well perhaps they didn't. Perhaps the polls got it right. The Russians have no scruples about getting whatever they want to advance their cause. And this idiot is just the man to let them do that. Just sayin'.
2
Monday morning pundits are blaming it on a backlash to some conspiracy by the coastal 'liberal elite'
The factory workers who long for a good middle class job should look in their back yard. It was no liberal who replaced their job with a robot. It was no liberal who moved their jobs from Michigan to South Carolina and beyond. It was their own management.
They complain about being left behind by Washington or about having to pay 1,800 a month for health care. But this exactly what you get when you have spent 40 years voting for Republicans that favor profit over social programs.
Connect the dots!
The factory workers who long for a good middle class job should look in their back yard. It was no liberal who replaced their job with a robot. It was no liberal who moved their jobs from Michigan to South Carolina and beyond. It was their own management.
They complain about being left behind by Washington or about having to pay 1,800 a month for health care. But this exactly what you get when you have spent 40 years voting for Republicans that favor profit over social programs.
Connect the dots!
3
Why does everyone think Trump voters are poor, uneducated, white people?
The average Trump voters has an annual income of $77k and some college, if not a degree.
These voters are not desperate for jobs, they're terrified of losing their white privilege, of even the possibility of a level playing field, and a fair number can't abide a woman as their boss, much less their President.
Radicalized whites, recruited online by extremists, swallow the warm broth that tells them they are the persecuted ones.Told that the "others," non Christian, POC, women, gay, trans, immigrants, people with different rituals are to blame for all their losses.
Christians, faced with a reality where Christian supremacy, homophobia & racism are no longer mainstream, decide the "others" are racist, fascist, etc...
Welcome to "Christian" America.
Only true believers, passionate capitalists and puppets are truly patriotic, deserving of the rights of citizenship.
The average Trump voters has an annual income of $77k and some college, if not a degree.
These voters are not desperate for jobs, they're terrified of losing their white privilege, of even the possibility of a level playing field, and a fair number can't abide a woman as their boss, much less their President.
Radicalized whites, recruited online by extremists, swallow the warm broth that tells them they are the persecuted ones.Told that the "others," non Christian, POC, women, gay, trans, immigrants, people with different rituals are to blame for all their losses.
Christians, faced with a reality where Christian supremacy, homophobia & racism are no longer mainstream, decide the "others" are racist, fascist, etc...
Welcome to "Christian" America.
Only true believers, passionate capitalists and puppets are truly patriotic, deserving of the rights of citizenship.
2
The most malleable suckers are the angry ones, as any good hustler knows. And they just keep coming back for more- that's why there are sucker lists.
The last thing any sucker wants to hear is that he has been suckered. He won't believe you. It just makes him even more angry, and hence even more malleable.
How to respond? Is it condescending to identify a sucker for what he is? Or is it just not PC? Perhaps there is no good response other than to step back and let them work it out. But that will be riotous and tragic for many. Hard times are coming.
The last thing any sucker wants to hear is that he has been suckered. He won't believe you. It just makes him even more angry, and hence even more malleable.
How to respond? Is it condescending to identify a sucker for what he is? Or is it just not PC? Perhaps there is no good response other than to step back and let them work it out. But that will be riotous and tragic for many. Hard times are coming.
4
There is an old saying, "Give a man enough rope and he will hang himself."
The Publican Party now has all the rope in government, both houses of Congress, the White House and very shortly the Supreme Court. I believe that is enough rope.
The Publican Party now has all the rope in government, both houses of Congress, the White House and very shortly the Supreme Court. I believe that is enough rope.
4
I strongly hope the NYT will take the role of providing relentless investigative journalism. You can be sure half the country will listen. Too bad the Trump supporters will only take notice too late, after they evenually realized how they've been abused to enable this coup.
5
I can’t think of a better prescription than this for all of us who are disheartened by the election:
"Politics ought to be the part-time profession of every citizen who would protect the rights and privileges of free people and who would preserve what is good and fruitful in our national heritage."
--- Dwight Eisenhower, 1954
"Politics ought to be the part-time profession of every citizen who would protect the rights and privileges of free people and who would preserve what is good and fruitful in our national heritage."
--- Dwight Eisenhower, 1954
6
"The wall will not be built, nor will it be paid for by Mexico. It’s absurdly expensive, and unworkable. It was always a ruse. Instead, Trump will stage a photo op in Arizona, and, noting a net out-migration pattern started under President Obama, declare victory. Same with the authoritarian plan to round up 11 million people, tearing families apart. He’ll be stopped by majority sentiment, appalled at a police state in neighborhoods"
Unfortunately, this is wishful thinking. He doesn't have years of connections with activists and donors (like Reagan). He doesn't have long-standing relationships with the House or Senate (like Johnson). His power comes from the anti-immigration Right. These were his biggest applause lines in his rallies. He will have to move on Mexican (and Muslim) immigration, even if he comes around to realizing what horrible ideas these are.
Unfortunately, this is wishful thinking. He doesn't have years of connections with activists and donors (like Reagan). He doesn't have long-standing relationships with the House or Senate (like Johnson). His power comes from the anti-immigration Right. These were his biggest applause lines in his rallies. He will have to move on Mexican (and Muslim) immigration, even if he comes around to realizing what horrible ideas these are.
39
The poorly educated white Americans should not expect Trump to help them out. It is every man for himself. Live the American Dream on your own powers rather than handouts.
Maybe, maybe not.
An awful lot of people who supported Obama voted for Trump.
A lot of others just stayed home.
These are people who felt government had nothing for them and no interest in their problems. Trump talked to them.
They figured it couldn't get any worse. Maybe they are right...
An awful lot of people who supported Obama voted for Trump.
A lot of others just stayed home.
These are people who felt government had nothing for them and no interest in their problems. Trump talked to them.
They figured it couldn't get any worse. Maybe they are right...
1
When the jobs don't come, cognitive dissonance will lead most Trump supporters to double-down on Trump, and yet again blame the media, liberal elites, and minorities.
5
When Trump fails, he will ratchet up the scapegoating and attacks in the press. This is an era that will test American journalists like they have never seen at home.
5
You're right. To stand passively by is to give your power away and to make Trump more important than he should ever be. My advice is to start by making your state into one that is run by a sane government. And, as you've pointed out, many are in the process of doing just that.
2
Mr. Egan we share progressive democratic ideas, Your predictions are dire, I have same doubt for Trump for many millions.
If history is the ultimate lesson, We already have less talented But relatively very calm and sane Republican president kicked around by Washington's mob and caused a disastrous 8 years (2000-2008). W is really calm.
Remember Oliver Stone's movie "W".
When he sit David Kay and learned that WMD intelligence was used to duped him to go war in Iraq and around the table the war mongers Rummy, Cheney washed their hands and W understood that they were running their agendas and get extremely upset.
above scene, with tantrum of Trump can play a disaster.
Trump is a shark , he is not going to reconcile with his ultra inexperience while Giuliani and Newt like Sleaze bags toying with him, so he will become very fast paranoid, do not forget Republican congress same effect too.
Any conflict in cabinet or congress will end up with serious policy crisis.
So lets put in context.
Rome elected its Nero.
I hope we will not be burned alive.
If history is the ultimate lesson, We already have less talented But relatively very calm and sane Republican president kicked around by Washington's mob and caused a disastrous 8 years (2000-2008). W is really calm.
Remember Oliver Stone's movie "W".
When he sit David Kay and learned that WMD intelligence was used to duped him to go war in Iraq and around the table the war mongers Rummy, Cheney washed their hands and W understood that they were running their agendas and get extremely upset.
above scene, with tantrum of Trump can play a disaster.
Trump is a shark , he is not going to reconcile with his ultra inexperience while Giuliani and Newt like Sleaze bags toying with him, so he will become very fast paranoid, do not forget Republican congress same effect too.
Any conflict in cabinet or congress will end up with serious policy crisis.
So lets put in context.
Rome elected its Nero.
I hope we will not be burned alive.
4
Trump is not smart enough to be a shark, but the people surrounding him are.
2
I hope you're right, but I suspect you're not.
Our participation rates are dismal, and we don't vote for what we say matters to us.
How many beneficiaries of Obamacare voted for Clinton, or for anybody?
Black lives do matter, but apparently they don't vote. Ok, that was uncalled for. But the black vote wasn't what was hoped for or needed.
A lot of us claim to care deeply about climate change, but it hasn't energized our politics. Why do you think it will?
As a country we tend to be ignorant and politically slothful -- a frightful combination. When from time to time our sloth falls away (as with the Trump voters), our ignorance takes over. We have gotten what we deserve.
Our participation rates are dismal, and we don't vote for what we say matters to us.
How many beneficiaries of Obamacare voted for Clinton, or for anybody?
Black lives do matter, but apparently they don't vote. Ok, that was uncalled for. But the black vote wasn't what was hoped for or needed.
A lot of us claim to care deeply about climate change, but it hasn't energized our politics. Why do you think it will?
As a country we tend to be ignorant and politically slothful -- a frightful combination. When from time to time our sloth falls away (as with the Trump voters), our ignorance takes over. We have gotten what we deserve.
4
Mr. Egan,
The working class had been betrayed for a long time by the Democratic party, and by the liberal elite including you and all the columnists at the New York Times who anointed Clinton and dismissed Bernie Sanders from the very beginning.
So yes, let's resist Trump, but with a new party and without ever falling again for either of the two wings of corporate power.
The working class had been betrayed for a long time by the Democratic party, and by the liberal elite including you and all the columnists at the New York Times who anointed Clinton and dismissed Bernie Sanders from the very beginning.
So yes, let's resist Trump, but with a new party and without ever falling again for either of the two wings of corporate power.
3
Thank you for this column. You described perfectly the morning after feeling I had. I very recently experienced the death -- the sudden, unexpected kind you mention -- of my beloved husband of fifty years. When I learned that Trump had won, my first thought was that I had lost my country as well.
4
I suspect that the white working class will discover their betrayal sooner or later, but your depiction of the checks and balances around Trump sounds a lot like whistling in the dark, sad to say. Trump's power will not be constrained by the legislature or the courts, and public sentiment can be easily ignored. "It Can't Happen Here". Isn't that what the German Jews said in the 30s? I am quite frightened about the future of our country.
6
Ok, let's all take a deep breath! I'm sorely disappointed in the outcome of this election, true. But I'm even more angry that these people were our options to begin with. Hilary, Bernie, Donald, Jeb, Mario...these were not the best options anyway. Each had some great ideas, but no one was the total package. No president is perfect. No Congress is, either (can't say that enough!).
We all need to realize that our problems are our own to solve. None of us can recreate the past, real or imagined. But we also can't stand around waiting for someone to swoop in and fix our problems. There's no superhero in the wings.
You want jobs in your community? Go meet your neighbors. Get together and start talking about things you all know how to do, or skills that people have. Look for strengths in your community. Do you have empty factories? Could they have other uses? Research stories where other communities have had success using what was at hand--skills, resources, transportation. There are places that have started the hard work needed to build their towns again.
We all need to stop looking outward for our success. Start with yourself!
We all need to realize that our problems are our own to solve. None of us can recreate the past, real or imagined. But we also can't stand around waiting for someone to swoop in and fix our problems. There's no superhero in the wings.
You want jobs in your community? Go meet your neighbors. Get together and start talking about things you all know how to do, or skills that people have. Look for strengths in your community. Do you have empty factories? Could they have other uses? Research stories where other communities have had success using what was at hand--skills, resources, transportation. There are places that have started the hard work needed to build their towns again.
We all need to stop looking outward for our success. Start with yourself!
I also pray that Hillary IS "put on trial" because it will expose the radical Republican extremists and their enablers as the McCarthyite demagogues they are, and repulse the nation as they confront the ugly reality of who they just elected. Hillary is tougher that they'll ever be, she can sit through their mock trial like she did with the Ben Ghazi witch hunt that also won't succeed for lack of evidence - it will hasten their downfall.
It's time to stop singing Kumbaya' and recognize there is no reconciliation with someone who is committed to destroying you. It's time to employ their same tactics against them, only be a lot better at executing them. After all, we hold the high ground of superior critical thinking skills.
It's time to stop singing Kumbaya' and recognize there is no reconciliation with someone who is committed to destroying you. It's time to employ their same tactics against them, only be a lot better at executing them. After all, we hold the high ground of superior critical thinking skills.
3
It must already be obvious to Mr. Trump, his family and many of his supporters that he is not up to this job.
Mr. Trump would earn himself the lasting gratitude of the American people and an honorable place in American history by turning down his opportunity to become President.
Mr. Trump would earn himself the lasting gratitude of the American people and an honorable place in American history by turning down his opportunity to become President.
2
Today the WSJ, the Financial Times and the NYT had articles about Mr. Trump's plans for trade and foreign policy. Those article point out that his trade plans will harm American businesses that rely on exported goods or that export goods and will lead to job losses; and his foreign policy plans are likely to lead to less influence in Europe and an increase in China's influence. So, America will be poor and weaker. But his followers won't mind. They're not interested in facts. He'll probably privatize Social Security. His followers will cheer.
3
Me. Egan:
in the limited space and time at your disposal for this column:
well done, sir,
and thank you.
i would add that the basic, most-fundamental 'loss' after
this election cycle is the disappearance of any structural
"checks-and-balance" mechanisms.
tilting the windmills all in one-and-only-one direction is a sure-fired
recipe for eventual, potentially catastrophic, destruction of this country.
in addition,
with the current collapse of any responsible journalism anywhere,
even the former-fourth-estate is unlikely to inform and advise in
any meaningful way as the republican't party runs rough-shod
against we-citizens.
need a clue as to our broader-experiences:
review the now-infamous "Kansas Experiment in non-Governing" ...
grrr
2
The GOP has what it's wanted since Obama was elected 8 years ago: a Republican in the White House, a majority in the Senate and one in the House. They have a rich white male who has promised to do much of they want to do to America. Notice that I say to rather than for because the GOP ha stopped working for Americans and America. For the last 8 years, at a minimum, they worked against America, worked to destroy or inhibit any changes that might have benefitted us whether they were in health care, education, jobs and unemployment and retraining, the environment, etc. Their sole answer was a resounding NO.
My fear is that the progress that has been made in terms of women, minorities, the LGBTQ community, and others, will be reversed or stopped. I fear that as I draw closer to retirement or if I become too ill to work someday, I will be told that unless I'm rich I can just go and die. I fear seeing a country run by the rich forgetting the rest of us. And most of all, I fear that the hatred that has been unleashed will become uncontrollable.
My fear is that the progress that has been made in terms of women, minorities, the LGBTQ community, and others, will be reversed or stopped. I fear that as I draw closer to retirement or if I become too ill to work someday, I will be told that unless I'm rich I can just go and die. I fear seeing a country run by the rich forgetting the rest of us. And most of all, I fear that the hatred that has been unleashed will become uncontrollable.
4
I am amazed at those folks who keep saying we should give Trump a chance when they wouldn't cooperate with Obama for the collective good. Those jobs aren't coming back because folks are not giving up Walmarts to get more expensive goods made in America, and those jobs were automated a long time ago. Good luck with that Make America Great Again hat made in China.
5
You give the white working class (and I have been in the oil patch and the Marines so I have some idea what I'm talking about) way way too much credit. Even if they are unemployed and starving they'll feel good that the uppity blacks , gays, Latinos and women aren't in control of the government. All you need to know is in Randy Newman's song "Rednecks".
13
You know, if the lot of Times "opinionators" would care enough about their country to stop insulting Trump supporters, maybe they would have seen THEIR corrupt candidate prevail. But, they just can't bring themselves to do it: to be respectful instead of condescending, insulting, racist and sexist. creating all kinds of distortions and referring to just about everybody as a race statistic or a sex statistic, an age statistic or an income statistic. It's unfortunate, but that it what made the pollsters wrong, and that is what is making these NYT op-eds nothing more than inflammatory venting. As such, these columns are becoming more irrelevant everyday to those very real, human complicated, diverse Americans that deserve a modicum of respect.
And by the way, Mr. Egan, your crystal ball isn't worth much. You have no idea what Trump will do, or whether he will fail or succeed. That much, we do know. Now, back to the horoscope. . . .
And by the way, Mr. Egan, your crystal ball isn't worth much. You have no idea what Trump will do, or whether he will fail or succeed. That much, we do know. Now, back to the horoscope. . . .
2
"Democracy is the theory that the common people know what they want, and deserve to get it good and hard."
--H. L. Mencken
I imagine we'll be seeing this quote in action in the coming years.
--H. L. Mencken
I imagine we'll be seeing this quote in action in the coming years.
4
The working class (not just the white working class) already knows how it got betrayed. Projecting the serial failures of numerous previous administrations (both Democratic and Republican) onto one that hasn't yet been installed? Your piece reminds me of emails I wish I hadn't sent.
I have one question for the union households, especially those in the great states of Ohio, Michigan, and Pennsylvania that voted for Trump:
How are you going to feel when the U.S. Supreme Court invalidates Collective Bargaining?
Will many of the union members who voted for Trump blame the Democrats?
How are you going to feel when the U.S. Supreme Court invalidates Collective Bargaining?
Will many of the union members who voted for Trump blame the Democrats?
13
Taking my Social Security will be regarded the same as if you were in my home stealing from me. I hope that comes across as a threat.
2
Trump lied his way into the White House and now, his supporters own that lie and it will come back to haunt them. What a lose-lose situation for our country.
I hope we are wrong, Mr. Egan.
I hope we are wrong, Mr. Egan.
The angry masses who elected him will be looking for explanations about why DTRs policies failed them will be the very media outlets who supported him. I doubt there will be any uprising against him by his supporters when he fails to deliver. The mass hypnotization of our country has now succeeded in the most frightening coup in our country's history. I truly fear for our country and our planet. And now wondering for the first time, if my posting this will somehow be used against me......
2
Don't count on a "rude awakening." Wanna bet they'll find a way to blame it on Obama? After all, they just reelected all those people who created most of the problems and prevented any real solutions. But that's our fault for not even trying to put blame where it belongs.
Democrats need to learn how to get the truth out there--loudly! and repeatedly! and in whatever "sound bites" are necessary. If we don't learn how to do this, we'll never get our country back on track.
Democrats need to learn how to get the truth out there--loudly! and repeatedly! and in whatever "sound bites" are necessary. If we don't learn how to do this, we'll never get our country back on track.
7
Sour grapes:
Disparaging what one cannot obtain, the loser scorns the victory. This expression alludes to the Greek writer Aesop's famous fable about a fox that cannot reach some grapes on a high vine and announces that they are sour.
Disparaging what one cannot obtain, the loser scorns the victory. This expression alludes to the Greek writer Aesop's famous fable about a fox that cannot reach some grapes on a high vine and announces that they are sour.
This is one of the best thoughts ?? Where are we anyway ?
Hey, I trusted the NYTs polster, who predicted 15% probability of Trump's victory Way up from the 7% chance a few weeks earlier. I was worried sick about that. I don't call it wrong. They said his chance to win more than doubled at the end - increasing after Comey's evil move.
1
I go along happily doing my thing and then, intruding in my brain like an electric shock: Donald Trump won the election! and I feel sick all over again.
6
Trump look the other way while Russia takes a small country? It was Obama who looked away when Russia took the Crimea. And when Russia took the Eastern Ukraine. When Putin warned Obama he was unhappy about the US treaty to put anti-missile batteries in Poland and the Czeck Republic, Obama looked the other way, broke the treaty, and didn't place the batteries.
And when Russia bought 20% of the US uranium reserve in 2009, it was the Obama administration that signed off on the deal so it would go through. One who agreed was Secretary of State Clinton. In return, the man who sold his mining rights to Rusatom, Frank Guistra, gave her foundation 31 million dollars. Trump didn't take the money to make the deal; Hillary did.
The State Department? Their "Light Hand in the Middle East" led to the murder of Ambassador Chris Stevens in Benghazi, the catastrophic Arab Spring, the "Red Line" in Syria, and Russia finally obtaining the air and navel base on the Mediterranean that Britain and the US had blocked her from for the last 300 years.
Clearly. Mr. Egan needs a history lesson, not that it could ever pierce the ideological funk that so clearly clouds his brain.
And when Russia bought 20% of the US uranium reserve in 2009, it was the Obama administration that signed off on the deal so it would go through. One who agreed was Secretary of State Clinton. In return, the man who sold his mining rights to Rusatom, Frank Guistra, gave her foundation 31 million dollars. Trump didn't take the money to make the deal; Hillary did.
The State Department? Their "Light Hand in the Middle East" led to the murder of Ambassador Chris Stevens in Benghazi, the catastrophic Arab Spring, the "Red Line" in Syria, and Russia finally obtaining the air and navel base on the Mediterranean that Britain and the US had blocked her from for the last 300 years.
Clearly. Mr. Egan needs a history lesson, not that it could ever pierce the ideological funk that so clearly clouds his brain.
Nearly 60 million Americans voted for a reality-TV personality to lead the most powerful nation on the planet. The shocks have only started. Russia, China, Iran, North Korea, and others will see to that.
5
Should Democrats help to pass Trump's signature fiscal expansion? Wow! Who would have thought? Haven't Dems been trying to get infrastructure spending passed for years? Trump supporters voted for jobs - will republicans heed their call for government action? If they don't compromise with Dems, the jobs won't return. Trying to see a silver lining her!
Dear Timothy,
If we learned anything from this past election is, don’t take anything literally that you read from elitist pundits like Mr. Egan, they have no creditability.Trump will build the wall & in the process, create thousands of jobs for disenfranchised American workers. He will bring back Steel & other American Jobs that had been outsourced overseas. He will do that by installing a huge tariff on American products produced overseas.He will also
negotiate for fair trade instead of free trade. It is treasonous to allow foreign governments to undercut American manufacturing by manipulating their currency & their workers.Once again the pundits are wrong & although I didn’t vote for Trump, I look forward to an exciting productive 4 years and beyond.
If we learned anything from this past election is, don’t take anything literally that you read from elitist pundits like Mr. Egan, they have no creditability.Trump will build the wall & in the process, create thousands of jobs for disenfranchised American workers. He will bring back Steel & other American Jobs that had been outsourced overseas. He will do that by installing a huge tariff on American products produced overseas.He will also
negotiate for fair trade instead of free trade. It is treasonous to allow foreign governments to undercut American manufacturing by manipulating their currency & their workers.Once again the pundits are wrong & although I didn’t vote for Trump, I look forward to an exciting productive 4 years and beyond.
"When steel mills fail to return to Youngstown, or when new trade deals produce no more magic than the old ones, these economic exiles will wonder how they got betrayed"
Why do I feel that even when that (inevitably) happens, the hate radio will figure out a way to spin it & blame it on immigrants & democrats? And their constituency will buy it lock stock & barrel.
Why do I feel that even when that (inevitably) happens, the hate radio will figure out a way to spin it & blame it on immigrants & democrats? And their constituency will buy it lock stock & barrel.
8
He's already out tweeting his grievances. His fans love that he abuses people in their name. They're not going to care about any jobs. Hate is more a part of their motivation than you're willing to imagine. The white supremacists who attacked civil rights protesters in the 60s all had jobs. Please remember that. They won't care that he betrayed them. They're not going to blame it on him. They're going to blame it on Muslims and Mexicans and women who won't stay quiet after they've been grabbed by the wherever.
6
I wish the NYT had never run that anesthetizing, complacency-inducing blue banner which said what % chance - usually in the 80th plus percentile - Hillary Clinton had of winning the 2016 election.
3
I'm glad they did. It showed their complicit bias and ineptitude.
Unfortunately, when the steel mills don't reopen, or the few jobs that are created are lousy jobs paying very little, Trump and the Republicans will blame Democrats and Obama and win reelection in four years.
4
Well I had to read the entire "Expect to be Really Screwed" discouraging,whining, list of upcoming disasters before I got the the one good suggestion. " Finally, all of us in the American family should never trust anyone from the pollster industrial complex, including those at my own newspaper. Never. Read your horoscope; it’s far more likely to be accurate."
You need to lump yourself and your co-propagandists and columnists into that "never trust" box. This paper spent huge amounts of its space and the people's time being immersed in the personality war. It gave very little in the way of valuable facts and reporting of information. For some inexplicable reason it gave the same coverage and weight to out right lies, racism, sexism, etcetera. The 4th estate is owned and run by the .001%ers. It is the Establishments propaganda organ, Fox News, like Trump, is just the most noticeable.
You need to lump yourself and your co-propagandists and columnists into that "never trust" box. This paper spent huge amounts of its space and the people's time being immersed in the personality war. It gave very little in the way of valuable facts and reporting of information. For some inexplicable reason it gave the same coverage and weight to out right lies, racism, sexism, etcetera. The 4th estate is owned and run by the .001%ers. It is the Establishments propaganda organ, Fox News, like Trump, is just the most noticeable.
3
When I worked as a consultant to most of the top Wall Street banks and financiers, as well as the nation's biggest Land Title/Mortgage Insurance company, Trump was universally seen as a jerk and an incompetent who couldn't be trusted further than you could spit a rat. There are real estate magnates in NYC who own three or four times the square footage that Trump claims. Hell, he only owns 30% of his own Trump Tower as he has had to sell off ownership to cover debts. Just last week, Trump Tower in Toronto failed, was forced into receivership by its investors and became Donald's latest bankruptcy. Today, NO Wall Street firm would invest in a Trump project, and he has to bring in foreign temporary workers to do his NYC projects, since he has scammed so many small contractors, businesses, and workers out of much or all of their pay.
Several economists I know from those days - included three Nobel Prize winners - argue that, since Trump won't release his taxes to show how much indebted and encumbered he really is to foreign investors (mostly from Russia according to an interview Donald, Jr. gave in 2014, before Trump decided to run) that his actual net worth may well be as low as $150 to $250 million. In inflation-adjusted dollars, that's actually less than his father Fred Trump gave him to start his "empire" in the 1970s.
Several economists I know from those days - included three Nobel Prize winners - argue that, since Trump won't release his taxes to show how much indebted and encumbered he really is to foreign investors (mostly from Russia according to an interview Donald, Jr. gave in 2014, before Trump decided to run) that his actual net worth may well be as low as $150 to $250 million. In inflation-adjusted dollars, that's actually less than his father Fred Trump gave him to start his "empire" in the 1970s.
10
Reply to comment from Beartooth Bronsky: you're right in everything you say. If an Olympic category for greatest scoundrel existed Trump would win the gold. But, people want change. They don't know how good they've got it and wish to blame all of their travails on the Presidency instead of Congress. History, and many people don't study history, shows what happened to Germany and Italy by empowering Hitler and Mussonlini. We're not in that much hot water yet but we and our fellow citizens have to empower a new class of politician, one without excess baggage, that can support the corny, but true expression, Truth, Justice and the American Way!
2
This is a weekend many people are looking forward to. As an international observer and someone who shares the continent (not just Mexico; there are three of us), the results became an avoidable surprise. For both winners and losers. The New York Times, among many others, missed this outcome. With resources like The Upshot and PEC, to mention just a few, the results are labeled an "upset". An upset is a nice way of say you simply missed it and we all know that no one likes ugly surprises. Now a protracted grieving period for Clinton supporters is underway. You (New York Times) has to do much better and raise the game given the group think before the election and the size of the miss now that its over. I pay money for great reporting and great writing; opinion is down the list. As the election drew closer, I saw more opinion and less reporting and I certainly don't want to pay for a lecture series. Get out of your office, get out of New York and start landing the plane in fly over states. Get back to better reporting.
8
I am sick to death of the notion that we can't make anything in this country anymore. If we can't, it's because our bought and paid for politicians rigged the markets and the banks and the laws. There is small and ethical production going on in this country as we speak, from yogurt to craft beer to boutique fashion to domestic goods and beyond. While huge shipments of goods from China have to be retuned as they contain toxic metals. Now do i think Trump will get us there? Certainly not without the help of the likes of Sanders and Warren and Brown. But the TPP brigade surely never will.
1
The Republican party is now the dog that caught the bus. Let's see what they do with it, Hopefully, we'll all survive this.
3
Thank you so much, Mr Egan. We fight on. And I hope you are right about the "hugeness" of the backlash that will come.
And thank you for having the courage to criticize theis newspaper. Yesterday, my family and I nearly cancelled our subscription for all the snarky editorializing on the news story pages. That denegrated Hillary on a daily basis. But then, we remember how much we have trusted these editorial pages, except forc the ever caustic Maureen Dowd.
Now we take the fight to our communities and our states.
We urge Americans to sign up for healthcare in droves and dare them to stop us. We fight to get guns out of our parks and our meeting places. We register more democrats.
And we demand that our Representatives , local and national, speak up loudly and clearly to save our kids, our granparents, our soldiers and our poor from the barbarians at the gate.
Marylouise Markle
And thank you for having the courage to criticize theis newspaper. Yesterday, my family and I nearly cancelled our subscription for all the snarky editorializing on the news story pages. That denegrated Hillary on a daily basis. But then, we remember how much we have trusted these editorial pages, except forc the ever caustic Maureen Dowd.
Now we take the fight to our communities and our states.
We urge Americans to sign up for healthcare in droves and dare them to stop us. We fight to get guns out of our parks and our meeting places. We register more democrats.
And we demand that our Representatives , local and national, speak up loudly and clearly to save our kids, our granparents, our soldiers and our poor from the barbarians at the gate.
Marylouise Markle
2
Trump read the public and as a Reality Star he knew how to improvise. He played to the audience with contradictory statements that contradicted themselves. .
The volume of reversed statements and recitation of false accusations and declarations means we have no idea what and how this man will be. H lied about everything so we have no clear idea of who he is. Let us hope he has just been playing a part.....and if he hasn't we have some hard serious work to do.
The volume of reversed statements and recitation of false accusations and declarations means we have no idea what and how this man will be. H lied about everything so we have no clear idea of who he is. Let us hope he has just been playing a part.....and if he hasn't we have some hard serious work to do.
1
Perhaps the Clinton protesters should follow the advice given to Bernie Sanders voters whose dreams were equally shattered. "Grow up - Stop acting like petulant children - Get over it!
Mr. Egan, thank you for a fine column, once again. Regarding polling, I recently wrote to my friends as follows:
You may remember Cassandra, Princess of Troy, who refused Apollo’s sexual advances. In retaliation, Apollo, being a god, gave her the gift of prophesy, except nobody would believe her. Cassandra foresaw that Paris’ abduction of Helen would bring about the Trojan War and the destruction of Troy. Nobody believed her.
Throughout the election only one poll consistently saw Trump ahead: the USC/Los Angeles Times Daybreak tracking poll. But nobody believed it. Everybody saw it as an outlier, including Nate Silver of 538. Not even its author, Arie Kapteyn, believed it. Days before the election Kapteyn told Dutch radio that Hillary was going to win. And the L.A. Times, the day before the election, published an electoral map in which they predicted Hillary would win with over 300 electoral votes.
The Daybreak poll differed in approach. They asked people to rate, on a scale of 0 to 100, their chance of voting for Hillary or Donald. They also asked people to use the same scale to rate their likelihood of voting. This is different from simply asking, as most polls did, are you going to vote for Hillary or Trump? Or, are you going to vote or not?
The Daybreak Poll was also weighted differently and more complexly than other polls. Nobody believed it. But it accurately forecast the election.
You may remember Cassandra, Princess of Troy, who refused Apollo’s sexual advances. In retaliation, Apollo, being a god, gave her the gift of prophesy, except nobody would believe her. Cassandra foresaw that Paris’ abduction of Helen would bring about the Trojan War and the destruction of Troy. Nobody believed her.
Throughout the election only one poll consistently saw Trump ahead: the USC/Los Angeles Times Daybreak tracking poll. But nobody believed it. Everybody saw it as an outlier, including Nate Silver of 538. Not even its author, Arie Kapteyn, believed it. Days before the election Kapteyn told Dutch radio that Hillary was going to win. And the L.A. Times, the day before the election, published an electoral map in which they predicted Hillary would win with over 300 electoral votes.
The Daybreak poll differed in approach. They asked people to rate, on a scale of 0 to 100, their chance of voting for Hillary or Donald. They also asked people to use the same scale to rate their likelihood of voting. This is different from simply asking, as most polls did, are you going to vote for Hillary or Trump? Or, are you going to vote or not?
The Daybreak Poll was also weighted differently and more complexly than other polls. Nobody believed it. But it accurately forecast the election.
2
Mourning the election of Trump needs to stop by Sunday. Yes, it is a disaster. However, the only was to overcome this mess is act. This means engaging in politics at the local level. Pay attention to the people and issues that affect your community. Is your water and air quality substandard? Are your schools educating kids for the future? What is your state legislature doing with your tax dollars? Turn sorrow and anger to action.
What organizations can you support to advocate for your point of view? Planned Parenthood is a keystone in support for women's health issues. Union of Concerned Scientists advocates for climate sanity. Contributions hall them stay afloat. They also inform members about current issues. They tell you how your congress members vote. They have campaigns in which you can actively participate. Boots on the ground.
I am not saying that we do not need to analyze what went wrong with this election. I also think street protest with our vandalism is a good thing. But let's take charge as a people and not allow the Trump administration to run our communities. The next four years depend on action not just talk. Community level guerrilla warfare.
What organizations can you support to advocate for your point of view? Planned Parenthood is a keystone in support for women's health issues. Union of Concerned Scientists advocates for climate sanity. Contributions hall them stay afloat. They also inform members about current issues. They tell you how your congress members vote. They have campaigns in which you can actively participate. Boots on the ground.
I am not saying that we do not need to analyze what went wrong with this election. I also think street protest with our vandalism is a good thing. But let's take charge as a people and not allow the Trump administration to run our communities. The next four years depend on action not just talk. Community level guerrilla warfare.
4
Trump voters are angry, frustrated and financially challenged . They are also very scared that non-whites are taking over the country and immigrants taking away all the jobs. They live mostly in southern and Midwestern parts of America. In fact they have to blame themselves. They have been voting for the Republican Party for last 40 years. The states they are residing have been run by the Republican governors and congress members. What these politicians have done these less fortunate white people? NOTHING or very little. For economic upward mobility, the most important is education. But the Republican politicians are not interested in education I mean spending money and resources for schools, colleges and universities . They are interested in giving tax cut to rich and super rich. In the Bible Belt , the evangelical and church leaders love money and power more than Bible and Jesus Christ. These so called religious leaders (business men) always misled and misguide ordinary people to vote for Republican Party. The Republican Party is for rich and super rich. Now presidency, senate, house and Supreme Court and also FBI are Republican. But I am afraid that after 4 years, Trump voters will find themselves in the same hole or worst. I wish I am wrong.
1
I'm getting a lot of push back from my friends about my anger over this election. They are as angry as I am, but they are resigning themselves to it. I'm not. I feel completely helpless against this storm.
Whenever I hear "let's give him a chance, we have to hope for his success" my answer is why?? NONE of the Republicans gave President Obama a chance from Day 1, they planned and were gleeful about forcing him to fail. Alas, we can't do this, we don't have the numbers in Congress.
I am afraid that all the protests, etc will come to nothing. This country will be a very different country as soon as Jan. 21 after he's undone all the executive orders. It reminds me of when McGovern lost...and it took us years to get past the damage was that done, that damage has laid the groundwork for this election.
I really hope I do not have grandchildren.
Whenever I hear "let's give him a chance, we have to hope for his success" my answer is why?? NONE of the Republicans gave President Obama a chance from Day 1, they planned and were gleeful about forcing him to fail. Alas, we can't do this, we don't have the numbers in Congress.
I am afraid that all the protests, etc will come to nothing. This country will be a very different country as soon as Jan. 21 after he's undone all the executive orders. It reminds me of when McGovern lost...and it took us years to get past the damage was that done, that damage has laid the groundwork for this election.
I really hope I do not have grandchildren.
3
Richard, please illustrate us "nattering nabobs of negativism" how is it that an Orange Demagogue who dwells in a tower in mid-town Manhattan, whose army of lawyers have decimated businesses and entire communities through serial bankruptcies, who fraudulently avoided paying taxes for two decades represents to you the "antitheses of an elite, establishment politician?"
Is his uttering the adverb bigly part of the allure? Or is it his sexual predatory prescriptions for every man?
Is his uttering the adverb bigly part of the allure? Or is it his sexual predatory prescriptions for every man?
1
Mr. Egan, you must take personal responsibility for being part of the monolithic media machine which includes the "pollster industrial complex". The NY Times steady drumbeat for Secretary Clinton's deeply unsatisfying campaign, along with not a few derisive cuts at Senator Sanders, has been a major factor in bringing our country to its current state of affairs.
Senator Sanders would have won this election going away.
Senator Sanders would have won this election going away.
May I recommend my personal favorite, freewillastrology.com. In other places and other times, leaders sought counsel in things like the I Ching, and found much excellent food for thought.
My sense right now is not to try to suppress my anger and grief, but to allow it to be ventilated by breathing, by sanity, by awareness of the air around me and my body in that air. Then my anger and grief loses its personal quality and becomes the wisdom I need to know where to step next.
My sense right now is not to try to suppress my anger and grief, but to allow it to be ventilated by breathing, by sanity, by awareness of the air around me and my body in that air. Then my anger and grief loses its personal quality and becomes the wisdom I need to know where to step next.
The Republicans controlling everything is like my nine-year-old son driving a car. He won't get in an accident right away but eventually he'll hit something.
Fasten your seat belts, it's going to be a wild 4 years.
Fasten your seat belts, it's going to be a wild 4 years.
3
I wonder what happens when Trump wants to do something and the government lawyers tell him he can't? Will Trump lawyers sue government lawyers? That's his standard course of action.
And not allowing the press pool yesterday. Not good.
Mr. Trump, as President-elect, is no longer a private citizen. It is not up to him.
We, the People, have the right to coverage of his actions.
Does Trump understand that he works for us?
Americans are not his employees. He has been given the position of caretaker for the next 4 years, to run the country for the benefit of ALL Americans. Not just the ones who voted for him.
The U.S. has a Constitution, that Trump will be both bound and guided by.
He needs to read it. Or have his staff read it to him. However it works.
Can Trump order SCOTUS to overturn laws? Appeals can be filed, but they would still have to be heard and challenged?
We need to be a very vocal employer. Trump only wins here when the entire country does well. We will need to pay very close attention. And complain when needed.
If Trump does not run lockstep with Ryan and McConnell, we may be okay.
The few comments he made about SS and Medicare did not indicate intent to gut them like the GOP wants. He appeared to be against privatization.
Will infrastructure investment actually happen?
And the ACA? It does need work, but I want to know what the replacement is first. Been waiting for any actual plans from the GOP.
Trump says his people are the best & the brightest.
We'll see.
And not allowing the press pool yesterday. Not good.
Mr. Trump, as President-elect, is no longer a private citizen. It is not up to him.
We, the People, have the right to coverage of his actions.
Does Trump understand that he works for us?
Americans are not his employees. He has been given the position of caretaker for the next 4 years, to run the country for the benefit of ALL Americans. Not just the ones who voted for him.
The U.S. has a Constitution, that Trump will be both bound and guided by.
He needs to read it. Or have his staff read it to him. However it works.
Can Trump order SCOTUS to overturn laws? Appeals can be filed, but they would still have to be heard and challenged?
We need to be a very vocal employer. Trump only wins here when the entire country does well. We will need to pay very close attention. And complain when needed.
If Trump does not run lockstep with Ryan and McConnell, we may be okay.
The few comments he made about SS and Medicare did not indicate intent to gut them like the GOP wants. He appeared to be against privatization.
Will infrastructure investment actually happen?
And the ACA? It does need work, but I want to know what the replacement is first. Been waiting for any actual plans from the GOP.
Trump says his people are the best & the brightest.
We'll see.
4
I think it was - and still is - all about anger and aggression: class warfare, intellectual warfare, political warfare, rural vs. urban, you name it. It's been dressed up in various ways, with lofty or pious justification and many middle fingers, but the bottom line is that the fabric of American society is torn and nothing unites us now. Nor do I see that changing in my lifetime.
So, might as well get over it. As Pete Townshend wrote, "The parting on the left is now the parting on the right... smile and grin at the change all around... we won't get fooled again."
So, might as well get over it. As Pete Townshend wrote, "The parting on the left is now the parting on the right... smile and grin at the change all around... we won't get fooled again."
The danger of certitude and ignorance critique applies to the New York Times editorial board. They failed to appreciate the mood of a significant portion of the country. They backed a severely flawed candidate. Certitude and ignorance? Look in the mirror.
Trump will no doubt feel overwhelmed in his new job and its impossible decisions, but he or his daughter or son-in-law or Newt Gingrich will find a way to create the effect of a Great and Powerful Oz. At least, there's no truly malignant Cheney figure. Not yet.
3
Mr. Egan,
I am asking myself what is the value of reading your column. It is essentially telling readers that they are screwed, based on what you have observed about Trump during the elections. Haven't the first coulple days of Trump defied expectations? How did that happen? The weight of the Presidency is enormous. It can make the most reckless man check himself. In your world Mr. Egan, there is no hope at all. It is so gloomy and despondent. Pull yourself together. America is much greater than its President. Resist much, agreed, but not at the expense of rational thought. Give the man a chance!
I am asking myself what is the value of reading your column. It is essentially telling readers that they are screwed, based on what you have observed about Trump during the elections. Haven't the first coulple days of Trump defied expectations? How did that happen? The weight of the Presidency is enormous. It can make the most reckless man check himself. In your world Mr. Egan, there is no hope at all. It is so gloomy and despondent. Pull yourself together. America is much greater than its President. Resist much, agreed, but not at the expense of rational thought. Give the man a chance!
Just some thoughts. I was not a Trump supporter but I will wait to see who he appoints and the policies he follows before I protest against him. Sometimes people actually grow to fill the position and sometimes they don't. Maybe HRC was not a great candidate. Perhaps the NYT and the former chairperson of the Dems should have been working to have at least a fair playing field for Sen. Sanders. Maybe Pres. Obama and his eight years were not the best they could have been. Maybe the Democrats need to rethink who they are and what they stand for. Perhaps the elite class, the people who are wealthy because the market is up and they have savings and 401Ks and fancy cars need to realize that over 50% of the people in this country are hurting. They don't have savings and million dollar 401k plans, they are just managing to hang on and the future does not look better. Maybe that's why they took Trump over 4 more years of the past administration because it really did not help them.
4
This, by far, is the best post-election piece I've yet read. I'm sending it to every country trumpkin I know.
3
One of the best pieces I have read since "Black Tuesday." And your analogy to hearing of JFK via the nuns precisely mirrored my own current state of mood. Let's just hope that the world and this country are not in a wrecked state by the time your predictions come true, when Trump's supporters realize they too have been fleeced.
4
Tim, appreciate your column for a number of reasons:
1. You stayed away from the the mindlessness of calling Trump and his supporters "Bigots and racists"
2. You focused on his impact on policy and the (depressing) results
3. You rightfully pointed out the "wizard of oz" type quality of polls. Guess the curtain was pulled back and the 'power' of polls suddenly diminished.
Hope we can end the craziness which (for me) seems to have intensified when Bill Clinton was in office: Attempting to win people over via shocking claims (murderer) about the oppositions character rather than thinking about policies. Viewing the worst in the opposition has become a tactic which we can well do away with.
1. You stayed away from the the mindlessness of calling Trump and his supporters "Bigots and racists"
2. You focused on his impact on policy and the (depressing) results
3. You rightfully pointed out the "wizard of oz" type quality of polls. Guess the curtain was pulled back and the 'power' of polls suddenly diminished.
Hope we can end the craziness which (for me) seems to have intensified when Bill Clinton was in office: Attempting to win people over via shocking claims (murderer) about the oppositions character rather than thinking about policies. Viewing the worst in the opposition has become a tactic which we can well do away with.
1
"Never trust anyone from the pollster industrial complex, including those at my own newspaper. Never." I couldn't agree more if I tried. The sad reality is that Donald Trump's supporters will not wake up one day and realize they've made a big mistake. When the blue collar jobs don't return, when the wall doesn't get built, when millions are without a social safety net Trump will do what he always does. He'll blame the media, or the "rigged" system, or obstructionist Democrats in congress, Muslims, Mexicans, women's genitalia, Ted Cruz' father, Mitt Romney, John McCain. He'll take zero responsibility for any failure that happens on his watch. It will always be somebody else's fault. And his followers will elect him again in 2020. Mark my words.
4
Have you not been awake for the last 8 years. When has Obama or Clinton for that matter accepted any responsibility for what happened on their watch? Name one, please.
Re the pollster industrial complex - why were they allowed to report their Ouija board readings as facts? Because I gave money to HRC, yard sign, etc., but I would have done more and given more had the polls been remotely accurate, and I'd like to think more people would have roused themselves to vote the non-sociopath ticket as well.
Is someone going to explain what these pollsters were doing? Why didn't they adjust after Brexit?
Is someone going to explain what these pollsters were doing? Why didn't they adjust after Brexit?
"Finally, all of us in the American family should never trust anyone from the pollster industrial complex, including those at my own newspaper. " - Perhaps newspapers should stop publishing polls which do have a way of influencing the election. Clinton to win by 84%? How can anyone be that wrong? It makes me doubt more than just the polls printed in the media.
3
The only problem with the last part of your article, Mr. Egan, is that up until last Tuesday, the polls were always right.
What happened to skew them this time?
Still waiting on the definitive autopsy.
What happened to skew them this time?
Still waiting on the definitive autopsy.
1
people lied to pollsters, mostly men. People will even lie in anonymous polling. But once inside the voting booth they couldn't do it -- couldn't vote for the woman. Hidden and subconscious misogyny was a factor in Trump's success.
2
I have a horrible fear that our system of checks and balances will mean nothing to Trump and his cohorts. We could see a complete government take-over. In fact we are not far from it now with Republicans in control of Congress. This, I believe, is what these alt-right manipulators have planned for a very long time; they are the vast right wing conspiracy. They will not be able to keep a lid on Trump (just look at last night...does he need a nighttime prefect who will send him to bed with his Twitter under lock and key?). Time and again he has shown us how unbalanced he is and that is not going to change. If he and his mafia-style lemmings keep at it, I predict a military coup and riots in the streets.
5
We have not had balance since reagan destroyed it. The checks we had have been perverted by the GOP dogma reagan introduced into a litmus test that leaves us with and either or choice, blocking any progress at all or go along. There is no longer an nuance to it.
The system of checks and balances meant nothing to Obama or have you forgotten already.
They were betrayed by their own gross ignorance, bigotry and contempt for the multi-cultural America they live in.
They will have only themselves to blame for placing this demagogue in the Oval Office.
If you believe in god, then now would be a good time to start praying---hard!
They will have only themselves to blame for placing this demagogue in the Oval Office.
If you believe in god, then now would be a good time to start praying---hard!
2
Most New Yorkers were familiar with the three card monte games prevalent in NYC in the seventies and early eighties. The unsuspecting tourists were conned and lost their money. The same thing is happening now- they've being scammed by a New Yorker praying on their naïveté and trust. Bend over America.
4
Trump will prove just how true the line "a working class hero is a hard thing to be" really is. Those jobs have gone boys and they ain't coming back. What is coming back is more pollution, less health care, worse schools and shorter life spans. Sad.
6
Asian investors considering the possibility of building factories in the US will look at the latest reports of minorities being beaten up by Trump supporters in Red states. Do you think any of them will want to bring jobs to the same areas that are now in full-throated racist glee?
Good luck getting those jobs, red states. Foreign investors are watching and they're afraid of going anywhere near you.
Good luck getting those jobs, red states. Foreign investors are watching and they're afraid of going anywhere near you.
3
We need to ask and keep asking the question of President-to-be Trump and his creepy henchmen: "Are we great yet?" They should never be allowed to slip out of the answer. Let's remind those Trump voters just what they did not get in their "throw it all out and start afresh" revolution.
It's gonna be fun to hear Newt Gingrich and Rudi Giuliani talk about how great things are after the trade wars and reality kick in--when the jobs don't miraculously come back--and if some actually do, how will people like paying the cost of items made by U.S. citizens earning a living wage at U.S. standards?
It's gonna be fun to hear Newt Gingrich and Rudi Giuliani talk about how great things are after the trade wars and reality kick in--when the jobs don't miraculously come back--and if some actually do, how will people like paying the cost of items made by U.S. citizens earning a living wage at U.S. standards?
4
Politician always over promise and trump's promises which were always just lies will defeat him. Sadly it may defeat us also.
2
as usual, I agree with egan with one nit to pick. the usa, to many non americans, has been a rogue nation long before this.
3
Thanks, Paul, but I'm afraid that you're relying on the fact that Trump is rational and he and Republicans truly wants to make a success of this for the nation.
But just watch: The first thing they will do is tax cuts for the wealthy. After that, the repeal of the ACA, Dodd-Frank, environmental regulations, and participation in the climate-change agreement.
The Republican party has not cared about the good of the ordinary guy for years. We've seen that. Nor does Trump, and he's both a narcissist and a bumbling idiot. He doesn't have the ideas or intellect to do the job, and he resists learning anything.
When things go wrong, it'll be just like with the ACA: They will blame the Dems, crow over how right they were that these ideas just don't work, and go right on.
As to the people betrayed, surely you don't think that they have the discernment to see the truth?
After they elected Trump?
After they battered the party that was trying to get them health care and a higher minimum wage? The one that wanted the stimulus and extended unemployment benefits? The one that wanted at least some limits on Wall Street?
If they can't see what Trump is, pardon me if I simply don't believe they will see anything any more clearly in the future. They like Trump's belligerence, his non-cooperation, his piggishness, his touchiness. To them that's "strength". They've chosen their enemies, and will continue to equate riches and strong-arm behavior with virtue.
But just watch: The first thing they will do is tax cuts for the wealthy. After that, the repeal of the ACA, Dodd-Frank, environmental regulations, and participation in the climate-change agreement.
The Republican party has not cared about the good of the ordinary guy for years. We've seen that. Nor does Trump, and he's both a narcissist and a bumbling idiot. He doesn't have the ideas or intellect to do the job, and he resists learning anything.
When things go wrong, it'll be just like with the ACA: They will blame the Dems, crow over how right they were that these ideas just don't work, and go right on.
As to the people betrayed, surely you don't think that they have the discernment to see the truth?
After they elected Trump?
After they battered the party that was trying to get them health care and a higher minimum wage? The one that wanted the stimulus and extended unemployment benefits? The one that wanted at least some limits on Wall Street?
If they can't see what Trump is, pardon me if I simply don't believe they will see anything any more clearly in the future. They like Trump's belligerence, his non-cooperation, his piggishness, his touchiness. To them that's "strength". They've chosen their enemies, and will continue to equate riches and strong-arm behavior with virtue.
4
Tone deaf commentary from the Times. Trump was elected because he was the only candidate from either party that even tried to speak to the working class in this country. I am so sick and tired of hearing how being anti illegal immigration is akin to racism. The Chamber of Commerce and the media ran against Trump and lost.
Are these akin to racism - Mexicans are rapists, we should register all Muslim-Americans, blacks commit more crimes, we can't have a judge with Mexican heritage because he would not be unbiased. He said these things and they are BLATANTLY racist. You may choose to look the other way and pretend that what you voted for was not a xenophobic bigot, but facts will not support you.
4
Clinton won the popular vote. I'm not sure how wrong those polls were. Our system just isn't a democracy.
4
Of course it isn't a Democracy. It is a Constitutional Republic. Don't that teach that in school anymore.
But the swing state polls were way off too.
The way to resist is for a million people to march on Washington to disrupt the inauguration so that the fascist has to take the oath of office (which will mean nothing to him) in a secure undisclosed location.
4
Reckless, fantasy voting by people frustrated with the status quo are indeed dangerous and rampant. Unfortunately, it isn't limited to just Brexit and Trump. On NPR last night, someone discussing the new road for Democrats declared that Wall Street contributes nothing to American jobs. Perhaps they were simply adopting an ugly lesson from Trump and Reagan, that good acting is more important than serious thinking. But the speaker sounded like they truly believed this nonsense. It's definitely important to intelligently regulate Wall Street and to look to KickStarter and other creative alternatives for funding growth. But it is more reckless, self-destructive fantasy to pretend that Wall Street is not a key part of our economy. How did Google, Amazon, FaceBook and others who collectively created how many jobs grow so rapidly? It wasn't the tooth fairy that helped them go public.
3
"Finally, all of us in the American family should never trust anyone from the pollster industrial complex, including those at my own newspaper."
If you think Fox News operates in an alternative universe, you should also read the Huffington Post who had Clinton's odds at winning the Presidency at 98%. You are also whistling past the graveyard, the havoc a Trump Presidency will create in the next 4 years with a Republican Senate and House will be devastating. And the biggest fools as a group are white working class males who think their jobs are coming back under Trump, a true corporate tool if there ever was one. In the biggest stroke of irony, one of the biggest beneficiaries of a Trump Presidency will be our old friend Putin.
If you think Fox News operates in an alternative universe, you should also read the Huffington Post who had Clinton's odds at winning the Presidency at 98%. You are also whistling past the graveyard, the havoc a Trump Presidency will create in the next 4 years with a Republican Senate and House will be devastating. And the biggest fools as a group are white working class males who think their jobs are coming back under Trump, a true corporate tool if there ever was one. In the biggest stroke of irony, one of the biggest beneficiaries of a Trump Presidency will be our old friend Putin.
4
I am sorry but it must be said
Who fell for Trump's big con?
The uneducated, the stupid and the ignorant
The same people who fall for all of the other cons -
except this time instead of just hurting themselves, they got to hurt the rest of us - ya know the people who went to college at night and studied until 2am at their kitchen table so they could make intelligent decisions in life
and now this comes all undone because of a rigged (electoral college) system that allows the loser to win - just like it allowed all his loser supporters to win
Who fell for Trump's big con?
The uneducated, the stupid and the ignorant
The same people who fall for all of the other cons -
except this time instead of just hurting themselves, they got to hurt the rest of us - ya know the people who went to college at night and studied until 2am at their kitchen table so they could make intelligent decisions in life
and now this comes all undone because of a rigged (electoral college) system that allows the loser to win - just like it allowed all his loser supporters to win
5
I am neither stupid, ignorant nor uneducated. I am not racist, xenophobic or any other nonsense you wished to throw my way. And one day yo will wake up to the idea that one of the reasons Trump won was the bombast unleashed in the direction of myself and others by people like you. Congratulations!
How many times does one need to hear "There's only one poll that counts" to stop putting faith in polls and turn of the "news". As to Trumpism and rightism in general, it's likely to be solved the same way as climate change, i.e., it will eventually cure itself - which is not a pretty picture, but, sadly, probably a realistic one.
Donald Trump is a champion for the working class in the same way George W. Bush was a uniter not a divider and compassionate conservative.
4
Yes the white working class will be betrayed and find themselves no better off, and likely worse off, after the Trump presidency than today. My frustration is that HRC and her advisors failed to see the suffering of this group that was being targeted by Trump and failed to directly address adequately their issues - recall Bernie Sanders won the rust belt states in the primary - the wake up call was ignored by HRC. Bill Clinton saw it but they ignored him. The rest of us who voted for HRC didn't need to hear over and over from HRC and the press about DT's issues - we could see that ourselves. It was the low info white working class voters that needed to hear from her and get a positive message about what she was going to do for them. I hope the Democrats have learned a good lesson and begin gearing up today for 2020 cause those white working class voters will be even more angry and frustrated by then.
5
As always, Egan fails to understand that there is no such thing as trickle up economics. No poor person ever created a job. He ignores the fact that Obama presided over an economy which failed over 8 YEARS to produce a single quarter of real GDP growth greater than 3%. No President in 240 years of U.S. history has such an abominable record. True to his (very limited and naiive) worldview as a community organizer, Obama shackled wealth creation at every turn, with thousands of new regulations in very big and important sectors like health care, energy and finance. As he did so, he chose to rely on radically low interest rates as his only prop for the system. All this did was redistribute what little wealth was being created under his watch to the 1% in the form of another asset bubble. Thanks Barry, and good riddance.
1
Poor people do create jobs by their mere existence. They are the source of all wealth. If they could hold onto a fair fraction of the wealth they produce they would live nearly as well as the wealthy. We had that before the GOP destroyed our manufacturing base.
Most wealthy have to be forced into spending their money to build something for others to benefit from, or offered irrational returns.
Most wealthy have to be forced into spending their money to build something for others to benefit from, or offered irrational returns.
1
"As always, Egan fails to understand that there is no such thing as trickle up economics. No poor person ever created a job."
I could be wrong, but Carnegie, Edison, Jobs his own eponymous self, quite a few inspiringly piratical figures rose from modest circumstances,
I could be wrong, but Carnegie, Edison, Jobs his own eponymous self, quite a few inspiringly piratical figures rose from modest circumstances,
1
Look to Wisconsin and Kansas if you want to see how this is going to play out. The wild card, however, is the sheer scale of the potential damage when wrought nationwide all at the same time - not to mention that we just gave the keys to nuclear weapons to someone with obvious and numerous mental health issues.
6
Start a movement. Urge citizens in your cities and states to sign on for health care. Dare them to stop us.
I am hopeful that the DNC will go to Western PA, Michigan, Ohio, etc and start addressing these issues and explaining a different way that we as a country can reclaim a strong middle class. President Obama, to his credit, tried to make universal Junior College a part of TPP. I wonder how many of the 'white under employed' workers knew that.
I blame the DNC first of all. All I can see the DNC doing to date is sending me about 20 - 30 emails a day asking for money. Time for a ground game that includes Governor Dean's 50 state solution.
I blame the DNC first of all. All I can see the DNC doing to date is sending me about 20 - 30 emails a day asking for money. Time for a ground game that includes Governor Dean's 50 state solution.
1
A childhood rhyme comes to mind:
Three times round went the jolly, jolly ship,
And three times round went she,
And the very last time that she went round,
She sank to the bottom of the sea.
But how many times does our ship go around and survive: Nixon, Reagan, Bush 1 and 2, and now Trump? Lifeboats and life preservers can be had at Walmart, best Chinese design.
Three times round went the jolly, jolly ship,
And three times round went she,
And the very last time that she went round,
She sank to the bottom of the sea.
But how many times does our ship go around and survive: Nixon, Reagan, Bush 1 and 2, and now Trump? Lifeboats and life preservers can be had at Walmart, best Chinese design.
I fear that the folks who believe Trump will 'bring back jobs' will not be dismayed when it does not happen. There are more basic impulses that he satisfies including virulent hatred of 'the other'. We are in for a sad ride.
2
Those steel mills jobs aint coming back, and the machines in the car assembly plant are not going to ripped out.
When those so called "white people without college degrees", (which in the rest of the world is called 'Working Class') realize this, they'll be so disgusted with the Trump con, that hopefully, a full generation of them wont vote again.
When those so called "white people without college degrees", (which in the rest of the world is called 'Working Class') realize this, they'll be so disgusted with the Trump con, that hopefully, a full generation of them wont vote again.
1
Great point John, but remember, as always, the Republican propaganda machine will successfully blame the (feckless) Democrats, as they always have. Sad.
It's hard to stick up for the uneducated and underclass when they choose to vote for remaining uneducated and an underclass.
3
Wrong. When Trump's road to glory fails to materialize, he will start blaming one by one all the groups he expressly and implicitly demonized and those who voted for him will gladly take up their torches and pitchforks.
1
When his promises start disintegrating in the air, when they realized that they had been duped, I wonder who the Trump voters will blame this time around?
2
Wow! I have rarely seen an article for which I have a 100% agreement with every word and punctuation mark. There is hope.
2
The "strongest resistance should come from the white working class," as you say. But it won't. They will blame Democrats again, much as the talking heads on CNN like to place blame for the election on "elitism" or Mrs. Clinton's supposed hubris. Please. These people need a metaphorical kick in the derriere. My father, born in Germany in 1932 saw as a child the utter destruction of WWII. Afterward, charmed and encouraged by American GI's he emigrated, got his green card and worked his tail off--first in a paper mill, then in a series of jobs, moving twice across the country, until he opened his own highly successful business when I was in college. He didn't sit around complaining, waiting for the old jobs or life to come back; he didn't blame others, or blame a political party. He went where the work was and was not to proud to ask for help, to learn something new. This is why so many white people in America resent immigrants. What an affront to suffer in poverty and ignorance--that was supposed to be what the colored folk were supposed to live like--not them! I thought America was a land where the "huddled masses, yearning to be free" could come, work hard and prosper. But now it seems as though some of those masses, ignorant, downtrodden and bitter, expect Mr. Trump to solve their problems for them. And he won't, nor did he ever intend to.
4
I too noticed Trump's inability to look Obama in the eye. This was a very revealing moment and the sign of a weak, very weak, man. This Trump is a man who has a built layer of gold crusted bravado over a deep layer of shame, and he would rather destroy anything and anybody than reveal it.
9
The president-elect demonstrated throughout his campaign he has no ability to stand up to the pressure of being president. He demonstrated repeatedly he is beholden to Donald Trump first, second and third. Those who voted for him thinking him to be anything other than what he presented day after day, tweet after tweet, was simply living in the same fog as the democrats who badly underestimated the nation's contempt for the Clinton name.
Where does this leave us? We have messed up. Biggly. We have stained the office of the president, lowered the bar and declared you need no qualifications, no character, no integrity, no experience to hold the highest office in the land. You can lie, cheat and whine your way into the highest office of the land. You can say whatever you want, do whatever you want, insult whomever you want with impunity. Congratulations to the party of obstructionists. The party that whined that our current president was not a citizen of our country. The party that decided we didn't need nine supreme court judges. The party that declared the day after President Obama was elected we will do everything in our power to make him fail. Our president-elect is not and never will be my president.
Where does this leave us? We have messed up. Biggly. We have stained the office of the president, lowered the bar and declared you need no qualifications, no character, no integrity, no experience to hold the highest office in the land. You can lie, cheat and whine your way into the highest office of the land. You can say whatever you want, do whatever you want, insult whomever you want with impunity. Congratulations to the party of obstructionists. The party that whined that our current president was not a citizen of our country. The party that decided we didn't need nine supreme court judges. The party that declared the day after President Obama was elected we will do everything in our power to make him fail. Our president-elect is not and never will be my president.
5
Your point regarding pollsters and predictors is spot on. They carried on a very dangerous mis-information campaign, inadvertently to be sure, but nevertheless incredibly destructive. They have no idea how large their error bars are. Fivethirtyeight (the best of the lot, but still), PEC etc. should shut themselves down for the good of the country. Their analytics might be brilliant, but if the data going in is terrible... well garbage in, garbage out.
62
The monkey wrench Comey and his cronies threw into the works is what destroyed the data not incorrect science.
History shows how accurate they are sans interference by an outside actor.
History shows how accurate they are sans interference by an outside actor.
I think there was an L.A. Times poll that was pretty stable throughout and correctly predicted the outcome. A host on XM public radio asserted it was because they were careful to poll the *same* 3000 people every time and exercised other controls on bad data, but didn't source her claim.
Read David Plouffe in this edition about how the predictive models got it wrong.
Trump will stiff the white working class just as he failed to fully pay contractors and their workers. For years, uneducated and underemployed whites disparaged minorities for being lazy and shiftless, for expecting a handout. They lectured African Americans on self-reliance, demanding they "pull themselves up by their bootstraps." Now, these same white people -- instead of helping themselves -- await a handout that will never come.
As for the millennials, they got a rude awakening as to what happens when you are so high-minded that you can't bring yourself to vote for Hillary Clinton and, instead, you waste your precious ballot on Gary Johnson or Jill Stein. or you just decide to sit out the election altogether. Now, thousands of millennials march in the streets. But where were they on Election Day?
The only people who may actually benefit are the greedy educated whites who wanted bigger and bigger tax breaks, and assurances that their neighborhoods would remain largely segregated. This is why we saw such a large Trump vote here on Long Island. But even they don't realize that they are going to end up paying in other ways.
Trump was willing to say anything to gain power. Now that he's got it, everything he promised his followers is off the table. And he and his gang of thugs will run wild. We will experience a level of corruption not seen since the Harding administration.
As for the millennials, they got a rude awakening as to what happens when you are so high-minded that you can't bring yourself to vote for Hillary Clinton and, instead, you waste your precious ballot on Gary Johnson or Jill Stein. or you just decide to sit out the election altogether. Now, thousands of millennials march in the streets. But where were they on Election Day?
The only people who may actually benefit are the greedy educated whites who wanted bigger and bigger tax breaks, and assurances that their neighborhoods would remain largely segregated. This is why we saw such a large Trump vote here on Long Island. But even they don't realize that they are going to end up paying in other ways.
Trump was willing to say anything to gain power. Now that he's got it, everything he promised his followers is off the table. And he and his gang of thugs will run wild. We will experience a level of corruption not seen since the Harding administration.
4
I think the corruption had already reach a high point where a very fearful, confused, misled and angry citizenry elected him as the solution or failing that, the one who'd set fire to the whole mess. Now we'll see corruption's secondary and tertiary effects, until we citizens support education again and reassume our responsibility to vote with care and consultation, ignoring MSM as best we can.
The picture worth a thousand words, Trump in the White House sitting next to a real president who I'm sure after this meeting rushed off to take a long hot shower to wash off the dirt.
6
I see a car with an Ohio license plate four years from now. It is being driven by a former worker in heavy manufacturing who is still unemployed but now has no health insurance. On the rear bumper are two bumper stickers. One says, "Are you better off now than you were four years ago? Vote for [fill in the name, the Democratic candidate for President]." On the other side of the rear bumper is another sticker, now faded, that says, "Don't blame me. I voted for Hillary."
3
trump will tell his supporters that he is treating them great, and that everything is wonderful, because others are worse off, and many of them will believe it.
We've seen that for many reality has very little to do with their reality.
We've seen that for many reality has very little to do with their reality.
1
Over the next four years, a lot more old, angry white "christians" will die.
Under Trump, they will die faster, and be far more numerous.
More room and opportunity for the rest of us.
Under Trump, they will die faster, and be far more numerous.
More room and opportunity for the rest of us.
2
Although I praise Mr. Egan's writing and analysis, I seriously doubt the "strongest resistance" will "come from the white working class." They will never realize they were conned. Despite Trump's serial prevarication, he did utter one absolute truth: his follows are so loyal (read: misinformed) that he could pull out a gun and shoot someone on 5th avenue. Red America drew Trump's weapon.
4
I wish I could get past the despair I have about the future. Just don't have the mental strength to fight anymore. Seems so futile.
2
The one thing I didn't see in your piece is the thing I fear the most. When the white working class starts turning on Trump, he will create a diversion and find a scapegoat. He is expert at redirecting people's anger, combining it with a dose of hatred, and unleashing our darkest impulses.
4
That's an excellent point. Who will Trump claim stabbed him in the back?
1
You forgot to mention - Trump is a dangerous man because he can lie bigger than anyone else. Already his transition team is full of lobbyists - the ones he promised to ban from government to win the election. The lobbyists are busy ramping up their operations within 2 days of his election. When will the press start to call him on his lies - instead of repeating his bombast for profit?
5
Four years from now, Democrats running for office will be asking the question: Are you better off now than you were 4 years ago? If "No" is the answer, which I am betting it will be, we can count on a change of a lot more than a Republican president; many in Congress will also be on the way out, since the Republicans in Congress will no longer have an excuse for continuing to do nothing to advance the public/common good, as they have while Obama has been in the White House.
4
Facts don't matter, Timothy. Lies and truth don't matter. All of the things that you listed that a Trump presidency will make reality were on the table. Clear for anyone to see. And the blue-collar men, the 29 % hispanics, and 42% of women voted for it. They voted for a diminished life because Facts don't matter. Emotion matters. Trump's lies made them feel good and safe and respected. Hillary was a bridge too far -- Female. And a bridge too far didn't make them feel good.
10
The blue collar men and their wives who follow their husbands obediently, are in for a rude awakening. They were used. They may have been overlooked by the past 3 administrations, but not exploited. Now, you will be without jobs, money, and nowhere decent to live. Your schools will substandard, the National debt will spiral, the rich will get richer, you'll be called crazies, by the man you placed into office.
I won't even get into whether we make it as a nation seeing a sociopath has nuclear codes. Putin is an ego maniac, and we have a sociopath for a leader.
I voted for the underclass, those who struggle. I'm done. You've betrayed me and millions of others like me with your vote against your own interests and mine. You've also elected a sexual predator to our highest office, a racist, a homophobe, a tax cheat, a liar. He lost by huge margins, his home state. He is hated here beyond anything I've ever witnessed. I hope the love in rural America, whose people he duped, will make up for the lost love here.
I won't even get into whether we make it as a nation seeing a sociopath has nuclear codes. Putin is an ego maniac, and we have a sociopath for a leader.
I voted for the underclass, those who struggle. I'm done. You've betrayed me and millions of others like me with your vote against your own interests and mine. You've also elected a sexual predator to our highest office, a racist, a homophobe, a tax cheat, a liar. He lost by huge margins, his home state. He is hated here beyond anything I've ever witnessed. I hope the love in rural America, whose people he duped, will make up for the lost love here.
5
Failing to deliver on campaign promises is "as American as apple pie." Everyone ever elected has done this. Voters have exceedingly short memories and no one except a few pundits care. Failure can always be blamed on someone else.
3
None of us has a clue as to what Trump will try to do, how he will try to do it. And that includes Trump. We only have his campaign rhetoric. He's about to drink his first lesson in practical politics from a firehouse.
“The Republicans will control everything, including the Supreme Court. Washington is theirs, with minimal checks and balances.”
Speaking of resistance, Republican operatives have already started spinning this Trump victory as some sort of decisive mandate – after all whatever Trump does is always “yuuge,” right? Well, this is neither huge nor is it a mandate of the kind that, say Reagan got in 1980 or 1984, or even George H.W. Bush got in 1988?
It is probably a little less traumatic, yet a more definitive win than George W. Bush’s squeaker of a mandate in 2000. Hillary Clinton, like Al Gore, won the popular vote (+220,000 margin at last count), and Democrats picked up two seats in the Senate and six in the House. So let’s hope the Republicans get some perspective here and try not to railroad legislation or court nominees through Congress. The majority of the American public is still with her!
Speaking of resistance, Republican operatives have already started spinning this Trump victory as some sort of decisive mandate – after all whatever Trump does is always “yuuge,” right? Well, this is neither huge nor is it a mandate of the kind that, say Reagan got in 1980 or 1984, or even George H.W. Bush got in 1988?
It is probably a little less traumatic, yet a more definitive win than George W. Bush’s squeaker of a mandate in 2000. Hillary Clinton, like Al Gore, won the popular vote (+220,000 margin at last count), and Democrats picked up two seats in the Senate and six in the House. So let’s hope the Republicans get some perspective here and try not to railroad legislation or court nominees through Congress. The majority of the American public is still with her!
4
Forgive me, but if you think the Republicans will show any restraint whatever or any respect for HRC's popular vote win, you haven't been paying attention. They will enact Paul Ryan's entire agenda before spring--including privatizing Medicare, which Trump promised to leave alone.
2
My hope is that within the first year there will be a legal or constitutional issue that forces him from office. But then there is Pence who is politically just as dangerous. Being disabled I can only protest (in a civil manner) online and protest often. Use whatever manner you can to let your voice be heard. Do not hold back (be civil). The Republican supporters did not hold back which produced the most venomous and hateful election in modern (and probably earlier) times.
5
When the going gets tough, the tough get going.
The mean, nasty, immoral greedheads are now fully in charge of the federal government. And good to them! For too many years the right and left coast "liberal intellectuals" have been carrying the water for the rest of the dysfunctional reality deniers in this country.
It is time to focus our efforts on the state level and make those parts of society function in a 21st century, internet connected, global world and leave the rest of the mutant gene pool to rot in their walled-off bunkers of white militancy. Good riddance to them!
The mean, nasty, immoral greedheads are now fully in charge of the federal government. And good to them! For too many years the right and left coast "liberal intellectuals" have been carrying the water for the rest of the dysfunctional reality deniers in this country.
It is time to focus our efforts on the state level and make those parts of society function in a 21st century, internet connected, global world and leave the rest of the mutant gene pool to rot in their walled-off bunkers of white militancy. Good riddance to them!
3
Regarding pollsters' statistics. It could very well be that the science behind it was accurate. However, the folks polled may just have lied about who they were going to vote for.
1
As a life coach, I often hear myself quoting Carl Jung: "What You Resist Persists." Not now. Resistance with conscious intention will be among our most important resources as Americans. The survival of our country, the world and our planet depends upon it.
3
Well, perhaps Jung still holds. Instead of focusing on resistance, we can intend and begin, or continue, creating a new and more sustainable society which will naturally replace whatever this horrifying election produces. This is already happening in small communities and could be the model going forward.
1
" ... never trust anyone from the pollster industrial complex"
I cant be sure of my memory on this but I think that in 2012, the prediction model of Nate Cohn and his team came remarkably close to a bull's eye of calling the results. And they were roundly praised for the new found accuracy of polling techniques.
So this one is bizarre
I cant be sure of my memory on this but I think that in 2012, the prediction model of Nate Cohn and his team came remarkably close to a bull's eye of calling the results. And they were roundly praised for the new found accuracy of polling techniques.
So this one is bizarre
I believe that it was Nate Silver of 538 that hit the bulls-eye in 2012
What a beautiful, heartfelt and insightful piece. Thanks for eloquently expressing the horror in so many of our hearts.
I love the New York Times. It's made me a better, more informed citizen for decades. But what was with the daily prognostication of Hilary's odds of winning? All summer it was in the 94% range. Then in the final few days before election day it dipped to 86%--still astonishingly high given what happened. I want news from a news source, not crunched data that is not real information, news or fact. It's guessing, even if it's derived from polling data. It has no role in a democratic process, and serves no purpose. You may as well sub in horse racing odds or Poweball quick piks, for all the good it did us in this election.
I love the New York Times. It's made me a better, more informed citizen for decades. But what was with the daily prognostication of Hilary's odds of winning? All summer it was in the 94% range. Then in the final few days before election day it dipped to 86%--still astonishingly high given what happened. I want news from a news source, not crunched data that is not real information, news or fact. It's guessing, even if it's derived from polling data. It has no role in a democratic process, and serves no purpose. You may as well sub in horse racing odds or Poweball quick piks, for all the good it did us in this election.
2
I strongly disagreed that people voted for change. If you look at the ratio of incumbents returned to office up and down the ballot, it's clear that this is not a change election.
This was toddlers taking their toys and going home because they don't want anyone else to have toys. Only the toys are equal rights. Yes, the factors that go into that statement are more nuanced, but the overall point stands...white america is feeling a tiny bit of the anxiety that minorities have always felt and threw a temper tantrum at the top of the ticket.
This was toddlers taking their toys and going home because they don't want anyone else to have toys. Only the toys are equal rights. Yes, the factors that go into that statement are more nuanced, but the overall point stands...white america is feeling a tiny bit of the anxiety that minorities have always felt and threw a temper tantrum at the top of the ticket.
4
When the steel mills fail to return to Youngstown, the middle class will not wonder how it got betrayed.
They will blame liberals, immigrants, the Godless society, gays, Muslims, and trade agreements. They won't ponder the cost of making and shipping steel abroad versus building factories here; nor will they ponder anything build here will be automated. Nor will they ponder that the builders will be Chinese, but US wealthy are parking their cash in the Caymans.
Facts matter. Reality matters. Just not to voters.
They will blame liberals, immigrants, the Godless society, gays, Muslims, and trade agreements. They won't ponder the cost of making and shipping steel abroad versus building factories here; nor will they ponder anything build here will be automated. Nor will they ponder that the builders will be Chinese, but US wealthy are parking their cash in the Caymans.
Facts matter. Reality matters. Just not to voters.
1
In all of the hysteria over Trump, lost is the reality that Trump is a Republican in name only. His real party is the Disruption party. Which what Americans want and need. Incidentally Sanders was also a member of this party. Clearly the people "winning" in the current scenario such as the author of this screed represent a minority . And remarkably they want to continue along the same path we were on.
Tim, get over it. The people have spoken. Long live the people. And the disrupters. They are our only hope of getting out of this mess. And the liberal elites can take their place in line behind the likes of Marie Antoinette.
Tim, get over it. The people have spoken. Long live the people. And the disrupters. They are our only hope of getting out of this mess. And the liberal elites can take their place in line behind the likes of Marie Antoinette.
My biggest fear is one of intimidation. Will the media be cowered by fears of retribution from Trump and his henchmen? Will ordinary citizens fear a lawsuit if they speak out? Will he have an enemies list? Will he suppress protest?
3
He certainly will try his best to resist protest. He has demonstrated that already.
1
Sorry I wish I could agree about resistance from working class! Let me be cynical for a moment and express how I see rump victory! This is about a large group of white people from all political parties being thoroughly frustrated with non-whites as well as all those whom they see as not conforming to social norms asking for a seat at the table and to not be treated as second class citizens - lashing out against the evil called political correctness! It is about these white people telling the underrepresented groups where they really belong and where their place is in this country or may be outside the country! It is absolutely not about Trump keeping the 'I can get you the moon' promises! If the possibility of him bringing real better change, not just 'make America white again', was why they prferred him, it is surprising that they did not ever ask him for a detailed plan of how he would do the things he promised. I recall people in previous elections saying 'I want details!'! My prediction: he will win a second term!
1
I keep hearing over and over and over again that we must put our anger away and come together as Americans, that we must overcome the vitriol of the campaign and give the President-elect a chance. Am I just totally petty and narrow minded in asking this question: Did the Republicans do this in 2008 and 2012?
4
I agree with the author that the next four years will be a disaster. However, I suspect this finger-wagging "they'll see" is wishful thinking from the affluent liberals:
"The strongest resistance should come from the white working class; they will soon find out that Trump will treat them the same way he treated the suckers who signed up for his fraudulent university."
The lower-income whites who voted for Trump will end up screwed harder than other groups. And, these people will not say, "We were wrong, and the liberals were right all along! Trump really did con us! We accept full responsibility for this disaster." The blame will be passed to Democrats who blocked Trump's will, Republicans who blocked Trump's will, immigrants who infiltrated government, the liberal media, shadowy corporate conspiracies, a rigged system, something ... anything. They will never, ever accept blame.
"The strongest resistance should come from the white working class; they will soon find out that Trump will treat them the same way he treated the suckers who signed up for his fraudulent university."
The lower-income whites who voted for Trump will end up screwed harder than other groups. And, these people will not say, "We were wrong, and the liberals were right all along! Trump really did con us! We accept full responsibility for this disaster." The blame will be passed to Democrats who blocked Trump's will, Republicans who blocked Trump's will, immigrants who infiltrated government, the liberal media, shadowy corporate conspiracies, a rigged system, something ... anything. They will never, ever accept blame.
4
You, Mr Egan, are the only one telling it true. All the "journalists" who I have listened to and paid attention to for a long time have been wrong. They played us all false, including themselves. Why should we listen to them? Yes, the ones at this paper, too. The TV weatherman is more accurate - he tells us to seek shelter when a hurricane is coming.
'Over and out' from here.
'Over and out' from here.
Trump ran a vile campaign. With a little help from the good ole boys in the FBI, we now have an ignorant racist in the White House with some of the most odious and divisive characters likely to be involved in his administration. The not so loyal opposisition for the past eight years has now been rewarded by grateful nation with control of thr House, the Senate, and soon the Supreme Court. This apparently is what American exceptionalism actually looks like. USA! USA! I woke up to this reality after the election and realized I simply do not share the same values as much ot the population. It really is a sickening realization. I truly fear for the future of this country.
8
Tim,
Cortisol levels are high. It is Nature's way and Nature will have its way in climate, environment, and food production and in the economy that we all feel. For 40 years we were worsening in income inequaltiy and this was the root cause of feelings that caused a lot of people to call for change. "What have you got to lose" was taken seriously in a lot of states.
The good news is we lived through the Reagan Presidency, which increased income inequality. The income gap still needs to be solved. Mr. Trumps supporters sought change because of the income gap. I hasten to add his supporters incorrectly thought the problem was Washington corruption, Big Money, and the political class enriching itself at the expense of the common welfare.
They were frustrated and provided a fertile political environment for a populist with a demagogic delivery. Hence the popular chants, "crooked Hillary", "lock her up", and "drain the swamp".
People and leaders don't seem to realize that we got to where we are now, a high average standard of living because of government involvement in controlling Nature and provide the means for people to achieve social and financial mobility. Canals, railroads, highways, airports and land grant universities and public schools made a huge difference. We are now moving into an era that reminds us that most of our prosperity was achieved by fossil fuels technologies and we know that fossil fuel combustion threatens mankind, so we have to change.
Cortisol levels are high. It is Nature's way and Nature will have its way in climate, environment, and food production and in the economy that we all feel. For 40 years we were worsening in income inequaltiy and this was the root cause of feelings that caused a lot of people to call for change. "What have you got to lose" was taken seriously in a lot of states.
The good news is we lived through the Reagan Presidency, which increased income inequality. The income gap still needs to be solved. Mr. Trumps supporters sought change because of the income gap. I hasten to add his supporters incorrectly thought the problem was Washington corruption, Big Money, and the political class enriching itself at the expense of the common welfare.
They were frustrated and provided a fertile political environment for a populist with a demagogic delivery. Hence the popular chants, "crooked Hillary", "lock her up", and "drain the swamp".
People and leaders don't seem to realize that we got to where we are now, a high average standard of living because of government involvement in controlling Nature and provide the means for people to achieve social and financial mobility. Canals, railroads, highways, airports and land grant universities and public schools made a huge difference. We are now moving into an era that reminds us that most of our prosperity was achieved by fossil fuels technologies and we know that fossil fuel combustion threatens mankind, so we have to change.
1
All the uneducated 60 year old white men who expect to see more dollars in their pocket (and soon!) are going to be dismayed when they see dollars flowing to Trump and his minions and not their way. Those auto assembly plants are NOT coming back, and the few industries that might will employ robots.
Those oil field jobs in North Dakota too are gone. That was a one off. The world is awash in oil, just look at Venezuela and what happened to their oil based economy. And we can't use it anyway because of global warming.
Oh, I forgot, global warming is a hoax.
Those oil field jobs in North Dakota too are gone. That was a one off. The world is awash in oil, just look at Venezuela and what happened to their oil based economy. And we can't use it anyway because of global warming.
Oh, I forgot, global warming is a hoax.
10
It is up to all of us and our representatives to point out every broken promise, every deed that will harm the working classes who brought him to power. If the MSM including the NYT devotes as much time to that as they did to Hillary's e-mails, especially the WikiLeaks ones, we will be on our way to revealing to the lowest of low information voter what a liar and hypocrite he is. By the way, we need to keep up calling lies, lies.
6
I just hope too much damage isn't done to the country until we reach the mid term election when Trump voters fully understand the reality of who they elected.
4
"I just hope too much damage isn't done to the country until we reach the mid term election when Trump voters fully understand the reality of who they elected."
Not who, but what.
Not who, but what.
2
This is a disaster and like a massive California earthquake, really cannot be fought. It is to be survived, and then one needs to figure out if one needs to move or stay and reinforce.
Trump doesn't listen and doesn't care about you and yours. He is the 1% poster child, and since he is now Putin's puppet in office, the rich get richer, and the fools who oppose him get...well, if I were one of the media he pointed out as needing "correction", I would be worried. This isn't a traditional pol in office, this is Duterte or Putin.
Trump will wait for the slightest of excuses, and then he will work to destroy what so many have worked for. Sure the stock market will do well, they are the home of the 1%. As profits rise and American workers' wages fall, the investor class rides off to their retirement of glee...
Hugh Massengill, Eugene
Trump doesn't listen and doesn't care about you and yours. He is the 1% poster child, and since he is now Putin's puppet in office, the rich get richer, and the fools who oppose him get...well, if I were one of the media he pointed out as needing "correction", I would be worried. This isn't a traditional pol in office, this is Duterte or Putin.
Trump will wait for the slightest of excuses, and then he will work to destroy what so many have worked for. Sure the stock market will do well, they are the home of the 1%. As profits rise and American workers' wages fall, the investor class rides off to their retirement of glee...
Hugh Massengill, Eugene
6
Thank you, Mr. Egan, for lifting a bit of the gloom. We can't undo what's been done. The only thing we control is our response. The Democrats must defend the interests of the majority who voted for their candidate and the policy agenda she upheld. And We the People who voted against ignorance vulgarity racism and sexism must be prepared to fight for what we believe in.
4
November 1963, April 1968, June 1968 for my wife and I and November 2016 for my children and grandchildren.
3
Perhaps when Trump-accentuated global warming causes the ocean waters to lap at the greens of Trump's Mar-a-Lago golf club--perilously situated so close to the low-lying beach--he will reconsider his belief (or was it a "talking point"?) that climate change was a Chinese hoax.
But then it will be too late.
But then it will be too late.
5
I cannot escape, though I'd like to, from the thought that millions of disenfranchised voters went with Trump because they genuinely feel he will help their plight. They will quickly learn that Donald Trump has a one-item agenda: Aggrandize the name of Donald Trump, whatever it takes.
7
Call me naive, but I'm still holding out a glimmer of hope for December 19 when the electoral votes are counted. Maybe some of those votes will turn to blue. This has been a wild ride so far, it can't be ruled out.
4
Think big, Teresa, Maybe they'll all turn Green and Gary Johnson will be our new President.
I wish your editors had used the image from the front page of today's online issue on top or your essay. Look at it. President Obama is shaking Trump's hand and looking directly at him. Trump closes his eyes and tilts his head downward. He lacks the courage to look an honest man in the eye.
I feel the immense weight of grief. It will eventually lighten but is now a part of me I will carry forever.
I feel the immense weight of grief. It will eventually lighten but is now a part of me I will carry forever.
29
on these popular numbers and paul ryan declaring a mandate for the gop. well a mandate would be a group of electoral college members in lockstep refusing to play along and declaring clinton the winner. it could happen. trouble might arise if it happened but it would show the nation what a mandate truly is.
4
The entire country has taken a trip to Jonestown , courtesy of the under-educated, frustrated fools who put Drumpf in the pilot's seat. Unfortunately he'll force feed the Kool-Aid and those same ninnies will line up for seconds before they realize they've been worse than ignored. They've been fired again. He's a lethal poison without an antidote for four more years.
4
My problem with this whole election of Trump has been the fact that no actual policies were ever discussed or how he planned to achieve his promises. I was not a fan of either of the candidates, but was not surprised that this bigot was elected. I get that America is upset and feeling shafted, but electing this person will turn out to be a big mistake. I too am tired of picking up the tab, but when taxes go up for the little people (the ones who elected him), and healthcare is taken away (again for the ones who elected him), and there is zero regulation on prescriptions and no manufacturing jobs come back and the heck with climate change - then everyone will wonder "how did this happen"? Well it happened because no one bothered to really educate themselves on the man who has no experience and literally looked like a deer in the headlights when he met with President Obama yesterday. I wonder did he really realize the enormity of the presidency or did he do this just to see if he could and boost his ego. This world will not be a better place in four years. You can already see who will benefit from this election - just look at the stock market - the rich will get richer and the poor will get poorer - but you asked for it - now don't complain!
7
"This world will not be a better place in four years. You can already see who will benefit from this election - just look at the stock market - the rich will get richer and the poor will get poorer - but you asked for it - now don't complain!"
Don't complain? That's the killing joke. The people who complain the loudest will be those who voted for him.
Don't complain? That's the killing joke. The people who complain the loudest will be those who voted for him.
1
Trump has no transition team despite the fact that this has been Christies new job for the past four months while we in NJ pay him to fail us
So now a completely unprepared Trump who says he will drain the swamp will hire K street consultants and lobbyists to fill the empty roster of his team. The swamp won't be drained it is a takers free for all
They are going to beggar us all
So now a completely unprepared Trump who says he will drain the swamp will hire K street consultants and lobbyists to fill the empty roster of his team. The swamp won't be drained it is a takers free for all
They are going to beggar us all
4
The germans, in 1931, also choose a mad person for chancellor of their country. Millions of lives were lost due to that ballot.
8
Wow, Timothy, you're the best! Yesterday morning it dawned on me that I haven't felt this way since JFK was assassinated. I wondered if I was being melodramatic. Thanks for the validation.
Here's what I'm wondering. I think the white working class voted for Trump for two main reasons. One was economic. The other was to reinstate their so-called values (racism, homophobia, xenophobia, religion in public places, assault weapons). Trump is likely to legitimize and even re-institutionalize their "values." But their economic situation under more trickle-down economics will only get worse. So, will the values victory placate the WWC enough to compensate them for being in worse economic straits than ever? I guess we'll have to wait and see.
Here's what I'm wondering. I think the white working class voted for Trump for two main reasons. One was economic. The other was to reinstate their so-called values (racism, homophobia, xenophobia, religion in public places, assault weapons). Trump is likely to legitimize and even re-institutionalize their "values." But their economic situation under more trickle-down economics will only get worse. So, will the values victory placate the WWC enough to compensate them for being in worse economic straits than ever? I guess we'll have to wait and see.
7
Historically, I always feared the Republican Party's cold, callous fiscal policies (like trickle-down) and discriminatory policies especially when they have the power in all three branches of our republic. (I was not thrilled with some bi-partisan laws passed during the Clinton presidency.) Remember the same situation applied during the 1920s and most of 2001 until the second financial melt-down. This election I advised many people that I refused to vote for a third depression during my age 91 mother's lifetime. The current Wall Street jubilation justifies my foreboding.
For that reason, I have always supported and voted for the Democratic Party's basic humanity-based economics and Constitutional values during my lifetime. Growing up in Baltimore and travelling through Savannah in June 1960, I also recognized my good luck in being born as a third generation (Polish) American after observing the horrible disparity between my life and the other (African) Americans.
Since I was educated by Franciscan nuns during 12 years in the mid-1950s and mid-1960s, I learned from the Gospels that the greatest commandment was to love God, the second greatest was to love your neighbor as yourself, AND that every person had FREE WILL. Since I don't know the details of every other woman experiences, I'm pro-choice for them during their pregnancies. I'm appalled that ANY church, business or citizen expects our elected officials to pass discriminatory laws based on their religious beliefs.
For that reason, I have always supported and voted for the Democratic Party's basic humanity-based economics and Constitutional values during my lifetime. Growing up in Baltimore and travelling through Savannah in June 1960, I also recognized my good luck in being born as a third generation (Polish) American after observing the horrible disparity between my life and the other (African) Americans.
Since I was educated by Franciscan nuns during 12 years in the mid-1950s and mid-1960s, I learned from the Gospels that the greatest commandment was to love God, the second greatest was to love your neighbor as yourself, AND that every person had FREE WILL. Since I don't know the details of every other woman experiences, I'm pro-choice for them during their pregnancies. I'm appalled that ANY church, business or citizen expects our elected officials to pass discriminatory laws based on their religious beliefs.
2
This election was a far bigger success than Trump University ever was at selling undereducated people a great deal. Congratulations suckers, you've been had! Don't hold your breath waiting for those manufacturing jobs and coal mines to come back, they are in the same place as all those promises made to the "graduates" of Trump U.
8
"Don't hold your breath waiting for those manufacturing jobs and coal mines to come back, they are in the same place as all those promises made to the "graduates" of Trump U."
Can you imagine having "Trump U" on your resume?
Can you imagine having "Trump U" on your resume?
2
Here's a real question: Trump has a fraud case coming up in November, and a case about alleging he raped a 13yo coming up in December.
If he loses, and if he is sentenced to jail time, what happens then? I know he has more expensive lawyers than the prosecution, but I hear there is an actual witness in the rape case.
What happens if he loses?
If he loses, and if he is sentenced to jail time, what happens then? I know he has more expensive lawyers than the prosecution, but I hear there is an actual witness in the rape case.
What happens if he loses?
3
All those poorly educated Whites who placed their confidence in that Demagogue-elect, will someday be getting their comeuppance. Like all those who get in bed with Trump they find out eventually like those enrolled in Trump "university" it was all a sham. The guy's an idiot and an a bully. Like leopards they don't change their spots. We'll see if the Lumpen Proles figure that out and will finally spot the difference.
DD
Manhattan
DD
Manhattan
4
Dennis, it hurts to be a loser. It hurts worse to be a bitter loser.
Please. The white bigots who elected Trump are not the "working class" -- their median income is over $72k. They're formerly closeted white supremacists. And they will follow his Twitter feed proclaiming victory right off the cliff.
2
The smartest thing Trump could do the first hour of his first day in office would be to announce his Supreme Court nominee: Merrick Garland.
Obama chose Garland because he's a moderate who would have been acceptable to the Republicans if they'd been willing to let Obama choose a nominee. The Democrats would confirm him quickly.
By taking this swift, decisive action, Trump would put establishment Republicans who think they can control him on notice, and he would win wide approval from the American people.
Obama chose Garland because he's a moderate who would have been acceptable to the Republicans if they'd been willing to let Obama choose a nominee. The Democrats would confirm him quickly.
By taking this swift, decisive action, Trump would put establishment Republicans who think they can control him on notice, and he would win wide approval from the American people.
1
I wonder two things at this early date of sitting shiva -
One, if all those folks who voted for Trump will even know that they have been had any time soon given they already drank from his fountain of lies and deception.
Two, if his 90 minute meeting with the POTUS had any initial impact whatsoever on him. This new position is not Trump-world.
My initial thought is no, but I am in mourning and not thinking clearly at the moment.
One, if all those folks who voted for Trump will even know that they have been had any time soon given they already drank from his fountain of lies and deception.
Two, if his 90 minute meeting with the POTUS had any initial impact whatsoever on him. This new position is not Trump-world.
My initial thought is no, but I am in mourning and not thinking clearly at the moment.
1
Mr. Egan,
I had the same visceral response Tuesday night. I was vividly remembering how I felt when I heard the news about JFK (first grade for me), and the emotions were the same.
Our country is lost for a generation.
I had the same visceral response Tuesday night. I was vividly remembering how I felt when I heard the news about JFK (first grade for me), and the emotions were the same.
Our country is lost for a generation.
1
I doubt seriously if Mr. Trump gets sworn in as President of the US of A. He will resign before that and let Mike Pence be president. Mr. Trump just has to many skeletons in his closet and they will all come out in the next month or 2.
I am desperately clinging to the hope that the awesome responsibilities of the presidency will bring out Trump's better angels. That is if he has any.
Coincidentally, I was also in the second grade when the JFK assassination occurred. The election of Trump does have that same punch-in-the-stomach feel to it.
2
I totally agree that those who oppose Trump and his flagrant ideas will need to resist. Heard a quote today, in a story about Jeannette Rankin, the first woman ever elected to Congress 100 years ago. In reviewing her life, which was full of political resistance for which she paid a high price, she said she would do it all the same again, except the next time, she would "be nastier". I for one will not sit back silently. I will be marching in the street if Trump tries to dismantle health coverage for all Americans, ban Muslims from entering the country, or any number of the promises he used to rile up the misguided people who voted for him.
2
I agree with kcbob. Consider all the "holes" that Trump and his ardent supporters have metaphorically been digging. A wise person once told me that when you go around digging holes, make sure that they are big enough for yourself.
What frightens me the most is the collateral damage that a narcissist and his minions can create. Our only hope will be moderate acting Republicans if they even exist at this point. When this country does emerge from the fallout (pun?) hopefully it will take another look at Citizens United and the corrupt tax code pay for play network.
What frightens me the most is the collateral damage that a narcissist and his minions can create. Our only hope will be moderate acting Republicans if they even exist at this point. When this country does emerge from the fallout (pun?) hopefully it will take another look at Citizens United and the corrupt tax code pay for play network.
2
I think the last point is most important, how will his supporters react when he can't deliver on his promises. I'm afraid it will drive them even further to the right. That's a scary thought.
3
Egan, the polls were tracking correctly. Two things happened during early voting: FBI director Comey's publicity stunt to sabotage the election, and the announcement that health insurance rates would go up by 25% -- which was basically a punch in the face for Obamacare.
4
Why are you blaming the Obama Administration for Clinton's defeat? Obama appointed, then defended, Comey. He could have fired Comey on the spot, but didn't. His administration released the report on the ACA before the election, when it could have waited until last Wednesday. Did you forget that President Obama heartily endorsed Clinton and campaigned for her vigorously.
It intrigues me that when pollsters excuse themselves for their miserable performance they never say it is impossible to poll a sample that represents the American people these days, after the disappearance of the land-line phone. Any poll done by phone cannot be trusted.
It's like the dog that finally caught the car. Now what are they going to do with it (us, the country...)? I'm anticipating more protests and will get out my warm clothes should I feel compelled to step out and hold a sign and yell. In the meantime, I am going to focus on the accomplishments and outcomes that nurture me such as our elected NH Congressional delegation which is now all female and Democrat.
2
My gut feeling is that Queens New York raised Trump just pulled off the biggest con in the history of America. The right was conned into believing Trump was one of them. The left was conned into thinking his whole bid was for the White House was bush league. My hope is Trump will ditch all the bravado that get him the prize and grow into a statesman. A guy who loves to see his name in lights would not want to go down in history as the biggest jerk ever elected to the oval office. When FDR died and Harry Truman took over people thought he was a light weight. Truman went onto fire MacArthur and integrate the United States military. The former mayor of New York City, Mike Bloomberg, was a lifelong liberal until he decided to run mayor. Maybe we should stop the sky is falling rhetoric and see what kind of president he turns out to be. My hope is all of the experts who were all caught flat footed on the Trump triumph give it a rest for a while for all of their crystal balls were wrong.
1
Thank you for this piece. Although I am stunned and saddened by the results of the election, I, and my like minded friends, are energized to resist Trump's plans. And I'm 74 and ready to go to work.
5
The conclusions this article makes seems to ignore the recent past completely. The white working class will resist Trump the hardest? Trump didn’t win because he had good ideas, he won because he lied. He lied constantly, and will continue to lie. The rest of us tried to tell his supporters that he was a snake oil salesman, but they refused to listen. They will likely continue to refuse to listen. They’re like the old woman who’s given every penny to the preacher, and just knows that she’ll be blessed any day now, if only she can get rid of (insert scapegoat here).
6
It is hard to understand how little factual news filters down to rural areas. We used to believe in the magic of the honest, hardworking newspaper reporter (Superman), riding a horse across rural America to warm the Colonists of the Tyranny of the King. This is a theme park ride. Radical, aggressive, fact free media is the framework. God fearing religion is also a myth, hating mostly women, minorities, immigrants, and the poor, with fantastic misinterpretations of the bible. I never hear well informed clergy fight back. Why? Both institutions prey upon those in rural areas, feeding misinformation, and this must change, we must get the truth out to the red state world. Are moderate Republicans, those who secretly voted for HRC, brave enough to join in? HRC, Bernie, Warren, you were elected this week. Believe it. This is day one of your ad hoc administration. Don't sulk (like Gore), get fired up, go out in front, lead, and preserve the dream. We are ready.
"these economic exiles will wonder how they got betrayed"
Don't be silly, of course they won't "wonder". There will always be someone of color, of a different religious persuasion, someone born somewhere else to blame.
Don't be silly, of course they won't "wonder". There will always be someone of color, of a different religious persuasion, someone born somewhere else to blame.
3
The first indication of Trump's real intentions on how he'll use his power as President - both to those of us in the "loyal opposition" as well as his loyal followers - are already apparent in his legal team's actions on the impending Nov. 28 trial on Trump "University": http://fortune.com/2016/11/10/trump-university-lawsuit-trial-november-28/
Trump's lawyers have already asked for the trial to be delayed until after the inauguration because of the hectic preparations Trump is under for assuming the presidency. Small-town Christian voters would hopefully take note that their President-elect - the guy who swindled people ++just like them++ out of their life savings in hopes of a better future - is now attempting to use the power of his office to avoid testifying as well as excluding other statements he's made while campaigning for that office.
The words of Jimmy Stewart's speech in It's a Wonderful Life keep coming back to me: "Just remember this, Mr. Potter, that this rabble you're talking about - they do most of the working and paying and living and dying in this community. ... But to you, a warped, frustrated old man, they're cattle."
Trump's lawyers have already asked for the trial to be delayed until after the inauguration because of the hectic preparations Trump is under for assuming the presidency. Small-town Christian voters would hopefully take note that their President-elect - the guy who swindled people ++just like them++ out of their life savings in hopes of a better future - is now attempting to use the power of his office to avoid testifying as well as excluding other statements he's made while campaigning for that office.
The words of Jimmy Stewart's speech in It's a Wonderful Life keep coming back to me: "Just remember this, Mr. Potter, that this rabble you're talking about - they do most of the working and paying and living and dying in this community. ... But to you, a warped, frustrated old man, they're cattle."
4
If there ever was a Christmas season to watch "It's A Wonderful Life", this is it!
1
The only solace I have at this point is the anticipation of disappointment from rural America, when they come to the realization that Trump has delivered nothing that will improve their lives.
Eric Schubert
Chattanooga, TN
Eric Schubert
Chattanooga, TN
2
I wish I could find something, anything, to be optimistic about.
Some take comfort in the fact that he is a pathological liar so what he campaigned on is not what he will govern on. Wishful thinking.
The process of global warming could hit the tipping point in the next 4 years, nobody knows anymore because the models are all accelerating.
The republican party didn't care that it was backing a complete charlatan, he would ensure their power for another few years.
The news business didn't care that it was ignoring the same charlatan because he was good for ratings and their bottom line.
The voters didn't care that he was totally unfit and could start "a stupid war", to quote one of his voters on TV. He was going to "shake things up". In spite of the fact that We the People had just elected a black man and were about to elect our first woman. That's not "shaking it up"?
Now we have a political party that has permission to go completely Jim Crow to win elections.
We have a media that could care less about facts and truth.
We have a voting populace that doesn't vote.
We are probably doomed as the democracy we once strived to be.
Scotland is looking pretty good from this spot.
Some take comfort in the fact that he is a pathological liar so what he campaigned on is not what he will govern on. Wishful thinking.
The process of global warming could hit the tipping point in the next 4 years, nobody knows anymore because the models are all accelerating.
The republican party didn't care that it was backing a complete charlatan, he would ensure their power for another few years.
The news business didn't care that it was ignoring the same charlatan because he was good for ratings and their bottom line.
The voters didn't care that he was totally unfit and could start "a stupid war", to quote one of his voters on TV. He was going to "shake things up". In spite of the fact that We the People had just elected a black man and were about to elect our first woman. That's not "shaking it up"?
Now we have a political party that has permission to go completely Jim Crow to win elections.
We have a media that could care less about facts and truth.
We have a voting populace that doesn't vote.
We are probably doomed as the democracy we once strived to be.
Scotland is looking pretty good from this spot.
2
Trump will do it his way. And when his way is done, taxes will be lower on the very rich, K Street will be more powerful, the banks will be freed to destroy the economy again, and Social Security and Medicare will be on their way to destruction. Will his voters feel they have been heard then?
3
I lived in Pittsburgh PA most of my life, and lived through the shutdowns that started decades ago. For a time, there was hope that the mills would return, but of course that didn't happen. Many of the people there, with their tendency to scapegoat, blamed, and are still blaming, all the wrong people for the cataclysmic change in their economic circumstances, decades later - even the ones who remained there and are economically well off.
All the cries for "Buy American Made Steel" went unheeded by Trump and others like him. They didn't care about their fellow citizens. They were just looking for a good deal.
Why these same people would vote into office one of the business people partly responsible for the upheaval, and expect that he is somehow going to magically bring back an era long gone, good paying factory jobs, is something I just don't understand. He is a business man, first and foremost, and getting as much money as possible for himself is what he is about, and always has been about.
If I didn't feel so dismayed about the election results, and so fearful of what is to come, I would probably feel a little sorry for people who fell for Trump's delusional statements.
But right now, I don't have room for it.
All the cries for "Buy American Made Steel" went unheeded by Trump and others like him. They didn't care about their fellow citizens. They were just looking for a good deal.
Why these same people would vote into office one of the business people partly responsible for the upheaval, and expect that he is somehow going to magically bring back an era long gone, good paying factory jobs, is something I just don't understand. He is a business man, first and foremost, and getting as much money as possible for himself is what he is about, and always has been about.
If I didn't feel so dismayed about the election results, and so fearful of what is to come, I would probably feel a little sorry for people who fell for Trump's delusional statements.
But right now, I don't have room for it.
4
Perhaps with pollsters getting kicked to the curb, we can have a more responsible media that questions candidates about issues, fact-checks their answers, and reports on something other than horse-race nitwittery.
Perhaps, too, we can offload the two corporate parties who put forth the most execrable candidates in their respective histories. That one supported a brash overt liar while the other promoted a sly cunning liar ought to be enough to let everyone know that we need change. The acquisition and maintenance of power should not be a raison d'etre for any political entity.
Perhaps, too, we can offload the two corporate parties who put forth the most execrable candidates in their respective histories. That one supported a brash overt liar while the other promoted a sly cunning liar ought to be enough to let everyone know that we need change. The acquisition and maintenance of power should not be a raison d'etre for any political entity.
Speaking of the pollster-industrial complex, here's how Trump could boast that the polls were wrong—and be right. In fact, here's how he won:
He's an entertainer ("The Apprentice"); he knows ratings. He spent years listening to conservative talk shows, and appreciating what huge audiences they draw: Limbaugh 13 million; Hannity 12 million; Beck and Levin 7 million each; Savage 5 million; and so on. Listening, hooked, sure they're right because they all affirm each other in their extremist lies, smears, innuendo and bullying. Even considering overlapping audiences, multiply those numbers by the Americans in each community who share their values and beliefs, and there's his constituency, desperate for a leader sees them and promises to heed them. Who needs media pollsters?
He didn't even have to develop a program or policies. All he had to do steal and incessantly repeat conservative talk radio's most outrageous lis, smear their target populations, in new and creative ways. As Joseph Goebbels said, a lie repeated often enough becomes the truth. Who needs professional campaign advisors? When outrageousness magnetizes mainstream media and its audiences, who even needs campaign contributions—especially the obscene amounts that made Clinton look like the Statue of Liberty to Big Money?
It worked.
He's an entertainer ("The Apprentice"); he knows ratings. He spent years listening to conservative talk shows, and appreciating what huge audiences they draw: Limbaugh 13 million; Hannity 12 million; Beck and Levin 7 million each; Savage 5 million; and so on. Listening, hooked, sure they're right because they all affirm each other in their extremist lies, smears, innuendo and bullying. Even considering overlapping audiences, multiply those numbers by the Americans in each community who share their values and beliefs, and there's his constituency, desperate for a leader sees them and promises to heed them. Who needs media pollsters?
He didn't even have to develop a program or policies. All he had to do steal and incessantly repeat conservative talk radio's most outrageous lis, smear their target populations, in new and creative ways. As Joseph Goebbels said, a lie repeated often enough becomes the truth. Who needs professional campaign advisors? When outrageousness magnetizes mainstream media and its audiences, who even needs campaign contributions—especially the obscene amounts that made Clinton look like the Statue of Liberty to Big Money?
It worked.
I keep reading the explanations of what happened in the rust belt communities that vaulted someone like Donald Trump to power. The notions that those voters feel “disaffected, forgotten” and “left behind” are baloney. What they feel is vindicated.
I know of which I speak – born and raised in the rural Thumb area of Michigan for nearly 40 years until 1992. Spent many hours in local watering holes listening to the locals. I listened because I learned a different opinion only got you ostracized.
Those communities don’t feel “forgotten” – they like how they live and where they live. Even though partially dependent on tourism, they can’t wait until the end of summer when the boaters, beach cottage owners and all other suspicious outsiders go back to the cities and leave them alone.
They are not bad people and are very patriotic. But here’s the ugly, ugly truth everyone keeps avoiding: it is still, and will remain, a bastion of white male power. They don’t have cultural diversity and they don’t want it.
It will not change their minds when Trump does not deliver on all that he promised EXCEPT to reverse everything that was accomplished by a black president. That will be sufficient. That white men stay in power IS the most important thing. The Trump campaign understood this.
I know how this sounds and I thought it might be better to not go so dark, but that would be disingenuous. I cannot offer a solution. I can only offer what I know to be true.
I know of which I speak – born and raised in the rural Thumb area of Michigan for nearly 40 years until 1992. Spent many hours in local watering holes listening to the locals. I listened because I learned a different opinion only got you ostracized.
Those communities don’t feel “forgotten” – they like how they live and where they live. Even though partially dependent on tourism, they can’t wait until the end of summer when the boaters, beach cottage owners and all other suspicious outsiders go back to the cities and leave them alone.
They are not bad people and are very patriotic. But here’s the ugly, ugly truth everyone keeps avoiding: it is still, and will remain, a bastion of white male power. They don’t have cultural diversity and they don’t want it.
It will not change their minds when Trump does not deliver on all that he promised EXCEPT to reverse everything that was accomplished by a black president. That will be sufficient. That white men stay in power IS the most important thing. The Trump campaign understood this.
I know how this sounds and I thought it might be better to not go so dark, but that would be disingenuous. I cannot offer a solution. I can only offer what I know to be true.
12
I don't distrust polls and pollsters. I distrust innumerate reporters who breathlessly cite the latest 1 point swing in a single poll with a 3 point margin-of-error as evidence a trend.
In the past, whether Huns into Rome or Genghis Khan into China, the invaders came from outside to turn out the "elite", burn the libraries, discard knowledge, and take the riches. With election of Trump some feel not only we have welcomed the philistines, they never had to invade, they are us.
Yes, I feel betrayed by an ignorant electorate, including Democrats who did not vote. One point is intriguing: "The strongest resistance should come from the white working class; they will soon find out that Trump will treat them the same way he treated the suckers who signed up for his fraudulent university." As a social scientist I've been examining the evangelical base by both visiting evangelical churches and talking to my evangelical neighbors, nice people mostly (I'm atheist). What they think, partly based on what their pastor's are telling them, is that to suffer in this world gets you a free pass to heaven. So, if you lose your Social Security, Medicare or private health care and your family goes bankrupt, you will go to heaven. It doesn't matter if the earth burns, you'll go to heaven. Many, many people who voted for Trump feel that way, not just angry white men who won't be happy when their lives actually get worse. Unfortunately, they have taken the majority of voters who disagreed down that terrible road with them.
So, you think the day will come when the marks and rubes realize that the pain of the hook is not worth the taste of the bait? When they will realize that the old pols the Trumpster will install in key positions and the same old folks they elected to many other offices large and small still treat them scornfully as "takers"? I'm not optimistic that day will soon dawn. I think they will still blame Obama or, I don't know, Nancy Pelosi. Everything bad that happened on St. Ronnie's watch got blamed on Carter, even years after the Peanut Man left office. A capable con man always has another card or lie up his sleeve, and we just elected a bunch of them.
When I learned the election outcome on Tuesday night, I had the same emotion that I experienced 30 years earlier in a hospital room where my mother was a patient; the physician entered and told us that she had terminal cancer.
Now, some thirty years later, CNN enters my living room and informs me and the world of the worst possible of news.
Now, some thirty years later, CNN enters my living room and informs me and the world of the worst possible of news.
2
The Republicans wrote the book on how lie, cheat, and steal to engineer a minority takeover of the US. Now Putin seems to have read it, bought himself a surrogate, and executed the Republican plan.
Step 1: move bigger, more dangerous alligators into the swamp.
Step 2: pass some legislative pablum to keep the opposition muted.
Step 3: begin the squeeze against viablle opposition minorities
Step 4: anything goes, except personal freedom or democracy.
That's the clear and present history of "conservative" rule.
Step 1: move bigger, more dangerous alligators into the swamp.
Step 2: pass some legislative pablum to keep the opposition muted.
Step 3: begin the squeeze against viablle opposition minorities
Step 4: anything goes, except personal freedom or democracy.
That's the clear and present history of "conservative" rule.
Black in the days before callers when we always answered our phones pollsters may have been able to get a more accurate prediction of the vote. Now their data is restricted to those willing to talk to any stranger and those who will fill out surveys online. I'm sure many of these people respond to questions about their presidential choices as they do to a survey on whether they prefer their fries with or without ketchup.
I must confess I'd given up on horoscopes but I think I'll take your advice, Timothy.
I must confess I'd given up on horoscopes but I think I'll take your advice, Timothy.
1
No, "the forgotten, the undereducated, the Rust Belt survivors" will see no renaissance. They've been duped. They voted for the ultimate con artist. Watch their howls of indignation when they realize they themselves have been conned.
1
At this point, I'm over it. Trump won and in 10 weeks he will be President. Not my guy but C in C nonetheless.
Now I'm an interested observer, curious to see what kind of "team" he puts together. Rudy, Newtie and Governor Traffic Cone aren't exactly inspiring choices and you have to wonder what the reception will be in the Senate when they start thinking about approving these birds for top jobs.
I heard on the news that there are something like 4,000 positions that Trump will need to fill when he's sworn in. So far, I have heard about 7 or 8 names for top positions but where will he find the others? From the Republican Party that he scorned and which, by and large, scorned him? My guess is that we will see a lot of Reagan/Bush1/Bush 2 retreads, who at least have some sense of how the government works.
Trump will find out quickly that being president is not like being the CEO of a family business. He will have a lot more limitations and competing interests that he will need to manage. My 2 cents- not much to be undone as he has promised.
Now I'm an interested observer, curious to see what kind of "team" he puts together. Rudy, Newtie and Governor Traffic Cone aren't exactly inspiring choices and you have to wonder what the reception will be in the Senate when they start thinking about approving these birds for top jobs.
I heard on the news that there are something like 4,000 positions that Trump will need to fill when he's sworn in. So far, I have heard about 7 or 8 names for top positions but where will he find the others? From the Republican Party that he scorned and which, by and large, scorned him? My guess is that we will see a lot of Reagan/Bush1/Bush 2 retreads, who at least have some sense of how the government works.
Trump will find out quickly that being president is not like being the CEO of a family business. He will have a lot more limitations and competing interests that he will need to manage. My 2 cents- not much to be undone as he has promised.
Several things. First, thank you T. Egan for an insightful piece. Second, I agree that the folks who put Trump in office will regret it. But, since our national consciousness has a lifespan of about two weeks, they won't remember that their lives were actually better pre-Trump. Then, lastly, I have to chuckle when I realize that the worlds two waning superpowers now have buffoons as leaders: Putin and Trump.
2
Can't wait until those former coal miners and citizens in rural area realize in their guts that they have been conned by the most insulting con artist in the world. Due to mechanization and cheaper gas and oil due to fracking and competition from failed one-crop economies of Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Iran, coal is as dead as whale oil.
The same story is evident in manufacturing. The value of America's manufacturing power still exceeds China. We sell jumbo jets while they sell shoes. How many shoes does China need to pay for one jet? Even in China, those jobs are disappearing. Foxconn, maker of the iPhone, replaced around 60,000 human factory workers with machines. https://www.engadget.com/2016/05/25/foxconn-replaces-60000-humans-worker.... Also we have the advent of 3D printing.
Now with Republicans in charge of Congress and the Presidency, deficits wouldn't matter as they give huge tax breaks to the 1% and pennies to the masses. To pacify those masses entitlements might not be touched. Remember even Bush increased entitlements with his drug plan which was a giveaway to the drug companies because they didn't have to compete on price.
Draining the swamp? Come on! Wake up! Lobbyists are even more empowered.
Yeah, deficits don't ever matter when the Repugs are in power.
Be prepared for another market crash within two years.
The same story is evident in manufacturing. The value of America's manufacturing power still exceeds China. We sell jumbo jets while they sell shoes. How many shoes does China need to pay for one jet? Even in China, those jobs are disappearing. Foxconn, maker of the iPhone, replaced around 60,000 human factory workers with machines. https://www.engadget.com/2016/05/25/foxconn-replaces-60000-humans-worker.... Also we have the advent of 3D printing.
Now with Republicans in charge of Congress and the Presidency, deficits wouldn't matter as they give huge tax breaks to the 1% and pennies to the masses. To pacify those masses entitlements might not be touched. Remember even Bush increased entitlements with his drug plan which was a giveaway to the drug companies because they didn't have to compete on price.
Draining the swamp? Come on! Wake up! Lobbyists are even more empowered.
Yeah, deficits don't ever matter when the Repugs are in power.
Be prepared for another market crash within two years.
2
Trump can put his money where his mouth is by first moving the manufacturing of all of his products back to the US; and, vow to purchase all steel/building materials for his construction industry in the US.
He can begin to calm the storm and unify the country by appointing some democrats to cabinet positions. All can happen now; he doesn't need to wait till January
Not holding my breath...
He can begin to calm the storm and unify the country by appointing some democrats to cabinet positions. All can happen now; he doesn't need to wait till January
Not holding my breath...
2
On this Veterans Day I realize that the remembrance of brothers lost in Vietnam and perhaps all previous wars have sacrificed for nothing. I will NEVER accept that idiot Trump as president of the USA. We will all pay dearly, I fear, for this national disgrace being elected, and the "no-information voters" who put him in the White House have much to answer for. As they will soon discover, when their own lives are shattered by the maladroit psychopath they just elected.
4
I can never forgive Trump for his shameful treatment of President Obama. He is nothing more than a bully and a braggart who has no class whatsoever. And I can never accept Melania who has only been an American citizen for 10 years, lied about having a college degree, plagiarized Michelle's speech, and posed for soft-porn nude photos which are on the Internet. This is a couple who have no right to live in America's White House. The photo of sons Donald Jr. and Eric smiling over the dead elephant and leopard that they killed still sickens me. I don't know how I'll get through the next four years. I hope everyone knows that Hillary Clinton won the popular vote, not Trump.
9
Polls failed this time around because a sizable portion of the electorate effectively terminated the conversation with Washington. They don't want more words. They have little interest in talking to pollsters. I'm not sure they even really want more elections going forward. They just want it to stop. Falling taxes will tell them this is happening.
I agree that the WWE-esque campaign promises offered up by Mr. Trump are bound to go begging. However, I'm not sure that will translate to disappointment among the people who elected him. They expect that things should be better, but not because government will make it so. Fox News--which is about the only thing that trickles down these days--has been there in every living room, bar, hotel lobby, barber shop, military base, and church (yes!) to help us understand how government cannot possibly help...and to offer up a predictable range of anti-hero anger puppets as blame receptacles.
Of course the blame receptacles are not actually connect to the reasons things are bad, and so there's no actual relief available there. Government can't help. Nowhere to go.
Trump's promises have huge entertainment value, not much cash value. People know that in the same way they know the red-dyed cocoa smeared all over the "Phenom" at the end of the night isn't really blood. It doesn't matter. They're not there for the truth...just for a little relief from the truth.
It feels good to pull the trigger. They just did.
I agree that the WWE-esque campaign promises offered up by Mr. Trump are bound to go begging. However, I'm not sure that will translate to disappointment among the people who elected him. They expect that things should be better, but not because government will make it so. Fox News--which is about the only thing that trickles down these days--has been there in every living room, bar, hotel lobby, barber shop, military base, and church (yes!) to help us understand how government cannot possibly help...and to offer up a predictable range of anti-hero anger puppets as blame receptacles.
Of course the blame receptacles are not actually connect to the reasons things are bad, and so there's no actual relief available there. Government can't help. Nowhere to go.
Trump's promises have huge entertainment value, not much cash value. People know that in the same way they know the red-dyed cocoa smeared all over the "Phenom" at the end of the night isn't really blood. It doesn't matter. They're not there for the truth...just for a little relief from the truth.
It feels good to pull the trigger. They just did.
The so-called white class also forgot when their factories were shipped abroad. This mega transfer of jobs began during the Bush/Cheney era. For example, in Syracuse, New York despite being given massive tax cuts Carrier and GE began moving their factories to China. The white working class just voted in a Trump supporter. The Republicans were never blamed for those massive job losses. And the reason is that the corporate democratic party failed to fight for those jobs and factories. I was not surprised at all by the outcome. It is time to transform the Democratic Party into the party of the 90% and fight to retake this country from the Republican alt-right -- who will enable the oligarchs to turn us into a dysfunctional third-rate country like Russia.
1
We must not normalize this hateful man. He is not fit to be President, and half of U.S. voters supporting him still doesn't make it so.
President Obama is far too gracious to the man who undermined him relentlessly. I cannot stomach them sitting together in the White House, as if they were equals. Forget about the intellectual side, this monster American voters have elected has no humanity other than for himself.
And Michelle Obama sitting with his 3rd wife - whose image of pasties covering her nipples was seen by the entire world! I have no words.
President Obama is far too gracious to the man who undermined him relentlessly. I cannot stomach them sitting together in the White House, as if they were equals. Forget about the intellectual side, this monster American voters have elected has no humanity other than for himself.
And Michelle Obama sitting with his 3rd wife - whose image of pasties covering her nipples was seen by the entire world! I have no words.
8
Here's the bigger problem.
Trump supporters never learn.
Republican voters never learn.
When Trump fails, and he will fail 'biggly', they will all accept the predictable excuses offered by Trump, Republican politicians, and their TV/Talk Radio gurus:
'Obama left such a mess that it's going to take generations to fix things'.
They will ignore all evidence to the contrary: the healthy job report numbers, stock market record highs, the return of housing valuation, all of which occurred on Obama's watch.
They never learn anything.
That's the real problem.
Trump supporters never learn.
Republican voters never learn.
When Trump fails, and he will fail 'biggly', they will all accept the predictable excuses offered by Trump, Republican politicians, and their TV/Talk Radio gurus:
'Obama left such a mess that it's going to take generations to fix things'.
They will ignore all evidence to the contrary: the healthy job report numbers, stock market record highs, the return of housing valuation, all of which occurred on Obama's watch.
They never learn anything.
That's the real problem.
2
Donald Trump will give tax breaks to the middle class for sure, about $200 each. And give his 1% class about $100,000 each while at it. And he will declare victory, just like GWB did when he famously donned a flight jacket on an aircraft carrier with a Mission Accomplished banner in the background.
And when Trump cuts services due to reduced revenue, he will charge the same middle class a "fee" of $200 each, in a new round of deficit-cutting program.
And his supporters will gladly thank him for being an unbelievable leader!
And when Trump cuts services due to reduced revenue, he will charge the same middle class a "fee" of $200 each, in a new round of deficit-cutting program.
And his supporters will gladly thank him for being an unbelievable leader!
"Same with the authoritarian plan to round up 11 million people, tearing families apart. He’ll be stopped by majority sentiment, appalled at a police state in neighborhoods."
He won't even get that far. He'll be stopped by the industries, especially meat producing industries like the poultry industry, which use cheap immigrant labor to improve their profits, before he even gets started.
He won't even get that far. He'll be stopped by the industries, especially meat producing industries like the poultry industry, which use cheap immigrant labor to improve their profits, before he even gets started.
1
We witnessed and survived the political assassinations of John, Kennedy, Robert Kennedy, Martin Luther King. We witnessed and survived a rampant secret police effort, CoIntelPro launched by the FBI to destroy the Black Panthers and leftist political groups (the same FBI that led a political coup against Hillary Clinton). In the end, it was the youth of this nation who helped to empower the Civil Rights Movement and the protests against the Vietnam War.
We are now witnessing a new and serious threats to our economy with massive tax cuts for the super-rich and a deregulated Wall Street, and to our civil rights as the extreme Right Wing led by the Orange President places a stranglehold on our democracy of unparalleled strength.
As in Britain after Brexit, the younger generation must realize that they have no future unless they fight for economic and social justice. Our greatest hope is the reawakening of the political force America's youth.
We are now witnessing a new and serious threats to our economy with massive tax cuts for the super-rich and a deregulated Wall Street, and to our civil rights as the extreme Right Wing led by the Orange President places a stranglehold on our democracy of unparalleled strength.
As in Britain after Brexit, the younger generation must realize that they have no future unless they fight for economic and social justice. Our greatest hope is the reawakening of the political force America's youth.
1
I have a request to Congress and Trump. Can they enact a law that allows people to choose which states their tax dollars go to? If Trump's economic plans fail or at least do not produce the well paid blue collar jobs he promised, I would like my tax dollars to only go to states that deserve it. Why should my hard earned money go to states which consistently vote against their interests, denounce the federal government yet constantly hold their hands out looking for more entitlements (while bashing the idea of entitlements)? They should start practicing what they preach and pick themselves up from the bootstraps. Sadly I have lost all sympathy.
2
Mr. Trump seems to have a much better grasp of reality than Mr. Egan. Just for example, the white working class is not going to turn on Mr. Trump when he doesn't make their lives better. Mr. Trump has known that all along. He's their strong leader with simple solutions, no messy trade offs. The weak - not not necessarily dumb - folks in that class have their self identities fully invested in Trump. As long as he gives them promises and "others" to blame, they're his.
3
You are right. Trump will blame his failures on Obama, the Clintons, the "politically correct," and whatever other scapegoats his supporters will accept. And they will accept the scapegoats.
Not so fast. Sheriff Aripo kept it up for 24 years, and even after the judge told him to knock it off, he kept on for two more years. I'm not comforted by the fact that my grandkids might be able to see light at the end of this decades-long tunnel.
This began in the 1980's with Reagan destroying Fairness in Broadcasting. We are still reaping the whirlwind now, and it will be much worse for women, the poor and disabled, and minorities, regardless of the changes, eventually, brought to their descendants. Personally, I intend to resist to the last fiber of my being.
This began in the 1980's with Reagan destroying Fairness in Broadcasting. We are still reaping the whirlwind now, and it will be much worse for women, the poor and disabled, and minorities, regardless of the changes, eventually, brought to their descendants. Personally, I intend to resist to the last fiber of my being.
2
No, steel mills won't be returning to Rust Belt towns. They're already returning to other parts of the USA with right-to-work laws, weak environmental and worker's comp protections, and state subsidies. There are two spanking new Nucor steel mills in Blytheville, AR, for example, which also has the advantage of being on the Mississippi River for economical year-around transportation. It's odd that such obvious facts are unmentioned in the national conversation.
Given that Hillary Clinton was intent on a war with Putin's Russia, and Trump has long opposed it, I think your chosen candidate was no less dangerous than he, maybe even more so. I view Trump as a dark overhanging cloud, but Hillary's demise is a silver lining. The same would have been true had the roles been reversed. We'd be screwed with either one of them, but with luck, the Democratic Party can soon reconstitute itself as a genuine party of working people rather than a bankers and big business party that offers lip service to minorities.
22
A war with Putin? Good lord. What a simplistic response to Hillary Clinton's measured and steady stance on Russia and its overlord. Simply put, Putin is a despot. He very much wanted Mr. Trump to win the Presidency...and anyone who has read anything about Russia will understand that Putin is a man who does not suffer fools and who has all the traits of a tyrant. He has stolen hundreds of millions of dollars from his people, who live, more and more, in an abject poverty that makes the poverty stricken areas in our nation seem luxurious. Many Russians lack basic necessities, reliable electricity or clean, hot water. Despair and alcoholism are rampant; yet, like many Trump supporters, many Russians celebrate this former KGB man who is systematically bringing his country further back into the dark ages. Putin wanted Trump as his puppet; he knew Mrs. Clinton was aware of his transgressions and has a spine made of steel. She would not tolerate his alliances with dictators like Assad, nor his calculated steps into Crimea and beyond. Read some history and current books and articles and you will see!
1
How would we have been "screwed" with a former Senator, Secretary of State, White House resident, and lawyer with decades of experience and RECENT knowledge of world affairs she had a hand in dealing with? You can't be serious.
"Intent on a war with Putin's Russia"? Please. The thing that people don't get about foreign policy is that deterrence doesn't work without a credible threat. Hillary understood this. If you announce you have no intention of ever using force to protect your interests, people will believe you and they will walk all over you. If you announce that you are willing to use force and people believe what you say, 90% of your work is done without having to lift a finger. We are far less secure with someone at the head of our country who does not understand this.
I don't know that the economic exiles who voted for Trump will ever get it. They call for personal accountability in entitlements, but they fail to take responsibility for their own failure to adapt. Trump will blame someone else when his policies fail. (Likely the media). And they will, too.
2
I wish I shared the author's optimism, if that's what you call it, that white working-class voters will realize they've been betrayed once Trump betrays them (as he will). What this election has proved is that Trump's support is invulnerable to correction by reality. If the factories don't return to the heartland and the wall doesn't get built, scapegoats will be found and they won't be Trump. After all, he's a winner and never loses.
If the wall doesn't get built, it is more likely that the US will invade Mexico than that Trump supporters will hold him responsible.
If the wall doesn't get built, it is more likely that the US will invade Mexico than that Trump supporters will hold him responsible.
Call me Pollyanna. I think (probably more hope than think, but still ...) that Trump may be quite a surprise, and not altogether a pleasant one, for the eager GOP legislators who are poised to pounce.
The ACA will be a good first test. Eliminate access to health insurance for 20 million people, a great number of whom are poor and need it desperately? Really? Maybe we can figure out a better approach.
And, hey, I'm starting to learn a lot more (editor's note: anything is more than nothing) about the evidence for climate change and global warning. Let's explore this issue more carefully.
I'm sure I'm unduly swayed by Trump's cordial and respectful interaction with President Obama, but hey, I have to have some sort of coping mechanism, so cut me some slack here! :-)
The ACA will be a good first test. Eliminate access to health insurance for 20 million people, a great number of whom are poor and need it desperately? Really? Maybe we can figure out a better approach.
And, hey, I'm starting to learn a lot more (editor's note: anything is more than nothing) about the evidence for climate change and global warning. Let's explore this issue more carefully.
I'm sure I'm unduly swayed by Trump's cordial and respectful interaction with President Obama, but hey, I have to have some sort of coping mechanism, so cut me some slack here! :-)
1
I've come to the conclusion that those of us who are horrified at the results are the delusional ones. Many people who voted for Trump have the awareness of your second grade class, they just don't pay attention and have no desire to.
1
And that collective arrogance on your party's part is the chief reason your candidate lost. She snubbed the deplorables, and they hated her. Still do.
Well Tim,
This was an eloquent and well crafted piece. My thoughts exactly. What continues to astound me is the ability of the right (and now the alt-right) to restructure the argument and create a fake reality that they can sell so easily to the average American. Much of the thoughtful commentary following this debacle has centered on our history of just needing change. Obama was a change from 8 years of Bush, etc. Rarely has a party held the presidency after two terms. So, if you are unhappy, the first time someone says "throw the bums out" you just jump on board.
And that is the depth of thinking that the average American seems to have. This is more than a failure of democracy. It is the failure of a species that is gifted with an amazing brain and is too lazy to use it. This flaw may simply hasten our extinction.... which we know will happen. All nations eventually crumble. All. All species eventually are replaced by others. All. It's really that bad. Where's my tequila....
This was an eloquent and well crafted piece. My thoughts exactly. What continues to astound me is the ability of the right (and now the alt-right) to restructure the argument and create a fake reality that they can sell so easily to the average American. Much of the thoughtful commentary following this debacle has centered on our history of just needing change. Obama was a change from 8 years of Bush, etc. Rarely has a party held the presidency after two terms. So, if you are unhappy, the first time someone says "throw the bums out" you just jump on board.
And that is the depth of thinking that the average American seems to have. This is more than a failure of democracy. It is the failure of a species that is gifted with an amazing brain and is too lazy to use it. This flaw may simply hasten our extinction.... which we know will happen. All nations eventually crumble. All. All species eventually are replaced by others. All. It's really that bad. Where's my tequila....
3
The thing about polls, people lie. They especially lie when they are aware that telling the truth will be humiliating. Many of the people who voted against their own economic interest are not yet aware they have done so. Interestingly they may very well be aware that they lied to pollsters but won't entertain the notion that Mr. Trump was lying to them.
2
I live in the rural America Egan describes. I look around every morning now on the ride in to work and cannot, for the life of me, believe that so many of my Upstate neighbors really believe this man cares a rat's patootie about them, or that "jobs will come back" along the Erie Canal corridor, the veritable spine of the Rust Belt. It is mass delusion.
2
And try to take your country back. Remember the mid-terms? Those boring elections that many stay home for? We have a Republican Senator up for election in the mid-terms. I will be working hard to see him defeated. My expectation is that Trump won't be as popular and that Congress, now that they have free rein, will have floated some pretty awful legislation. I trust he'll be ripe for the picking.
I have never understood how the common man can vote for the republican party. It is like voting for your oppressors in my opinion. It's like, here is a stick, please beat me with it. Republicans focus on big money and big corporations and go out of their way to curtail labour as well as any programs (including healthcare) that detract from profit.
1
"When steel mills fail to return to Youngstown, or when new trade deals produce no more magic than the old ones, these economic exiles will wonder how they got betrayed."
The Reagan (now Trump Democrats) have been betrayed by the GOP since, well, Reagan, when the steel mills started to disappear. But they have learned nothing except to respond obediently like Pavlovian dogs to ever more blatant xenophobic and racist dog whistles. Good luck with rallying the white working class!
The Reagan (now Trump Democrats) have been betrayed by the GOP since, well, Reagan, when the steel mills started to disappear. But they have learned nothing except to respond obediently like Pavlovian dogs to ever more blatant xenophobic and racist dog whistles. Good luck with rallying the white working class!
I agree with the writer, this does feel like the day they announced Kennedy had been shot. It did have a profound effect on many people,, me included.
But our society labored on. There were many great things that happened after that tragedy to move our society forward. I'm afraid this event, the election of Trump, will move our society and the world backward, except for the forces of darkness.
How dark will it get, just be prepared and hope that people like Bernie Sanders and/or Elizabeth Warren can form a force for good to counteract what is to come.
But our society labored on. There were many great things that happened after that tragedy to move our society forward. I'm afraid this event, the election of Trump, will move our society and the world backward, except for the forces of darkness.
How dark will it get, just be prepared and hope that people like Bernie Sanders and/or Elizabeth Warren can form a force for good to counteract what is to come.
We haave been truly traumatized. I had a dream where the prow of my Prius had one of those statuettes you see on ships. It was bent and a bunch of college students were trying to fix it. I told them the results of this election is cataclysmic. I am still walking around feeling I am walking on unfamiliar ground. I would like at least a march on Washington just to have the chance to feel one of many in protest.
What I can't understand how is it possible for a man to become president of our country when he currently has 74-75 active law suits against him, Trump Univ. only being some of them. Aren't voters aware of this big stumbling block? If I read about it others must have also read about it. Shouldn't this be reason for rejecting his presidency?
In the recent News Week there was an expose about Trump and his crooked deals as well as his connections to the Russians. Am I the only person to read these news items? I don't see any references to them in the comments.
In the recent News Week there was an expose about Trump and his crooked deals as well as his connections to the Russians. Am I the only person to read these news items? I don't see any references to them in the comments.
But it matters not to you that Hillary lied to Congress?
Let's all hope Mr. Egan's predictions miss the mark. But many of us have seen the writing on the wall for some time now. We weathered Ronald Reagan and Bush/Cheney after all. The "rain belt" voted overwhelmingly in the primaries for the best candidate. We appeared on track to electing a viable counter punch to Donald Trump until the corrupt California primary system stole the election for the establishment candidate. History will bear this out.
Democrats have proposed and pushed re-training the workforce into new industries. That talk neglected to inform the rust belt populace that the old manufacturing jobs would not be coming back, due to advances in technology.
Domestic production of oil and gas was opened up by President Obama only to create a glut in the market. The same will happen with coal. They can promise to produce more coal, but the market for it will never be what it once was.
The clown car of GOP rejects from elections past will soon pull up to the White House to further raid the middle class of what it has lost.
Domestic production of oil and gas was opened up by President Obama only to create a glut in the market. The same will happen with coal. They can promise to produce more coal, but the market for it will never be what it once was.
The clown car of GOP rejects from elections past will soon pull up to the White House to further raid the middle class of what it has lost.
While President elect Trump is not a career politician, he ultimately is sewn in their cloth. And like a career politician, he said anything to get elected. Now we can see that the wall will not go up, Muslims will not be banned, and the "swamp" that he promised to drain is going to run the oval office. The country will see that their voted change will not materialize under his presidency.
And when this realization comes forth for all the right wing and working class whites who supported him (and it may be soon), the left should not have an "I told you so" moment. And they should not push a reactionary and partisan agenda. Instead, I hope they reach out with open arms and a progressive plan for improving our lives, with infrastructure, jobs, healthcare and education. That type of agenda would be the true change that so many of us desire
And when this realization comes forth for all the right wing and working class whites who supported him (and it may be soon), the left should not have an "I told you so" moment. And they should not push a reactionary and partisan agenda. Instead, I hope they reach out with open arms and a progressive plan for improving our lives, with infrastructure, jobs, healthcare and education. That type of agenda would be the true change that so many of us desire
The working class were betrayed the same way everybody who has done business with Trump has been betrayed. In business, he comes to new investors and contractors with YUGE promises of greatness to come. After they've invested money or labor and he has what he wants, he turns his back on them. He doesn't pay contractors and laborers (or greatly underpays them). He uses creative debt accumulation and bankruptcies to drain his investors and walks away with all their money. He sues or gets sued (over 3,400 suits filed to date), but always settles for pennies on the dollar. It's very expensive for a worker or small company to sue a rich man, and he usually bludgeons them with the threat of major legal fees to collect money he owes them.
In this election, he has used exactly the same tactics to scam both money and votes from the beleagured working class. He no longer needs them, so they are going to find all his promises to them mean less than a bucket of warm spit.
In this election, he has used exactly the same tactics to scam both money and votes from the beleagured working class. He no longer needs them, so they are going to find all his promises to them mean less than a bucket of warm spit.
2
"When steel mills fail to return to Youngstown, or when new trade deals produce no more magic than the old ones, these economic exiles will wonder how they got betrayed."
And they will be told by a fascist dictator what fascist dictators always say to deflect blame: I wanted to keep my promises, to give you everything you deserve, but Those People, he will say, pointing to people of color, different religions, ethnicity, genders - they stopped me, stood in our way, betrayed our country and must be dealt with first.
And dealt with they will be. The shirts might be gold (or white), not brown but we will know them for what they are.
Democratic politicians - wake up! There's a name for "cordial meetings" and "keeping an open mind" with people determined to destroy the very foundations of a country, and that name is Collaboration. You no longer have the option of business (or politics) as usual. This is war.
Resist. No Collaboration. No Vichy.
And they will be told by a fascist dictator what fascist dictators always say to deflect blame: I wanted to keep my promises, to give you everything you deserve, but Those People, he will say, pointing to people of color, different religions, ethnicity, genders - they stopped me, stood in our way, betrayed our country and must be dealt with first.
And dealt with they will be. The shirts might be gold (or white), not brown but we will know them for what they are.
Democratic politicians - wake up! There's a name for "cordial meetings" and "keeping an open mind" with people determined to destroy the very foundations of a country, and that name is Collaboration. You no longer have the option of business (or politics) as usual. This is war.
Resist. No Collaboration. No Vichy.
1
I fear that the horrors described by Mr. Egan will not have time to occur.
Donald Trump does not understand what the "nuclear triad" refers to. I knew that in college.
This level of ignorance, coupled with equally profound flippancy and disinterest in learning anything, in the man holding the nuclear codes will make Mr. Trump
a threat to all of our lives, and the lives of our children and grandchildren, every day beginning January 20.
Donald Trump does not understand what the "nuclear triad" refers to. I knew that in college.
This level of ignorance, coupled with equally profound flippancy and disinterest in learning anything, in the man holding the nuclear codes will make Mr. Trump
a threat to all of our lives, and the lives of our children and grandchildren, every day beginning January 20.
1
The day after Trump is inaugurated, the news outlets and should start counting the days (similar to the Iranian hostage situation during President Carter's tenure), as to when "Trump's Wall" will be completed as well as hold him accountable for the cost.
The media should also hold him and the Congress accountable for the consequences of repealing the Affordable Care Act.
The media should also hold him and the Congress accountable for the consequences of repealing the Affordable Care Act.
1
Can we dispel the myth of Trump supporters as uneducated?
Yes, many conservative voters do not have desk jobs like loyal NYT readers, but I can bet that most NYT readers do not realize the skills or technology knowhow needed to perform formerly "blue collar" work in this century. I would love to see the bewildered look on any NYT Op/Ed columnist when confronted with a machine used by car mechanics for engine diagnostics. Or how about a NYT reader deciphering the knowledge (fertilizer and crop rotation, entomology, feed specifications, commodity futures information) needed to work on most large American farms these days. Differing in political opinion, yes, but not "uneducated". People west of the Hudson River do have brains, even if they don't support or have any desire to be part of the D.C.-NYC-Chicago-LA "blue" high taxes regions and echo chamber.
Besides, Trump received half the votes of all college educated people in the country. Are they uneducated too?
The real scary individuals to me are those people advocating a change to pure popular voting. I would advise those people to do some reading on the formation of the Constitution, the safety for minorities (races and opinions) with bicameral legislatures and the Electoral College, and the historical protections that our republic has provided for political inclusion. Switching to a true "winner take all" vote for President is an easy path to true demagoguery. Our institutions protect us all from mob rule.
Yes, many conservative voters do not have desk jobs like loyal NYT readers, but I can bet that most NYT readers do not realize the skills or technology knowhow needed to perform formerly "blue collar" work in this century. I would love to see the bewildered look on any NYT Op/Ed columnist when confronted with a machine used by car mechanics for engine diagnostics. Or how about a NYT reader deciphering the knowledge (fertilizer and crop rotation, entomology, feed specifications, commodity futures information) needed to work on most large American farms these days. Differing in political opinion, yes, but not "uneducated". People west of the Hudson River do have brains, even if they don't support or have any desire to be part of the D.C.-NYC-Chicago-LA "blue" high taxes regions and echo chamber.
Besides, Trump received half the votes of all college educated people in the country. Are they uneducated too?
The real scary individuals to me are those people advocating a change to pure popular voting. I would advise those people to do some reading on the formation of the Constitution, the safety for minorities (races and opinions) with bicameral legislatures and the Electoral College, and the historical protections that our republic has provided for political inclusion. Switching to a true "winner take all" vote for President is an easy path to true demagoguery. Our institutions protect us all from mob rule.
6
James, most of what you write is inaccurate.
Trump did not receive half the votes of all college-educated people. Exit polls (the standard one conducted by Edison Research this year) show college grads broke for Clinton 52-43. This is easily verifiable on NYT.
Regarding your first paragraph - no one said that uneducated means unskilled. Amount of education is simply the best objective proxy for the amount of quality information a voter has sought and digested. So when people complain about Trump voters being uneducated, they really mean (fairly or unfairly) they are under- or mis-informed on politics and policy matters.
(Also, modern agriculture is hardly a blue-collar profession, and no well-informed person would assert as much. Around 30-35% of modern farm operators have degrees, on par with the population at large.)
Your final paragraph confuses voting for elected officials and voting on legislation. Yes, the benefits of a republic when voting on legislation are well known, but those benefits are not relevant to voting for elected officials. The EC was necessary 200+ years ago when the states were suspicious of one another and citizens didn't have reliable ways of getting information. That is no longer the case. Again, you don't have to go far to inform yourself.
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/11/11/us/politics/the-electoral-college-is-h...
Trump did not receive half the votes of all college-educated people. Exit polls (the standard one conducted by Edison Research this year) show college grads broke for Clinton 52-43. This is easily verifiable on NYT.
Regarding your first paragraph - no one said that uneducated means unskilled. Amount of education is simply the best objective proxy for the amount of quality information a voter has sought and digested. So when people complain about Trump voters being uneducated, they really mean (fairly or unfairly) they are under- or mis-informed on politics and policy matters.
(Also, modern agriculture is hardly a blue-collar profession, and no well-informed person would assert as much. Around 30-35% of modern farm operators have degrees, on par with the population at large.)
Your final paragraph confuses voting for elected officials and voting on legislation. Yes, the benefits of a republic when voting on legislation are well known, but those benefits are not relevant to voting for elected officials. The EC was necessary 200+ years ago when the states were suspicious of one another and citizens didn't have reliable ways of getting information. That is no longer the case. Again, you don't have to go far to inform yourself.
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/11/11/us/politics/the-electoral-college-is-h...
No James, we can't dispel a "myth" that's true. Exit poll data from the independent Pew Research Center tell a very different story than yours. Yes, about half of college educated whites voted for Trump - 49% according to Pew, just 4% more than for Clinton. A draw. Yet 67% of whites *without* a degree voted Trump; a HUGE gap. To quote Pew, "Trump’s margin among whites without a college degree is the largest among any candidate in exit polls since 1980".
Are all folks the rust & bible belts undereducated? Of course not. But it's undeniable that a large margin of non-degreed, Christian, rural white people are angry and turned out in droves for Trump, turning the Electoral College in his favor.
Check it out for yourself. http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2016/11/09/behind-trumps-victory-di...
BTW, the "Founding Fathers" created the Electoral College to: 1) protect the union from an uneducated populace that might elect someone dangerous and/or incompetent, and 2) act as a compromise with southern states to count slaves as 3/5 a person. Remember the 3/5 compromise? The Electoral College had nothing to do with "inclusion" as you suggest; shamefully, it's just the opposite.
An uneducated populace IS part of the problem. To quote Thomas Jefferson, "An educated citizenry is a vital requisite for our survival as a free people". That James, is why it's dangerous to dismiss undereducated, angry white voters in this election as a "myth".
Are all folks the rust & bible belts undereducated? Of course not. But it's undeniable that a large margin of non-degreed, Christian, rural white people are angry and turned out in droves for Trump, turning the Electoral College in his favor.
Check it out for yourself. http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2016/11/09/behind-trumps-victory-di...
BTW, the "Founding Fathers" created the Electoral College to: 1) protect the union from an uneducated populace that might elect someone dangerous and/or incompetent, and 2) act as a compromise with southern states to count slaves as 3/5 a person. Remember the 3/5 compromise? The Electoral College had nothing to do with "inclusion" as you suggest; shamefully, it's just the opposite.
An uneducated populace IS part of the problem. To quote Thomas Jefferson, "An educated citizenry is a vital requisite for our survival as a free people". That James, is why it's dangerous to dismiss undereducated, angry white voters in this election as a "myth".
1
I fail to see your point. Every Presidential election in the past 60 years was won +/- 5% with most won +/-2% (including the one in 2016).
That is not much of a swing. I think your fears are overdone. The bigger danger is the inability of the U.S. to do ANYTHING of consequence. We have been stuck here for almost 20 years. How much longer can we be "stuck"?
I look at other countries and they somehow manage to run their countries with a much greater degree of rationality. They have parliamentary systems with multiple political parties. They somehow make it work despite the back and forth.
That is not much of a swing. I think your fears are overdone. The bigger danger is the inability of the U.S. to do ANYTHING of consequence. We have been stuck here for almost 20 years. How much longer can we be "stuck"?
I look at other countries and they somehow manage to run their countries with a much greater degree of rationality. They have parliamentary systems with multiple political parties. They somehow make it work despite the back and forth.
The folks who voted Herr Trump in, and whose economic expectations will not be fulfilled by him, will not blame him. He and his Republican minions are masters of getting people to misconstrue their own interests, and of blaming others for... everything -- and being believed by their fan base, no matter what.
Unless we get past the fact-free narratives of recent years (where even fact-checking changes no one's mind), we've totally severed the link between actions and their consequences, in favor of who can cook up the best narrative kool-aid for the subjects of Barnham the King to drink.
Unless we get past the fact-free narratives of recent years (where even fact-checking changes no one's mind), we've totally severed the link between actions and their consequences, in favor of who can cook up the best narrative kool-aid for the subjects of Barnham the King to drink.
8
We have just witnessed the death of logic.
The consent of the governed has just been exercised and relinquished all in the same stroke.
Just as when there has been a large restructuring at work, the next step is that we will all start to suspect each other because no one will be able to trust the relationships those people have with the new powers. That is the granularity of the power of the new authority.
The consent of the governed has just been exercised and relinquished all in the same stroke.
Just as when there has been a large restructuring at work, the next step is that we will all start to suspect each other because no one will be able to trust the relationships those people have with the new powers. That is the granularity of the power of the new authority.
2
Don't forget that one of Paul Ryan's fondest hopes is to cut back both Medicare and Social Security. Now that there is no longer a thinking President, those elements of "change" that Trump's voters didn't consider will return again. The much talked about, and needed, infrastructure improvement needs to be offset by cuts somewhere. Don't forget, Republicans can't allow deficit spending, so social programs have to go.
7
Another piece on how bad our President elect is going to be, so get ready to fight back, smart people. Won't mean much to people today that Eve and Adam ate the smart fruit and lost paradise. Governance reached down in a meaningful way to the blissfully ignorant when they found out that boys who like to think of themselves as girls could insist on access to the girls room. Within their frame of reference that is nuts. All they needed to endorse a man who thinks its great to work for a fortune and have a beautiful wife.
1
This is surreal. The majority in this country has lost the privilege that democracy is supposed to afford: decide policies. Thank you for this article. You summarized all the ills that will come from Trump and its allies. The intellectually limited, ignorant and emotional crowd that voted for Trump will never understand the damage that they are inflicting on themselves and on others. I am afraid that the evolution of the human species reached a dead end.
7
"When steel mills fail to return, the white working class will wonder how it got betrayed."
I blame bad government (Republicans and Democrats) and corporate greed for not doing more for these people. Many of them have no other skills and in these poverty areas nothing is being done to help them re-align with modern times.
Steel mills are not coming back, neither is coal, neither is the milkman, but there are other opportunities for them only if there was a fast track re-education path in technology and medicine for example.
I blame bad government (Republicans and Democrats) and corporate greed for not doing more for these people. Many of them have no other skills and in these poverty areas nothing is being done to help them re-align with modern times.
Steel mills are not coming back, neither is coal, neither is the milkman, but there are other opportunities for them only if there was a fast track re-education path in technology and medicine for example.
2
Re-education as in job training for new-fangled jobs isn't going to work. There aren't enough jobs. They reason is simple - the kind of useful tasks that we need don't pay properly. The kind of work we used to do is now done by robots. MD's do their own typing while they talk to the patient. Assembly lines are run by a few technicians who oil the machinery. But child care, counseling, teaching, community programs, you name it, all are underpaid or volunteer. We need a new set of priorities to pay for useful work, and less brokers, insurance salesmen, and pitchmen.
1
Stop... for the love of our country, just stop.
Media, celebrities, dems, etc. have been the ones blowing this story up -- pushing this agenda. I voted for Trump (and am an independent) -- i am not a racist, a bigot, a womanizer, a deplorable and neither are 60 million Americans who also voted for him.
Stop convincing yourselves the wheels are coming off the bus. Get a grip.
Please pay attention to the economic policies he wants to put in place -- that's what the heartland of America voted for. Because your candidate could not offer any policy vision for the future of America other than a "happy place for all", they had to resort to smoke and mirrors and parlor games of distractions. This is not about race, gender, social injustice, etc. This is about jobs, feeling pride again about our growth and standing in the world and more importantly a fair chance to improve our economic status in life.
Stop the emasculation. It's beneath you.
Media, celebrities, dems, etc. have been the ones blowing this story up -- pushing this agenda. I voted for Trump (and am an independent) -- i am not a racist, a bigot, a womanizer, a deplorable and neither are 60 million Americans who also voted for him.
Stop convincing yourselves the wheels are coming off the bus. Get a grip.
Please pay attention to the economic policies he wants to put in place -- that's what the heartland of America voted for. Because your candidate could not offer any policy vision for the future of America other than a "happy place for all", they had to resort to smoke and mirrors and parlor games of distractions. This is not about race, gender, social injustice, etc. This is about jobs, feeling pride again about our growth and standing in the world and more importantly a fair chance to improve our economic status in life.
Stop the emasculation. It's beneath you.
Some Trump supporters argue this: the man's policies will outweigh his character failings.
But it doesn't work that way. With the president you cannot separate the man from the policies. They are intertwined.
Many American believe, with substantial cause, the nation has elected a man dangerously unqualified to be president.
They won't be thrown off by such weak and lame reasoning like what we read here.
But it doesn't work that way. With the president you cannot separate the man from the policies. They are intertwined.
Many American believe, with substantial cause, the nation has elected a man dangerously unqualified to be president.
They won't be thrown off by such weak and lame reasoning like what we read here.
Wish I could be as optimistic as you.
Tim E, Indeed the entire working class and much of the white collar workers will be the least of Trump's priorities. He will be concerned with the banks, Wall St. and large corporations in general, environmental deregulation, stripping voting rights where possible.
The Trump voters are in for the shock of their political lives.
And, it's gonna get creepy. Right now Trump is on a charm offensive, all sweet talk. But! We have already seen him break out with an insane tweet regarding 'paid protesters'. ?? 'Enemies list' here we come.
The Trump voters are in for the shock of their political lives.
And, it's gonna get creepy. Right now Trump is on a charm offensive, all sweet talk. But! We have already seen him break out with an insane tweet regarding 'paid protesters'. ?? 'Enemies list' here we come.
6
"The strongest resistance should come from the white working class; they will soon find out that Trump will treat them the same way he treated the suckers who signed up for his fraudulent university." Doubtful. They will be told--and they will believe--that the failure of an industrial renaissance in this country--is Obama's fault.
9
The policies you're describing have been those of the Republican party for decades. The election was never about Donald Trump, any of the other Republicans would have been worse for the "the forgotten, the undereducated, the Rust Belt survivors." The election has always been about "us" vs. "them." The only thing that was important was that "us" won, and nothing will change because change is exactly what they were voting against.
2
You wrote of the 'durable strength of the Constitution". That 240 year old document is precisely the reason that, despite winning a majority of the votes cast, neither Gore nor Clinton was elected President.
What we need, before 2020, is a constitutional convention. We don't need the electoral college. Or filibusters. Or Supreme Court Justices serving for life.
We need to consider a new working set of rules that is relevant to our time.
I intend to spend my remaining time on earth trying to get this done.
What we need, before 2020, is a constitutional convention. We don't need the electoral college. Or filibusters. Or Supreme Court Justices serving for life.
We need to consider a new working set of rules that is relevant to our time.
I intend to spend my remaining time on earth trying to get this done.
9
We need reform, but we need to pick our battles. The electoral college does not require a Constitutional convention. It needs a state by state effort to overturn it. We need to get congress to overturn the 1918 law that limited the house to 435 members, which renders that body one that is not "representative" of the population. And yet nobody in the media or in politics talks about raising this ceiling. We need to get an auto-recount system set up in close states-- beginning with this election. Voter suppression must be addressed, challenged and fought. I am with you-- we need change.
The "white working class" is going to get what they deserve for supporting Donald Trump and leaving Republicans in charge of Congress. Trump is capable of nothing more than slogans and made-for-TV bluster, and maybe a war here or there. He has no more idea how to reinvigorate the blue-collar economy than he does how to get Mexico to pay for the wall. And the Republicans, now that they've been given complete control, will finish their long crusade to give corporations and the wealthy dominion over all workers, no matter what color their collars. The only question is who the betrayed white working class will blame once they figure this out--the real culprits or the same scapegoats Trump and his ilk keep pointing the finger at.
13
Hopefully the Democrats will be able to at least elect Governors who will halt "Right to Work Laws" that Republicans are so fond of.
Absolutely right, I think--especially the last sentence.
While there are a few little sparks of optimism, like the gun safety laws passed out west, there is little else to cheer. And even that could be fleeting since we have seen NRA influence the Congress before to issue national laws that trump (there's that word again) and invalidate state and local weapons ordinances. And even if the most "moderate" version possible of Trump shows up the damage will be in the generational time frame, not just his current term. And that's if we are lucky and he doesn't make a colossal existential blunder along our slow way to ruin.
1
I hope that The New York Times and other media outlets whose owners and managers love their country are gearing up to fully and accurately report on the actions of a Trump administration. We have seen the barrage of lies Mr Trump employed throughout his campaign -- lies that overwhelmed his opposition and allowed his supporters to move in an alternate realty. I fear that if that state of affairs is allowed to continue, resistance will be futile.
20
I was applauded when the news media never challenged Trump on his endless lies.
2
With no levers of power at all, neither Congress, nor Executive, nor Supreme Court, the half of voters that did not vote for Trump now are faced with a decades long struggle to make obvious to the other half of voters what they have wrought, and gradually persuade them to join a grass-roots campaign of protest to pry power out of the hands of the Trump (Pence)-McConnell-Ryan Oligarchy. It will be decades.
7
No mention of how Trump will continue to tame the Media into submission. Even if he does have briefings, do you think his Press Secty will bother answering tough questions? The fact that his family will continue to run their business ( which no one really knows the details of) is unprecedented & a question that can be asked before he takes office but is not.
5
So many people use cell phones now that when pollsters called using land lines, they missed the entire demographic of cell phone users. That may have something to do with why the media felt blindsided by the election results.
3
Between their possible loss of health care and the almost-certain reduction of many of the federal benefits like SNAP that sustain them, many of his supporters are in for a rude awakening. We simply can't compete with countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh, even with our paltry minimum wages, and relocating many industries here would result in dangerous inflation and high-priced goods the struggling among us wouldn't be able to afford.
7
Trump and his followers are ignorant of history, are non-readers, and they gleefully refuse to sort fact from fiction.
The lesson of history is that those who have absorbed the lesson of history must all too often suffer the consequences flowing from the decisions and actions of those who have not.
How can any group of voters forget the Cheney-Bush years and ignore the negative consequences of Cheney-Bush decisions and actions? After those catastrophic consequences, how could any voter ever support a presidential candidate even less qualified than was Bush? How could they vote to hand virtually unchecked power over to the Republican politicians--over to those masters of pro-Plutocratic distraction and obstructive dysfunction?
How could the suffering members of the white working class possibly believe that a Plutocrat in Chief, backed by a pro-plutocratic majority of Republicans in Congress, would work to alleviate that suffering in any major way?
How could they--unless they are suicidal?
The lesson of history is that those who have absorbed the lesson of history must all too often suffer the consequences flowing from the decisions and actions of those who have not.
How can any group of voters forget the Cheney-Bush years and ignore the negative consequences of Cheney-Bush decisions and actions? After those catastrophic consequences, how could any voter ever support a presidential candidate even less qualified than was Bush? How could they vote to hand virtually unchecked power over to the Republican politicians--over to those masters of pro-Plutocratic distraction and obstructive dysfunction?
How could the suffering members of the white working class possibly believe that a Plutocrat in Chief, backed by a pro-plutocratic majority of Republicans in Congress, would work to alleviate that suffering in any major way?
How could they--unless they are suicidal?
16
The white working class were betrayed because they listened to and believed a stream of hyperbolic words. In the debates Donald Trump accused Hilary Clinton for "words, words, words and no action". His voters will painfully find out that empty words are what he himself excels in. Even if he actually manages to implement something he has promised, there will be far more broken promises left behind.
The poor people that believed him when he so often said "believe me" after another obvious lie or exaggeration are probably the same that believe that the reason that the Soviet block and the Iron Curtain collapsed was because President Reagan said "Mr Gorbatjev, tear down that wall!".
The poor people that believed him when he so often said "believe me" after another obvious lie or exaggeration are probably the same that believe that the reason that the Soviet block and the Iron Curtain collapsed was because President Reagan said "Mr Gorbatjev, tear down that wall!".
3
Red counties in Lincoln land went for Trump over Clinton with margins as high as 4 to 1. Very close to the poll numbers in Russia -- authoritarian territory.
The irony of this is that once the US was rife with paranoia about commies infiltrating the US. Now, not so much as a whimper when Putin is aligned with the right and the terrorist "others" and cosmopolitan elites are in the sights.
The irony of this is that once the US was rife with paranoia about commies infiltrating the US. Now, not so much as a whimper when Putin is aligned with the right and the terrorist "others" and cosmopolitan elites are in the sights.
2
We will suffer most of the losses described in this column, and some others not yet thought of.
The saddest part - not necessarily the most destructive one, but perhaps the saddest - is the degree to which America's standing will fall around the world. How less influential we'll be for good, especially in places where evil is more malignant.
The saddest part - not necessarily the most destructive one, but perhaps the saddest - is the degree to which America's standing will fall around the world. How less influential we'll be for good, especially in places where evil is more malignant.
3
The election is over. We have another white, aging and privileged Republican in our White House. Let's move on to more serious stuff...
What I'm waiting on is some great analysis of the Trump personality type by professionals in the mental health community. How serious a mental disorder is narcissism, and what does it mean for someone in a such a high profile leadership position? Is the lack of feeling/empathy for others akin to Asperger's Syndrome? And if that's the case, what should we be prepared to experience?
What I'm waiting on is some great analysis of the Trump personality type by professionals in the mental health community. How serious a mental disorder is narcissism, and what does it mean for someone in a such a high profile leadership position? Is the lack of feeling/empathy for others akin to Asperger's Syndrome? And if that's the case, what should we be prepared to experience?
3
Mr. Egan is right that the old manufacturing jobs will not come back. But if Mr. Trump, working with a Republican Congress, can eliminate the crony capitalism of the green energy industry, reform our dysfunctional tax system, and lower the burden of regulation (and all the lobbying that goes with it) we may see a surge of jobs across the board.
So it doesn't matter whether steel and coal jobs come back. What matters is whether there are jobs for the people who want one.
So it doesn't matter whether steel and coal jobs come back. What matters is whether there are jobs for the people who want one.
What we need now is to stop the federal welfare that red states gleefully receive from us, the elites, the bubble. It is easy to make stupid decisions that drags us all to their level when they have us to bail them out. No more FEMA, no more farm subsidies, no more blue dollars for red welfare queens..If anything, we blue states should secede. Red states insist on behaving like third world countries, which by the way their economies are, they are already, let them be. Time for us, blue states, to stop enabling these losers.
2
I have actually recovered from my shock, and I now realize that whatever happens I am in no way responsible for it. When the stuff hits the fan in a few weeks or months and Trump supporters finally realize that they were sold a bill of goods, it won't be me they have to blame. He's their president now, not mine. Trump has already forgotten all those coal miners, farmers and unemployed machinists who gave him their vote. Now he'll concentrate on his own class,and he will give them what they want, softening regulations and removing oversight so that they can continue to prey on the very people who put Trump in office. Those of us who saw through Trump knew that he would never betray his class. He always looked ridiculous in the cap he wore to pretend to be like his supporters. He's probably thrown that cap away now. No need to pretend any more.
As a great start to building confidence in Trump's ability to "shake things up," our new president has got Gingrich, Christie and Giuliani, three of the most ethically challenged men on the planet, all talking about how to improve ethics in government. Trump World is topsy-turvy. But, its nothing to do with me. I'll just be over here, standing to the side, watching it tilt.
As a great start to building confidence in Trump's ability to "shake things up," our new president has got Gingrich, Christie and Giuliani, three of the most ethically challenged men on the planet, all talking about how to improve ethics in government. Trump World is topsy-turvy. But, its nothing to do with me. I'll just be over here, standing to the side, watching it tilt.
3
The most important question is what will happen to the filibuster.
If it remains the the Republicans will get a taste of their own medicine.
I trust Bernie then tolled the fight in the Senate.
Mr. Egan gives the Trump voters too much credit in divining that Trump did not or could not help them
He and his followers will blame the system.
If it remains the the Republicans will get a taste of their own medicine.
I trust Bernie then tolled the fight in the Senate.
Mr. Egan gives the Trump voters too much credit in divining that Trump did not or could not help them
He and his followers will blame the system.
1
Well said. It is critically important for reasoned people to continue to point out the discrepancies between what The Orange One promised and what he does. This has to be done regularly, factually and in a way that it makes it into the media of middle America.
The progressives in Congress must use the little air time they will get to press the discrepancies. The Big Facts when said loud enough and often enough will finally embed themselves into the psyche of the middle class just like the Big Lie of the Royalists did. But, it has to be said loud and often.
This column was an excellent start. Now, Progressive America, keep it up.
The progressives in Congress must use the little air time they will get to press the discrepancies. The Big Facts when said loud enough and often enough will finally embed themselves into the psyche of the middle class just like the Big Lie of the Royalists did. But, it has to be said loud and often.
This column was an excellent start. Now, Progressive America, keep it up.
4
I will be 60 years old before this year is out. I have always trusted the President that was elected, even if he wasn't my candidate. This election has shaken me to the core. It was always the other countries that were unstable, not ours. I believed we were the most rational country, not anymore. I was impressed by Mr. Khan and his love and respect for our Constitution. I now realize why he is so appreciative of it, why he cherishes it. He came from a country that didn't have our Constitution. I now get why it is important to know it and follow it. Mr Trump looked overwhelmed after his meeting with President OBama. I don't think he thought he would win. He is really vulnerable to be manipulated. Mr Putin knows it. Paul Manafort knows it. Steve Bannon from Breitbart news ( the Alt Right racist web site ) knows it. I will be watching closely, contacting my Representatives in Congress. I will be carrying my pocket Constitution learning it, highlighting it. I will no longer take my Country for granted. I get it, Mr Kahn, your words have not been lost on me. Get involved, and stay involved. This Country needs our protection and our vigilance. It is all of our responsibility.
10
Timothy, I hope I'm wrong and you're right, but I have my doubts about your final premise. The Republicans have successfully cultivated a majority of colonized minds, and not just among the struffling white working class, who will never admit they were gulled and who will say and do whatever they are told. It's why there never seems to be any electoral consequences for Republicans--witness the NRA/Gun Lobby vs Sandyhook Victims, where in a rational world, it would be the pro-gun industry legislators whose seats would be at risk. We can only conclude our "democratic" process is currently a giant grift. This is looking more and more like the '60's and will end up played out in the streets, in a highly divided country, for years.
3
I guess we'll find out just how "patriotic" Walmart customers are when widget prices jump from $1 to $5 because those widgets are made in America.
Will US consumers pay $1,200 for an iPhone made in America? I doubt it. If they don't, will Apple build more iPhone factories in the US? Or will Apple start making iPhones in the Far East again?
I think I know the answers to all of those questions.
Will US consumers pay $1,200 for an iPhone made in America? I doubt it. If they don't, will Apple build more iPhone factories in the US? Or will Apple start making iPhones in the Far East again?
I think I know the answers to all of those questions.
5
Over the years I have watched rhetoric and false promises sway illiterate masses of third world countries, but am seeing this happen for the first time in a great country like USA. Let us only hope that the combined voices of people like Tim Egan will ultimately triumph and restore some order and sanity, at least over a period of time and before irreparable damage has occurred
8
Ignorance is a lack of education and that's what trump played on when he bamboozled the American working class. Manufacturing jobs are not coming back the way they existed in the 20th century. There will be no old fashioned pension plans, no expansive health care plans. Folks, get ready to tighten your belts even more.
10
I opened this window to postulate about the millennials staying home on voting day and about the poor suckers who dropped out of High School but turned out in high numbers to vote for a carnival barker (and will soon be disappointed). I wanted to talk about the Republican Party placing party first and country last. Their success, beginning with the whispers of malfeasance (never proven, never accurate) that damaged the reputation of a great public servant and carried through to blocking every effort of our first black President to "Change" America for the better.
I opened this window to postulate, but in my grief I can not continue. God help us all.
I opened this window to postulate, but in my grief I can not continue. God help us all.
20
Another possible consequence of this election is that freeloader Trump-loving red states, into which federal dollars typically flow from blue states, may lose some of their cushion:
http://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2014/05/which-states-are-giv...
This possible unintended consequence would be well-deserved.
http://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2014/05/which-states-are-giv...
This possible unintended consequence would be well-deserved.
12
Here in Kansas, one would expect that all of our statewide political activity was spent trying to rid the state of illegal immigrants. We see our destructive Secretary of State, Kris Kobach, helping with the Trump transition while he was handed defeat after defeat by normal Kansans.
Our governor, Brownback, and his merry band of trickle-down Republicans were handed an electoral defeat at the polls. Kansans have elected moderates just about wherever possible. We are taking our state back from people who would most agree with the Trumps of this world.
I live in a rural area that is majority Latino. I do not see any attempt succeeding that would hurt our neighbors and friends. While the white, militia types make the news, there are many more people who are horrified at the prospect of their succeeding in bombing our Muslim neighbors.
Let our state be a beacon for people doing the right thing, Fox News or no Fox News. Most of the things Trump advocated have already been tried and have failed here. We are seeing the goodness of our friends and neighbors at a time when other conservatives are hating.
People look at Kansas as a place where things are "the matter." However, I propose that people look at Kansas as a place where Republicans have tried and failed to impose their ignorance on others. People are basically good even though they may disagree with me.
It is up to us as liberals to continue to advocate for tolerance in the face of intolerance. It is up to US everywhere.
Our governor, Brownback, and his merry band of trickle-down Republicans were handed an electoral defeat at the polls. Kansans have elected moderates just about wherever possible. We are taking our state back from people who would most agree with the Trumps of this world.
I live in a rural area that is majority Latino. I do not see any attempt succeeding that would hurt our neighbors and friends. While the white, militia types make the news, there are many more people who are horrified at the prospect of their succeeding in bombing our Muslim neighbors.
Let our state be a beacon for people doing the right thing, Fox News or no Fox News. Most of the things Trump advocated have already been tried and have failed here. We are seeing the goodness of our friends and neighbors at a time when other conservatives are hating.
People look at Kansas as a place where things are "the matter." However, I propose that people look at Kansas as a place where Republicans have tried and failed to impose their ignorance on others. People are basically good even though they may disagree with me.
It is up to us as liberals to continue to advocate for tolerance in the face of intolerance. It is up to US everywhere.
25
What is likely to happen in the next four years (when the GOP owns everything and can't blame the Democrats, Obamacare, or an activist Supreme Court)? A recession (just by a matter of timing), a trade war, higher inflation, and more inequality. What is not likely to happen is the building of a real wall or the creation of good paying jobs.
So when the white working class takes a look around, and sees that the "new boss" is the same as the "old boss" what will they do? The Democratic candidate can ask the famous Reagan question - "Are you better off now than you were four years ago?"
Moreover, the demographics of not just the United States but also several Red States will swing by then - the Latino population of Arizona and Florida will grow significantly (see ex-Sheriff Joe). I would expect that we would then have, again, a divided government, which would not be able to do much good, but it still would not do further harm. Looking further ahead, by 2032 the demographics of the entire country would make the white working class just one of many minority groups, requiring the building of coalitions to govern.
So, it's going to be a very bad four years, a less bad four or eight years after that, but there will come a day when the sun will shine again. (And it might be sooner.)
So when the white working class takes a look around, and sees that the "new boss" is the same as the "old boss" what will they do? The Democratic candidate can ask the famous Reagan question - "Are you better off now than you were four years ago?"
Moreover, the demographics of not just the United States but also several Red States will swing by then - the Latino population of Arizona and Florida will grow significantly (see ex-Sheriff Joe). I would expect that we would then have, again, a divided government, which would not be able to do much good, but it still would not do further harm. Looking further ahead, by 2032 the demographics of the entire country would make the white working class just one of many minority groups, requiring the building of coalitions to govern.
So, it's going to be a very bad four years, a less bad four or eight years after that, but there will come a day when the sun will shine again. (And it might be sooner.)
A terrific piece, thank you. I was especially heartened to hear of the progressive initiatives at the state level. The Republicans have argued for strong states' rights since the beginning of the party, go for it. Thoughtful citizens should pursue all other means of organized, legal resistance, despite the intimidation tactics sure to come (see, Trump historic modus operandi..). And the Democratic Party needs to learn how to gain and use power effectively, from here on out.
2
Well said! Not only will Trump be unable to meet his vacuous promises, his policies will do even more damage to the communities who voted him in as (a minority) President. When the tax cuts come, will they bring jobs back to the rust belt? Hell no; the money will be spent on consumer goods imported from China. Inflation will drive up the cost of basic commodities, making life even harder for the "working class". I have some contacts in Lithuania. They have been scared for years about what Putin might do. They must be terrified now.
1
The theory of a lie told and repeated often enough becomes a truth and accepted by the under educated as fact. Donald has proved this . By calling his opposition a "crook" for the past 15 months several times a day thru out the battle ground states he had established a working minority sufficient to gain the necessary mandatory electoral votes on December 16, unless he puts his other foot in his mouth and the electoral college exercises their constitutional rights and we have a second surprise. Some of us would be delighted.
2
I fear some think they will be content if the courts go to the right, regardless of what happens to the economy, environment or world affairs. There was a significant group of voters who would (did) vote for a person of poor character and no governing experience just to have the opportunity for a more conservative Supreme Court. I am not sure that this group understands that Roe v Wade was not overturned when Scalia was on the court.
1
The problem with your theory is that the media is always lying to them. Any negative article will be part of the ongoing conspiracy. The still vacant steel mills will be the fault of the left undermining Trump policy.
Trump won because he fooled voters into believing lies. What makes you think they will stop believing them? They will now rally behind their victorious champion with even more resolve and vigor.
I'm speaking I hope only of most of them. Hopefully there will be enough that put his alternative over the top. After all the margin of victory in swing states was low. Trying to stay positive ...
Trump won because he fooled voters into believing lies. What makes you think they will stop believing them? They will now rally behind their victorious champion with even more resolve and vigor.
I'm speaking I hope only of most of them. Hopefully there will be enough that put his alternative over the top. After all the margin of victory in swing states was low. Trying to stay positive ...
The most depressing likely damage that this election will cause will be on the Supreme Court. Ginsberg is 83, Kennedy is 80 and Breyer is 78. If any or all of these older Justices step down or die the court will almost surely become more reactionary for many years to come. We must insure that Trump is one and done and pray for the health of the progressive Justices.
2
As numerous economists have pointed out, nothing will bring back the massive kinds of manufacturing that once existed in the Rust Belt, nothing will bring back the clothing industry to where it once was, and the coal industry will continue to decline.
The anger and despair among those who voted for Mr. Trump will continue once they realize that they have been conned: their salaries won't improve, their children will not get better schools, and they will have fewer benefits when they need them.
Welcome to the New World.
The anger and despair among those who voted for Mr. Trump will continue once they realize that they have been conned: their salaries won't improve, their children will not get better schools, and they will have fewer benefits when they need them.
Welcome to the New World.
2
Yup, I think voters have highly over-estimated what a President can actually do. You can't turn back the tide of history. There are so many factors in play, no one man, even the President of the biggest economy in the world, can control them all. In 47 years on the planet the one thing I have learned is that the only constant is change. Adaptability is the single greatest necessity in this world. Either adapt or you get left behind. Simple as that. And you need to be always looking ahead at what's coming next. If you don't, it will catch you by surprise every time. I understand people's anger and frustration but the good old days are not coming back. This is the world we live in and its only going to get tougher. The two things the Trump administration can do to help 'his' people is: 1) Pass legislation that controls the relentless rise of robotics and automation. Driverless vehicles, for one, are going to cause absolute mayhem in the jobs market. 2) Make Bernie Sanders' idea of free (or heavily subsidised) college education a reality. That is absolutely essential to keeping America place as a major player on the world stage.
1
Although free college for all would be the greatest gift trump could give the constituency that put him in office, it is the last thing he or the republicans would ever want to do. Give the masses education for what? So they will be wise and worldly enough not to vote for them in the future?
"Finally, all of us in the American family should never trust anyone from the pollster industrial complex, including those at my own newspaper."
No, although don't trust polls blindly to be accurate at tiny margins.
The NYT published polls over time showing Trump's chances of winning doubling over a few weeks, to around 15%. That's like one dice roll turning up 6 -- big enough to leave no room for confidence about the outcome.
Really, the polls did a pretty good job overall -- one just has to pay close attention. It seems to me that there was more talk than strict attention to the polls, and that those who remained confident up to the end actually based their confidence on intuition.
No, although don't trust polls blindly to be accurate at tiny margins.
The NYT published polls over time showing Trump's chances of winning doubling over a few weeks, to around 15%. That's like one dice roll turning up 6 -- big enough to leave no room for confidence about the outcome.
Really, the polls did a pretty good job overall -- one just has to pay close attention. It seems to me that there was more talk than strict attention to the polls, and that those who remained confident up to the end actually based their confidence on intuition.
Resistance is not futile. I have many friends who are Trump supporters outraged that people are marching in the streets. The election is over they tell me. Accept it the way we accepted Obama. (Huh?) But there are many amendments to the Constitution besides the 2nd. Freedom of assembly and free speech are the cornerstones of our country. While many of us are licking my wounds for now we have to know that Trump won based on an electoral college system designed to stifle minority voices. The majority still rejects his views and ever-changing opinions. Bringing it to the streets, and to your elected officials is the only way to move forward.
3
I wish I shared the grim optimism of Mr. Egan and many of the letter writers here. But I don't. I think in two years, the republican majority in Congress, having enacted every scrap of legislation they needed to make themselves and their wealthy cronies rich at the expense of the American people, will claim to need more time to enact Mr. Trump's grand vision to make American Great again where the "forgotten" are concerned, and the angry sheep (an unlikely contradiction, I know) will line up and vote Republican again. And in four years, when the forgotten remain forgotten, they'll find a reason to blame Hillary. Or Obama. Or, really, anyone but the people they insist upon electing over and over.
4
Agree 100 percent on ignoring pollsters.
When Trump fails his supporters, will the Democrats please shout this over and over? Because you just know that he and the republicans will blame the democrats, and they have been very effective in their messaging, even when they're lying.
I'm discouraged to hear people, including president Obama, saying that we should hope that trump succeeds. I hope he fails, bigly. Republicans were united in trying to make Obama fail. Of course, they had a majority in the house and later in the senate, so their opposition was more effective than the minority democrats will be.
The best hope is to filibuster as much as the senate rules allow, and use the courts to fight, and fight hard in the 2018 midterms.
But...many people will be afraid to fight or even dissent, including judges, because of trump's authoritarian, venal, vindictive ways.
And we must always and everywhere remind everyone that Trump has no mandate, because he lost the popular vote.
When Trump fails his supporters, will the Democrats please shout this over and over? Because you just know that he and the republicans will blame the democrats, and they have been very effective in their messaging, even when they're lying.
I'm discouraged to hear people, including president Obama, saying that we should hope that trump succeeds. I hope he fails, bigly. Republicans were united in trying to make Obama fail. Of course, they had a majority in the house and later in the senate, so their opposition was more effective than the minority democrats will be.
The best hope is to filibuster as much as the senate rules allow, and use the courts to fight, and fight hard in the 2018 midterms.
But...many people will be afraid to fight or even dissent, including judges, because of trump's authoritarian, venal, vindictive ways.
And we must always and everywhere remind everyone that Trump has no mandate, because he lost the popular vote.
3
Half the country sees democracy fading, the other half - reborn. The national nightmare of a Black president is over, his legacy soon to be erased, whitewashed. The media, dazzled by the lucre of ogle, has engineered the election of an entertainer, ironically a pure politician without the pretense. Congress, an ersatz charade of representation, is poised to redistribute the remaining spoils of the struggling masses to their corporate overlords.
We should all take our cues from President Obama, who is the epitome of grace, reasonableness, and common sense. Give Trump a chance. There is a real possibility that he wants to help the working people that adore him. I don't think he is up to it, and even if he is, he will be surrounded by people with other agendas. But if we all jump down his throat before giving him a chance, his supporters will blame us if he fails. Let's speak and act patiently, fairly, and wisely. Let's raise our voices only when it is essential. That may be soon, but let's not actually hope that it is.
1
All of this is so true - and yet surprisingly absent from coverage during these lengthy election years. No real comparison was made about the America of November 2008 and that of November 2016. If Obama failed in his promises, no blame was fairly placed on his obstructionist Congress. Even Sen. McConnell's incredible delay of a hearing on a Supreme Court justice was given a pass by so-called "liberal media." Night after night CNN and MNSBC showed us the horserace figures. Ad nauseum. And then we wonder why Twittering can elect a President.
Egan does not even mention the gradual destruction of Medicare and Social Security under the red pen of Rep. Paul Ryan. His plans have been explicated for years, never a real threat with Obama in the White House. We will hear little about the deficit and debt, run up for the military and reduced for the taxpayers, now that Trump is in the office. This isn't about abortion or climate change. This is about the daily struggle of Americans in an increasing wealth gap. Trump's voters will be the losers but a way will be found to blame Democrats. They (esp. Sen. Barbara Boxer, Rep. John Lewis, and talk show host Chris Matthews) will regret trashing the gift of Bernie Sanders.
Egan does not even mention the gradual destruction of Medicare and Social Security under the red pen of Rep. Paul Ryan. His plans have been explicated for years, never a real threat with Obama in the White House. We will hear little about the deficit and debt, run up for the military and reduced for the taxpayers, now that Trump is in the office. This isn't about abortion or climate change. This is about the daily struggle of Americans in an increasing wealth gap. Trump's voters will be the losers but a way will be found to blame Democrats. They (esp. Sen. Barbara Boxer, Rep. John Lewis, and talk show host Chris Matthews) will regret trashing the gift of Bernie Sanders.
2
"When steel mills fail to return to Youngstown, or when new trade deals produce no more magic than the old ones, these economic exiles will wonder how they got betrayed." Well, Mr. Egan, they are not a bunch prone to accurate self reflection, nor in admitting they are responsible for ever making a mistake. I recall those who claimed that Obama was responsible for starting the war in Iraq and for inciting racism across the nation. No, the coming disaster will be blamed on Democrats, blacks, Mexicans, or absolutely anyone other than themselves.
15
Trump is an illusionist the likes of which the world has never seen. His success at making himself appear to tens of millions of people as an economic expert, a champion of the middle class, and a protector of free speech and truth, prevents me from believing any more "expert" prophecies of what the future holds. With Mephisto in office, we will all just have to wait and see.
4
In the wake of his first election victory President Abraham Lincoln refused to let certain states peacefully secede from the United States of America. When he was reelected 4 years later about 750,000 of his fellow Americans were dead and 4 million of the enslaved Africans were no longer slaves. In a nation of 30 million that was a demographic catastrophic nightmare that birthed the Republican Party.
This election marks a civil war without the secession and shooting. The Republican Party represents the White European American majority deeply anchored in the former Confederate States of America.
Punishing your enemies and rewarding your friends is impossible unless you win elective office. "Resistance is futile" The Borg Collective.
This election marks a civil war without the secession and shooting. The Republican Party represents the White European American majority deeply anchored in the former Confederate States of America.
Punishing your enemies and rewarding your friends is impossible unless you win elective office. "Resistance is futile" The Borg Collective.
2
Some believe only way to secede legally is to have all of the states vote on it and approve it by two-thirds majority. However, Supreme Court Justices up to and including Antonin Scalia, have insisted there is NO legal right for secession.
I have always thought that the rest of the Union would have been much better to let the Confederate States secede (and still do). The Union would be the undenied leader of the world in education, finance, social systems, and so many other areas, while the Confederats, a loose and disastrously disorganized collection of States' Rights squabblers (the chaos of a weak president and the rule of States' Rights is cited as one of the reasons the Rebels lost) would now be a poor third-world country, whose residents would be trying to sneak into Mexico or the Union. OTOH, we DO need gardeners, low-wage agriculteral stoop laborers, kitchen helpers, and housecleaners, so the Union might be willing to give the Confederate States citizens a measured number of work permits to cross the line and work in the Union.
I have always thought that the rest of the Union would have been much better to let the Confederate States secede (and still do). The Union would be the undenied leader of the world in education, finance, social systems, and so many other areas, while the Confederats, a loose and disastrously disorganized collection of States' Rights squabblers (the chaos of a weak president and the rule of States' Rights is cited as one of the reasons the Rebels lost) would now be a poor third-world country, whose residents would be trying to sneak into Mexico or the Union. OTOH, we DO need gardeners, low-wage agriculteral stoop laborers, kitchen helpers, and housecleaners, so the Union might be willing to give the Confederate States citizens a measured number of work permits to cross the line and work in the Union.
Yes, he may very well fail. And he will have left a trail of destruction and misery in his path. Unless, It just so happens, that he decides to grow up and take his responsibility seriously and ends up becoming one of the best presidents, for which time is not on his side and the probability is really, really low. Four years isn't much time to destroy so much and build so much.
1
Let's see: the Supreme Court, health care along with the ACA, women's access to abortion (not to mention Planned Parenthood), access to education and school debt relief, women's workplace rights, all regulation on the corporate world to limit pollution. All regulation on Wall Street aiming at preventing another Bush 2008 crash, any chance of doing anything about global warming as we teeter on the edge of the crisis becoming totally unsolvable, terrible deficits from massive funding of the military, massive tax cuts on the rich, loss of personal freedom of speech (with his planned expansion of laws against slander and libel, freedom of the press (and all non-alt-right media), perhaps that stop-and-frisk slime eel, Giuliani as AG, the same-old, same-old inside-the-beltway hacks. You don't really think he's going to go into even more debt building infrastructure - or that the House would support him in this, so all plans for new jobs for the working class go down the tubes, Social Security/Medicare/Medicaid, mass deportations, etc.
Worst of all, his election has tremendously emboldened the White supremacists and neo-nazis who are now coming blatantly into the open, figuring Trump's election signals their time in the sun, waving guns and promising to turn this country into a pure white/christian nation.
Worst of all, his election has tremendously emboldened the White supremacists and neo-nazis who are now coming blatantly into the open, figuring Trump's election signals their time in the sun, waving guns and promising to turn this country into a pure white/christian nation.
Impossible. He is 70 and never was the sharpest knife in the box. Real estate does not cultivate great minds. You have to be particularly dense to fail with casinos. He is clueless like his crowds.
I think one of the errors in the post-election autopsy going on is in conceiving of this as a purely political choice that people made. I'm not convinced that political issues drove this election. I think it was a blend of backlash against "PC culture" -- as if a president, any president, is capable of dictating what gets said and what agenda is pushed in society -- and, sadly, a new era of reality TV culture. People crave "change" not so much because they understand how DC works or what makes for good or bad government. They want change because they're addicted to drama and willing to burn the house down to get the thrill of it. Hence our first reality TV president. I truly think people don't know how to distinguish a vote for what is real, and serious, and consequential, from a vote for the next winner of the Voice.
11
I suspect that too many people thought they were throwing a Molotov Cocktail at the Establishment (which would destroy the needed along with the waste and mismanagement), only to find they've tossed a suitcase nuke into our government.
As I passed, time and time again, huge Trump signs outside of trailer parks and in front of houses in very poor communities, I remembered that in my youth (the sixties and even the seventies) these used to be democratic voters. You know, when the democrats used to represent the "forgotten man." Well, the democrats literally forgot them, and so they went for the guy who told them what they wanted to hear.
But Mr. Egan is right. The jobs and safety net that helped the working class and poor in this country is not coming back under the Trump administration, whatever promises he made. I can only hope that his voters will recognize this at last and that this will be the final destruction of the modern GOP in the same way his surprise election was the death of the modern DNC. I'll be lighting candles.
But Mr. Egan is right. The jobs and safety net that helped the working class and poor in this country is not coming back under the Trump administration, whatever promises he made. I can only hope that his voters will recognize this at last and that this will be the final destruction of the modern GOP in the same way his surprise election was the death of the modern DNC. I'll be lighting candles.
2
Betrayal is an art form for politicians after the campaign rhetoric and this year will be no different. The policies will be implemented for the Ines with the ability to underwrite the issues and camouflaged by the words that will be misleading.
At the end of it all the small individual voter will find himself standing still with nothing changed. Change doesn't happen because of a vote it happens if there is a systemic long term address its underlying causes.
Unfortunately the politicians have no long term plan just short term chimerical fixes backed by misleading wag the dog policy pontifications.
At the end of it all the small individual voter will find himself standing still with nothing changed. Change doesn't happen because of a vote it happens if there is a systemic long term address its underlying causes.
Unfortunately the politicians have no long term plan just short term chimerical fixes backed by misleading wag the dog policy pontifications.
I think Trump voters from the Rust Belt are generally not so stupid as to believe that large numbers of manufacturing jobs are going to be returning to their area, even if they don't so say aloud.
The insistence on telling them that they are going to be duped assumes that they truly believe Trump's transparent lies and is thus yet another example--the umpteenth, by my count--of the condescension directed at the working-class residents of "Flyover Country."
The insistence on telling them that they are going to be duped assumes that they truly believe Trump's transparent lies and is thus yet another example--the umpteenth, by my count--of the condescension directed at the working-class residents of "Flyover Country."
Make no mistake - when the ridiculous promises Trump made fail to materialize, the Republicans will try to blame it on the liberals. The number one goal of Democrats must be to highlight these failures while keeping the attention on the real culprits, all while offering a hand to the poor people who were suckered into voting for this fraud. Until we can find a way to reach these people, the cycle will continue. I am surprised at how many times they keep coming back after being once again deceived, but changing that paradigm is clearly the challenge for the future.
1
It will be truly interesting to see how the next four years work out. Despite dire predictions of what a Trump Presidency would mean economically, here at home, and on foreign matters, many still voted for him. They looked at all that was printed in the media as, 'liberal bias' with no truth to anything, hence those predictions on the economy must also be lies. I hope the predictions are wrong, but if they do occur and they are right in front of everybody's face, will they be fibs then?
Thanks, Mr. Eagan. I'll be pleasantly surprised if most of us all still alive four years from now. The U.S. has survived crises before; but that was before we had the nuclear codes in the hands of a demagogue who just can't avoid insulting people, even after an election victory that he didn't deserve.
As for the white working class voters who elected this creep: they deserve whatever they get. I might have had sympathy for them once; not any more.
As for the white working class voters who elected this creep: they deserve whatever they get. I might have had sympathy for them once; not any more.
4
When the well-meaning people of the rust belt and the American breadbasket stretching from Texas to Montana see that they have been deceived by big-business Trump, they will start showing their anger in the polls. Polls will show an 80% disapproval rate for Trump. He will try again to con people, but it will not work. Throwing millions of off health insurance, even if gradually because they cannot pay the premiums without the subsidies, will show the American people that the republicans are unworthy of positions in government. And come the next election in two years, they will be swept out of the Congress with the Trump flood of 2018 that truly drains the Congressional swamp. Just like the fatted calf party pictured in the movie about the Bible in the movie "The Ten Commandments." And if this is all wrong and Trump does not, in fact, follow the wish list of the greedy running the largest corporations ? It will be good to be wrong.
Unfortunately, I think that blaming 'others" including liberals and minorities will continue throughout the term or terms of this administration. Misinformation and blaming got him elected and will probably get him reelected. In spite of all evidence of his moral depravity, his believers believed. Although the evidence will point to their poor leadership, their constituents will be fed a solid diet of shifted blame and I fear for the lives of the blamed. I am not hopeful today for our country.
My father was from Youngstown. I call it the Chip on the Shoulder Club. The press called it Bomb Town USA, and the car bomb became known as The Youngstown Tune Up. See the Datsun at the Newseum.
These people descend from those who risked Indian attacks to get loose of the Brit's taxes and recruiting for more war by forging westward into the woods. They didn't need the government, and the government resented their objections to their policies.
As our society decided those with baked in obstacles needed help to thrive in a more difficult economies, these old chips were finding steel work enough to raise a family out of the out house and into a newfangled bathroom. This is why they came to believe they were superior to those in need, a fluke of the industrial economy.
But economics have been roiling this club for centuries. Imagine the wood choppers put out of work when coal became king to fire those iron furnaces that seemed magical in their majesty. Back in the haze, we nearly denuded the Penn Woods just to sell pigs iron.
By ignoring warnings jobs would require more education and a change of outlook to maintain the same standard of living, they have ghettoized themselves into the sickest, most depressed cohort of people who could have had a hand held out to them, but they pushed it away under the belief their success was due to their work ethic, not the markets.
These people are hurting, but only now are they waking up to the fact they need help, not shame.
These people descend from those who risked Indian attacks to get loose of the Brit's taxes and recruiting for more war by forging westward into the woods. They didn't need the government, and the government resented their objections to their policies.
As our society decided those with baked in obstacles needed help to thrive in a more difficult economies, these old chips were finding steel work enough to raise a family out of the out house and into a newfangled bathroom. This is why they came to believe they were superior to those in need, a fluke of the industrial economy.
But economics have been roiling this club for centuries. Imagine the wood choppers put out of work when coal became king to fire those iron furnaces that seemed magical in their majesty. Back in the haze, we nearly denuded the Penn Woods just to sell pigs iron.
By ignoring warnings jobs would require more education and a change of outlook to maintain the same standard of living, they have ghettoized themselves into the sickest, most depressed cohort of people who could have had a hand held out to them, but they pushed it away under the belief their success was due to their work ethic, not the markets.
These people are hurting, but only now are they waking up to the fact they need help, not shame.
The steel mills will never come back in there old form. I worked in a mill when I was in college. Most of the mills then were Carnegie mills built around 1912. These were labor intensive mills. The new mill has one person in a air conditioned control booth operating and doing the work of twenty. I'm glad this is the way it's done. I would never want my children to work in a old style mill. It was hellish, dangerous and not very efficient. If the 'Folks' think that the mills are going to come back and provide unlimited employment and opportunity, I've got a bridge to sell them in Brooklyn.
1
Donald Trump already looks completely overwhelmed. I'm referring to the picture of him in this article as well as what I saw on TV when he was with Obama.
DT isn't going to change, he is already tweeting insults to the protesters around the country who are demonstrating because they do not view him as their president. It is their constitutional right but that wouldn't count with him.
DT has pathological personality characteristics which are controlling his behavior. It is not possible for him to do an about face. His handlers have done a good job of putting him in the right place state wise near the end of the campaign and for putting the words voters would accept in his mouth.
From here on in it will be educational for all of us to see how he copes in a position he is unqualified for both intellectually, and personality wise.
I agree that he can't deliver on any promises he has made about jobs or anything related to improving peoples lives. It is very sad for the people who believe what he says.
DT isn't going to change, he is already tweeting insults to the protesters around the country who are demonstrating because they do not view him as their president. It is their constitutional right but that wouldn't count with him.
DT has pathological personality characteristics which are controlling his behavior. It is not possible for him to do an about face. His handlers have done a good job of putting him in the right place state wise near the end of the campaign and for putting the words voters would accept in his mouth.
From here on in it will be educational for all of us to see how he copes in a position he is unqualified for both intellectually, and personality wise.
I agree that he can't deliver on any promises he has made about jobs or anything related to improving peoples lives. It is very sad for the people who believe what he says.
1
Half the voters are driven by ignorance, hatred, and greed. Are these not the characteristics of trump? Tim, you're blowing smoke if you think that time will change what Ms. Clinton called "deplorables". I live with them; they're in my family, in my community, (but not among my friends.) Were they denied the vote, based solely on their appalling ignorance, we might have won.
So where do we go from here? How do we deal with the potential for violence that lies with the winners of this election? Where do we find the leadership of people like Bernie Sanders or Elizabeth Warren?
Years of hard work in trying to save the environment, to provide health care, to address income inequity, have been erased in a figurative heartbeat by a buffoon and a collection of ignoramuses. Tell me how to get out from under this disaster.
So where do we go from here? How do we deal with the potential for violence that lies with the winners of this election? Where do we find the leadership of people like Bernie Sanders or Elizabeth Warren?
Years of hard work in trying to save the environment, to provide health care, to address income inequity, have been erased in a figurative heartbeat by a buffoon and a collection of ignoramuses. Tell me how to get out from under this disaster.
7
What is amazing to me is how the coastal liberal elite and the white middle class both voted against their own interests, but for far different reasons.
The liberal elite voted to tax themselves at higher rate under Clinton and voted against their own wealth for the better of the country, for mankind, and the future of our planet. Whereas so many in the middle of the country followed the false promises of a demagogue in search of an answer to all of their problems. Nevermind that almost everything Trump plans is going to hurt them through higher costs and lower income.
The reality is many of us with economic means saw an immediate boost to our stock portfolios and a future decrease in our income taxes, while those suffering in the middle of the country are going to see no job benefits, no increase in wages, higher costs at the store, and a loss in medical coverage.
It does show that being educated is an advantage. When all of the uneducated people are doing the same thing it should give them pause. I have a feeling the average person voting for Trump didn't read a lot of history about Napoleon, Jackson, Hitler, Mussolini, etc...
For all of our sakes I hope that I am totally wrong and I wish the best for our country and President Trump. I pray that he really has great plans that will work for all of our sakes. I hope that he will keep the peace, keep us safe, maintain freedom of the press and religion for all!
The liberal elite voted to tax themselves at higher rate under Clinton and voted against their own wealth for the better of the country, for mankind, and the future of our planet. Whereas so many in the middle of the country followed the false promises of a demagogue in search of an answer to all of their problems. Nevermind that almost everything Trump plans is going to hurt them through higher costs and lower income.
The reality is many of us with economic means saw an immediate boost to our stock portfolios and a future decrease in our income taxes, while those suffering in the middle of the country are going to see no job benefits, no increase in wages, higher costs at the store, and a loss in medical coverage.
It does show that being educated is an advantage. When all of the uneducated people are doing the same thing it should give them pause. I have a feeling the average person voting for Trump didn't read a lot of history about Napoleon, Jackson, Hitler, Mussolini, etc...
For all of our sakes I hope that I am totally wrong and I wish the best for our country and President Trump. I pray that he really has great plans that will work for all of our sakes. I hope that he will keep the peace, keep us safe, maintain freedom of the press and religion for all!
3
”When Trump tries to ignore the provisions of a global accord to curb climate change, and charts a path for the United States as a rogue nation, the resistance will come from the millions of young Americans who found a voice in old Bernie Sanders.”
The matter of fact is that America may be the world's leading military power and - probably, still - economy. But to think that the world community will let the US just ignore the climate measures it's hubris. The US will of course be punished. Not with embargo, but with hundreds of negative views and deeds from diplomatic corners, international institutions and the world population. We will not be idle bystanders. It's the sake of the world, the future of our children we're talking about.
The matter of fact is that America may be the world's leading military power and - probably, still - economy. But to think that the world community will let the US just ignore the climate measures it's hubris. The US will of course be punished. Not with embargo, but with hundreds of negative views and deeds from diplomatic corners, international institutions and the world population. We will not be idle bystanders. It's the sake of the world, the future of our children we're talking about.
1
The disaster prediction style here brings to mind the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists "Doomsday Clock" with it's "hands approaching on midnight" reminder that the end is not only near, it is subject to reasonable prediction and graphic representation.
I suggest the author commission a number of these clocks for various points of American social disorder or cataclysm due us under the right wing sewer break that is the Trump presidency. I nominate that it is 15 minutes to the midnight represented by the first American woman of the 21st Century to be charged with murder for ending a pre-viability pregnancy currently legal under Roe V Wade.
I suggest the author commission a number of these clocks for various points of American social disorder or cataclysm due us under the right wing sewer break that is the Trump presidency. I nominate that it is 15 minutes to the midnight represented by the first American woman of the 21st Century to be charged with murder for ending a pre-viability pregnancy currently legal under Roe V Wade.
3
At least two comments were made after Trump's election that if the wall was not built they would not vote for him a second time. It sounds like he may be a one term President. Just to design the wall could take several years, as well as getting permits etc. Just because the President wants a wall does not mean that the landowners at the Mexican border (mostly ranchers) want one built on their property. The ranchers in the Southwest who I have met do not want government interference in their lives of any kind.
I believe that Trump's supporters are hurting now and are expecting immediate results. They are victims of magical thinking as much as they are of Trump's hucksterism.
I believe that Trump's supporters are hurting now and are expecting immediate results. They are victims of magical thinking as much as they are of Trump's hucksterism.
2
Noble words Mr. Egan but you give Trump way to much credit.
Trump will have no interest in day to day politics. He is just in this to
bask in the sunlight of imperial America. We will see him parading around like the stuffed Turkey all over the world. Pomp and Circumstance are what he craves. Jan 20 will be the greatest day of his life. We can only hope he suffers a heart attach. But, then we will have Mr. Pence. SAD
The Republican hacks and wonks will be making policy and the Democrats will look to hold up whatever wrong headed policy the GOP devices
Our government will not function again for at least 4 more years.
The Rust belt that but him in office will remain rusted.
California is already considering exit. All the blue states should.
The American Civil War has never really ended. I personally would to prefer to have a Blue States of America.
Trump will have no interest in day to day politics. He is just in this to
bask in the sunlight of imperial America. We will see him parading around like the stuffed Turkey all over the world. Pomp and Circumstance are what he craves. Jan 20 will be the greatest day of his life. We can only hope he suffers a heart attach. But, then we will have Mr. Pence. SAD
The Republican hacks and wonks will be making policy and the Democrats will look to hold up whatever wrong headed policy the GOP devices
Our government will not function again for at least 4 more years.
The Rust belt that but him in office will remain rusted.
California is already considering exit. All the blue states should.
The American Civil War has never really ended. I personally would to prefer to have a Blue States of America.
3
Not only are we never going to be re-industrialized, there is never going to be a great wall on the southern border, nor is Trump going to snub his Russian benefactor and abrogate the treaty with their ally Iran. Unfortunately however none of that will matter. The underlying reality is Trump was elected because he, arguably, subliminally , if not overtly, promised white america he would make them exceptional (great) again. The danger for us all is he's a maleable fool, he has no ideology and never did. His ideology is whatever he thinks makes him the more popular in the moment and whatever soothes the xenophobic, racist, bigoted, heart of a voting majority which thinks the blame for their imaginary difficulty, (whatever that may be), lay with anyone and anything other than themselves and their own doing.
The notion that this degenerate con man's portrait will hang in the Whitehouse, that he will someday have a presidential library, and people will stand when this sleazebag walks into a room is nauseating.
The notion that this degenerate con man's portrait will hang in the Whitehouse, that he will someday have a presidential library, and people will stand when this sleazebag walks into a room is nauseating.
3
In the best-case scenario, this will end up being like the W. Bush presidency, giving the Republican congress free rein (free reign) to do what they love best: cutting taxes for the very wealthy while dramatically increasing spending on military adventures. If you add further deregulation of Wall Street, the banks and the health insurance corporations, we're hurling toward the precipice of another massive economic depression. As before, the average American taxpayer will be left holding the bag, snf it'll be the poor & the working class (including all the Trump voters) who will suffer the most.
3
The people who voted for Donald Trump acted on emotion rather than reason. This is not new when voting for candidates. Many can be easily manipulated by lies. "The Big Lie" lives. Repeat it enough with plenty of fervor, many will embrace it as gospel. Voting for incumbents is proof that very often people don't learn. George W. destabilized the Middle East to a point in which it may never recover! I'm hoping that Trump's actions will not make the tenure of the last GOP president a walk in the park compared to his legacy.
2
Sounds like a lot of sour grapes, Mr. Egan. More than that, you sound fearful of voters affirmation of a traditional America when this country made things and fed the world. Instead, somehow you seem to believe that the artifices that were only recently established such as "provisions of a global accord to curb climate change" or Obamacare are somehow inviolable. This simply is not the case.
This fear that you feel - this taste of copper in your mouth - this is the same taste that many of us felt when Obama was elected in 2008. Sure, you can use all these poll-tested invectives depicting the rest of us as simply aging anachronisms in a world that was fast becoming multi-cultural and multi-ethnic. But the reality is that we simply did not want to be transformed into a leftist government-led version of a European socialist state. It's not racism. If it were, why would millions of white people from every background have voted for Obama in the first place ? But when these same voters tried to tell Obama to slow down in the midterm elections, he chose not to listen.
Well, maybe now you will listen. Trump may not have all the answers. I concede that. The halcyon days of the 1950's may never return. I concede that. But the first step in getting out of a hole is to stop digging. We are at least doing that. In the coming days and months, try to remember that other America as that taste of copper in your mouth grows.
This fear that you feel - this taste of copper in your mouth - this is the same taste that many of us felt when Obama was elected in 2008. Sure, you can use all these poll-tested invectives depicting the rest of us as simply aging anachronisms in a world that was fast becoming multi-cultural and multi-ethnic. But the reality is that we simply did not want to be transformed into a leftist government-led version of a European socialist state. It's not racism. If it were, why would millions of white people from every background have voted for Obama in the first place ? But when these same voters tried to tell Obama to slow down in the midterm elections, he chose not to listen.
Well, maybe now you will listen. Trump may not have all the answers. I concede that. The halcyon days of the 1950's may never return. I concede that. But the first step in getting out of a hole is to stop digging. We are at least doing that. In the coming days and months, try to remember that other America as that taste of copper in your mouth grows.
1
Princeton 2015 - Citizens' expressions of fear and grief are NOT normal post-election "sour grapes." These are, instead, reactions to a candidate whose talk was not normal.
From this candidate, we heard name-calling, bullying, and bigotry. We also heard things he intends to do: Torture those captured in battle ("and the generals will obey, believe me!")...Blow a foreign ship out of the water if its sailors show disrespect...Jail the other party's candidate...Destroy the climate accord...End NATO....Dismantle regulations on banks and manufacturing...Promote nuclear proliferation, and use nukes too...Punish our media...Beat up and jail protesters.
So he told us that he will act contrary to our Constitution.
We also heard him say that he will give big tax breaks to the wealthiest citizens; so we know that he failed to recognize that supply-side economics caused the growing disparity between rich and poor, and destroyed the middle class.
He additionally said that his first goal (after suing 14 women) is to destroy achievements of the Obama administration. Maybe he never realized that our nation makes progress by always building on achievements of those who came before us.
As a consequence, I shall join fellow-citizens to form a Resistance-Movement to protect our nation from the wrecking-ball.
From this candidate, we heard name-calling, bullying, and bigotry. We also heard things he intends to do: Torture those captured in battle ("and the generals will obey, believe me!")...Blow a foreign ship out of the water if its sailors show disrespect...Jail the other party's candidate...Destroy the climate accord...End NATO....Dismantle regulations on banks and manufacturing...Promote nuclear proliferation, and use nukes too...Punish our media...Beat up and jail protesters.
So he told us that he will act contrary to our Constitution.
We also heard him say that he will give big tax breaks to the wealthiest citizens; so we know that he failed to recognize that supply-side economics caused the growing disparity between rich and poor, and destroyed the middle class.
He additionally said that his first goal (after suing 14 women) is to destroy achievements of the Obama administration. Maybe he never realized that our nation makes progress by always building on achievements of those who came before us.
As a consequence, I shall join fellow-citizens to form a Resistance-Movement to protect our nation from the wrecking-ball.
No, not 'welcome,' not to the man who works for Putin & never pays taxes. Sorry. He has yet to make any kind of formal, comprehensive apology to the people of this country and the people of this planet for his incendiary misogyny and xenophobia, his approval of the murder of Ukrainians and the mass murder of Syrians, his rejection of every principle upheld by civilized people and his extolling of barbarian mores instead. Otherwise, everything in this opinion piece is exactly right, Timothy Egan. Trump never cooperated with any normal process. So why should now the rest of us suddenly cooperate with him, on a bogus election in which he did not win -- and what electoral votes he eked out, he achieved through some mighty shady shenanigans involving Putin, WikiLeaks, Alex Jones, Roger Stone's pals, the likes of Breitbart -- and their down-home operatives in rural counties plus a few back rooms -- not to mention Giuliani, Comey, Christie's posse and a broad slice of men who want to dilute laws against domestic violence or sexual assault? After all, in Trumpland, women are for raping, battering, defaming, ridiculing and exploiting for unpaid labor. Even when they work for Ivanka Trump. So, no, not welcome.
6
No, the State Department is not a force for human rights.
That is why so many desperate people are coming from Latin America, whose countries devastated by US policies from the 1950s to 2009 - the coup in Honduras, tacitly approved by Secretary Clinton - do not provide means to a living to their citizens.
The only good that can come now is from organized, peaceful, inclusive resistance.
That is why so many desperate people are coming from Latin America, whose countries devastated by US policies from the 1950s to 2009 - the coup in Honduras, tacitly approved by Secretary Clinton - do not provide means to a living to their citizens.
The only good that can come now is from organized, peaceful, inclusive resistance.
1
"The strongest resistance should come from the white working class; they will soon find out that Trump will treat them the same way he treated the suckers who signed up for his fraudulent university. When steel mills fail to return to Youngstown, or when new trade deals produce no more magic than the old ones, these economic exiles will wonder how they got betrayed."
This is the most tragic aspect of the campaign - how Trump lied to these good Americans. He won't deliver any of the promises of a better life to them that he promised. Yes, they will be betrayed. And they will suffer in great numbers for Trump's dishonesty. Some will say that they wanted change, and that they despised the establishment that Hillary represented. But they didn't realize that all the problems with that establishment came from their own party, who refused to allow the Obama administration to take the actions needed to help them out. Now they will suffer. My heart goes out to these people. They are about to learn a very hard lesson about blindly following self-serving demagogues.
This is the most tragic aspect of the campaign - how Trump lied to these good Americans. He won't deliver any of the promises of a better life to them that he promised. Yes, they will be betrayed. And they will suffer in great numbers for Trump's dishonesty. Some will say that they wanted change, and that they despised the establishment that Hillary represented. But they didn't realize that all the problems with that establishment came from their own party, who refused to allow the Obama administration to take the actions needed to help them out. Now they will suffer. My heart goes out to these people. They are about to learn a very hard lesson about blindly following self-serving demagogues.
9
They're just going to blame the Democrats for running Hillary. This is not the first time these folks have been scammed so bad it is still buried in their own denial.
Tim Egan, reading your column ("Resist Much") was balm for this wounded voter - emotionally wounded - no outward scars showing. And will resistance come from the white working class, the very people who voted Trump and his Senate and Congress into office for the long slog? Of course the wall won't be built with Mexico footing the bill. That was just catnip for the far right folks in Texas, Arizona, New Mexico. And the 11 million illegal immigrants won't be rounded up and sent on their way south either. Guns are still beloved and still kill Americans (30,000 this past year), and climate warming change and denial are the orders of the day, though the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico are licking at Florida's and Louisiana's and Mississippi's toes. Alas, now that we the people are picking ourselves up from the ground where we've lain in shock since Election Day, we will resist misogyny, bigotry, demagoguery and xenophobia any way we can. Be assured, Tim, as you suggest, that we will be reading our horoscopes instead of the pollsters and news and social media folks who predicted Hillary Clinton would be our first Woman President! Now Hillary is walking her dog in Chappaqua and trying to make sense of her unprognosticated loss on Tuesday, while Trump and his lovely wife and little boy in the White House, are sitting in the catbird seats this go-round. Back to the 2020 drawing board and hoping and praying that Donald Trump will somehow become the President of e pluribus unum.
If Trump was sincere in his pre-election speeches and statements and ridicule of minorities, etc. we're in big trouble. If he decides to change his tune, we're still in big trouble because he's lied again. We can't trust him or his henchmen of very doubtful integrity in anything. He knows little and is uninterested in learning.
It seems he's aged in the last month, and the learning curve is steep even for seasoned government people when they get to the White House in any capacity. Burnout is high. The pace is warp speed, it requires stamina, dedication and sincere, sustained interest.
I see what scares/terrifies my friends and neighbors: the shadow of European
history some eighty years ago. The system is not rigged, Trump was elected by a legitimate process and that's the thought that's very hard to accept.
It seems he's aged in the last month, and the learning curve is steep even for seasoned government people when they get to the White House in any capacity. Burnout is high. The pace is warp speed, it requires stamina, dedication and sincere, sustained interest.
I see what scares/terrifies my friends and neighbors: the shadow of European
history some eighty years ago. The system is not rigged, Trump was elected by a legitimate process and that's the thought that's very hard to accept.
2
I did not vote for him. And I certainly do not disagree with any of the rotten adjectives you used to describe him.
But did we not just experience the death of predictions by polling? Who are we to foretell the future, to imagine we know what will happen in our economy, our foreign policy, etc.?
Does a self-described "winner" really want to march his nation into failure after failure, turning us into an international pariah, eviscerating all our alliances, throwing everyone off balance by tariffs, environmental destruction, deficits?
I think the truth will be somewhere in the middle, a moderating force that will restrain Trump. At least I hope that's the case.
But did we not just experience the death of predictions by polling? Who are we to foretell the future, to imagine we know what will happen in our economy, our foreign policy, etc.?
Does a self-described "winner" really want to march his nation into failure after failure, turning us into an international pariah, eviscerating all our alliances, throwing everyone off balance by tariffs, environmental destruction, deficits?
I think the truth will be somewhere in the middle, a moderating force that will restrain Trump. At least I hope that's the case.
Lawyers for Trump have requested the “Trump University” case be postponed for a year so the president-elect defendant can tend to being president-elect.
They also requested statements from Trump made during the campaign not be used in the trial.
Judge Curiel, famous from the slur from Trump at him during the campaign rejected the requests, suggesting the parties settle out of court.
No doubt Trump supporters, giddy for their hero, will disregard the Trump U trial and this obvious attempt to leverage his newly won office for favorable treatment. But is this not the very sort of corruption they were voting against?
Such voters are by nature fickle; and political power is always a fleeting thing. They love Trump now, but more episodes like this and perhaps a year from now they’ll be screaming “crook” like they did at Mrs. Clinton.
That is not a prediction, but figures like Trump don’t often live up to their hype, and at some point, perhaps sooner than expected, his supporter will see him for the phony he is and react accordingly.
They also requested statements from Trump made during the campaign not be used in the trial.
Judge Curiel, famous from the slur from Trump at him during the campaign rejected the requests, suggesting the parties settle out of court.
No doubt Trump supporters, giddy for their hero, will disregard the Trump U trial and this obvious attempt to leverage his newly won office for favorable treatment. But is this not the very sort of corruption they were voting against?
Such voters are by nature fickle; and political power is always a fleeting thing. They love Trump now, but more episodes like this and perhaps a year from now they’ll be screaming “crook” like they did at Mrs. Clinton.
That is not a prediction, but figures like Trump don’t often live up to their hype, and at some point, perhaps sooner than expected, his supporter will see him for the phony he is and react accordingly.
3
Regarding poling: In my 64 years, I have never seen it so wrong. I have never seen supposed experts so wrong. I have never had so much doubt that the election was fair. I have never ever suspected that other than voter suppression, which has become endemic in the past elections, that there has been something wrong with the results. Not even in the mess of 2000. But I strongly suspect foul play in this election.
3
Couldn't agree with you more "...strongly suspect foul play...". I listened to that man telling his loyal followers that 'if they don't win the election is rigged.' Sure it would be rigged if they lost because they had some kind of rigging apparatus in place TO WIN and if that didn't hold and the other side won then it was rigged vs them (don't ask me how, but I'm sure there was some monkey business). How could they have been so very wrong in their polling. Recognized too that almost all (if not all) the secretaries of state for each State is republican. additionally, why weren't the rnc or anything republican hacked? they hacked c.powell because according to them he had some issues with hrc. this outcome is a very, very weird situation. it may not be that farfetched that the russians had something to do with this; they were extremely jubilant ...they got their boy.
Another thing I believe that the ones that carried him to the WH will be very, very disappointed. This campaign was built on lies and so much divisiveness, meanness...do these people really believe that he'll bring back jobs? when he had an opportunity to show how much he wanted to "make america great again" and to create jobs in this country with his "many businesses" he chose to outsource to china, india, etc....really, bring back jobs?!? Oh, I forgot, his big beautiful wall will indeed create thousands of jobs ...
Another thing I believe that the ones that carried him to the WH will be very, very disappointed. This campaign was built on lies and so much divisiveness, meanness...do these people really believe that he'll bring back jobs? when he had an opportunity to show how much he wanted to "make america great again" and to create jobs in this country with his "many businesses" he chose to outsource to china, india, etc....really, bring back jobs?!? Oh, I forgot, his big beautiful wall will indeed create thousands of jobs ...
"When he orders the generals to torture suspects, kill family members of suspected terrorists, they can cite Geneva Conventions — something the generals know much more about than Trump."
Gee, how did that work out during the Junior Bush Reign of Error, which used simple John Yoo/Jay Bybee memos to countermand both the Geneva Conventions and the Convention Against Torture, both ratified treaties. Our constitution characterizes ratified treaties as "the supreme law of the land." The Bush years and the Obama Administration's refusal to issue a corrective states otherwise. Meanwhile, we are holding detainees at Guantanamo for 15 years without charge or trial, making further mockery of our Constitution.
I am not convinced that yhe Generals will push back. After all, their record shows that they didn't before.
Gee, how did that work out during the Junior Bush Reign of Error, which used simple John Yoo/Jay Bybee memos to countermand both the Geneva Conventions and the Convention Against Torture, both ratified treaties. Our constitution characterizes ratified treaties as "the supreme law of the land." The Bush years and the Obama Administration's refusal to issue a corrective states otherwise. Meanwhile, we are holding detainees at Guantanamo for 15 years without charge or trial, making further mockery of our Constitution.
I am not convinced that yhe Generals will push back. After all, their record shows that they didn't before.
4
This is a white elephant.
The reality is that the steel mills disappeared in the late 1980's. I can attest to this as the son of a foundry owner. The regulations set forth by the EPA doomed American heavy manufacturing. They worked (and continue to) as a gestapo, overwhelming small to medium sized businesses, driving them to financial ruin, then seizing their assets in order to finance their efforts against bigger fish. Today we have generations of "we need clean air and water" but "where are all the jobs?" fools. There was never any compromise unless the proper skids were greased and payoffs made. Now we have cleaner air and water, and nobody can afford a car.
Here to hoping President Trump follows through on his promises. The EPA needs to be gutted and bankrupted just like their victims were.
The reality is that the steel mills disappeared in the late 1980's. I can attest to this as the son of a foundry owner. The regulations set forth by the EPA doomed American heavy manufacturing. They worked (and continue to) as a gestapo, overwhelming small to medium sized businesses, driving them to financial ruin, then seizing their assets in order to finance their efforts against bigger fish. Today we have generations of "we need clean air and water" but "where are all the jobs?" fools. There was never any compromise unless the proper skids were greased and payoffs made. Now we have cleaner air and water, and nobody can afford a car.
Here to hoping President Trump follows through on his promises. The EPA needs to be gutted and bankrupted just like their victims were.
2
The steel industry didn't fall to EPA regulations. American Steel companies did not upgrade their plants the same way that the Asians and Europeans were doing. They took profits for themselves and their shareholders and ended up being unable to compete with more efficient foreign companies.
1
Do you remember when the Cuyahoga River caught fire?
Air quality alerts (code red) that choke us were month long?
PCB's?
What lead in gasoline did to children?
It is regrettable that your daddy's wealth didn't buy you a better education.
You have something in common with the president elect.
Oh, and car registrations are at an all time high of 260 million.
Air quality alerts (code red) that choke us were month long?
PCB's?
What lead in gasoline did to children?
It is regrettable that your daddy's wealth didn't buy you a better education.
You have something in common with the president elect.
Oh, and car registrations are at an all time high of 260 million.
1
We're just dying for smog like New Dehli's to return to Appalachian river valleys.
I am a naturalized citizen, I gain my citizen ship in 10 year period. I witness two presidency Bush and Obama.
Obama's presidency showed me clearly one important aspect of American society.
Almost half of the population hasn't shed or changed their mind about segregation.
Obama's presidency period , all protest veiled under fake policy protest . but actually many of them are about how come a black man sit in white house. Through and Through , this is segregation mentality.
I am white skinned European person, I have a dream about America , I knew about very well Civil rights era struggles but I was considering that at least 70% of Americans moved from the segregation era mentality. I was wrong.
I saw also in this election Campaign, Americans are not even ready for a woman in high office. All fake criticism about Hillary will be revisited in the future and how they were baseless allegations will slap those people faces.
I was expecting more modern America, about race and gender issues. But That break my hope. We still need time to overcome these prejudices.
Obama's presidency showed me clearly one important aspect of American society.
Almost half of the population hasn't shed or changed their mind about segregation.
Obama's presidency period , all protest veiled under fake policy protest . but actually many of them are about how come a black man sit in white house. Through and Through , this is segregation mentality.
I am white skinned European person, I have a dream about America , I knew about very well Civil rights era struggles but I was considering that at least 70% of Americans moved from the segregation era mentality. I was wrong.
I saw also in this election Campaign, Americans are not even ready for a woman in high office. All fake criticism about Hillary will be revisited in the future and how they were baseless allegations will slap those people faces.
I was expecting more modern America, about race and gender issues. But That break my hope. We still need time to overcome these prejudices.
10
The press and the Clinton Campaign were equally incompetent, 53% of women voted for Trump and huge numbers of working Americans. Will we see any self analysis by the press? Forgetaboutit!
So now the pundits look back over their shoulders and do all they can to portray the glass as half full. Well, good luck with that.
Republicans hold all three branches of government, them's the facts Mr. Egan!
The people who voted for Trump are clueless, the people responsible for Clintons nomination are clueless and now the nation will pay as a basket of deplorables take over the Whitehouse.
So now the pundits look back over their shoulders and do all they can to portray the glass as half full. Well, good luck with that.
Republicans hold all three branches of government, them's the facts Mr. Egan!
The people who voted for Trump are clueless, the people responsible for Clintons nomination are clueless and now the nation will pay as a basket of deplorables take over the Whitehouse.
1
US politics is so psychopathological that good candidates simply cannot be recruited to run for public offices, particularly by a political party that cannot even muster reliable turnout of its purported voters.
Why do people keep saying the jobs won't come back? The policies that made America rich are simple. They were explained by Alexander Hamilton and Benjamin Franklin 230 years ago, and were followed by the Germans, Japanese, Koreans and Chinese to great effect.
1. Raise tariffs to give domestic businesses an advantage against foreign competitors in the home market.
2. Provide cheap credit to American businesses to promote expansion, entrepreneurialism and innovation.
3. Use revenue from tariffs to finance internal improvements, or infrastructure, to enhance commerce, transportation and quality of life.
4. Restrict immigration to protect American high wages against the pauperized wage structure of poorer countries like China, India and Mexico.
5. Avoid foreign entanglements and an interventionist foreign policy that requires heavy spending on fleets, armies and wars.
The above policies at one time were called the American System and were the policies of the Republican Party until Eisenhower when both parties became imperialist. Since then, we have followed free trade, mass immigration and war policies that have decimated the once mighty American middle class while benefiting international finance and the military industrial complex. Hopefully, we are now returning to traditional American policies in economics and foreign affairs. But the corporate media and wealthy billionaires reliant on the imperialist system will pull out all the stops to keep their gravy train rolling.
1. Raise tariffs to give domestic businesses an advantage against foreign competitors in the home market.
2. Provide cheap credit to American businesses to promote expansion, entrepreneurialism and innovation.
3. Use revenue from tariffs to finance internal improvements, or infrastructure, to enhance commerce, transportation and quality of life.
4. Restrict immigration to protect American high wages against the pauperized wage structure of poorer countries like China, India and Mexico.
5. Avoid foreign entanglements and an interventionist foreign policy that requires heavy spending on fleets, armies and wars.
The above policies at one time were called the American System and were the policies of the Republican Party until Eisenhower when both parties became imperialist. Since then, we have followed free trade, mass immigration and war policies that have decimated the once mighty American middle class while benefiting international finance and the military industrial complex. Hopefully, we are now returning to traditional American policies in economics and foreign affairs. But the corporate media and wealthy billionaires reliant on the imperialist system will pull out all the stops to keep their gravy train rolling.
2
it's just so hard to understand trump's motivation in all of this. is it truly narcissism or something more foreboding.
i continue to be brought back to a day, someday in the last year or so, when i received what appeared to be a standard pre-stamped survey in the mail. i glanced through the questions and as i looked more closely the questions all correlated with voter demographics. i was disgusted and threw the survey in the trash.
just wondering... how was it possible trump was so sure he would win -- and did? how about if the survey i received (and how many millions of other likely voters received) was really like a marketing campaign, a way to gauge individual openness to trump's message? for those who answered this survey, it would have been an extremely efficient way to begin tracking those voters matching his demographic (older, white, preferring less government intervention, less educated). then perhaps another organization appearing to be unaffiliated with the survey follows up to begin actively working on a relationship with those particular voters to track and encourage commitment to his candidacy?
why did trump stump in unexpected states at the last minute. was he reach out to a preexisting base. and, if so, who paid for all of this? perhaps paranoid, perhaps not...
yes, resistance is the only way to get through this dark time and to attempt to feel whole again regardless of how this occurred.
i continue to be brought back to a day, someday in the last year or so, when i received what appeared to be a standard pre-stamped survey in the mail. i glanced through the questions and as i looked more closely the questions all correlated with voter demographics. i was disgusted and threw the survey in the trash.
just wondering... how was it possible trump was so sure he would win -- and did? how about if the survey i received (and how many millions of other likely voters received) was really like a marketing campaign, a way to gauge individual openness to trump's message? for those who answered this survey, it would have been an extremely efficient way to begin tracking those voters matching his demographic (older, white, preferring less government intervention, less educated). then perhaps another organization appearing to be unaffiliated with the survey follows up to begin actively working on a relationship with those particular voters to track and encourage commitment to his candidacy?
why did trump stump in unexpected states at the last minute. was he reach out to a preexisting base. and, if so, who paid for all of this? perhaps paranoid, perhaps not...
yes, resistance is the only way to get through this dark time and to attempt to feel whole again regardless of how this occurred.
3
And Hillary's motivation was....?
At some point you have to accept responsibility for the choices you make.