Republic-anals complained Barack Obama was taking too many vacations. What will they do when Sir Donald tells them he's too busy to address critical national issues?
9
There is no law which requires the President to sell off his businesses and to remove his family from operating it and placing the resulting assets in a blind trust nor to stop running his businesses to avoid all chances of conflicts of interests. However, the President is subject to the same conflict of interest laws as are any others in elected offices, etc. If Trump thinks that he can conduct the business of the United States and run or advise others in the running of his businesses without risk of breaking the laws or becoming liable to civil damages, he is mistaken. He will be sued and he might be prosecuted if he does not separate himself from his businesses to that his job as President is his only job and none of what he learns as President ends up giving some competitive advantages for the businesses in his financial interests are still involved.
4
Our current President-Elect has conflicts all over the world which will make it difficult for him to govern with integrity. He must separate his commercial interests from his political agendas.
To do otherwise will compromise his leadership. His children should not be at White House meetings or briefings with foreign leaders as they have been delegated to run his commercial interests. All business should be separate from politics as too many conflicts of interests will present themselves.
To do otherwise will compromise his leadership. His children should not be at White House meetings or briefings with foreign leaders as they have been delegated to run his commercial interests. All business should be separate from politics as too many conflicts of interests will present themselves.
8
I have great confidence in the NY Times, WAPO and their media allies to bring transparency to a Trump administration with the same vigor, seriousness and concern for the common good with which they investigated the interlocking web of private, public, lobby, foreign and other interests of Democrats. Let's make America Transparent again.
7
Now you are investigating Trump? Horse is out of the barn but keep the pressure up anyway. Now, please start dealing with the recount. Either it's all "too little, too late" or it isn't. This entire election has been the result of the complete breakdown of almost every institution entrusted with the protection of the US, its population and, indeed the entire world. Wages may have creeped up, but now our workers cannot keep up with spiraling health insurance premiums, impending inflation and residing in a kleptocracy, led by the venal and the unprepared.
12
President elect Trump has buildings worldwide with his name emblazoned on them. It was his choice to nominate and accept the position of POTUS knowing full well the risk he was taking combing a personal business empire with the role of President of the USA.
Prior to his inauguration, it is imperative that America and its allies are reassured that the TRUMP organisation will be responsible for the costs associated with providing security for these buildings - and should any attacks on these buildings occur, the American military or its allies should not be expected to enter into conflict as a result.
No matter how much you try to separate the Trump Corporation from the business of government, the President’s name will remain TRUMP.
Prior to his inauguration, it is imperative that America and its allies are reassured that the TRUMP organisation will be responsible for the costs associated with providing security for these buildings - and should any attacks on these buildings occur, the American military or its allies should not be expected to enter into conflict as a result.
No matter how much you try to separate the Trump Corporation from the business of government, the President’s name will remain TRUMP.
1
I seriously doubt that Donald Trump's supporters will care if his presidency results in increased profits for his business, so long as the U.S. economy does well and Trump appears to be putting the country's interests first. He would have to commit a really egregious violation for Congress to take up impeachment proceedings.
3
I expect everyone currently in a position of governmental power to immediately rectify the laws, correcting the impossibly stupid allowance for a sitting president to have so many points of influence in the financial markets. WHY is anyone waiting for Trump to do the right thing, and hope that he will put his holdings in a 'blind trust'? He's already stepped over the line (Brazil). President Obama, members of the US Senate, the US House, please, make every effort to stop this runaway train before the crash occurs.
11
Thank you NYT. This is why I subscribed.
9
At some point, this issue will become impossible for Senate and House Republicans to ignore. That point will come sooner rather than later if we hold their feet to the fire.
6
By then, the ninth justice will be on the Supreme Court.
If you think it preposterous to proclaim Corporations "People". If you find it totally unfair to the working person to make "Citizens United" the new Law of the land ....Just wait.
Trump has a Scalia clone for the court. The Right Wing has many more of these injustices for you. .. they will be upheld 5 to 4. The same way they shoved "W" down our throats. WMD's anyone?
"Sink The Bismarck".. Before it is too late.
If you think it preposterous to proclaim Corporations "People". If you find it totally unfair to the working person to make "Citizens United" the new Law of the land ....Just wait.
Trump has a Scalia clone for the court. The Right Wing has many more of these injustices for you. .. they will be upheld 5 to 4. The same way they shoved "W" down our throats. WMD's anyone?
"Sink The Bismarck".. Before it is too late.
4
It seems that the framers of the Constitution overlooked the potential for conflict of interest when they did not include a clause mandating a separation of business and state. The Industrial Revolution had not yet started and it would have seemed unlikely that an individual could acquire enough wealth to rival a nation. But, in a sense, that is precisely what kings were.
We may not have realized it yet, but the United States of America is on the verge of swearing in it's first emperor.
We may not have realized it yet, but the United States of America is on the verge of swearing in it's first emperor.
9
The first question that CNN, Meet the Press, Face the Nation, the NY Times, Washington Post, etc., etc., need to ask Trump and/or his spokespeople each and every chance is when will Trump put his holdings in a blind trust or else divest. Each - and - every - chance - they - make
7
This was reported in Newsweek in October & story was ignored. How many canaries must die before we close the coal mine?
9
Trump: "I will totally accept the results of this election... if I win." That was said by Trump a candidate. What one can expect him to say when he is a president??
As Cuba is getting to ready to bury its dictator, the United States is getting ready to inaugurate one.
As Cuba is getting to ready to bury its dictator, the United States is getting ready to inaugurate one.
5
Now he claims he won the popular vote.
Trump is obviously delusional and cannot separate fact from farce. This was obvious with climate denial and his birtherism. He is not fit to be the president. Just ask 98% of the scientists who are warning us about fossil fuels harming the planet.
The Electoral college is supposed to prevent such a person from becoming President. If they need more proof, they should ask those scientists.
We "The People" did not vote for him either ! We know better !
"Sink The Bismarck"
Trump is obviously delusional and cannot separate fact from farce. This was obvious with climate denial and his birtherism. He is not fit to be the president. Just ask 98% of the scientists who are warning us about fossil fuels harming the planet.
The Electoral college is supposed to prevent such a person from becoming President. If they need more proof, they should ask those scientists.
We "The People" did not vote for him either ! We know better !
"Sink The Bismarck"
10
"Trump is obviously delusional and cannot separate fact from farce." - true, but I am more concerned about the millions who voted for him...
7
Unless the problem is solved the TRUMP brand and the PRESIDENCY will become close to 100% linked. While this may generate money for the Trumps and their business associates, it will have the effect of reducing the power and the prestige of the Office, and thus the country.
I am not at all sure that this is a solvable problem. And you thought the Obama birther problem and Clinton Foundation issues were delegitimizing, wait until the Trump Presidency is fully commercialized.
Because the problem cannot be solved the consequence will be a
very large self-inflicted wound on the country, a wound with the potential to cripple the country for a generation.
I am not at all sure that this is a solvable problem. And you thought the Obama birther problem and Clinton Foundation issues were delegitimizing, wait until the Trump Presidency is fully commercialized.
Because the problem cannot be solved the consequence will be a
very large self-inflicted wound on the country, a wound with the potential to cripple the country for a generation.
7
For all the "unprecedented" occurrences with the election of Trump, perhaps this is the time for the Electorial College to exercise an unprecedented procedure......to disclaim the winning of a president......
11
Paging Paul Ryan or any Republican, anyone with a conscience?
13
It may be a long time until we hear " Mr. Trump, have you no decency" from our members of congress.
10
For a great analysis of Trump's "empire" read this week's Economist, "Deconstructing Donald." Most of his successes were years ago.
7
Why are both sides kid the media so silent about Bain Capital?
"Mitt Romney is one of the greatest and most irresponsible debt creators of all time. In the past few decades, in fact, Romney has piled more debt onto more unsuspecting companies, written more gigantic checks that other people have to cover, than perhaps all but a handful of people on planet Earth."
Rolling Stone 2012.
They keep quoting Rudy's conflicts of interest but Bain spans four continents.
A third choice might be a good idea.
"Mitt Romney is one of the greatest and most irresponsible debt creators of all time. In the past few decades, in fact, Romney has piled more debt onto more unsuspecting companies, written more gigantic checks that other people have to cover, than perhaps all but a handful of people on planet Earth."
Rolling Stone 2012.
They keep quoting Rudy's conflicts of interest but Bain spans four continents.
A third choice might be a good idea.
4
Would be very informative and interesting to get some Constitutional Lawyers on board in a discussion regarding the limits of the Presidency. Seems there are few laws, just an assumption of common decency and ethical restraint.
But in our world where to push the envelope, bend (even break) the law, act with no restraint or common decency is seen as laudable by many, this 'olde world' assumption (even if an aspiration) of taking the high road of integrity, discipline, wisdom, justice just doesn't work without the precision of legal rulings.
But in our world where to push the envelope, bend (even break) the law, act with no restraint or common decency is seen as laudable by many, this 'olde world' assumption (even if an aspiration) of taking the high road of integrity, discipline, wisdom, justice just doesn't work without the precision of legal rulings.
3
While many will scoff at the notion, Trump may very well be insolvent. Bernie Madoff was insolvent for a period of in excess of 15 years. Enron was insolvent for a period of at least 5 years.
Insolvency is simple, your liabilities exceed your assets. Madoff and Enron were both Ponzi schemes that succeeded by modeling the appearance of success. Living large and in a most flamboyant way.
The key is to continue to increase current cash flow by new "investors" and to conceal debt/liabilities.
Another feature is to compartmentalize activities so that no one person other than the perpetrator and his accomplices have a complete picture.
Some reporting I have seen on his golf courses show annual losses. Golf courses are notoriously poor investments and golf has been in a declining growth cycle for years. Many private clubs have closed or gone public. There is an oversupply of golf venues.
Without disclosure, with he has avoided at every turn, there is no way to know his actual solvency.
Almost all of the major financial frauds have been Ponzi schemes that succeeded over a long period of time.
It is like musical chairs, until the music stops, everything is fine.
Trump could easily parlay his presidency into an avenue to cover his insolvency as he is able to use political leverage to extract above market terms from prospective customers to stabilize his cash flow.
While he was in bankruptcy in the nineties the bankruptcy court awarded him a $450.000 a month living allowance.
Insolvency is simple, your liabilities exceed your assets. Madoff and Enron were both Ponzi schemes that succeeded by modeling the appearance of success. Living large and in a most flamboyant way.
The key is to continue to increase current cash flow by new "investors" and to conceal debt/liabilities.
Another feature is to compartmentalize activities so that no one person other than the perpetrator and his accomplices have a complete picture.
Some reporting I have seen on his golf courses show annual losses. Golf courses are notoriously poor investments and golf has been in a declining growth cycle for years. Many private clubs have closed or gone public. There is an oversupply of golf venues.
Without disclosure, with he has avoided at every turn, there is no way to know his actual solvency.
Almost all of the major financial frauds have been Ponzi schemes that succeeded over a long period of time.
It is like musical chairs, until the music stops, everything is fine.
Trump could easily parlay his presidency into an avenue to cover his insolvency as he is able to use political leverage to extract above market terms from prospective customers to stabilize his cash flow.
While he was in bankruptcy in the nineties the bankruptcy court awarded him a $450.000 a month living allowance.
14
As if the world needed it, Trump is now bent on spreading corruption across the globe.
11
If this problem seems so important to these respondents, what do they have to say about a president whose family has close rationships with the Saudi royal family vs. a vs the attack on Iraq in 2003?
1
i'm a CPA and the disclosure requirements for any public entity, the president is by definition a public entity, who necessitate a full scale independent audit of each and every one of his business holdings and activities and all related party transactions, between Trump as president and Trump as financial interest holder, would have to be disclosed and assessed for any impropriety.
This is a well established standard followed by all public companies.
Yet, we seem to have no standard for the Office of President.
We are on the verge of the most corrupt self-dealing administration this country has ever witnessed by a factor of 100 or pick a number, it'll be HUGE.
The sheep are about to be fleeced, hold on.
This man is perhaps one of the most unsavory businessmen to ever enter public life.
Yikes, we are in trouble like none we have seen.
This is a well established standard followed by all public companies.
Yet, we seem to have no standard for the Office of President.
We are on the verge of the most corrupt self-dealing administration this country has ever witnessed by a factor of 100 or pick a number, it'll be HUGE.
The sheep are about to be fleeced, hold on.
This man is perhaps one of the most unsavory businessmen to ever enter public life.
Yikes, we are in trouble like none we have seen.
11
"Yet, we seem to have no standard for the Office of President."
Precisely, there appears to be none, the constitution needs to be revisited, predicated as it was on the social mores of the class of privileged men who wrote it and thought only their kind, with their vision, their social mores, their aspirations of a common decency, their role as servant to citizen, would be President
I doubt they could envision a time like ours where all their aspirations and visionary ideas and dreams for a brave new world steeped in decency, integrity, wisdom, justice, equality would be scattered to the four winds by a blank check of personal desire. Public office, servant to citizen, has been turned on its head.
Precisely, there appears to be none, the constitution needs to be revisited, predicated as it was on the social mores of the class of privileged men who wrote it and thought only their kind, with their vision, their social mores, their aspirations of a common decency, their role as servant to citizen, would be President
I doubt they could envision a time like ours where all their aspirations and visionary ideas and dreams for a brave new world steeped in decency, integrity, wisdom, justice, equality would be scattered to the four winds by a blank check of personal desire. Public office, servant to citizen, has been turned on its head.
7
Simply put: If President-elect Trump continues to receive profits from his overseas ventures and those profits are in any way enhanced by him becoming President Trump, he will be an unconstitutional POTUS on "day one" as he is so fond of saying.
While Mr. Trump is correct that the strict conflict of interest prohibitions that apply to the rest of the executive branch of the federal government (18 U.S.C. § 208) do not apply to him when he becomes our 45th President, he is incorrect that he will be immune from the Constitution. As the NYT points out, the Emoluments Clause (Art. I, Sec. 9, Cl. 8) prohibits ALL federal officers from receiving "emoluments" (i.e., profits from employment or office) from foreign entities. Indeed, violation of the Emoluments Clause is certainly a basis for impeachment, especially because bribery is specifically mentioned as an impeachable "high crime" in the Constitution (Art. II, Sec. 4).
All American citizens who believe in the sanctity of our Constitution and the thoroughly American principle than no one is above the law -- regardless of wealth, station or privilege -- should all together say to Mr. Trump in a LOUD and unified voice: Divest Or Be Impeached! DOBI! DOBI! DOBI!
While Mr. Trump is correct that the strict conflict of interest prohibitions that apply to the rest of the executive branch of the federal government (18 U.S.C. § 208) do not apply to him when he becomes our 45th President, he is incorrect that he will be immune from the Constitution. As the NYT points out, the Emoluments Clause (Art. I, Sec. 9, Cl. 8) prohibits ALL federal officers from receiving "emoluments" (i.e., profits from employment or office) from foreign entities. Indeed, violation of the Emoluments Clause is certainly a basis for impeachment, especially because bribery is specifically mentioned as an impeachable "high crime" in the Constitution (Art. II, Sec. 4).
All American citizens who believe in the sanctity of our Constitution and the thoroughly American principle than no one is above the law -- regardless of wealth, station or privilege -- should all together say to Mr. Trump in a LOUD and unified voice: Divest Or Be Impeached! DOBI! DOBI! DOBI!
11
Just remember folks: what is good for Trump is good for America.
He keeps saying that, and it gets less convincing all the time.
4
I didn't Booo. I voted! I voted with the majority for Clinton.
What good did it do?
What good did it do?
5
Were I a foreign leader or diplomat, I would not trust one word out of Trump's mouth, based on his past behavior. I would negotiate nothing significant with him, on the understanding that neither his word nor his signature binds him to any promise. Exactly what this means for our nation, I cannot predict.
8
Career diplomats serving under the Trump administration will always have to wonder who their real employer is... I wonder if they will have any voice.
2
Emoluments Clause, Schemoluments Clause. It reads, "without the Consent of the Congress". The Republican Congress will consent, so there will be no legal problem.
4
L'etat c'est moi.
With this famous phrase, Louis XIV of France declared that the law was whatever he said it was. He was asserting the God-given right of kings to do as they please.
That reality was a hallmark of feudal society, who's last expression was the kingdoms of Europe.
Other hallmarks of feudal society include business arrangements that favor insiders over competence, courts that serve the aristocracy while pretending to be impartial, and widespread corruption masquerading as business-as-usual.
We're slipping backwards, from the democratic ethos to the feudal.
This might be the inevitable result of the end of the frontier. When you quit expanding, you must either conquer new territories, accept the concentration of power and the monopoly of necessities, or empower government to resist that concentration. This last comes with its own risk, as government can monopolize necessities as easily as multinational corporations.
It's going to be an interesting ride.
With this famous phrase, Louis XIV of France declared that the law was whatever he said it was. He was asserting the God-given right of kings to do as they please.
That reality was a hallmark of feudal society, who's last expression was the kingdoms of Europe.
Other hallmarks of feudal society include business arrangements that favor insiders over competence, courts that serve the aristocracy while pretending to be impartial, and widespread corruption masquerading as business-as-usual.
We're slipping backwards, from the democratic ethos to the feudal.
This might be the inevitable result of the end of the frontier. When you quit expanding, you must either conquer new territories, accept the concentration of power and the monopoly of necessities, or empower government to resist that concentration. This last comes with its own risk, as government can monopolize necessities as easily as multinational corporations.
It's going to be an interesting ride.
9
What have people of good conscience been doing since the election? Mourning our Democracy. There is no way to square DJT's business interests and those of the US. He has succeeded in acquiring the title of President, all the while and with forethought, has been planning to act like a king, and us his subjects. This was done right under the press' nose. The last glimmer of hope would be a functioning congress, but it is controlled by Republicans that have long ago put party before country, or greed before country take your pick. Maybe if we succeed in changing Trump's last name to Clinton, congress can be persuaded to pay attention.
Trump's main talent is making people into chumps, he and the current congress deserve each other. He is also a loose cannon and unpredictable. They are smiling now. I suspect things will get real, very fast.
Trump's main talent is making people into chumps, he and the current congress deserve each other. He is also a loose cannon and unpredictable. They are smiling now. I suspect things will get real, very fast.
7
Please keep this reporting on conflict of interest at the top of the must read instead of the dead cat voter fraud rubbish headlines. Thank you
6
Trump's rise should be seen as the blossoming of our longstanding belief--conviction, even--that business is the business of the US. That belief, combined with out longstanding commitment to individualism, has led to the widespread belief that individual business success is a sound measure of individual intelligence, probity, and, indeed, value.
We are about to experience both beliefs' ultimate absurdity.
Once upon a time, a background in business--even one extending to one's family (and even its deceased members)--no matter how successful, was seen as disqualifying one for military command.
This is a complex topic, and I'm no expert, but it seems to me we're about to experience what it's like to have a salesman run the military. Scary!
We are about to experience both beliefs' ultimate absurdity.
Once upon a time, a background in business--even one extending to one's family (and even its deceased members)--no matter how successful, was seen as disqualifying one for military command.
This is a complex topic, and I'm no expert, but it seems to me we're about to experience what it's like to have a salesman run the military. Scary!
3
The logistical elements of business and troop deployment are similar.
Aside from the conflicts of interest, aren't all of these Trump branded properties prime targets for terrorists around the world? It doesn't take much imagination to see how they will use attacks on these soft targets to bait Trump and his fanatical team into a global war with Islam.
5
There have been warnings for sometime that Trump could not pull himself away from his businesses to avoid potential conflicts. Please excuse the personal reference, but I have posted comments to this effect here on the Times over a matter of weeks before the voting. As a business owner and a participant in start up enterprises, it was clear to me that Trump pulling away from his various efforts would be very difficult because he does not head a single, stock trading corporation but rather runs a web of deals that includes various levels of participation (ownership) of buildings and complicated name licensing arrangements. He is probably signatory to several thousand such agreements, most of which have binding language as to how the business is to be conducted, the responsibilities of the various parties and who is directly responsible for paying debts. One cannot simply walk away from these complexities just because it is convenient. It would likely take a long process, one that might involve a year or two of unwinding, for Trump to free himself. His failure to address this issue, or even to take it seriously, represents a first, significant failure as president elect.
9
Here in the real world as it is:
Corruption is "relative."
Ours is a culture of infinite human complexity and subtlety.
Corruption is an ethical term and legal term.
"Crime" is arbitrary and discretionary in practical definitions & applications.
I perceive that much chaos is inevitable, and media and lawyers will thrive controversy by controversy as public morale diminishes.
Doesn't our President DJT, particularly because of his amazing political vote affirmation get to self-determine "ethics" questions, and in any case will control enough of the legal process (appointments, pardoning et cetera) to protect numerous self-interests?
This is a cynical observation with rhetorical question, though I currently perceive the phenomena as very predictable, expected crises of which low information voters have been oblivious if not indifferent.
Corruption is "relative."
Ours is a culture of infinite human complexity and subtlety.
Corruption is an ethical term and legal term.
"Crime" is arbitrary and discretionary in practical definitions & applications.
I perceive that much chaos is inevitable, and media and lawyers will thrive controversy by controversy as public morale diminishes.
Doesn't our President DJT, particularly because of his amazing political vote affirmation get to self-determine "ethics" questions, and in any case will control enough of the legal process (appointments, pardoning et cetera) to protect numerous self-interests?
This is a cynical observation with rhetorical question, though I currently perceive the phenomena as very predictable, expected crises of which low information voters have been oblivious if not indifferent.
1
Our system is built out of negotiated contracts, organized according to a master social contract defining the delegated powers of government and the system of organization to apply them. The US Constitution is the master contract which also provides for courts where contracts may be interpreted and enforced.
The US is utterly confused about the law of contracts, and it is even worse in China, where they don't even think it is worth paying lawyers to write any agreements down.
The US is utterly confused about the law of contracts, and it is even worse in China, where they don't even think it is worth paying lawyers to write any agreements down.
1
Consider how Mr. Trump is responding to the requests for recounts in specific states, he is not just complaining about it, he's claiming that he received the majority of the overall popular vote if the illegal voters are excluded from the counts. He's let his feelings overwhelm his reasoning, again. How is this man going to discipline himself to keep his private interests out of his thoughts as he makes decisions for everyone? Unless he liquidates his and his family's business interests, he simply will never be free to act as public official without considering his private interests at the same time. It's going to require a sustained effort by the Congress and public interest groups to stop Trump from behaving corruptly because he simply has not the capacity to do it himself.
2
Donald says the president can't have a conflict of interest. Therefore, he will continue to run his global enterprise out of the Oval Office.
He will send his kids out to fix the world and Pence to deal with Congress while Donald takes a few minutes every day to Make America Great.
"Great" for Donald is really pretty great.
He will send his kids out to fix the world and Pence to deal with Congress while Donald takes a few minutes every day to Make America Great.
"Great" for Donald is really pretty great.
1
Mr. Trump should divest, resign, or be impeached.
6
This comment from the introduction needs a citation: "More recently, after Mr. Trump came to the defense of Mr. Erdogan — suggesting that he had the right to crack down harshly on dissidents after a failed coup — the calls for action against Trump Towers have stopped..."
3
Trump is using his position to secure his personal power and his family's power, which will undermine the respectability of our government and of our liberal democracy. It is ironic that our government of the people, by the people, and for the people is being redefined as a plutocratic oligarchy by a man who his supporters think was going to take back government from those who have no respect for their interests. Americans have taken their form of government for granted, that it will work because it has, giving no thought to how and why it works, now it is being deconstructed right before their eyes. We are obliged to support those elected to office in order to preserve our democracy but we can oppose his moves to change that system from a system of laws to a system of the most powerful entities. The Congress and the Courts can prevent this from happening, but the Republicans are far to focused upon having power to do so unless their constituents insist.
3
Two million votes were arbitrarily discarded by a vestige of slavery to elect this burlesque airhead.
Why does anyone believe the US is a democracy.
Why does anyone believe the US is a democracy.
3
Trump said he would have a special prosecutor investigating Hillary.
I think we need a special prosecutor to investigate Mr. T.
Start interviewing people now for the job of special prosecutor.
He's already openly corrupt, using his position to make money on business, and he hasn't even been inaugurated!
I think we need a special prosecutor to investigate Mr. T.
Start interviewing people now for the job of special prosecutor.
He's already openly corrupt, using his position to make money on business, and he hasn't even been inaugurated!
11
So for self-titled "Law and Order" party, and Trump as the self-titled "Law and Order" candidate the law is in fact just an inconvenience and something to be ignored--except whet they want to use it against their political opponents. This is an especially tragi-comic since their main soapbox during the lead up to the election was that Hillary was "crooked" and her email server was an abuse of the law. What about their demonization of illegal immigrants--law breakers who deserve prosecution and deportations? If the president isn't subject to the laws of this land, why should anyone else be?
3
There is a whole subculture of parasites in the US who live off the idiocies of the US court system. Insurance companies pay them to lie because it is cheaper than fighting their frivolous lawsuits. Trump is as bigly as they come.
1
Thank you for this well-researched article. Just one thought. Maybe the word "conflict" is out of date here -- after all, didn't Trump make clear all along that profiting from the office is exactly why he wanted to be President?
4
I heard one of the authors on NPR this morning. It was said that people were asking why the NYT's didn't write the article before the election. The answer is that anyone who was educated, informed and not hiding their head in the sand already knew about the gross ethical problems regarding Trump and his businesses. It is the responsibility of the people in a democracy to make sure they are educated and informed which means they have to work at it.
3
What's the point when the stupid system will simply discard one's vote?
This election has been nothing but insults to intelligence from start to finish.
This election has been nothing but insults to intelligence from start to finish.
2
Donald Trump shouldn't be allowed to take office until he releases his tax returns and shows us all his dealings with domestic and foreign lenders. Surely the GOP is worried? No? I can't believe what is happening in this country. It is forever changed and the media is hysterical running from one Trump location to another. Stop it.
4
Every pretension of these fools to have ever had the slightest concern about US national security is just smoke now.
2
Where do people get their news, and how do they form their opinions?
Alas, our media have been loath to call out politicians in general and Republicans in particular for their lies over the years, merely reporting what this or that one said without pointing out that it was a lie. The liars could have screeched and threatened to sue all they wanted, but like Umptray, there would have been no actual suits because their lies would have been exposed in court. Indeed, in this perfect avatar of all they stand for, they have lied their way into the White House. The lies are repeated--repetition, after all, is the mother of learning--thus become truthy, then true, because the media has failed to call out Faux "News" for its outright lies, failed to challenge the rise of online fake "news" sites, failed to push network and cable news to report lies as lies, failed to challenge adequately the killing of the Fairness Doctrine, failed to ensure that the entire public gets the same reality-based news, failed to expose the utter corruption of the person now eagerly poised to assume the mantle. By the time we began to get real investigative reporting, the lies had become truth and the truth was attacked as lies. We are now beginning to see what we should have been seeing for years; instead of "Trump says millions voted illegally," today we have headlines like "Trump Makes Baseless Claim..." and "Trump Claims 'Millions' Voted Illegally, Citing No Evidence." Better late than never.
Alas, our media have been loath to call out politicians in general and Republicans in particular for their lies over the years, merely reporting what this or that one said without pointing out that it was a lie. The liars could have screeched and threatened to sue all they wanted, but like Umptray, there would have been no actual suits because their lies would have been exposed in court. Indeed, in this perfect avatar of all they stand for, they have lied their way into the White House. The lies are repeated--repetition, after all, is the mother of learning--thus become truthy, then true, because the media has failed to call out Faux "News" for its outright lies, failed to challenge the rise of online fake "news" sites, failed to push network and cable news to report lies as lies, failed to challenge adequately the killing of the Fairness Doctrine, failed to ensure that the entire public gets the same reality-based news, failed to expose the utter corruption of the person now eagerly poised to assume the mantle. By the time we began to get real investigative reporting, the lies had become truth and the truth was attacked as lies. We are now beginning to see what we should have been seeing for years; instead of "Trump says millions voted illegally," today we have headlines like "Trump Makes Baseless Claim..." and "Trump Claims 'Millions' Voted Illegally, Citing No Evidence." Better late than never.
8
Our very first president under the current Constitution, George Washington, was accused of wanting the C&O Canal built from Washington, DC, into the interior to benefit himself because of land holdings. In the case of Trump, his business dealings are in more than 20 nations around the world where foreign diplomats and foreign leaders can curry favor by encouraging profits for his business enterprises.
Here is the relevant section of the Constitution:
Article 1, section 9, clause 8:
"No title of nobility shall be granted by the United States: and no person holding any office of profit or trust under them, shall, without the consent of the Congress, accept of any present, emolument, office, or title, of any kind whatever, from any king, prince, or foreign state."
This clause is to prevent the United States to being governed or influenced by foreign powers through the corruption of an American president or other govt. official. It is likely that they never imagined a president could be so corrupted, but were more concerned with lower level officials.
The essential problem is that Trump has refused the normal process of isolating his business interests while president. Because he heads not a single corporation but a complex web of deals, loans and licensing agreements, he probably could not remove himself short of a year's long effort. He indicated in his interview with the Times last week that he plans to stay entangled, which is the source of the problem.
Here is the relevant section of the Constitution:
Article 1, section 9, clause 8:
"No title of nobility shall be granted by the United States: and no person holding any office of profit or trust under them, shall, without the consent of the Congress, accept of any present, emolument, office, or title, of any kind whatever, from any king, prince, or foreign state."
This clause is to prevent the United States to being governed or influenced by foreign powers through the corruption of an American president or other govt. official. It is likely that they never imagined a president could be so corrupted, but were more concerned with lower level officials.
The essential problem is that Trump has refused the normal process of isolating his business interests while president. Because he heads not a single corporation but a complex web of deals, loans and licensing agreements, he probably could not remove himself short of a year's long effort. He indicated in his interview with the Times last week that he plans to stay entangled, which is the source of the problem.
4
I'm pleased that you are starting to investigate these issues. But I'm extremely disappointed that you didn't look into and publish more details of these business ties before the election. I guess you were busy looking into the many various subtle aspects of the emails, and potential conflicts of interest with the Clinton Foundation. Did the times pre-election coverage of potential corruption offer more space to the conflicts of interest for a Trump administration or for a Clinton administration?
3
You make a good point. Part of the problem before the vote was taken is that Trump was saying so many outrageous things that he drew attention to those statements rather than looking ahead to the presidency. Hillary Clinton could have brought more attention to the issue during the debates, but the conflict only became expressly clear when Trump told the Times that he thinks he could run his businesses "perfectly" and run the country "perfectly" as well. He also struck a note of defiance, as he normally does on almost any issue, when he said that the existing laws exempt presidents from conflict of interest charges. However, he neglected to address the issue of the Constitution, which expressly forbids any government official from taking favors, referred to as emoluments, from any foreign power.
Foreign nations will be able to offer such emoluments to Trump's businesses by giving them favorable treatment, such as approving building permits and granting access to markets. This appears to be an inescapable contradiction with the responsibilities and duties of a president, which are first and last to the United States and its interests around the world. Trump could resolve it by setting in motion an orderly removal, completely, of himself from the business entanglements, but he indicated he has no plans to do so.
Foreign nations will be able to offer such emoluments to Trump's businesses by giving them favorable treatment, such as approving building permits and granting access to markets. This appears to be an inescapable contradiction with the responsibilities and duties of a president, which are first and last to the United States and its interests around the world. Trump could resolve it by setting in motion an orderly removal, completely, of himself from the business entanglements, but he indicated he has no plans to do so.
3
Trump told the Times that he thinks he could run his businesses "perfectly" and run the country "perfectly" as well"
How many bankruptcies, How many hard working people does he have to stiff, How many students does he have to rip off, how many lies does he have to soil us with before the Electoral College realizes "We did not vote for him, We do not want him, We did not elect him."
"Sink The Bismarck"
How many bankruptcies, How many hard working people does he have to stiff, How many students does he have to rip off, how many lies does he have to soil us with before the Electoral College realizes "We did not vote for him, We do not want him, We did not elect him."
"Sink The Bismarck"
3
The Octopus--
--
Having watched him, "...ascend like an octopus toward the prey, grabbing and gorging along the way..." [my caption], I'm now persuaded that the President Elect views his upcoming term as a way to garner even more--"Trumping" as it were, everything he has done in the past--sitting down to feast at the head of the table--that is, the World Economy--with "fingers in every pie."
--
...Welcome, to the Third World...
--
In terms of reputation, prestige, monetary gain, or advancing toward some other end? it really doesn't matter--to the voters that is. Any sideline or sideshow conducted from within the Oval Office will detract from the mission mandated by our Constitution and by both Parties--which is to lead the Nation, and be it's moral, political and cultural figurehead for the next four years.
--
If the President Elect persists in pursuing "other things," in addition to governing, he will end up short-changing those who voted for him, bilking all of us out of what we deserve, in terms of the pure sweat-equity required of all who hold the Office.
And as he personally enhances his other interests, we the American People will end up paying for it.
--
President Trump will win, at least in his own eyes, while America ends up losing.
Is that what we want? Will this be our legacy?
--
...They say that Nero fiddled, while Rome burned...
--
Having watched him, "...ascend like an octopus toward the prey, grabbing and gorging along the way..." [my caption], I'm now persuaded that the President Elect views his upcoming term as a way to garner even more--"Trumping" as it were, everything he has done in the past--sitting down to feast at the head of the table--that is, the World Economy--with "fingers in every pie."
--
...Welcome, to the Third World...
--
In terms of reputation, prestige, monetary gain, or advancing toward some other end? it really doesn't matter--to the voters that is. Any sideline or sideshow conducted from within the Oval Office will detract from the mission mandated by our Constitution and by both Parties--which is to lead the Nation, and be it's moral, political and cultural figurehead for the next four years.
--
If the President Elect persists in pursuing "other things," in addition to governing, he will end up short-changing those who voted for him, bilking all of us out of what we deserve, in terms of the pure sweat-equity required of all who hold the Office.
And as he personally enhances his other interests, we the American People will end up paying for it.
--
President Trump will win, at least in his own eyes, while America ends up losing.
Is that what we want? Will this be our legacy?
--
...They say that Nero fiddled, while Rome burned...
We have only one hope. That someone at IRS steals his tax returns and releases to the public. American hero-in-waiting.
(Where is Wiki-Leaks when you REALLY need them?)
(Where is Wiki-Leaks when you REALLY need them?)
14
Isn't a Chinese curse to wish a person "to live in interesting times" ? Well we are certainly swirling above the drain...............
3
And the minority of American voters who delivered Donald Trump a looming Electoral College majority as President-elect do not care about any potential nor apparent nor real domestic American or foreign international conflict of interests. So what can or will we be able to now is not obvious nor apparent nor ready. Majority rule always trumps minority rights in our divided limited power democratic republic.
2
The plurality voted against Trump, and nobody got a majority. The Electoral College summarily discarded 2 million votes, including mine, to ram this travesty down our throats, because this disingenuous nation still hasn't eliminated its hypocritical structural adaptations to slavery. This failure leaves open the possibility of fully renewing the US Civil War.
7
The US Constitution protects minority rights by limiting the powers of government.
The government actually has no lawful power to give money or respect to any person or organization who claims to know what nature or "God" or some spirit thinks about human concerns to make their own demands non-negotiable.
The government actually has no lawful power to give money or respect to any person or organization who claims to know what nature or "God" or some spirit thinks about human concerns to make their own demands non-negotiable.
I wonder when Trump and Bannon and all his seconds-in-command will start wearing those gaudy, oversized khaki uniforms with all the ribbons and epaulets, while smoking those giant cigars and watching firing squads filled with poor people as the victims? The Banana Republics are still with us, but in different clothes and venues.............A New Axis.
4
This is the paper that did nothing but find fault with Trump during the campaign and everything it could to make him lose the election. Now it seems hellbent on making his tenure miserable or, worse, bringing him down entirely.
If The Times wants to play such an outsized role in politics, perhaps its editors should run for office. In the meantime, would it be too much to ask The Times to keep its vendetta off the front page?
If The Times wants to play such an outsized role in politics, perhaps its editors should run for office. In the meantime, would it be too much to ask The Times to keep its vendetta off the front page?
1
Anybody who refuses to find fault with Trump's lack of ethics and his unwillingness to follow legal and political norms is simply choosing to be the latest mark for his cons.
7
The victims of cons are always the last to admit to it.
4
Alison:
I've never been conned in my life, except, perhaps by The Times, which I believed was a reputable newspaper.
I've never been conned in my life, except, perhaps by The Times, which I believed was a reputable newspaper.
1
When Trump promised to run the country as a business if elected what he meant was HIS business.
12
This election gave Americans a vote between two families that have joined the ranks of oligarchy; one through an accident of birth, and the other through political connections. The corruption will not end until Americans are again able to choose a leader who stands among us, rather than an oligarch. Until then, we face a horror show of corruption no better than found in banana republics.
1
The notion that Clinton and Trump are equivalent has no basis in fact, and is sheer fantasy.
Here yet again are some of the specific ways that the candidates were different, for those who have forgotten or overlooked them: Racist and anti-Semitic comments. Bragging about sexual assault. Inciting violence. Claims that the election was rigged. Claims of vote fraud that have no basis in fact (but a real basis in racism). In short, new lies every hour of every day. Complete ignorance. Impulsive. A bully. Questionable business success. The target of hundreds of real and legitimate legal actions including one that was settled after the election (Trump University, $25 million) and another where guilt was admitted after the election (self-dealing over multiple years from the Trump foundation).
Here yet again are some of the specific ways that the candidates were different, for those who have forgotten or overlooked them: Racist and anti-Semitic comments. Bragging about sexual assault. Inciting violence. Claims that the election was rigged. Claims of vote fraud that have no basis in fact (but a real basis in racism). In short, new lies every hour of every day. Complete ignorance. Impulsive. A bully. Questionable business success. The target of hundreds of real and legitimate legal actions including one that was settled after the election (Trump University, $25 million) and another where guilt was admitted after the election (self-dealing over multiple years from the Trump foundation).
1
Where are Trumps Tax Returns and why are the American Voters not allowed to see them? Potential conflict of Interest? Is this a joke? Follow the money and see where it goes!
Why is not everyone that is in Congress not standing up united against Trump and Bannon and this total disregard for our Constitution?
This is Facism, Nazism, be vigilant America.
Do the recount!
Why is not everyone that is in Congress not standing up united against Trump and Bannon and this total disregard for our Constitution?
This is Facism, Nazism, be vigilant America.
Do the recount!
19
Surreal. We are weeks away from his inauguration. A swearing in that by all ethical accounts, should not happen. A slow moving reel towards disaster for our nation, our democratic republic. I dread what happens next with this cancer taking legitimate hold come 2017.
16
So...where are all of the Trump supporters who were screaming "Crooked Hillary" and "Lock Her Up" now....when they have in front of their very eyes, the details of Trump's personal corruption? Lock HER up? Is anyone really shocked by this?
13
Vicki--Don't forget that RUMP'S man, Flynn, was among those people chanting "Lock Her Up." Flynn, you will remember, was dismissed from his post, at the pentagon, under suspicious circumstances. But, then, EVERYTHING about RUMP and his cronies is suspicious. That would not have been the case with Hillary OR Bernie.
2
I suspect that Trump's hubris, arrogance and ignorance will be his Waterloo.
Hopefully, he won't take the entire country down along with him.
Hopefully, he won't take the entire country down along with him.
9
I think Trump's twitter rants about the election results are attempts at diverting people's attention away from the far more egregious issue of his conflicts of interest. In addition to some of the suggestions here, we must see his tax returns at the very least. He cannot be trusted.
16
Obviously.
2
Potential conflicts? Is that a problem?
It is not a problem with half the American People, who elected to install a racist fascist in the White House knowing full well who he is.
It won't be a problem with Congress, where the majority are opportunists who cowardly bend to their new master.
It won't be a problem with the business elite if they get their share, which they will, that is how fascism works.
It won't be a problem with the Press if they keep quiet, which most likely they will, if they want to survive.
To appreciate what is coming, Americans need a crash course on the workings of fascism, because, like it or not, it is already here.
It is not a problem with half the American People, who elected to install a racist fascist in the White House knowing full well who he is.
It won't be a problem with Congress, where the majority are opportunists who cowardly bend to their new master.
It won't be a problem with the business elite if they get their share, which they will, that is how fascism works.
It won't be a problem with the Press if they keep quiet, which most likely they will, if they want to survive.
To appreciate what is coming, Americans need a crash course on the workings of fascism, because, like it or not, it is already here.
14
Monckton--Those folks were way too busy blaming immigrants for their own failings, fighting among themselves, and calling people names, and threatening Hillary Clinton, to pay attention to any FACTS about RUMP. And, those people STILL don't care about the facts.
3
All of this just seems to be noise to me. This is Trump's latest Apprentice show, "Apprentice, White House Version." All of the comings and goings of people being considered for cabinet positions is just a variant on a theme of his tv show. And Conway's public comments about Mitt Romney are part of the publicity for the next episode; keep your eye on this space; she isn't a free agent on this; she is doing Trump's bidding. And while there will be conflicts galore nothing will come of it; his voters don't care as long as they think he can deliver on his promises to them, and they will wait 4 long years before reality sinks in and then maybe they will again fall for the Nixonian/Trump sleight of hand--"I have a plan ...." And he will blame someone else for his failure--the crooked press, the Dems, immigrants, women, Mexican, etc.-- and desperate people being fed social media fake news will maybe be mislead again. Don't count on the Republicans in Congress to enforce any conflicts of interest principles; they have their stooge in the White House and at least 2 and maybe more years of doing things their way--cutting social programs, cutting taxes and privatizing government services to line the pockets of their supporters; Congressional Republicans have their own conflicts of interest. They are the swamp and don't intend to pull the plug. Get used to the daily revelations; they will be disheartening but nothing will come of it.
8
Picture Kellyanne Conway as White House Press Secretary. That woman couldn't tell the truth if her life depended on it.
5
The ties between the President-elect and his private business interests are untenable and must be severed. The only way to accomplish this is for him to divest himself of his businesses and properties. This is a "huge" and complex undertaking, but it is also the sine qua non of a presidency untainted by corruption.
8
We are reaching a point of no return and the expectation that a Republican congress will act responsibly is naive. They operate on the margins of acceptable behavior as a matter of course and lack the will or the courage to anger that amorphous group of resentful and poorly educated Americans he calls his "base." Someone has to come forward with options to prevent this kleptocrat from taking office. He is an embarrassment to our country.
11
I just called my senator, Cory Booker's office. I suggested that EVERY democrat
senator and congressman (and any concerned rebublican), have a televised event, and stand together on the steps of the Capitol, and demand that this mockery of the Presidency be remedied.
We, as Americans are being steamrolled by Donald Trump and his family and minions.
Democrats and all people of conscience, speak up!
senator and congressman (and any concerned rebublican), have a televised event, and stand together on the steps of the Capitol, and demand that this mockery of the Presidency be remedied.
We, as Americans are being steamrolled by Donald Trump and his family and minions.
Democrats and all people of conscience, speak up!
22
With all three branches of government in his pocket, King Trump's response to the charges is: "What me worry"?
11
The money that Trump gains from being the president will be collateral damage. I suspect that the following scenarios will do far more damage than the money that he obtains:
1) He will increase the value of his own brand by diluting America's prestige and that of the office of president of the United States, and he will modify America's foreign policy to suit his business interests.
2) He will preside over the transfer of more power and influence to the billionaire class, at the expense of everyone else. This will include more favorable laws, and the privatization (transfer) of government assets. In the worse case scenario, America could end up being a totally owned subsidiary of big business.
3) When the inevitable protests break out, especially when the alt-right catches on that they've been suckered, he will use this as an excuse to tighten repression in the name of law and order.
Hold on to your hat. It's going to get weird.
1) He will increase the value of his own brand by diluting America's prestige and that of the office of president of the United States, and he will modify America's foreign policy to suit his business interests.
2) He will preside over the transfer of more power and influence to the billionaire class, at the expense of everyone else. This will include more favorable laws, and the privatization (transfer) of government assets. In the worse case scenario, America could end up being a totally owned subsidiary of big business.
3) When the inevitable protests break out, especially when the alt-right catches on that they've been suckered, he will use this as an excuse to tighten repression in the name of law and order.
Hold on to your hat. It's going to get weird.
8
The headline is " Potential Conflicts" as Trump isn't president yet. However I can see what is going to happen. Once president every Trump decision will have the press scrambling to find a connection to his business dealings.
We have that mess to look forward to.
We have that mess to look forward to.
4
In another part of the Times, reference is made to Bannon as one who has found the vessel for revolution (Trump). Am I the only person who is frightened by that scenario? Think about those few words, America !
8
I've been frightened even before Election day!
2
A serious question arises as to who is going to stop Trump from being inappropriate with his business deals and taking advantage of the office of the Presidency? The answer is...no one. Because the GOP will not impeach him for fear of backlash from his supporters and the Democrat alone cannot get rid of him. This is why he is filling his cabinets with loyalists rather than people experienced in the position. He wants a fortified inner circle to help push out dissidents and stamp out criticism when he’s abusing his power.
10
What does it matter to hear all this news today? It is only news to average Americans on the outside. This was well-known to those at the top of the food chain, particularly the media. There will be plenty of profit for them as they report on the worldwide catastrophe of chaos, government-destroying, war and social safety net destruction that might have been avoided if people had voted for the most qualified candidate to preserve what is left of OUR democracy and government - Ms. Hillary Rodham Clinton.
Here is an article from bloomberg.com on Paul Manafort, who engineered The Con Don job on enough Americans, and spread around enough money, to give power to the wealthiest people in the world. We have all been conned. The only thing that will save us right now is if enough Electoral College Voters find their social conscience, and hold back their greed, to make Ms. Hillary Rodham Clinton OUR 45th President and for Americans to then step up and get OUR money out of the hands of the BIG democracy-destroying money masters who are using "markets" to destroy the rest of us.
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-11-28/paul-manafort-is-back.
Here is an article from bloomberg.com on Paul Manafort, who engineered The Con Don job on enough Americans, and spread around enough money, to give power to the wealthiest people in the world. We have all been conned. The only thing that will save us right now is if enough Electoral College Voters find their social conscience, and hold back their greed, to make Ms. Hillary Rodham Clinton OUR 45th President and for Americans to then step up and get OUR money out of the hands of the BIG democracy-destroying money masters who are using "markets" to destroy the rest of us.
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-11-28/paul-manafort-is-back.
7
Trump (and entourage) will stay at hotels that he owns, and bill the American public for the full room rate. He will really do this and defend its legality. The ultimate joke on the American people that were (quite easily) tricked into voting for him. Publicly denouncing taxes, yet making sure he is able to take as much of it for himself as possible. Disgusting.
13
He has to pay to stay in his own hotels? That's pathetic and doesn't say much for his business sense.
2
I think you missed thundercade's point Iver: Trump as President would not be paying out of his pocket to stay in his own hotels. The American taxpayer like you and me would. And Trump as businessman/owner would profit from it.
Ditto for all other traveling government employees and foreign officials who might feel it will give them some advantage with the Trump administration to say they are staying at a Trump hotel, have membership at a Trump golf course, are renting meeting space in a Trump resort, etc.
Ditto for all other traveling government employees and foreign officials who might feel it will give them some advantage with the Trump administration to say they are staying at a Trump hotel, have membership at a Trump golf course, are renting meeting space in a Trump resort, etc.
3
I can't believe our our elected governing body of the United States is allowing a Berlusconi type government to take shape. The president elect still doesn't release his tax returns along with a list of his business investors, not to mention many conflicts of interest as a public servant. How is this legally happening?
19
If you hadn't noticed, Italy makes some pretty elegant things. Nobody would pick a Ford over a Ferrari, except maybe me. But I'm weird when it comes to cars - I don't like any of them and prefer to walk.
In Trump's lexicography, words like ''election-rigging, illegal voters, and rodomontade, among others'' are frequented by the supremo himself, rather than equity, tolerance, ingenuity, and integrity. If recounting reveals indiscrepancies in MI, PA, and WI, he probably will revolt the results himself, or at least incite some form of unrest by his disciples.
On his business side of things, it can be quite entertaining to watch him explain away his dealings in an unruffled and nonchalant manner, when confronted. He will tend to adopt an adept strategy, to make people adapt themselves to a ''new world order'' in terms of POTUS, holding business deals up his sleeve, without apparent compromise(?) of public interests.
To add fuel to the fire, his henchmen will make sure that the opponents and the GOP alike, do not dare raise or knit their eyebrows, without his say-so. Can it happen? Why not? Time alone can tell.
On his business side of things, it can be quite entertaining to watch him explain away his dealings in an unruffled and nonchalant manner, when confronted. He will tend to adopt an adept strategy, to make people adapt themselves to a ''new world order'' in terms of POTUS, holding business deals up his sleeve, without apparent compromise(?) of public interests.
To add fuel to the fire, his henchmen will make sure that the opponents and the GOP alike, do not dare raise or knit their eyebrows, without his say-so. Can it happen? Why not? Time alone can tell.
5
But, but, but, it's all okay, there is no bar too low enough for this miscreant, everything is okay, as long as it is doing its own thing. It will probably put its name in gold on the WH, stating also that all deals and money are welcome here.
6
There are enough tangled problems around the globe that neither Trump nor Bannon has the ability or knowledge to solve them. Well, Trump does have the mouth that roars........I would rather face the next four years with George W Bush running the show......and he was a non-entity worldwide.
4
We are witnessing a calamity in the making. It is difficult to grasp it has come to this.
24
Beginning January 20th every Rump property around the world will become a security threat and need the US to cough up tons of dough to protect the Demagogue's holdings. Anyone who works or resides there should be shaking in their boots. Rump's ego demands that his name is splattered all over his buildings so they won't be hard to spot. What a complete a fool he has made of the US political process, and of all those poorly educated people who trusted them. I can't feel any empathy for them. We New Yorkers and The Times warned the nation about this dolt, but his supporters all thought we was "fooling you". Sorry, but every horrid thing you hear about Rump should be seriously. He really is that awful.
DD
Manhattan
DD
Manhattan
13
Looks like the Times has decided it has taken enough of a beating in the comment section--only three articles permit comments on the front page: an article on potential conflicts for Trump, an article on Cuban baseball, and an article on the final ride of a ferry boat. Articles on Fidel Castro or Trumps claims of voting fraud offer no comment space--I would add a possessive apostrophe for Trumps, but it does not work on this browser.
The voters knew about Trumps extensive worldwide business dealings, and I would have voted for him anyway. Nevertheless, he has a duty to be honest and avoid intentionally profiting from any conflict.
The voters knew about Trumps extensive worldwide business dealings, and I would have voted for him anyway. Nevertheless, he has a duty to be honest and avoid intentionally profiting from any conflict.
3
Ptooie,
The business conflicts don't bother you but what about bragging about sexual assault then claiming the women who he did assault were disgusting. if that doesn't tell you the character of this man, I don't think any reprehensible thing he does like using Presidential power to make money would seem to bother you or his supporters.
The business conflicts don't bother you but what about bragging about sexual assault then claiming the women who he did assault were disgusting. if that doesn't tell you the character of this man, I don't think any reprehensible thing he does like using Presidential power to make money would seem to bother you or his supporters.
2
He has a duty to be honest and avoid intentionally profiting from any conflict? Did you read that before you wrote it? His love of profit above all else along with stiffing contractors and his refusal to release his taxes and entanglements were known by both you and me before the election. It seems like just one of us was concerned about it.
1
Trump should liquidate his company only when the media forces every member of Congress and their immediate family to liquidate all assets, end their insider trading, land deals, etc. that enable politicians to amass millions of dollars while collecting their modest $174,000 salary.
3
Why do we have to wait for that?
1
Interesting to see the countries he has yet to invest in like Russia.
3
DISQUALIFIED. Get him outta there.
11
For anyone here commenting about the Clintons at this stage of the game, please remember this one sentence:
Hillary Clinton is NOT the President Elect.
We are way past trying to attack Hillary for anything, so please focus on President Elect Trump and his secretive financial dealings. THIS is the task at hand.
Hillary Clinton is NOT the President Elect.
We are way past trying to attack Hillary for anything, so please focus on President Elect Trump and his secretive financial dealings. THIS is the task at hand.
16
Or as I like to think about it, stop worrying about Hillary and start worrying about your future: Life without Social Security, Medicare, etc.
8
Every American who pays taxes should rise up in revolt!
Our tax dollars have already subsidized Trump for far too long. To think that this ineffectual business man (a real loser, if you go by what we know about his income taxes) will be adding to his coffers with overseas investments while bringing down the United States is simply too much.
I am furious that my beloved country is risking ruin just to stroke this empty-headed narcissist's ego.
Our tax dollars have already subsidized Trump for far too long. To think that this ineffectual business man (a real loser, if you go by what we know about his income taxes) will be adding to his coffers with overseas investments while bringing down the United States is simply too much.
I am furious that my beloved country is risking ruin just to stroke this empty-headed narcissist's ego.
19
The Philippines, as in most developing nations, has a very small elite class--the wealthiest of the wealthy. The best way for foreign businesses to get established is to male partners of those who are already at the top. That makes: wealthiest just that much wealthier; they have the contacts and know whose palm to grease; and their respective Empires just pass through from one generation to the other.
Just like the Trumps!
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
Just like the Trumps!
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
10
This is so disgusting to read that I couldn't even get to the end of the article. How can this be happening?
22
It's happening because a large segment of our population is greedy, immature and intellectually lazy.
8
This is the single biggest moral and ethical problem ever faced by a Congress. Will they act jointly to protect the integrity of the nation and their own power or will they allow the slide into a faux democracy tarnish earth's last great hope for mankind? if there is no difference between us and Russia or China or Iran then what for the peoples of planet earth?
17
If you actually think America - the very people who voted the absolute clown that is Trump into office - is "earth's last great hope for mankind" then you are beyond delusional.
7
Neok,
Over half of the Americans that did vote, voted for the opposition so don't blame all of us for this horrible mess. I am still in shock that a sexual predator and a white nationalist will be in the White House.
Ok you are correct Americans are stupid and delusional.
What happened to my beloved country was it always so mean and stupid?
Over half of the Americans that did vote, voted for the opposition so don't blame all of us for this horrible mess. I am still in shock that a sexual predator and a white nationalist will be in the White House.
Ok you are correct Americans are stupid and delusional.
What happened to my beloved country was it always so mean and stupid?
Has President-Elect Trump considered the possibility of terrorists bombing his Trump branded hotels and their occupants? I think it is extremely incumbent upon him to divest these holdings and protect innocent lives.
14
Do you actually think he cares?
12
That will be his excuse to crack down in the name of law and order. All the vectors point in his direction, no matter what events occur. He's got this one locked down tightly.
1
The 'potential' conflicts of interests of president-elect Trump will become, as of January 20, 2017, 'real' conflicts of interests, in my opinion, insurmountable. Trump's corrupt private business model will destroy the people's government, enriching himself and his family at our expense. Additionally, judging the 'prejudiced' folks he is surrounding himself with, no good nor just deeds can be expected (in Spanish we say: 'dime con quie'n andas y te dire' quie'n eres' (tell me who you go out with, and I'll tell you who you are). Dark times are upon us, and Pogo's phrase may be pertinent: "we've met the enemy, and it is us"...by electing a demagogue, a know-nothing arrogant discriminator, intent in dividing, not uniting, this nation, and the world.
16
manfred--Any thoughts on WHY this issue wasn't addressed months ago? Oh I know poor whites wouldn't have thought of it, much less cared, but what about the rest of the Trumpsters? Is this just MORE ignorance, or willful destructiveness?
4
We the people have not voted for this demagogue. The majority of us - by more than 2 million and still going - voted for his opponent. If this plague is inflicted on us, it will be because the Electoral College has failed to fulfil its constitutional duty to prevent this from happening. This tangled web of conflicting interests should render this man ineligible to serve.
In simple terms, Trump is not putting America first. His supporters think that even his crumbs will be enough to change their lives. Watching America's politics is like watching the creation of some kind of fairy tale or the script pitch for a horror movie.
12
Remember what Nixon said in his interview with David Frost. "If the President does it, it IS NOT illegal." What we seem to have here in Trump is another Richard Nixon. Heaven help us all.......
12
I'd trade him in for Nixon in a New York minute. And I am no fan of Nixon.
3
I'd take Nixon right now and he's been dead for more than 20 years.
1
Even his minions like Hope Hicks, the Grifter’s spokeswoman, do not know the depth of his holdings. Election in 2018. Be prepared.
5
Time for Trump to ask himself WWMBD: What Would Michael Bloomberg Do? both elected billionaires with eponymous global businesses. But Bloomberg understood the concept of civil service, and turned over the keys until he was out of office. No fuss, no muss.
13
This is my first comment on a NYTimes article, and I make it with a great sense of urgency.
Trump's business empire is like a fourth-stage glioblastoma (which a dear friend of mine has just discovered he has -- it is inoperable, with its tentacles reaching throughout his brain). Trump's business empire reaches throughout his psyche, his family, an into many countries around the world. It is his reason for being. It cannot be operated on, taken out of, or separated from him. The only way to prevent his business tentacles from reaching into his presidency and infecting American geopolitics is for him to resign and allow an unconflicted, qualified person to be our next president.
Trump's business empire is like a fourth-stage glioblastoma (which a dear friend of mine has just discovered he has -- it is inoperable, with its tentacles reaching throughout his brain). Trump's business empire reaches throughout his psyche, his family, an into many countries around the world. It is his reason for being. It cannot be operated on, taken out of, or separated from him. The only way to prevent his business tentacles from reaching into his presidency and infecting American geopolitics is for him to resign and allow an unconflicted, qualified person to be our next president.
23
Brilliant analogy. And chilling.
6
Wouldn't have been easier for him to just start a SuperPAC, like the Koch brothers. Expect those can't be picked up on a CAT scan so they're probably more dangerous because they go undiagnosed and untreated.
WE CANNOT ALLOW THIS.
Trump has continued to be elusive on his COMPLETE business dealings, debt, and obligations. Had he done this during the Republican nomination campaign, it would have been clear that this man has FAR TOO MANY CONFLICTS OF INTEREST to be president. But somehow, some way, the GOP was INEPT at pressing for this information. Now we have him as president-elect and little by little the picture is unfolding.
ELECTORAL COLLEGE? It is time to recast your ballots. We CANNOT afford to have such a terribly corrupt presidency.
Trump has continued to be elusive on his COMPLETE business dealings, debt, and obligations. Had he done this during the Republican nomination campaign, it would have been clear that this man has FAR TOO MANY CONFLICTS OF INTEREST to be president. But somehow, some way, the GOP was INEPT at pressing for this information. Now we have him as president-elect and little by little the picture is unfolding.
ELECTORAL COLLEGE? It is time to recast your ballots. We CANNOT afford to have such a terribly corrupt presidency.
17
Two U.K. articles on the conflict of interest:
The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/nov/27/donald-trump-conflicts-i...
The Economist: http://www.economist.com/news/leaders/21710815-arms-length-arrangement-b...
The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/nov/27/donald-trump-conflicts-i...
The Economist: http://www.economist.com/news/leaders/21710815-arms-length-arrangement-b...
9
Time for a national recount.
18
Regardless of whether Trump is willing to show any restraint in dealing with his company's current international projects, at the very least they should immediately stop initiating any further projects, preferably all, but certainly anything outside the U.S. When is enough enough? A four year moratorium should not constitute a monetary handicap if he is worth as much as he claims. Current conflicts of interest are beside the point if the family continually pursues others. I'm sure they're already salivating over that new Cuban Trump Tower.
22
I do not understand why the New York Times -- still the paper of record -- is asking this question rather than whatever regulatory committees in government are designed to do just this. Are there no checks and balances for the POTUS exploiting his power in order to serve himself and the 1% who are among his inner circle of friends/business alliances? Why is this paper asking questions that a committee in Washington should be asking RIGHT NOW. @Johannaclear but PS keep it up.
72
Electoral College members cannot legally install as president a man who is currently and continuously receiving Emoluments from foreign powers. Only 38 Republican EC members need to be informed of this rule and convinced to switch their vote for the qualified, majority elected candidate.
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/nov/27/donald-trump-conflicts-i...
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/nov/27/donald-trump-conflicts-i...
55
I said this in a post yesterday, but don't expect the Electoral College electors or the Emolument Clause to reject Trump.
Electors are state Republican party apparatchik. They are not going to cast a massive vote against the person voters in their state chose. And each state delegation meets and votes in their respective state capitals, so it would be doubly difficult to carry out an "movement" against Trump.
Invoking the Emolument Clause would take either a Federal lawsuit or impeachment. But Trump will immediately nominate a Justice that will tip the balance of the Court back to the Republican right. And he will probably consolidate that leaning on the Court for generations with a second pick during his tenure.
Meanwhile, Republicans, who will control both houses of Congress, will see little reason to impeach him, particularly if Trump is cooperating with their agenda of shilling for the 1%. Which he will, since Trump himself is part of the 1%.
So both have as much chance as that hoped-for revolt by delegates at the Republican National Convention last summer. That is, no chance.
Electors are state Republican party apparatchik. They are not going to cast a massive vote against the person voters in their state chose. And each state delegation meets and votes in their respective state capitals, so it would be doubly difficult to carry out an "movement" against Trump.
Invoking the Emolument Clause would take either a Federal lawsuit or impeachment. But Trump will immediately nominate a Justice that will tip the balance of the Court back to the Republican right. And he will probably consolidate that leaning on the Court for generations with a second pick during his tenure.
Meanwhile, Republicans, who will control both houses of Congress, will see little reason to impeach him, particularly if Trump is cooperating with their agenda of shilling for the 1%. Which he will, since Trump himself is part of the 1%.
So both have as much chance as that hoped-for revolt by delegates at the Republican National Convention last summer. That is, no chance.
1
Trump needs to divest and set up a blind trust. Would prove how little his net worth actually is. Would also make him finally use up all his losses and pay taxes on any gains he really made. And he needs to start acting presidential and get his butt out of NYC and down to DC where he belongs. Can't blame his family for not wanting to join him, but that's their problem.
25
@angel98 - re documentary about dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu: You are so right to mention this!
On Nov.9 when the US election results were announced my Romanian friend cried...a lot. Tears streaming down his cheeks. And we blindly thought it couldn't happen here. The USofA had better wake up and stop Trump and company now before it gets even more entrenched. Once the cancer takes hold it is too late, short of a revolution.
Listen to interviews with Russian/American Masha Gessen. She's been there and she sees where we are headed unless we can stop the Trump machine.
On Nov.9 when the US election results were announced my Romanian friend cried...a lot. Tears streaming down his cheeks. And we blindly thought it couldn't happen here. The USofA had better wake up and stop Trump and company now before it gets even more entrenched. Once the cancer takes hold it is too late, short of a revolution.
Listen to interviews with Russian/American Masha Gessen. She's been there and she sees where we are headed unless we can stop the Trump machine.
41
"Sink The Bismarck"
Low rent grifters, those Trumps.
33
Donald J. Trump looks like he might have beginning onstage Alzheimer's. Someone should look into it.
32
It was wrong on every level. morally, ethically and legally for the Clintons to use
the honored position of Secretary of State to grossly enrich themselves - to the tune of at least $100 Million. It was up to the press, including the NY Times and Wash post - to speak out every day against this. They did not. Why are they speaking up now only against Trump? Does anyone wonder why the vast majority of Americans think the Media is biased and untrustworthy? You have zero credibility!
the honored position of Secretary of State to grossly enrich themselves - to the tune of at least $100 Million. It was up to the press, including the NY Times and Wash post - to speak out every day against this. They did not. Why are they speaking up now only against Trump? Does anyone wonder why the vast majority of Americans think the Media is biased and untrustworthy? You have zero credibility!
6
You don't read newspapers do you? The NYT covered this extensively.
2
YES, When Bill was *no longer* President, and Hillary was *no longer* Secretary of State, people paid them big bucks to speak! Find me a former President- or ANY former high-ranking government official - who did *not* receive lucrative speaking engagements! It should be unnecessary to point out that this is entirely different from having a byzantine network of business products and ventures worldwide held by a sitting President! And please, having his children run the show in his stead? Really? This is supposed to act as a firewall?
6
Can von clownface be impeached before he takes office? Just kidding, this clown can not be allowed to sully the office of president, whatever it takes, he's truly despicable regardless how many uneducated marks voted for him, and he lost the election by over 2 million votes as well.
32
He should be pressured from every conceivable angle by every conceivable source. His feet should be held to the fire without respite. Conduct a firestorm of tweets and twitters and anything else he attends to. And then some kind soul should remind him that he doesn't have to accept the post. He can decline. That leaves us with Pence, of course, but dangerous as he is, he can be dealt with also. Of course, if the Electoral College should actually do its job and prevent the accession to power of someone unfit or ineligible by reason of conflicts of interests, they could do it for us.
1
Just wondering how all these interests/targets all around the world will be protected. It seems they will be as big a symbol abroad as a US embassy. And what Trump will do if one or more is attacked?
21
Yeah, because as a Senator or as Secretary of State when foreign companies were making donations to the Clinton Foundation, Hillary Clinton behaved completely ethically in her decisions to block or approve development. Just like the Clinton Foundation - after receiving funds to rebuild Haiti - didn't seem to spend the money on what the Haitians needed.
6
Any and all very very wealthy people will be in very very similar circumstances as Mr. Trump. The people have specifically chosen a man of great wealth representing success in business towards bringing those same skills to bear in America's service. It is disingenuous to take the position that because a person is enormously successful financially that he should be eliminated rather than exulted for his success as the voting public has clearly chosen to do (albeit through the electoral college). There are indeed a multitude of potential conflicts of interest and the Congress will need to keep an eye on what actually occurs to the effect that impeachment would be a remedy if required. However, to impeach in the press prior to charges being brought and proven is unseemly, at best. Reporting what has occurred as a warning to the future is fair, but drawing conclusions about future behavior now that he is President is not.
4
"The people have specifically chosen a man of great wealth" ????
You must be a republican.
"The People" Chose Clinton by over 2,000,000 votes !!!
Imagine a line of Two Million people. Can you see the end of that line?
Now. tell them that their votes don't count.
You must be a republican.
"The People" Chose Clinton by over 2,000,000 votes !!!
Imagine a line of Two Million people. Can you see the end of that line?
Now. tell them that their votes don't count.
5
Thanks Cousin Boris (word salad is a dead giveway), he went bankrupt 4 times and left many many many Americans and taxpayers in the lurch.
6
Trump's throwing in steroids and protein powder for the alligators in the swamp... but it's OK - because they are *his* alligators...
21
Steve Bannon - playing the role of Thomas Cromwell to Trump's Henry VIII - (Bannon's words) - has called D.T. an "imperfect vessel" - for Bannon's conservative, nationalist, populist revolution. Now there's an understatement if ever there was one. So we are uprooting a corrupt political establishment by electing a billionaire con-artist with no moral compass, who knows nothing about government, and who it seems has only his own and his delightful family's financial interest at stake? No wonder sane people are questioning whether the republic can survive.
38
The United States continues to be too kind to really big crooks. Crooks too big to fail.
32
There seems to be a maximum limit to what the US public can perceive to be a con.
16
Here is a simple answer to eliminate all possibilities of conflict of interests.
Let the Donald file Chapter 7 for all his corporations, partnerships, LLC's, LLP's and any that are individually owned. It will take the Bankruptcy Courts at least 8 years to adjudicate and he could buy them back at pennies on the dollar in January 2025. Then, after eliminating all the unsecured debts, making low ball offers on the secured debt and rebuild with the help of all of his new interests from other Governments he will have his evil empire back.
Let the Donald file Chapter 7 for all his corporations, partnerships, LLC's, LLP's and any that are individually owned. It will take the Bankruptcy Courts at least 8 years to adjudicate and he could buy them back at pennies on the dollar in January 2025. Then, after eliminating all the unsecured debts, making low ball offers on the secured debt and rebuild with the help of all of his new interests from other Governments he will have his evil empire back.
1
NYT and its journalists / management is and always will be complicit with DT due pushing non-viable candidate over viable one.
6
Mr. Trump will try to distract the news and others from this important story by tweeting about something really stupid, his claim that he won the popular vote. It is his modus operandi , like a cheap stage magician, he will distract you with one hand, while his other goes through your pockets. Stick with this story.
58
The Emperor's new clothes? It's interesting that other news outlets say foreign holdings represent less than 7% of the Trump Organization. It is described as mediocre, " a small, middle-aged and largely domestic property business." - people like Nelson Rockefeller, Ross Perot, Mitt Romney and Michael Bloomberg—have owned and run more powerful firms. Trump would come in around #833 in the USA if listed. Although they do say the weakness of his company could be the catalyst for blurring the lines between politics and business. The Presidency as personal piggy bank. http://www.economist.com/news/business/21710828-weakness-trump-inc-may-p...
8
Thanks for this article and all your hard work on it. it helped me have some clarity to the issue.
19
NY times and their 'echo chamber' subscribers.....This is what happens when you sell news......You end up with only like minded fls......Have you'll learnt nothing from the election debacle ???
2
So much for drain the swamp! Trump IS the swamp! Great reporting, keep it up!
38
The hypocrisy of the New York Times never fails to amaze me. After years of the Clintons using the Federal government as their personal ATM, you rave on about the man who has yet to even take office. Mr. Trump has almost two months to make arrangements to deal with his ongoing business interests and those are private concerns that did not involve influence peddling influence or acts of egregious political corruption. So, why not try reporting some real news and can the 24/7 political rhetoric so you can rebuild your reader base, which is quite fed up with your partisan ranting.
7
Wall Street certainly was lavish with its payments to hear what the Clintons had to say. But they took nothing from the government beyond their salaries.
5
You should try reading the article, not just the headline. Also I'd love to see your evidence of rampant corruption by the Clintons. You'd think with a Republican Congress that hauled her in over Benghazi and the email server that if there were any criminality they'd have found a way to press charges...
10
Please tell us why you are cancelling your subscription.
7
So, now you tells us Mr. Trump is a hugely successful businessman with remarkable global reach. That finally answered your question before the election: Is he really successful and rich? Have you known the answer all along?!
6
Apparently not according to The Economist, they even call his organization mediocre and way down the list at number #833 in the US if listed, they also say only 7% is in foreign holdings. http://www.economist.com/news/business/21710828-weakness-trump-inc-may-p...
Although they only know what has not been hidden.
Although they only know what has not been hidden.
9
Mr. Trump needs to make a decision - whether he wants to be President or whether he wants to be a business owner. He should have made this decision at the very beginning.
36
He wants both. Via the art of the steal.
21
Journalists who continue to engage in the howler of calling this huckster a "populist" should be summarily dismissed and made to seek a new line of work. America has never seen a candidate for any office less "populist" than Donald Trump. Trump is a populist like Scrooge McDuck is a populist.
16
Having watched him, "...ascend like an octopus toward the prey, grabbing and gorging along the way..." [my caption], I'm now persuaded that the President Elect views his upcoming term as away to garner even more--"Trumping" as it were, everything he has done in the past--sitting down to feast at the head of the American Economy, with "fingers in every pie."
--
...Welcome to the Third World...!
--
Whether in terms of reputation, prestige, monetary gain, or advancing toward some other end, it really doesn't matter--to the voters that is. Any sideline or sideshow conducted from within the Oval Office will detract from the mission mandated by our Constitution and by both Parties--which is to lead the Nation, and be it's moral, political and cultural figurehead for the next four years.
--
If the President Elect persists in pursuing "other things" in addition to governing, he will end up short-changing those who elected him, bilking all of us out of what we deserve, in terms of the pure sweat-equity required of Presidents while in office.
And as he personally enhances his own outside interests, we the American People will end up paying for it.
--
President Trump will win, at least in his own eyes, while we end up losing. Is this what we want? Will this be our legacy?
--
...They say that Nero fiddled, while Rome burned...
--
...Welcome to the Third World...!
--
Whether in terms of reputation, prestige, monetary gain, or advancing toward some other end, it really doesn't matter--to the voters that is. Any sideline or sideshow conducted from within the Oval Office will detract from the mission mandated by our Constitution and by both Parties--which is to lead the Nation, and be it's moral, political and cultural figurehead for the next four years.
--
If the President Elect persists in pursuing "other things" in addition to governing, he will end up short-changing those who elected him, bilking all of us out of what we deserve, in terms of the pure sweat-equity required of Presidents while in office.
And as he personally enhances his own outside interests, we the American People will end up paying for it.
--
President Trump will win, at least in his own eyes, while we end up losing. Is this what we want? Will this be our legacy?
--
...They say that Nero fiddled, while Rome burned...
10
Everyone who voted for this charlatan should be embarrassed. Trump is a fraud
43
A fraud. A crybaby. A child who needs babysitters around him, to defend him, because he is witless to defend himself.
22
His conflicts of interest are pervasive and his unwillingness to separate himself from his business interests is galling. We the people must continue to call him out on his self-dealing at the expense of our nation.
32
The Electors are bound to vote him down. Or they too are traitors to the nation and their constitutional responsibilities as Electors, enjoined btpy the Founding Fathers for just a moment, just a crisis, as we now face.
13
These are just the conflicts he currently has. He can pick up so many more! Just wait till Putin gives him rights to turn the Crimea into the greatest golf course in the former Soviet bloc in exchange for recognizing Russia's sovereignty claims.
25
Let's not put that in the conditional; they DO pose a threat.
12
Half the country voted for fascism. What happens to the other half who didn't? What are we supposed to do? I'm black. My roots go back two centuries in this country. Where do I go? Will Canada accept me? I can't live in a country where white supremacy once again rules the halls of power. What do I do? I'm asking a sincere question.
31
Please. One sixth of the US population fell for the Trump scam. Let there still be hope.
8
Trump's downfall: impeachment for violation of the emoluments clause. Yes! Oh happy, happy day when that happens.
24
... until you find Mike Pence supervising how you allow your own body to be used, in the name of God.
22
I've thought about this as a woman of reproducing age and decided (to my surprise) that I would be willing to give up my freedom of choice on reproductive rights if it means preventing Trump and his family from enriching himself at the expense of the American taxpayer. I'm not happy or comfortable with having to make the choice but in the parade of horribles, I rank Presidential corruption above pro-choice, because once the sanctity of the office is destroyed that will be harder to fix.
Really, folks, let's just cut to the chase and start collecting and documenting the slew evidence sure to come our way of high crimes and misdemeanors Rump is guaranteed to commit. This dolt doesn't have a clue what to do. Why even bother with an Inauguration. It'll be a waste of money and he'll be out of office by Spring.
DD
Manhattan
DD
Manhattan
23
Honestly Dennis, I don't think that's going to happen, as long as Trump is willing to submit to the priorities of the Republican Congress, which he will since he is a one-percenter. I think the only reason a Republican Congress would consider impeachment based on conflicts would be that he wasn't carrying their water. And that would be remarkably Machiavellian, even by Republican standards. And even if they did, that would leave Pence as President, not really a trade up.
7
Really, the comments in the NYT Picks are almost uniformly appalling. Maybe, just maybe, lib's (like me) should suspend their whining. The many who elected Trump Prez weren't looking for just another politician and clearly regarded his status as an international wheeler-dealer as a plus. Instead of wringing our hands and endlessly scolding, let's encourage him to rise to the occasion and avoid self-dealing. Considering his myriad of interlocking interests involving friends and family, that's realistically about the best we (and he) can do. On the potentially very positive side, maybe his capitalistic inclinations and business contacts will supplant America's militaristic tendencies (I very personally remember Vietnam) and create new channels and opportunities for international cooperation. Please, lib's: grow up!
3
These picks represent thousands of similar postings. Do not dismiss them lightly.
10
I'm sure there were many contractors and businesses who heard the risks and problems of dealing with Trump along the way, yet somehow convinced themselves that this time he would rise above. That on this deal or project things would work out differently and success would flow to all involved. And then went on to suffer the same fate as those who came before, with Trump cutting and running and leaving them holding the bag.
12
You're not a liberal or you wouldn't use the term "libs." Get a clue.
1
The false equivalency between Hillary's conflicts of interest and Trump's is one reason we are in this mess to begin with. Many voters got it into their heads that private donations to the Clinton Foundation are categorically worse than Trump's refusal to disinvest in all the many outstanding business dealings he has. That is objectively absurd, but there was little objectivity this election. The candidate who could convince people that two plus two is five has won. So two plus two now is indeed five and will add up to ever more absurd sums as the months drag on. Actually, with this latest tweet about millions of votes stolen on the democratic side, we have reached the point of dangerous absurdity, with the inauguration still more than six weeks away.
danschorr.blogspot.com
danschorr.blogspot.com
33
With the dangerous exception of Russia (which has reportedly lent one or more of his troubled enterprises money) aren't we mostly talking about developing third world countries (so Ireland and Scotland may be first world, but they are very small, no threat & obviously highly dependent on golf tourism to keep things going) like the Phiippines, Indonesia, Argentina and the like, with large groups of the type of newly rich tycoons who,in addition to no ethical standards, have very poor taste? I live near the Trump "World Tower," near the UN,and that has always been my impression of the people I see there (with the possible exception of some lower income looking types from eastern Europe who may just be AirBnB guests). Do we really have that much to fear from these people in the near future? And isn't there a chance that letting Trump and his kids continue to do business with them possibly increase the chances of establishing grounds for impeachment and an early exit from office?
3
The Philippines, Indonesia and Argentina account for 40 plus billionaires on Forbes list. It is the billionaires who run the countries and make the deals. India alone has more than 80 billionaires. It does not matter whether the countries are considered developing, fact is they have a huge amount of leverage on the international market, leverage that could buy progress and prosperity and closer ties.
The conflicts of interest as mapped out here are staggering. His "winning" behavior, the media's non-stop promotion of his every move and tweet, and the diabolical machinations of his "transition" team and their partners in crime - the salivating Republicans in Congress - have handed us a mess unparalleled in my lifetime.
Isn't the Constitution clear on this?
You can't keep track of it. If what I have read is true, he's already costing New York City upwards of $1 million a day for his NYC security detail, AND his wife and son are not going to live in the White House. Will taxpayers now have to pay to secure all of his homes and businesses around the world? How can anyone expect to conduct the nation's business with all of these other businesses vying for his time?
He won, and now he's tweeting lies about undocumented people voting because of the recounts, but refuses STILL to release his taxes (another lie and broken promise) and is now refusing to stand down from his businesses?
I have a hard time believing he really wants to do the real job of the presidency. It is a relentless, 24/7 four-year marathon, not something you do in between opening gulf courses and cheating on your wives.
This entire post-election reality is an unmitigated disaster for America.
Barack Obama would NEVER have been allowed to get away with even one tenth of one percent of what Trump is doing right now - even before he is certified and sworn in.
Isn't the Constitution clear on this?
You can't keep track of it. If what I have read is true, he's already costing New York City upwards of $1 million a day for his NYC security detail, AND his wife and son are not going to live in the White House. Will taxpayers now have to pay to secure all of his homes and businesses around the world? How can anyone expect to conduct the nation's business with all of these other businesses vying for his time?
He won, and now he's tweeting lies about undocumented people voting because of the recounts, but refuses STILL to release his taxes (another lie and broken promise) and is now refusing to stand down from his businesses?
I have a hard time believing he really wants to do the real job of the presidency. It is a relentless, 24/7 four-year marathon, not something you do in between opening gulf courses and cheating on your wives.
This entire post-election reality is an unmitigated disaster for America.
Barack Obama would NEVER have been allowed to get away with even one tenth of one percent of what Trump is doing right now - even before he is certified and sworn in.
46
Has anyone been to a major department store recently? I just visited Lord and Taylor, and it is awash in Ivanka Trump items. Never saw them before this fall. Is she donating the profits of these items to a charity? She is clearly trading on her father's political position. (If she weren't, why hadn't the dresses, purses, etc. been available for purchase earlier?) I have never seen a Presidential family member so blatantly make a buck from her enhanced status.
23
Confirmation bias. You weren't looking for them prior.
1
NYT, please continue to shine a light on each and every one of these. We can't let ourselves slip into accepting this as our new normal.
27
Is this what his unhinged twitter rant was really all about, to deflect from this article and the media coverage it would have gotten otherwise?
14
Isn't if time Congress fixed the issue of presidential conflicts? Ditto for giving guns to avowed terrorists and the mentally ill. Just pass a laws. End the problems. Forget the challengers. They will have their day in court and then go home. All will be well.
9
We would have had to elect Democrats if we wanted any of those things done.
12
"Gerrymandering" The insidious voter suppression scheme of the republicans, is keeping that from happening.
It is called, Government by the minority of the people.
Just like the electoral college. Its fraud of Trump "winning" the election is also against the Will of the great majority of The People.
"Sink The Bismarck"
It is called, Government by the minority of the people.
Just like the electoral college. Its fraud of Trump "winning" the election is also against the Will of the great majority of The People.
"Sink The Bismarck"
The idea that this person will now be president of the United States and his children will be the beneficiaries of his presidency turns my guts inside out. Whenever, I see trump and pence together, I become sic
However, a great deal of the blame goes to the media which gave him a free ride and would not stop talking and writing about Hillary's emails and the Clinton Foundation. Now we need to suffer for 4 years.
TRUMP AND PENCE WILL NEVER BE MY PRESIDENT & VP. God save the world.
However, a great deal of the blame goes to the media which gave him a free ride and would not stop talking and writing about Hillary's emails and the Clinton Foundation. Now we need to suffer for 4 years.
TRUMP AND PENCE WILL NEVER BE MY PRESIDENT & VP. God save the world.
26
Wait, for the last year you told us what a phony he was, that his businesses were all failures, the only money he made was from NBC. Now he's a genuine billionaire developer with projects all over the world? Which one is it?
4
Both are true. He's had a lot of failed business, his Casinos in Atlantic City and he also has business interests all over the world. But, we don't know a great deal about his business interests because he has not been transparent. He is a disaster for our country.
19
D. Trump and his cohorts will stop at nothing in order to line their pockets and coffers with gold. You will see that as they reap profits as the market crashes they will blame "the others" the "those folks" for what D. trump and his cohorts have done. As he D. Trump asks you to blame others and promises you money and wealth do not believe him and do not follow him and do not ask do the dirty work he asks you to do. D. Trump is unethical.
10
I'll expect Trump to liquidate his company when the media forces every member of Congress and their immediate family to stop insider trading, land deals, etc. that enable politicians to amass millions of dollars while collecting a salary of only $174,000.
11
First we all, included this paper, made fun of Trump, making us believe that he was a phony, trying to make a fortune in Atlantic City but going bankrupt, thus not having to pay federal taxes for some 20 years. But now we learn that he has properties all over the world, has the best of friends closely connected with the global government powers and now we are worried we'll get cheated. For anybody to get hit from the back by the New York Times for more than a year now, every single day, and still making it should tell us that he is no fool, So let him do his job, don't worry about his hotels in Bombay or Istanbul, and wish him good luck. He has won this battle fair and square.
2
He's no fool just like Bernie Madoff is no fool, but Madoff is in prison now. He's still a fraud (Trump University) and a con (stiffed contractors) and a liar (birtherism). He's now losing his marbles (saying Hillary Clinton's popular vote is due to illegal voting). He must be stopped.
27
Wow, you need to go back and read the article again.
8
No one should be the least bit surprised by this.
He would not release his taxes, and his tax returns would have opened up his world of interlocking, international and ingeniously crafted businesses which assiduously obscured the truth. When questioned about his refusal to release the returns, he offered the fallacious reason that he couldn't because of the IRS's ongoing audit. I don't remember a single member of the press confronting Trump with the fact that IRS audits do not preclude releasing tax returns. Instead, after Trump said he couldn't release his taxes because of the audit, interviewers just went on to the next question.
Throughout the campaign, Trump exuded unbridled egotism, gross indifference to the suffering of others, sadistic glee in causing sorrow and a stark lack of morality that was patently psychopathic.
There is more than enough guilt to go around: The media, which gave so much free air time to his psychotic rants; the belief that news must be entertaining; the voters, who seem to be getting dumber every year; the cowardly leaders of the Republican party who yielded to him every step of the way; and the conduct of primaries: a) the rapid sequence of primaries which allows a candidate, who hasn't been vetted, to rapidly attain unstoppable momentum; b) the over-representation of extremists when participation is low (eg. Iowa), and c) the inability of voters in early primaries to change their votes after more facts are out of the bag.
He would not release his taxes, and his tax returns would have opened up his world of interlocking, international and ingeniously crafted businesses which assiduously obscured the truth. When questioned about his refusal to release the returns, he offered the fallacious reason that he couldn't because of the IRS's ongoing audit. I don't remember a single member of the press confronting Trump with the fact that IRS audits do not preclude releasing tax returns. Instead, after Trump said he couldn't release his taxes because of the audit, interviewers just went on to the next question.
Throughout the campaign, Trump exuded unbridled egotism, gross indifference to the suffering of others, sadistic glee in causing sorrow and a stark lack of morality that was patently psychopathic.
There is more than enough guilt to go around: The media, which gave so much free air time to his psychotic rants; the belief that news must be entertaining; the voters, who seem to be getting dumber every year; the cowardly leaders of the Republican party who yielded to him every step of the way; and the conduct of primaries: a) the rapid sequence of primaries which allows a candidate, who hasn't been vetted, to rapidly attain unstoppable momentum; b) the over-representation of extremists when participation is low (eg. Iowa), and c) the inability of voters in early primaries to change their votes after more facts are out of the bag.
16
Rosebud . . .
12
Trump says President do not have conflicts of interest in the Times interview last week. In other words he says he is above the law and knows the GOP controlled Congress will not impeach him. I expect a big neon Trump sign on the White House with a smaller open for business sign outside.There can be a Trump Store in the East Wing with Melania and Ivanka selling jewelry and other knockoffs made by cheap labor in China and Mexico. A Trump casino in Cuba should get that embargo lifted.How much will the GOP billionaires pay to sleep in the Lincoln bedroom?
10
Stop! Just stop please! It must be asked:
WHY IS THIS BEING "NORMALIZED" IN ANY WAY?
Instead of writing about the consequences of this, why not take a stand: the right stand, the only appropriate stand? Trump's business interests must be put in a Blind Trust, a Double Blind Trust. It should not all go to his kids or some relative or close, compliant crony.
All over the range of Press and the Net, people are doing various forms of Justification. "Trump built this business empire, he can't just abandon it." "This is his whole life... his livelihood!" Why? Must we remind ourselves? Trump chose to run for President. Nobody forced this upon him! If anything, considering what he does not know, and what he *still* seems to not be interested in learning, it would seem he forced this upon himself - or at least his idealized variation of the Presidency - all to fill his endless need for praise, attention, and adulation. He knew the Laws regarding Higher Office: Conflicts of Interest, even minor ones, should be avoided at all cost!
I am horrified beyond all measure. We are in the last days of a truly decent, competent, classy, and moral, Presidency. The Right has blocked Obama, demonized, and threatened him with Impeachment, Prison, or worse, just for doing his job better than any of them could. Now the raging, ranting father of the Birther Movement is to somehow replace him - and gross corruption is already forecast, and normalized for him.
Enough! We deserve better!
WHY IS THIS BEING "NORMALIZED" IN ANY WAY?
Instead of writing about the consequences of this, why not take a stand: the right stand, the only appropriate stand? Trump's business interests must be put in a Blind Trust, a Double Blind Trust. It should not all go to his kids or some relative or close, compliant crony.
All over the range of Press and the Net, people are doing various forms of Justification. "Trump built this business empire, he can't just abandon it." "This is his whole life... his livelihood!" Why? Must we remind ourselves? Trump chose to run for President. Nobody forced this upon him! If anything, considering what he does not know, and what he *still* seems to not be interested in learning, it would seem he forced this upon himself - or at least his idealized variation of the Presidency - all to fill his endless need for praise, attention, and adulation. He knew the Laws regarding Higher Office: Conflicts of Interest, even minor ones, should be avoided at all cost!
I am horrified beyond all measure. We are in the last days of a truly decent, competent, classy, and moral, Presidency. The Right has blocked Obama, demonized, and threatened him with Impeachment, Prison, or worse, just for doing his job better than any of them could. Now the raging, ranting father of the Birther Movement is to somehow replace him - and gross corruption is already forecast, and normalized for him.
Enough! We deserve better!
33
It is becoming evident that the US needs to have some form of pre vetting
contenders who aim to be running for the office of president of the USA. Much
horror could have been avoided by having all the answers from Trump before
this election.
contenders who aim to be running for the office of president of the USA. Much
horror could have been avoided by having all the answers from Trump before
this election.
19
Where were you NYT before the election or were you too busy sniffing around HRC's e mails. You are a sorry excuse for a news organization. You have one job INFORM THE PUBLIC and you could not do it. You are responsible for bringing this catastrophe on my country. I am sick of you setting around saying the Democrats could not communicate with the poor and forgotten. Or HRC was not natural enough or she was not a great campaigner. You and the rest of the media did not do your job.
31
Could someone wake me up, when this is all over?! Hopefully, in four years, if we haven't self destructed on Trump's watch!? I thought things were looney tunes during Trumps campaign, but now added to these business conflicts, despite winning the election where it counts, electorally, HE now wants a recount too, because there were fraudulent votes against HIM!
11
I wonder just what disservice we, as a country have done to Donald Trump that he would foist his abominable self on us.
7
I pray to God the Democrats (and the GOP would be nice too!) take this very, very seriously and draft legislation that will guide hopefully this new and future presidencies. This is new ground and clearly expecting presidents to just follow previous examples and protocol is not good enough.
11
Democratic, Republicans and the 3 Major media all work together.
This is one of the dirty little secrets of Government. Don’t think the media does not “pick” or declare the winners of elections before the votes are in.
Democracy Now revealed Trump was very dirty in business back in June, yet the mainstream media refused to cover these types of stories.
The public knows very little about Trump in business.
Go beyond the mainstream media for the full story of Trump.
https://www.democracynow.org/2016/9/5/the_making_of_donald_trump_david
This is one of the dirty little secrets of Government. Don’t think the media does not “pick” or declare the winners of elections before the votes are in.
Democracy Now revealed Trump was very dirty in business back in June, yet the mainstream media refused to cover these types of stories.
The public knows very little about Trump in business.
Go beyond the mainstream media for the full story of Trump.
https://www.democracynow.org/2016/9/5/the_making_of_donald_trump_david
2
What is the chance that Trump will continue to coordinate and run his business and presidential empire on his own private e-mail server? Will it ever be subject to a FOIA request or will it become classified as Top Secret?
What is the chance a Republican controlled congress will ever investigate this guy?
I hope the major news sources - like the NYT - will tag team with others (Washington Post, LA Times, etc.) to fully cover and follow all Trump family members around the world as they promote their business interests at our nation's expense. I know, it will take serious manpower and resources to cover them properly. I doubt you will come up empty for all of your efforts. You are our last line of defense.
What is the chance a Republican controlled congress will ever investigate this guy?
I hope the major news sources - like the NYT - will tag team with others (Washington Post, LA Times, etc.) to fully cover and follow all Trump family members around the world as they promote their business interests at our nation's expense. I know, it will take serious manpower and resources to cover them properly. I doubt you will come up empty for all of your efforts. You are our last line of defense.
16
As Calvin Coolidge said, "The business of American is business"
1
I'm left to wonder why this article wasn't published BEFORE the election.
Trump correctly states he is exempt from conflicts laws that govern the other branches. No "person" has standing to challenge under the emoluments clause. The GOP controlled congress evidently doesn't care what he does.
The way I see it, two branches of government are colluding to commit massive fraud on the people. I suspect the lot of them should (but won't) end up in jail.
I remember when I first started practicing law a partner I worked for told me there is a different set of rules for the rich and powerful and it was our job to manipulate the rules for their benefit. I was deeply offended by the concept. Still am but have had to accept its truth.
Trump correctly states he is exempt from conflicts laws that govern the other branches. No "person" has standing to challenge under the emoluments clause. The GOP controlled congress evidently doesn't care what he does.
The way I see it, two branches of government are colluding to commit massive fraud on the people. I suspect the lot of them should (but won't) end up in jail.
I remember when I first started practicing law a partner I worked for told me there is a different set of rules for the rich and powerful and it was our job to manipulate the rules for their benefit. I was deeply offended by the concept. Still am but have had to accept its truth.
15
How could we have known beforehand what trump was keeping secret by not showing his taxes?
3
This information was all out there before the election. His supporters didn't care then and they will not care now. They cheer on the the bully because on some level that is what they are or want to be. In an article in I believe the New Yorker two female supporters said that only the weak were concerned with his treatment of women(referring to the sexual assault of grabbing, kissingetc)
Small business owners dream that they can be like him not the small business owners that he crushed.
Small business owners dream that they can be like him not the small business owners that he crushed.
12
This article really isn't journalism, it is speculation. So filled with "could", "might", "some wonder if", and of course no law applies to POTUS. What happened to the meme during the election that Trump had no money and no significant business activity other than filing bankruptcies? Suddenly he has a "vast global empire"? He must really be a billionaire then, maybe you should do an article on how you finally figured that out. NYT has no credibility anymore
4
Pot, meet Kettle. Trump filed bankruptcies and profited "bigly" from them, over the backs of his contractors and laborers. Nowhere did I read that's the only thing he did. Billionnaire? Until his shady lenders (Deutsche Bank, the Russians, and who knows who else) go after him and demand payback maybe. But how would we know, he hasn't shown his tax returns.
12
And you have a crystal ball and know what's coming? For sure?
Pray tell....
Pray tell....
1
Don Trump is nuts! Do you know how I know?
Who in their right mind worth Billions would risk his life in this country where Presidents are assured of danger from every other loose cannon nut job in the country?
Conflict of interest? You bet. I'd be interested in staying alive. I'd never run for public office in this country.
By the way; are there 10 Trump Towers in the world? If so, he will rule it.
Who in their right mind worth Billions would risk his life in this country where Presidents are assured of danger from every other loose cannon nut job in the country?
Conflict of interest? You bet. I'd be interested in staying alive. I'd never run for public office in this country.
By the way; are there 10 Trump Towers in the world? If so, he will rule it.
Maybe he isn't worth Billions and his shady lenders demand payback or else and his only option was to fly forward into the glass house of the US presidency hoping he would be protected there ... and can cash in enough tax-money to pay his lenders... He's eminently extortionable.
6
Now Trump says my vote must have been illegitimate because it failed to ratify his electoral college victory.
Oh what a gas these next four years will be, assuming I live through them.
Oh what a gas these next four years will be, assuming I live through them.
12
Large donations from foreign governments and multinationals to the Clinton Foundation didn't seem to cause any potential conflicts of interest with anything Hillary was doing during her years as Secretary of State or when she seemed a shoe-in for President. Uh, wait! Scratch that. Forget I said it.
All the giant corporate and government donors over these past years insist they didn't have the slightest influence-peddling motive whatsoever. It was all purely due to the wonderful efforts the Clinton Foundation was doing around the world, such as helping hurricane and AIDS victims in Haiti -- never mind there are several excellent charities that specialize in both.
One article just before election time posited a very simple test to find out whether it was pure charitable giving or pure influence-peddling aka pay-for-play. If Hillary were to lose the election, compare the level of donations one year after a loss to the level one year before.
Well, we don't have to wait one year. From the time the election results turned the most powerful political family in America overnight into yesterday's breakfast, the Clinton Foundation already has reported a drop in donations of almost 40%. Meanwhile, from the time the Clinton's left the White House in 2000 when according to Hillary they were "flat broke" to now, they have amassed a fortune over $180 million. Yet, I can't recall them patenting a great new invention, finding a cure for a major disease or having any top-40 hits. Hmm.
All the giant corporate and government donors over these past years insist they didn't have the slightest influence-peddling motive whatsoever. It was all purely due to the wonderful efforts the Clinton Foundation was doing around the world, such as helping hurricane and AIDS victims in Haiti -- never mind there are several excellent charities that specialize in both.
One article just before election time posited a very simple test to find out whether it was pure charitable giving or pure influence-peddling aka pay-for-play. If Hillary were to lose the election, compare the level of donations one year after a loss to the level one year before.
Well, we don't have to wait one year. From the time the election results turned the most powerful political family in America overnight into yesterday's breakfast, the Clinton Foundation already has reported a drop in donations of almost 40%. Meanwhile, from the time the Clinton's left the White House in 2000 when according to Hillary they were "flat broke" to now, they have amassed a fortune over $180 million. Yet, I can't recall them patenting a great new invention, finding a cure for a major disease or having any top-40 hits. Hmm.
2
That is because no promises were made. People were simply given introductions and referrals.
4
You obviously do not know the difference between a charitable foundation that the founders don't take money from (on the contrary they donate to it) and a for-profit business. And Trump used his Trump Foundation to pay bribes, settle lawsuits and buy huge paintings of himself.
14
You know what - Hillary lost. Trump supporters can't hide behind the Clintons any more. Defend your guys on his merits. Good luck, he does not have any.
11
How can I filter out all things Donald from digital media? It looks and feels like a plague.
6
The press and the media have a real challenge on their hands with a Trump presidency. He has already declared the media to be corrupt and liars. Most of the republican party believes him, so no matter what kind of reporting is done, he will claim it to be total lies and fabrication. One can only hope there are still some decent responsible republicans left in Congress who see the real danger of this man and will try to stop him. He is already claiming that millions of votes were rigged because of the mounting popular vote count favoring Clinton and claiming he would have won the popular vote too had it not been for millions of illegally counted votes. I am very afraid for this country.
17
"My company is so unimportant to me relative to what I am doing" President Elect Trump stated recently to the Times. This statement seems inconsistent with how he has spent his time. Trump has attended only two intelligence briefings despite his lack of military and political experience. I think it is fair to say he has spent more time promoting and defending his business empire than he has preparing to make cutting edge decisions that will directly affect millions of people, including his own family. Would you fly in a plane whose pilot had only watched others fly on television? I would feel a lot more comfortable if he attended the intelligence briefings instead of meeting with his business partners from India. I think the decision to authorize nuclear weapons requires at least as much formal training as a licensed commercial pilot. I can almost envision President Trump giving the nuclear go ahead at three in the morning via a tweet. Perhaps his business conflicts will force him to decide to give up his empire or face impeachment on day one. Is there really any question as to whether he will choose helping the American people or quitting to save his empire if forced to make a choice? Actually by resigning he would be accomplishing both. Sounds like a win-win for everyone.
15
Seems like the Pres-elect is already working his magic by holding Cuba up for a few hotels and casino's and such.
Very Republican of him........just taking care of business.
Very Republican of him........just taking care of business.
8
NYT, I hope you keep this issue front and center. It's too important to be pushed aside or overshadowed.
23
Congress should not have more power than the people. That was the original purpose of the United States.
Donald Trump is not the President yet, much can be done to stop him.
Hillary conceded the election WAY too soon, not smart!
This was a dirty election and she should have waited before conceded.
Trump’s business conflicts, his daughter on the phone to the Japanese Prime Minister. His meeting with the India business, all could be grounds to remove him, now.
The 270 electoral votes are NOT official until December 12. The newspapers crowned him President not the people.
Donald Trump is not the President yet, much can be done to stop him.
Hillary conceded the election WAY too soon, not smart!
This was a dirty election and she should have waited before conceded.
Trump’s business conflicts, his daughter on the phone to the Japanese Prime Minister. His meeting with the India business, all could be grounds to remove him, now.
The 270 electoral votes are NOT official until December 12. The newspapers crowned him President not the people.
9
We should have invited Trump Towers in Okinawa (for an obvious reason) and a golf course in Fukushima (we need a sea wall for Tsunami).
6
It was pretty obvious that he wouldn’t be able to actually sell all of his large real estate just before, or even during office. Or, effectively put it in a true blind trust.
Either way, it is absolutely not possible to sell, or remove himself from the business arrangements that are just for the use of his NAME!!!
A summary of where his businesses are, and what kind of activity they entail (ownership of asset, licensing agreement, etc.) needs to be published.
Either way, it is absolutely not possible to sell, or remove himself from the business arrangements that are just for the use of his NAME!!!
A summary of where his businesses are, and what kind of activity they entail (ownership of asset, licensing agreement, etc.) needs to be published.
7
Begin the impeachment process against the scoundrel 1-20-2017.
12
Its sad to say, Congress won't do anything. DT will not get impeached, we will never see his tax returns, his children will have access to sensitive information, and middle class and the poor will get screwed.
At this point, outside of praying, the best that I can do is to vote in my local elections and hope that many of you do the same. At least, the popular votes count at the local level. This is the only way that we can save ourselves.
At this point, outside of praying, the best that I can do is to vote in my local elections and hope that many of you do the same. At least, the popular votes count at the local level. This is the only way that we can save ourselves.
25
After reading this excellent report, I will not be surprised to read in not distance future (from NYTimes) that, the real people behind the latest ballot recount in 3 states, were instigated, not only by Jill Stein, or by Hillary's campaign - also by GOP leaders to prevent Trump from taking office.
Worried about Whining-Trump's insidious plan to convert the sanctity & prestige of the WhiteHouse into a cheap sales office for Presidents to hack their merchandises to consumers worldwide.
Worried about Whining-Trump's insidious plan to convert the sanctity & prestige of the WhiteHouse into a cheap sales office for Presidents to hack their merchandises to consumers worldwide.
10
Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania together have 36 electoral votes. Hillary Clinton now has 232 electoral votes and could win election only if recounts changed the outcome in all three, something that in view of the margins has a probility that is operationally not different from zero.
No sane Republican would join such an effort. It may be that Jill Stein has day after remorse, and that some Democrats see an opportunity to further undermine Donald Trump, who contrary to their fervent wishes and dashed assumptions, almost certainly will become President next January 20.
No sane Republican would join such an effort. It may be that Jill Stein has day after remorse, and that some Democrats see an opportunity to further undermine Donald Trump, who contrary to their fervent wishes and dashed assumptions, almost certainly will become President next January 20.
3
Where does this election’s black swan event and its consequences leave the majority of Americans who did not vote for Trump and the minority of Americans who voted for him but did not fully understand the consequences? Do we wait to see what he will do and hope for the best or should we get out ahead of yet another but much more serious event we have yet to visualize?
In order to maintain public trust in the integrity of our government, we urgently need a Constitutional amendment which requires the divestiture or placement in a blind trust of all financial holdings by a sitting President together with the full disclosure of all financial information and potential conflicts of interests by each sitting President, President-elect and Presidential nominee. Unfortunately, we cannot rely on the Republican-controlled Congress to initiate this kind of amendment so it must be done by the States (2/3’s of the State legislatures need to call a Constitutional Convention and three fourths of the States need to ratify the amendment). Call and write your State representatives to initiate this process!
In order to maintain public trust in the integrity of our government, we urgently need a Constitutional amendment which requires the divestiture or placement in a blind trust of all financial holdings by a sitting President together with the full disclosure of all financial information and potential conflicts of interests by each sitting President, President-elect and Presidential nominee. Unfortunately, we cannot rely on the Republican-controlled Congress to initiate this kind of amendment so it must be done by the States (2/3’s of the State legislatures need to call a Constitutional Convention and three fourths of the States need to ratify the amendment). Call and write your State representatives to initiate this process!
9
Sounds good, but everything pertaining to Trump is politicized. If you start with the 20 states that Hillary won, then the only way you're going to get 13 more states to support this amendment is if Trump creates a disaster. Heaven help us.
2
What comes first?
Trump's fiduciary responsibility to his many corporations, partnerships, loans, LLCs and other business 'deals'?
or,
Trump's Constitutional obligations as the highest executive of our Nation?
I don't trust him to work for the US above any and all considerations of his own hubris, ego, wealth and power.
Trump's fiduciary responsibility to his many corporations, partnerships, loans, LLCs and other business 'deals'?
or,
Trump's Constitutional obligations as the highest executive of our Nation?
I don't trust him to work for the US above any and all considerations of his own hubris, ego, wealth and power.
25
You are stating that you will not accept Donald Trump's sworn oath of office. Some voters, perhaps many, would say the same, with equally good reasons, about Hillary Clinton if she had won the election.
"Sworn oath" of an inveterate liar?
5
If he is in debt it won't be his decision, he'll be setting himself up as a patsy if he doesn't come clean and divest.
We are witnessing the initial stages of the merger of the Trump Organization with our Government. This dangerous joint venture has been designed and is being managed by the President-elect and its tentacles are being woven into the fabric of all future decision making, policies, treaties, laws and regulations which will be implemented with vigor by his devoted Cabinet and Executive Branch appointees. Unchecked, at stake is the privatization of our democracy where return on investment and the bottom line trump the welfare, justice and liberty of all. Revolting as this sounds, nothing in the Emoluments Clause or any other part of the Constitution protects us from it.
The underlying theme of what is likely to follow will first and foremost be the maximization and preservation of returns for Trump’s global empire. Imminently, we will see a whole host of conflicts of interest, self-dealing and untoward profit-making. While most of us will consider these coming instances to be unethical, each matter will be crafted with a thin veneer of legality and arguable public benefit. Succeeding in the past with his instructions to his accountants to stretch reasonable interpretations of the tax code taught Trump nothing about governing but instead showed him how far he could push a system he did not yet control to fulfill his own self-interest. How likely is it that the Republican-controlled Congress will deal with any of these future conflicts given their need to make amends with their newly installed party leader especially if they are to further their own agenda?
The underlying theme of what is likely to follow will first and foremost be the maximization and preservation of returns for Trump’s global empire. Imminently, we will see a whole host of conflicts of interest, self-dealing and untoward profit-making. While most of us will consider these coming instances to be unethical, each matter will be crafted with a thin veneer of legality and arguable public benefit. Succeeding in the past with his instructions to his accountants to stretch reasonable interpretations of the tax code taught Trump nothing about governing but instead showed him how far he could push a system he did not yet control to fulfill his own self-interest. How likely is it that the Republican-controlled Congress will deal with any of these future conflicts given their need to make amends with their newly installed party leader especially if they are to further their own agenda?
19
Who are you kidding?
The Trumps are great ambassadors for the USA.
This nation was built on business, domestic and foreign. Who is number one, numero uno, in building brands, building sales forces, across the entire globe?
The USA.
Let's start with our ABCs, Apple, Big Blue, Boeing, Coca Cola, and on and on goes the list.
And foreign policy? It has been one giant conflict of interest, with one interest in mind, the USA!
The Trumps are great ambassadors for the USA.
This nation was built on business, domestic and foreign. Who is number one, numero uno, in building brands, building sales forces, across the entire globe?
The USA.
Let's start with our ABCs, Apple, Big Blue, Boeing, Coca Cola, and on and on goes the list.
And foreign policy? It has been one giant conflict of interest, with one interest in mind, the USA!
2
The ABC's cannot run for president of the USA.
8
Why isn't the median including the NY Times calling for his resignation. Why didn't the media demand to see his tax returns?
Why doesn't the media demand that Trump orders all these racist hate incidents that have cropped up since he got elected to be stopped or else order investigations and punishment for all these people who are now perpetrating hate crimes.
I doubt if the media will take a stand. There's too much money involved. But this time the consequences will even be greater than allowing Bush to take us to war in Iraq.
Why doesn't the media demand that Trump orders all these racist hate incidents that have cropped up since he got elected to be stopped or else order investigations and punishment for all these people who are now perpetrating hate crimes.
I doubt if the media will take a stand. There's too much money involved. But this time the consequences will even be greater than allowing Bush to take us to war in Iraq.
14
That's really funny. I have a bridge here in NY for sale, Interested?
Since the principles guiding cutthroat capitalism differ only marginally from those enforced by the mafia, should we really be surprised that we now have a Don in Chief?
8
As long as we get our country and our jobs back I don't care how much more money Trump and his family make. A small price to pay.
Chuck, you are a TRUE Trump supporter! Hope you are delighted with your minimum wage jobs (with no health insurance -- have fun paying for that, also!)
I'm sure you will find paying for your own health insurance and your parents getting a small voucher instead of Medicare to be small price for "getting your country back" by electing a racist, xenophobe! Thanks for showing us all the typical man who idolizes Donald Trump!
I'm sure you will find paying for your own health insurance and your parents getting a small voucher instead of Medicare to be small price for "getting your country back" by electing a racist, xenophobe! Thanks for showing us all the typical man who idolizes Donald Trump!
10
RJ: We always pay. NOTHING is free; government gives us nothing. The government simply takes our payments in taxes.
2
Get our country back from whom? No one's taken it from us. And those jobs are not coming back. Coal is dying and manufacturing will continue to be moved to other countries. Have you demanded that Donald and Ivanka have their merchandise manufactured in the U.S. instead of China?
16
Trump just insulted over two million American voters by claiming fraud. Even after he wins the election, he still feels convinced that he is somehow a victim!!
I have never liked this man. Not even when he was a Democrat. However, I did hold out respect for Republicans in general. But this is the straw and here is the camel's back. I despise your whole party now. You elected the man, so you insulted those voters too.
See you all in 2018. Hope you have some actual positive achievements to run on by then. Donald playing victim all day on Twitter will not be enough
I have never liked this man. Not even when he was a Democrat. However, I did hold out respect for Republicans in general. But this is the straw and here is the camel's back. I despise your whole party now. You elected the man, so you insulted those voters too.
See you all in 2018. Hope you have some actual positive achievements to run on by then. Donald playing victim all day on Twitter will not be enough
26
Maybe he is looking for a recount as a way out of office.
See, I was not elected, I don't have to be President. So there!
See, I was not elected, I don't have to be President. So there!
2
National oligarchs go multi-national to eventually go Global. Too wealthy and powerful to be questioned even by the countries and governments they run and own.
How much concentrated wealth is too much? We are about to find out - and it will also be too late for the rest of us.
How much concentrated wealth is too much? We are about to find out - and it will also be too late for the rest of us.
5
Simple: Tax the wealthy. 70% in the highest bracket as was the case under Reagan, and an extra wealth tax of, let's say, from 1 to 5% yearly for fortunes over a certain amount, starting at let's say, 2M.
2
I wonder if that is what Trump is thinking about making America Great Again - tax the wealthy at the rates from the Regan era and before - when Trump's followers believe the country was great.
It would be simple, Anna, if the wealthy did not own our government policy makers - then maybe they would go back to increase taxes actually paid by those who are benefiting the most from the nation.
Too bad taxing the rich has been demonized as redistribution of the wealth. It is more accurately constraining the corralling of all the wealth by the fewest.
It would be simple, Anna, if the wealthy did not own our government policy makers - then maybe they would go back to increase taxes actually paid by those who are benefiting the most from the nation.
Too bad taxing the rich has been demonized as redistribution of the wealth. It is more accurately constraining the corralling of all the wealth by the fewest.
4
New York Times should take an editorial line strictly delegitimizing Trump by focusing on the popular vote outcome in favor of Hillary Clinton.
NOW is the time to abandon the Electoral College and discourage conscientious voting in the EC in favor of Clinton, so as to restore the popular vote result to the electoral outcome.
States rights continue to be the bastion of right-wing power. Bargain for better. Abolish the EC.
NOW is the time to abandon the Electoral College and discourage conscientious voting in the EC in favor of Clinton, so as to restore the popular vote result to the electoral outcome.
States rights continue to be the bastion of right-wing power. Bargain for better. Abolish the EC.
7
Hillary won in California by over 3 million votes, based on your logic, let's just have California decide from now on.
1
States rights can also turn out to be a firewall against dismantling the social security net in progressive states, e.g., with respect to health care, like the version Romney established in Massachusetts that Obamacare was modeled on...
5
To add to Louis A.
Let us encourage the Electoral College to do the right thing and to back the fact that Hillary Clinton is the winner in this election. The Electors have the power to do so.
The election is fraught with too many irregularities and has far too much room for error.
Let the ongoing process of checking the voting results in at least 4 or 5 critical states go on until a resolution, one way or another, is reached.
Let us support the efforts of Jill Stein of the Green Party to accomplish this study.
In my view the election was hacked.
An examination of the system analysis and the software developed to implement the compilation of voting results should be thoroughly examined for malware and malicious intent.
We owe it to ourselves to accomplish this task with alacrity.
Let us encourage the Electoral College to do the right thing and to back the fact that Hillary Clinton is the winner in this election. The Electors have the power to do so.
The election is fraught with too many irregularities and has far too much room for error.
Let the ongoing process of checking the voting results in at least 4 or 5 critical states go on until a resolution, one way or another, is reached.
Let us support the efforts of Jill Stein of the Green Party to accomplish this study.
In my view the election was hacked.
An examination of the system analysis and the software developed to implement the compilation of voting results should be thoroughly examined for malware and malicious intent.
We owe it to ourselves to accomplish this task with alacrity.
6
Frankly who cares? Nobody seems to care about the fact Trump won't release his tax returns. And it appears they could care less about his conflicts of interest.
This is the new norm. The people have spoken. Let's move on.
This is the new norm. The people have spoken. Let's move on.
2
The people have spoken. The Electoral College will speak--and then the people will be moved upon. To echo the late Mayor Koch: "and now the people must be punished."
1
Trump voters may not care, but everybody else does. This is most certainly not the new norm.
14
Yes they do not care. All they care about is the LIE that Trump has promised them. Brining the high paying Coal, Steel, Most Manufacturing jobs, kicking out immigrants, building the wall promise. Yet all this time he's been flying in the gold laden Jet, Gold laden Tower, third marriage after cheating twice and bankrupting his backers time and time again, his voters thinks he's one of them? How obnoxiously funny is that. So yes they don't care or maybe just plain dumb.
7
Further, it's possible that Trump properties abroad could become the target of terrorist activities. If so, will the response be one of a foreign citizen, a corporation with holdings in that state, or of the US, a government beyond the border of the sovereign nation where such an event might happen?
15
Mimi, terrorists will only have to attack a Trump property once and nobody will want to stay in one anymore, no matter how well it is protected. He'll have to sell them a dime on the dollar. Problem solved. The majority of US generals will refuse to put the lives of their troops on the line to defend a president's personal business interests, I'd hope.
11
I don't think he owns them, it's just signage.
2
Trump the hypocrite excoriated Castro, but you know behind the scenes he and his family are chomping at the bit to get a foothold in Cuba. Never take what he says at face value. Now that he will be president, he has the hubris to think he can get away with anything. Wrong.
23
Where was all this reporting before the election, when it might have made a difference?
19
Rome witnessed most of it, and we can read all about it. They were experienced with double dealing back then.
Caesar divorced his second wife Pompeia, saying that "my wife ought not even to be under suspicion." That was a story - considering the event involved. It was all women.
This gave rise to a proverb, sometimes expressed: "Caesar's wife must be above suspicion."
Pure as driven snow, as my dad used to say.
And our next president? Having experienced Presidents Nixon and Clinton... effectively, impeached... we are hoping for driven snow.
We rejected Hillary Clinton. Which is not to say for whom we voted.
Some mention her 7 figure plurality. Did Trump care about California, Oregon, Washington State, New York, Massachusetts, the coast vote?
With no help from Kasich, he put Ohio in play. He put Pennsylvania and others that matter in play. The count of counties across the nation is overwhelming.
Trump packed halls and had coattails.
Hillary had empty halls and journalism.
This revolution started at the bottom with no help from the top.
No one credits Sheldon of the Crap Table.
No one credits the GOP establishment.
What does this mean?
If Trump chooses Mitt Romney, Trump will demonstrate a level of self confidence that should startle the Clinton Cult.
The New Yorker might consider ... assigning David Remnick.
Amazing the access he gets.
Caesar divorced his second wife Pompeia, saying that "my wife ought not even to be under suspicion." That was a story - considering the event involved. It was all women.
This gave rise to a proverb, sometimes expressed: "Caesar's wife must be above suspicion."
Pure as driven snow, as my dad used to say.
And our next president? Having experienced Presidents Nixon and Clinton... effectively, impeached... we are hoping for driven snow.
We rejected Hillary Clinton. Which is not to say for whom we voted.
Some mention her 7 figure plurality. Did Trump care about California, Oregon, Washington State, New York, Massachusetts, the coast vote?
With no help from Kasich, he put Ohio in play. He put Pennsylvania and others that matter in play. The count of counties across the nation is overwhelming.
Trump packed halls and had coattails.
Hillary had empty halls and journalism.
This revolution started at the bottom with no help from the top.
No one credits Sheldon of the Crap Table.
No one credits the GOP establishment.
What does this mean?
If Trump chooses Mitt Romney, Trump will demonstrate a level of self confidence that should startle the Clinton Cult.
The New Yorker might consider ... assigning David Remnick.
Amazing the access he gets.
Lewis, you are obviously in thrall of the Swindler in Chief. I wonder how long it will last?
5
what a shame it is that when all the foolish people who have been literally duped by a man who when speaking are the words of his surrogates because he only knows about bricks and steel. find out what a fraud he is then maybe there will be change. This country is so doomed it is not funny
15
The conflict between Trump's foreign interests and his role and Commander in Chief of the military is striking. Will his decisions on military actions be based on what is best for the USA or his personal finances?
16
I can imagine a scenario where US soldiers are deployed and lives lost to primarily to enrich Mr Trump
13
I don't think the generals will let him. For the simple reason that if they do, they will have to do it for every American business with foreign interests. They cannot extend favoritism to a business just because it's owned by the POTUS. Trump would also have to reinstate the draft because I don't think many will want to serve anymore if they have to put their lives on the line to protect Trump business interests, except perhaps his most ardent supporters, who will want something more in return than a measly salary and a medal.
2
Problem is is that he is the generals' boss.
4
"Potential Conflicts Around the Globe for Trump, the Businessman President" - "Potential"? You can delete the word "potential" and be objective, NYT.
15
While it is important to read about these many conflicts now, I am shocked that the New York Times did not report on these obvious problems earlier. As a longtime subscriber, I will continue my subscription, but my trust has been profoundly shaken by the failure of this paper to properly vet the candidate Trump. And I'm beginning to worry that the fourth estate isn't ready for what's coming.
25
His own party failed to vet him!
The GOP failed us all!
The GOP failed us all!
2
Potential Conflicts??! I don't even know where to start with this, except to say your choice of words in the headline reflects just that, a choice, and a very poor and disturbing one, indeed. Instead of calling for action, what is the Times doing here by taking deep obviously catastrophic conflicts and painting them in the dull anodyne language that kills the piece from the very start.
14
Anyone who thinks that the Clintons do not have business interests abroad are at least slightly delusional. Actually you can make the case that in the 1990s during the Clinton administration was when American business turned into truly global business and the prominent politicians inevitably put themselves into the mix. Trump is a direct real estate guy who have never had to disguise or hide his projects and investments so that is why it is all that more obvious.
Then why does he hide his tax returns? Business interests abroad - if owning stocks in foreign companies a president elect can easily address that issue, but Trump with his hundreds of projects and property abroad cannot - and what to think of his borrowing from shady foreign entities (Deutsche Bank, the Russians and who knows who else)? Reputable American lenders won't lend to him anymore and that's not because of his stellar reputation, to put it mildly. So to summarize: Where are his tax returns? What does he have to hide?
He is now claiming the popular vote for Clinton was due to illegal voting, as a reaction to the recount that's underway in addition to calling it a scam - interesting, because officials and the Clinton campaign themselves stated a recount wouldn't change the outcome. So what is Trump afraid of? Does he know something we don't? Did he himself scam the vote (or had it scammed)? Does he want to divert attention from his business dealings, Trump university fraud, illegal payments from his Trump Foundation, and his lacking tax returns? He always accuses his opponents of the crimes he committed himself, that's a well-established pattern with him.
He is now claiming the popular vote for Clinton was due to illegal voting, as a reaction to the recount that's underway in addition to calling it a scam - interesting, because officials and the Clinton campaign themselves stated a recount wouldn't change the outcome. So what is Trump afraid of? Does he know something we don't? Did he himself scam the vote (or had it scammed)? Does he want to divert attention from his business dealings, Trump university fraud, illegal payments from his Trump Foundation, and his lacking tax returns? He always accuses his opponents of the crimes he committed himself, that's a well-established pattern with him.
15
Jack, the Clintons provided many years of tax returns. We can read audits of the Clinton Foundation. Trump has hidden his financial dealings from the public.
4
For one thing, the Clintons are not the president-elect. Stick to the here and now.
To address your logic: it wasn't okay when the Clintons had conflicts of interest but it's now okay for Trump because...why? I thought we were supposed to Drain the Swamp, not switch the alligators. It's either fine or it isn't and I'll help you out with this one: it isn't.
I'm no Clinton fan, honest to God, but if you think Trump is being transparent in a manner they weren't you're out of your mind. To this day he hides everything, and one can only assume this is for good reason--because if people knew the truth he'd be shown for the Loser he is. If you can't profit but for shady practices, you're not "successful," you're just a special kind of failure: a moral and ethical one.
All Americans, whether on one side or another, should be concerned by this because it's our security, our money, and our future at stake. We all have way more in common with one another than we have in common with these 1%ers. Look past the Trump propaganda machine and see the facts for what they are. Demand your guy step up to the office he's about to take; you don't have to defend his every move just because you voted for him. We all want this country to be great, but we can't excuse this behavior and expect that to happen. If Clinton were the pres-elect, I'd say the same thing. Hold them all accountable. All of them.
To address your logic: it wasn't okay when the Clintons had conflicts of interest but it's now okay for Trump because...why? I thought we were supposed to Drain the Swamp, not switch the alligators. It's either fine or it isn't and I'll help you out with this one: it isn't.
I'm no Clinton fan, honest to God, but if you think Trump is being transparent in a manner they weren't you're out of your mind. To this day he hides everything, and one can only assume this is for good reason--because if people knew the truth he'd be shown for the Loser he is. If you can't profit but for shady practices, you're not "successful," you're just a special kind of failure: a moral and ethical one.
All Americans, whether on one side or another, should be concerned by this because it's our security, our money, and our future at stake. We all have way more in common with one another than we have in common with these 1%ers. Look past the Trump propaganda machine and see the facts for what they are. Demand your guy step up to the office he's about to take; you don't have to defend his every move just because you voted for him. We all want this country to be great, but we can't excuse this behavior and expect that to happen. If Clinton were the pres-elect, I'd say the same thing. Hold them all accountable. All of them.
So he's a successful businessman with international operations. Duh !! He hasn't been living off the public teats for the last 30 years. All the more reason he's needed to reign in wasteful spending. Maybe you should examine how he won a election spending half as much as his opponent.
4
The great majority of American voters are upstanding citizens and tax-payers so what are you talking about. Trump inherited his wealth and only enriched himself and his kids (his ex-wives had measly prenups) through bullying honest contractors with lawsuits they couldn't afford and using cheap undocumented and easy to intimidate foreign laborers. Succesful? Six bankruptcies? He's a successful fraud and scammer, like Bernie Madoff until the latter's scams caught up with him.
8
Jeremy, it is comical that you think Trump is going rein in wasteful spending. The only thing he's ever shown any interest in is his own self-interest. Why would you expect him to change now?
4
He actually HAS been living off the public teat for 30 years. If he's not paying taxes, which he proudly boasted about, he's absolutely living off the rest of us who do. Very simple.
What's Good for Family Trump, is good for the USA!
Bring the past back.
Bring the past back.
1
Including unprotected sexual assault of women?
2
It seems that Mr. Trump gave little thought to the ethical and legal problems he would face should he become president. Did none of his many legal advisers point potential conflicts out to him? If so, did he brush them aside?
Now that he is about to take the oath of office, which would be illegal since he would have to swear to defend the Constitution, including its emoluments clause, he will be tied up with investigations and legal suits for years.
Did Mr. Don McGahn realize this when he accepted the task of White House Counsel? Or will Trump rely on his personal lawyer, Daniel Petrocelli. If the latter, I assume the taxpayer will have to pay his standard fee of $1,000/hour.
Now that he is about to take the oath of office, which would be illegal since he would have to swear to defend the Constitution, including its emoluments clause, he will be tied up with investigations and legal suits for years.
Did Mr. Don McGahn realize this when he accepted the task of White House Counsel? Or will Trump rely on his personal lawyer, Daniel Petrocelli. If the latter, I assume the taxpayer will have to pay his standard fee of $1,000/hour.
5
The title of the article is mistakenly written as "Trump’s Ties in Business Could Pose Conflict on Foreign Policy" Replace the word "Could" with the word "Will" and you have a more accurate title.
Trump doesn't care, though, that's for sure. As long as he isn't technically breaking any laws, he sees this is "just good business" and everybody that disagrees with him is a "loser."
Trump doesn't care, though, that's for sure. As long as he isn't technically breaking any laws, he sees this is "just good business" and everybody that disagrees with him is a "loser."
19
Let me add to my comment below that was submitted earlier.
I live in a town an hour outside of NYC.
This town is an affluent Republican stronghold and always votes accordingly.
I am happy and proud to say that this affluent Republican stronghold voted for Hillary Clinton.
Down ticket was another matter - as usual going GOP.
Addition:
Greenwich just up the road is a really super affluent Republican super stronghold and this town also voted for Hillary Clinton.
We must encourage all persons - regardless of party affiliation to unite against Trump.
Let us call on Republicans of good conscience everywhere to get on board and unite to Dump Trump.
The country we save will be our own.
I live in a town an hour outside of NYC.
This town is an affluent Republican stronghold and always votes accordingly.
I am happy and proud to say that this affluent Republican stronghold voted for Hillary Clinton.
Down ticket was another matter - as usual going GOP.
Addition:
Greenwich just up the road is a really super affluent Republican super stronghold and this town also voted for Hillary Clinton.
We must encourage all persons - regardless of party affiliation to unite against Trump.
Let us call on Republicans of good conscience everywhere to get on board and unite to Dump Trump.
The country we save will be our own.
22
Trump has tied his brand to his political fortunes. After his inevitable impeachment or attempted impeachment his brand will plummet. What goes up must come down. Bet on it.
13
The President-Elect just tweeted that millions of people voted illegally. Let's all unite as Americans and demand a recount.
26
Or a revote!
2
Who will actually run the country while the Trumps and their Associates feast at the banquet?
Who will scrape the plates and clean up the mess when the feast ends?
Will there be enough meat left on the carcass to make soup for the peasants?
Who pays for all the above?
Who will scrape the plates and clean up the mess when the feast ends?
Will there be enough meat left on the carcass to make soup for the peasants?
Who pays for all the above?
19
Why was this not mentioned when he refused to show his tax returns? Obviously there was a reason why. He has been given a pass on that for too long! Making public tax returns for Presidential candidates should be law. No tax-returns no candidacy!
17
"Damn You, Ralph Nader"
If Ralph Nader decided not to run
And Florida went to Gore
Who would have won the presidency
In the election of 2004
No Bush, no Cheney, no "WMDs"
No wasted lives lost in Iraq
The world would look so different today
If we could get our blood and treasure back
History takes all twists and turns
We claim victories and take our lumps
But if Nader decided not to run
There'd be no White House filled with Trumps
If Ralph Nader decided not to run
And Florida went to Gore
Who would have won the presidency
In the election of 2004
No Bush, no Cheney, no "WMDs"
No wasted lives lost in Iraq
The world would look so different today
If we could get our blood and treasure back
History takes all twists and turns
We claim victories and take our lumps
But if Nader decided not to run
There'd be no White House filled with Trumps
14
Suddenly you are concerned with corruption and investigating conflicts of interest. Well this is one subscriber that is glad you were finally coming to the party. In terms of your accountability let's have the talk. We'll do it in bits going forward so you can follow along.
Where was your reporting on conflicts of interest on Hillary and the Clinton Foundation? How did they- and Chelsea- acquire SO much wealth in such a short time. Oh, that right's you endorsed her and keep throwing "shade" on Bernie Sanders the poorest man to run for President. We have Trump NOW because you paper failed to do its job- journalistically and ethically. Remember all the lack of coverage on Sanders even though the polls said Clinton couldn't beat Trump but Bernie could. Remember your poll that said Clinton would beat Trump by 85%?
I can't recall your housecleaning of staff that botched their jobs defending the best journalism in History. We have a big problem now with keeping Trump honest. It is time to get some solid investigative reporting going on the corruption in Washington. Mitch McConnell is the richest man in Congress; Nancy Pelosi is gathering huge amounts of wealth while begging Democrats for small donations.
You stand for something. People in the electorate are angry and your subscribers are also angry. Clean house internally- don't wait for wikileaks like Donna Brazille and Chuck Todd did. Clean house, do it before year end.
Then go after corruption. (Intern-Forward to Editor.)
Where was your reporting on conflicts of interest on Hillary and the Clinton Foundation? How did they- and Chelsea- acquire SO much wealth in such a short time. Oh, that right's you endorsed her and keep throwing "shade" on Bernie Sanders the poorest man to run for President. We have Trump NOW because you paper failed to do its job- journalistically and ethically. Remember all the lack of coverage on Sanders even though the polls said Clinton couldn't beat Trump but Bernie could. Remember your poll that said Clinton would beat Trump by 85%?
I can't recall your housecleaning of staff that botched their jobs defending the best journalism in History. We have a big problem now with keeping Trump honest. It is time to get some solid investigative reporting going on the corruption in Washington. Mitch McConnell is the richest man in Congress; Nancy Pelosi is gathering huge amounts of wealth while begging Democrats for small donations.
You stand for something. People in the electorate are angry and your subscribers are also angry. Clean house internally- don't wait for wikileaks like Donna Brazille and Chuck Todd did. Clean house, do it before year end.
Then go after corruption. (Intern-Forward to Editor.)
4
Marty Milner sounds like a Donald Trump supporter. If not, he should be. His certainty that Hillary Clinton is far more corrupt than Donald Trump is the hallmark of both Trump and the "never-Hillary" supporters who wanted Trump if they couldn't have Bernie and got exactly what they wanted.
7
It is not too late to legally stop Trump before he is sworn in …BUT we are a lazy lot.
The 1960’s had legal activist, political activist and Media Activist. The 1960’s activist made Washington shake but not today.
We don’t know how to protest, we don’t know how to wake up Government. Trump will walk into Washington like Hitler walked into France.
The 1960’s activist would have known how to make their voices heard before inauguration day.
The New York Times could expose Trump as an enemy spy for a foreign Nation and the people would go back to watching, “Dancing with the Stars”.
Today, we have 250 channels for entertainment. We are asleep.
Feed the people television and lull them to sleep.
The 1960’s had legal activist, political activist and Media Activist. The 1960’s activist made Washington shake but not today.
We don’t know how to protest, we don’t know how to wake up Government. Trump will walk into Washington like Hitler walked into France.
The 1960’s activist would have known how to make their voices heard before inauguration day.
The New York Times could expose Trump as an enemy spy for a foreign Nation and the people would go back to watching, “Dancing with the Stars”.
Today, we have 250 channels for entertainment. We are asleep.
Feed the people television and lull them to sleep.
13
A couple of months ago, I was thinking that we could survive Trump because we survived his crude and vindictive forerunner, Andrew Jackson, who fought the national bank and committed genocide against Native Americans. However, this article was a good reminder that no president but Trump has had such massive conflicts of interest. At a time when America exerts influence all over the world, and presidents are given such a free hand in foreign policy, there are endless possibilities for disaster and corruption. Maybe Trump will be the stimulus for Congress to rein in the executive branch. If not, then it may be difficult to regain our moral standing when Trump leaves office.
4
I agree with Lucy Gray: who in our country has the legal authority to require Donald Trump to divest himself of all his business interests? Donald Trump
doesn't play by the rules - all Americans know that, and a minority elected him because of that. The majority of us are appalled by Trump's behavior and have been for 16 months. And our question now is, who in our country has the legal authority to require him to toe the line? Remember: his parents couldn't get him to toe the line and so sent him to a military school. What is our recourse?
doesn't play by the rules - all Americans know that, and a minority elected him because of that. The majority of us are appalled by Trump's behavior and have been for 16 months. And our question now is, who in our country has the legal authority to require him to toe the line? Remember: his parents couldn't get him to toe the line and so sent him to a military school. What is our recourse?
17
There is an interesting article well worth reading about this in The Guardian and how Trump believes he can do anything he wants to do, like Nixon.
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/nov/27/donald-trump-conflicts-i...
Here's a clip:
Constitutional lawyers are now warning that Trump’s presidency is in danger of going the same way as Nixon’s before it even gets started. Some say that unless Trump takes urgent steps to fully divest himself from his business interests, he might not even enter the Oval Office as president."
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/nov/27/donald-trump-conflicts-i...
Here's a clip:
Constitutional lawyers are now warning that Trump’s presidency is in danger of going the same way as Nixon’s before it even gets started. Some say that unless Trump takes urgent steps to fully divest himself from his business interests, he might not even enter the Oval Office as president."
12
It's astonishing this was not reported before the election. It was known, and it's clearly a far greater threat than Clinton's non-profit foundation or her unhackable private server ever were. What happened? How could the media possibly have missed this?
16
I wonder about that too, who dropped the ball and more fascinating - why?
It was mentioned in passing but no one followed up.
Mandatory reveal of tax returns for all candidates would have resolved a problem like this well before the election. That should be the very first law that is passed.
What is needed also is a close study of the Constitution. It puts few limits on the President and relies on common decency which does not work in this era, and especially not for this man who has no common decency and adheres to no code of conduct that doesn't benefit and enrich him.
It was mentioned in passing but no one followed up.
Mandatory reveal of tax returns for all candidates would have resolved a problem like this well before the election. That should be the very first law that is passed.
What is needed also is a close study of the Constitution. It puts few limits on the President and relies on common decency which does not work in this era, and especially not for this man who has no common decency and adheres to no code of conduct that doesn't benefit and enrich him.
6
They were having too much fun with Hillary's emails. So even though lots of us were trying to talk about it, the issue never got traction.....we never did see the tax returns, did we?
9
It wouldn't have made a difference. This man announced on television that he is smart for not paying taxes. People simply don't care.
2
This should be no surprise to anyone who has been paying attention to this guy's campaign over the past year and a half. Building the Trump brand was the point of all of this. He actively hocked his products, from steaks to hotels, as he bragged about how he would govern this country. People ate it up - why would he stop now?
To those talking impeachment, that just gives us President Pence. Some may claim that is better but I'm not so sure. Out of the frying pan and into the fire. What a mess...
To those talking impeachment, that just gives us President Pence. Some may claim that is better but I'm not so sure. Out of the frying pan and into the fire. What a mess...
8
Our next President is Donald J Trump. Just guess what will happen if you try to steal it. You are such losers and I feel sorry for all of you. Who do you think you are?
1
No one is trying to steal the Presidency. Trump is subject to the law of the land and the constitution - no one wants another Nixon.
13
The President Elect just tweeted that millions of people voted illegally. This is a wonderful opportunity for all the people of our country to unite behind the President-Elect and demand a recount
14
There is no conflict. It's all Trump, nothing else matters, Through the bum in jail!
8
NYT -- please do not let Mr. Trump's recent, defensive barrage of tweets on the Wisconsin recount divert focus from this key story on potential conflicts of interest. Do not give his diversionary tweets mileage! Why is Mr. Trump protesting so much about the recount but not on his possible business conflicts?
17
Better late than never to start bringing this to the public's attention: meaning people that think and don't fall for fake news. This would have been more preaching to--or informing--the choir.
I don't believe that it would have made any difference unless the FBI director had brought it up as an issue--Trump voters would have seen it as an elitest hit piece on a man who is rightly rich...so get over it liberals. If it had registered on their radar at all, which is highly unlikely.
And frankly, I think that Trump's impending corruption is going to be a small part of a greater catastrophe.
I don't believe that it would have made any difference unless the FBI director had brought it up as an issue--Trump voters would have seen it as an elitest hit piece on a man who is rightly rich...so get over it liberals. If it had registered on their radar at all, which is highly unlikely.
And frankly, I think that Trump's impending corruption is going to be a small part of a greater catastrophe.
6
Potential conflict? How could it be more real!!!
14
It would be "more real" to the NY Times if it was donations to the Clinton Foundation! The NY Times worked so hard (and so successfully) to convince Americans that there WAS corruption at the Clinton Foundation.
For Trump, the NY Times will bend over backwards to try to make this all sound a bit unusual but perfectly reasonable. No pay for play here when it comes to Trump. No worry that the NY Times will care since they only care about charitable endeavors influencing policy. If it's just business, they are perfectly okay.
For Trump, the NY Times will bend over backwards to try to make this all sound a bit unusual but perfectly reasonable. No pay for play here when it comes to Trump. No worry that the NY Times will care since they only care about charitable endeavors influencing policy. If it's just business, they are perfectly okay.
4
How could this be anything but a Constitutional crisis of the highest order, with Trump taunting the American people by suggesting that he is exempt from the law not to mention the ethics? This will undoubtedly lead to an unprecedented political crisis. Better now than later
19
Trump has chosen the presidency. If he cannot be stopped, his brands certainly can. The majority of the USA's wealth voted against him. These same nearly 50 million people and their revolving credit have the power to decimate the Trump brand: Make a changeable booking well in advance, then cancel before incurring the cancellation penalty. Buy an Ivanka dress. Return it within the same credit card billing cycle. If just half a million people do either of these things, Trump will be crying for a brand-aid.
18
Surprise! (to no one who was paying attention). Why so little so late? Or too little, too late?
5
Remember when Grover Norquist said in 2012.. "“All we have to do is replace Obama. … We are not auditioning for fearless leader. We don’t need a president to tell us in what direction to go. We know what direction to go…. We just need a president to sign this stuff….Pick a Republican with enough working digits to handle a pen to become president of the United States…. His job is to be captain of the team, to sign the legislation that has already been prepared.”
Norquist and Republicans have their guy. Sad.
Norquist and Republicans have their guy. Sad.
14
Trump's business ties around the world could pose problems? Could? They already are causing problems. The minute the daughter sat in with Abe of Japan the problems began. Let's not, please, NYT delude ourselves about Trump: we know his history and nothing will change him other than impeachment. In fact, shouldn't we expect the Congressmen and woman who read this article to have a sense that this whole Trump thing isn't going to work. The POTUS is supposed to be working for the American people without concerns about his and his family's financial well-being. This is a joke gone horribly wrong that mustn't be tolerated. To do nothing about this is to put our country at risk.
16
"A corrupt tree cannot bring forth good fruit" says all we need to know.
16
Many commenters believe that the news media didn't cover the conflicts of interest issue that Sec. Clinton had with the Clinton Global Initiative and would have if she were elected.
Searching the Internet reveals that they did cover this issue thoroughly.
When dealing with conflicts, there are two principles: Disclosure and recusal and/or insuring that the party with the conflicts is isolated from the decisions.
Clinton and the Foundation did fully disclose.
Moreover in response to concerns, Clinton announced steps to prevent impropriety or the appearance of impropriety, including prohibiting the Foundation from accepting donations from foreign governments. She was open to additional steps.
Compare with what Trump has done:
No Disclosure
No steps taken to deal with conflicts.
Searching the Internet reveals that they did cover this issue thoroughly.
When dealing with conflicts, there are two principles: Disclosure and recusal and/or insuring that the party with the conflicts is isolated from the decisions.
Clinton and the Foundation did fully disclose.
Moreover in response to concerns, Clinton announced steps to prevent impropriety or the appearance of impropriety, including prohibiting the Foundation from accepting donations from foreign governments. She was open to additional steps.
Compare with what Trump has done:
No Disclosure
No steps taken to deal with conflicts.
19
Too funny
Hysterical liberals once screaming trump is a business failure, is not a billionaire at all now are hysterically screaming that Trumps mega international global businesses are too far reaching and too massive causing potential conflicts of interests.
Honestly liberals are just too much fun!
Hysterical liberals once screaming trump is a business failure, is not a billionaire at all now are hysterically screaming that Trumps mega international global businesses are too far reaching and too massive causing potential conflicts of interests.
Honestly liberals are just too much fun!
1
I am struck at how angry Trump supporters are. Trump won, fair and square (most likely), and so many of his supporters write things to the effect of, "Get over it! You lost!"
I look forward to supporters realizing that they were duped by a con man.
I look forward to supporters realizing that they were duped by a con man.
9
Both can be true. Read the excellent article in The Economist on 'Deconstructing Donald'. A President Trump who is in danger of losing money is even more to be feared than one who is cashing in, as far as dangerous conflicts of interest in foreign policy is concerned.
5
This is not a liberal or conservative issue, it's an American issue. Trump is rich, we all know, but almost certainly not AS rich as he claims or he'd release his tax returns. He won't because they show his business "success" came not through proper management but through fraud and creative accounting. This should have his supporters questioning the business acumen that he claims qualifies him for the job of president.
At the same time, his business *interests* are sprawling and provide an opportunity for him to further enrich himself at the country's expense (financial, security, reputation). If you truly believe he's a successful business man with nothing to hide and nothing to gain from foreign dealings, then please tell us why on earth he won't provide the transparency he excoriated others for not providing?? If he doesn't intend to use the office for massive personal gain, why doesn't he recuse himself and his family from the business?? If he wants to drain the swamp, why doesn't he start with his own office?? The answers to these questions are simple, but I'll wait while you figure it out over the next four years.
At the same time, his business *interests* are sprawling and provide an opportunity for him to further enrich himself at the country's expense (financial, security, reputation). If you truly believe he's a successful business man with nothing to hide and nothing to gain from foreign dealings, then please tell us why on earth he won't provide the transparency he excoriated others for not providing?? If he doesn't intend to use the office for massive personal gain, why doesn't he recuse himself and his family from the business?? If he wants to drain the swamp, why doesn't he start with his own office?? The answers to these questions are simple, but I'll wait while you figure it out over the next four years.
You thought your girl was a shoe in, 86% to 11% the day of the election . Newsweek had to recall thousands of magazines with madam president on the front cover The guy doesn't take over until Jan 20 2017. We still have our current president you know, what's his name.
1
It's an impeachment waiting to happen.
13
... and where does Putin and his riches tie in with P-E Trump and is ventures?
6
Putin is more interested and concerned with China, the emerging super-power. Trump probably serves as merely a relaxing distraction.
1
This country will get what it deserves for not fighting back. This election was a sham and recount should start immediately. Thank you Mr. President for leading the way. Guess you'll be golfing with Trump soon.
1
Nowhere is Trump's basic contempt for the American public more evident than on this subject. Here is a brief paraphrase of his wandering response during the Times interview: legally, as President, I don't have anything to worry about, but perhaps I'll condescend to try to avoid that appearance if it doesn't inconvenience me too much.
In other words, he is telling us all that he doesn't know or care if his judgement about matters of state will be influenced by his business relationships, and it is none of our business if it is.
All I can say is that, if we as a people have lost so much self-respect as to accept this, we have lost the right to govern ourselves.
In other words, he is telling us all that he doesn't know or care if his judgement about matters of state will be influenced by his business relationships, and it is none of our business if it is.
All I can say is that, if we as a people have lost so much self-respect as to accept this, we have lost the right to govern ourselves.
15
Trump wants to get richer, using his position as President, that's why he admires Putin's regime. Just gets sadder and one can only hope for impeachment.
6
Where's James Comey when it counts? He's already got more to go on with Trump than he ever did with Hillary.
19
But Trump is a Republican and Comey refuses to investigate Republicans. He had the opportunity to subpoena the e-mails of Rice and Powell and Rove just like he did Hillary Clinton, but he said "You are Republican so I can't do it -- you are innocent!"
No doubt any investigation of Trump by Comey will be run by the same "Republicans can say no to any subpoenas they want" rules.
No doubt any investigation of Trump by Comey will be run by the same "Republicans can say no to any subpoenas they want" rules.
6
Y'all are wacked out. NY TImes- woulda coulda shoulda. O Canada!
now we will finally get to see how congress and the rest of worl political leaders intermingle with the wealthy to retain positions and elevate their wealth
6
The mystery to me is that your headline writer chose the word "could" when "bound to" was available.
Donald Trump is an oligarch, who, unless he is constrained, is on course to use the office to primarily enrich. The press, the loyal opposition, and Congress need to take action to force him to divest himself of all ties to his businesses before he is inaugurated.
Donald Trump is an oligarch, who, unless he is constrained, is on course to use the office to primarily enrich. The press, the loyal opposition, and Congress need to take action to force him to divest himself of all ties to his businesses before he is inaugurated.
10
When the headline writers wrote about Hillary Clinton's corruption, they made sure to make the headline as incriminating as possible.
After all, she was taking money for her charity and selling out US interests for the poor! That's far more likely than the fact the a bankrupt businessmen has already made deals as he meets foreign dignitaries. The NY Times reporters will always give Trump the benefit of the doubt when they delightedly smeared the Clintons with incriminating headlines constantly.
After all, she was taking money for her charity and selling out US interests for the poor! That's far more likely than the fact the a bankrupt businessmen has already made deals as he meets foreign dignitaries. The NY Times reporters will always give Trump the benefit of the doubt when they delightedly smeared the Clintons with incriminating headlines constantly.
4
Thank you for articles like this. Half the country will find Trump's behavior appalling and the other half won't care or will believe that the press is biased against Trump and that articles like this are lies. Because truth no longer matters. And yet, those folks will believe that Hillary Clinton won the popular vote because millions voted illegally. Because truth no longer matters.
Tuesday , 8 PM , will mark the 3 week anniversary of my complete funk.
Tuesday , 8 PM , will mark the 3 week anniversary of my complete funk.
12
No worries dictators, cruel oppressors of women, communists can still contribute to the Clinton foundation
No conflicts there! Sleep well.
No conflicts there! Sleep well.
1
If you think that the Clinton Foundation is the same as the office of the President of the US - I suggest some reading.
One may be able to be King of one's own company but most definitely not King of one's country especially when it's a democracy.
One may be able to be King of one's own company but most definitely not King of one's country especially when it's a democracy.
6
Perhaps, the title to this excellent article should not be : " Potential conflicts " but " Current conflicts.. " Press cannot let go. Notably, the Press of Good Night and Good Luck.
9
Just what we need: A Tammany Hall revival starring Donald J. Trump as " Boss" Tweed and Mike Pence as Al Smith. Corruption and grift coming to your government soon.
8
No axes, no questions and no answers from Trump about any of these concerns the nation faces now. Much deflection, name calling and talking about not much more than himself as he denigrated other people and countries. His castigating the media was a strategy so he wouldn't get pressed-- likely learned that from Bannon. Now, he and his renegade, so it seems, band of advisers want to act as if everything he does is above board and cannot be questioned now i.e., America knew what it was getting when it voted for him? No, we didn't and Trump is himself the blame for that.
If America lets these conflicts exist and Trump and the new regime thinks it will be business as usual for them, Americans will be protesting in the street and with our $ to oppose his/their treating the Presidency as if it is a Potentate. The framers of this nation must be turning over in their graves! Make America Great Again? Not at all with this start. These conflicts portend of a seriously debilitating future for America.
If America lets these conflicts exist and Trump and the new regime thinks it will be business as usual for them, Americans will be protesting in the street and with our $ to oppose his/their treating the Presidency as if it is a Potentate. The framers of this nation must be turning over in their graves! Make America Great Again? Not at all with this start. These conflicts portend of a seriously debilitating future for America.
9
Why is it there was never an examination of Kennedy and Bush family investments during their tenures? Same issues of overseas family investments and a sitting US President.
Or is it that these issues are only insurmountable with Trump?
Or is it that these issues are only insurmountable with Trump?
3
The Supreme Court, like Obi Wan Kanobi, may prove to be our only hope.... May the force be with us.
3
And may Obama seat Garland next month, Congress having held no hearings and expressed no problems with Garland as a jurist.
9
The supreme court will be so strongly republican that trump will be able to do anything he wants.
8
dream on! with yurtle the turtle in charge, Mr make Obama a one term president, sure.
4
Is there a will to enforce the law?
9
We shall see. But it's not only a case of upholding the law, it's also respecting the constitution and interpreting it in good faith and keeping with the very foundations of the USA.
1
The longsuffering Times has been criticized by both sides during the election. And the criticism continues. That is nothing more than an ad hominem attack against the Times, when, indeed the villain here is clearly trump. And, I might add, his Mommy, Kellyann Conway - who can't let the man speak for himself but is forever berating others for her poor little Donny-boy, who apparently lacks the wits to defend himself.
People, investigative journalism takes time, money and needs threads to pull on, threads which if you have been paying attention did not come to light until after the election. Only since then has it become clear that Trump views being contacted by world leaders as a golden opportunity to LOBBY them for his personal business concerns. On now is the international cronyism coming to light.
Why is that? Because till now he has not had so much future power. It's easy to see why trump kicked the lobbyists off his transition team. Because HE wants all the lobbying for himself.
Till the election much was deliberately hidden by trump. But now, when he imagines himself above the law, when world leaders are calling and/or taking his calls, what's foremost for him is his wheeling and dealing in business.
This light being shone on trump's conflicts of interest is hitting home. Note Presence of trolls here. All flagging how worried the trump camp must be. And the sending out of Mommy Conway tells me the same.
Keep up the pressure, Times!
People, investigative journalism takes time, money and needs threads to pull on, threads which if you have been paying attention did not come to light until after the election. Only since then has it become clear that Trump views being contacted by world leaders as a golden opportunity to LOBBY them for his personal business concerns. On now is the international cronyism coming to light.
Why is that? Because till now he has not had so much future power. It's easy to see why trump kicked the lobbyists off his transition team. Because HE wants all the lobbying for himself.
Till the election much was deliberately hidden by trump. But now, when he imagines himself above the law, when world leaders are calling and/or taking his calls, what's foremost for him is his wheeling and dealing in business.
This light being shone on trump's conflicts of interest is hitting home. Note Presence of trolls here. All flagging how worried the trump camp must be. And the sending out of Mommy Conway tells me the same.
Keep up the pressure, Times!
14
The biased TImes once again dropping its zero credibility even lower, if possible. Doubling down of biased "journalism" hoping the foolish libs believe them. This is exactly why you lost the election
Why is the NY Times only reporting on this NOW? Why are we only reading NOW about his despicable business scams in Scotland? It's not as if any of it would have been so hard to find.
Instead, we got over a year of "reporting" breathlessly on his every utterance filled with despicable lies, his every tweet rant filled with nasty insults, his every fascist rally of racist, angry mobs whipped up by his incitements to violence - as if the Times writers were all rapt fans reporting on their pop idol's latest inanities.
These dealings with shady foreign oligarchs present enormous global conflicts of interest forbidden in our Constitution.
Clearly, Trump's supporters have just voted themselves into serfs of King Donald I.
And all because they either hate Ms. Clinton to the point of derangement - or because they're gullible enough to believe all the lies they hear on Fox and hate radio and internet conspiracies...
Or most of all, because they can't abide people of color, immigrants, women, and LGBT people having any opportunities or rights or be treated with basic human dignity. Or is it all of the above?
They'd rather have this disaster of an international shady operator as President, and even lose all the benefits such as Social Security and Medicare they PAID for and were depending on.
And they'd rather give this madman - who tweet-rants for hours! - the nuclear codes.
God help us all.
Instead, we got over a year of "reporting" breathlessly on his every utterance filled with despicable lies, his every tweet rant filled with nasty insults, his every fascist rally of racist, angry mobs whipped up by his incitements to violence - as if the Times writers were all rapt fans reporting on their pop idol's latest inanities.
These dealings with shady foreign oligarchs present enormous global conflicts of interest forbidden in our Constitution.
Clearly, Trump's supporters have just voted themselves into serfs of King Donald I.
And all because they either hate Ms. Clinton to the point of derangement - or because they're gullible enough to believe all the lies they hear on Fox and hate radio and internet conspiracies...
Or most of all, because they can't abide people of color, immigrants, women, and LGBT people having any opportunities or rights or be treated with basic human dignity. Or is it all of the above?
They'd rather have this disaster of an international shady operator as President, and even lose all the benefits such as Social Security and Medicare they PAID for and were depending on.
And they'd rather give this madman - who tweet-rants for hours! - the nuclear codes.
God help us all.
15
probably too late for most of us. I didn't vote for trump, who is a proven grifter and vulgarian. I am a former republican, who jumped ship when "supply side" or "voodoo" economics and theocracy became their gods.
12
ThevScotland thing has been reported on. The rest of your rant is on target.
1
It is so sad so many believe the office of the presidency will change this man into a humanitarian, caring person. All we heard from his mouth was lies, scapegoating, greed, denial, evasiveness, bigotry, ...he will not change one iota.
15
just like people who give money to proven grifters or marry convicte murderers- self-deluders go where angels fear to tread.
4
Of course his businesses are riddled with conflicts-of-interest.
I don't know why the Times has spent the last three weeks in sudden shock over Trump as President. Isn't this what you wanted? You took down the Clintons. Aren't you happy now? Aren't all these disastrous outcomes of a Trump Presidency just minor inconveniences --because the main thing was always to crush Hillary?
You should be cheering.
I don't know why the Times has spent the last three weeks in sudden shock over Trump as President. Isn't this what you wanted? You took down the Clintons. Aren't you happy now? Aren't all these disastrous outcomes of a Trump Presidency just minor inconveniences --because the main thing was always to crush Hillary?
You should be cheering.
3
You, hypocritical lefties at the NYTimes, talking about conflict of interest? What about Biden's son, Hunter, becoming the director of Burisma gas company in Ukraine. You're all quiet about the corrupted Clintons, and their Uranium mining dealings with the Russians, while Hillary the LIAR was the sec. Etc., etc. It would just a bit more in line with something called professional journalism.
tg you've been reading too much fake news from put out on the internet by Russia. A few days ago a lady called in to C-Span 1 to say 3 million illegal aliens voted so even if Hillary has 2 million more votes than Trump it's only because of 3 million illegal alien votes. You probably believe that too. The difference is if Biden's son got a job he's working for someone else. Trump, on the other hand, runs his own business and is in position to influence a lot of foreign leaders. The United States has a lot of influence around the world. It's hard pressed to say no to a U.S. president if he needs a favor. And especially so in countries where graft is the norm for doing business unlike here where the FBI will lock up politicians.
6
New York Times, shame on you!
You are telling us NOW about this Con Family's mess after obsessively gone after Clinton's email and Foundation? At the Tnx giving dinner, all my family/friend expressed not to be losers from now on, meaning, no one wants to pay tax. So good luck, trump up administration with empty barrels. No tax from billionaires, no tax from poor middle class. Wait, he can sell trump wine, trump ties, trump whatever with presidential crest and US gov. collects the royalty from trump for the trade mark.
Let's learn from his brilliant business tactics,
So folks, no need to pay tax, and let's all get smarter.
You are telling us NOW about this Con Family's mess after obsessively gone after Clinton's email and Foundation? At the Tnx giving dinner, all my family/friend expressed not to be losers from now on, meaning, no one wants to pay tax. So good luck, trump up administration with empty barrels. No tax from billionaires, no tax from poor middle class. Wait, he can sell trump wine, trump ties, trump whatever with presidential crest and US gov. collects the royalty from trump for the trade mark.
Let's learn from his brilliant business tactics,
So folks, no need to pay tax, and let's all get smarter.
10
Arrogance and hubris do not begin to define the Trump Inc oligarchy. Nonetheless, it is not feasible for the major holdings to be sold or placed in a blind trust. Non-real estate holdings should be placed in a blind trust. It is up to Trump to establish trust and transparency. To avoid the appearance of impropriety an independent "master" should be set up to monitor Trump holdings and income. Increased after tax profits on the holdings deriving from the presidency should be returned to a foundation itself administered by an independent board of trustees.
Trump claimed he knows how to fix the systemic corruption. He can start with himself and his practices: Limit 1031 exchanges, reduce long term tax preferences, retain the estate tax, limit payment or deduction of speaking or general consulting fees and so on. But we know better - he's going to continue the scam for his own and family benefit. Hope I'm wrong but every appointment further confirms the extremism and tendency for self dealing of this administration.
Trump claimed he knows how to fix the systemic corruption. He can start with himself and his practices: Limit 1031 exchanges, reduce long term tax preferences, retain the estate tax, limit payment or deduction of speaking or general consulting fees and so on. But we know better - he's going to continue the scam for his own and family benefit. Hope I'm wrong but every appointment further confirms the extremism and tendency for self dealing of this administration.
9
It is beyond comprehension why this article (and many others like it) were not published BEFORE the election and why the democrats (and media) did not dig into this and expose/discuss this more during the campaign. Asleep at the wheel or did the Clintons also have too much like this to hide? I don't know but am truly stupefied and saddened that all Americans have been duped by this master con. Just hoping Obama and DOJ are working on all this and can mandate transparency and make this right somehow, but there is no one out there giving me any confidence that anything can be done.
3
Trump is building $150 million tower in the Philippines in Makati a neighborhood where people are sleeping on the sidewalks and prostitutus soliciting bussiness.
" A Tale Of Two Cities."
" A Tale Of Two Cities."
6
Mr. Trump has probably never worked for an employee owned company before.
11
The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists "Panama Papers " shows all of the illegal off-shore accounts owned by Trump. How is it possible this has fallen to the wayside given the gravity of the money laundering and tax evasion? Madoff went to jail for his Ponzi scam , Martha Stewart for insider trading and Epstein for soliciting underage girls. Why is Trump not being held accountable?
6
Provide links!
2
You do not need mastery over trigrnometric tabultions to calculate where Trump would go in case of conflicts between gains for his business empire and the country's interests. The man's past is his prologue. And in the past he has amply made clear his modus operandi and natutral inclinations in such cases. He has repeatedly stated that he has donated money to politicians on both sides of the political divide - to Republicans as well as Democrats. He has also bragged that no matter when you call them, a year or two or three later, they (the pols) always come through for you. Add this to his public musings that you are a fool if you can't take advantage of your politican buddies.
What do you think his pals do for him? They get decisions made in his favor that would ordinarily not go his way. It's alaways the public interest that comes out losing at the other end. Now suppose in a future conflict of intererest situation where President Trump's business interest is at odds with country's interest, who do you think would give - the country (read American public), or Trump's business? Keep in mind the man's unquenchable thirst for money and self-aggrandizement -- and his almost total absence of any sense of shame or decency.
What do you think his pals do for him? They get decisions made in his favor that would ordinarily not go his way. It's alaways the public interest that comes out losing at the other end. Now suppose in a future conflict of intererest situation where President Trump's business interest is at odds with country's interest, who do you think would give - the country (read American public), or Trump's business? Keep in mind the man's unquenchable thirst for money and self-aggrandizement -- and his almost total absence of any sense of shame or decency.
6
Like Dr. Seuss;
Could
Would
Should.
Tweet that President elect.
Could
Would
Should.
Tweet that President elect.
6
"Welcome to New World, same as the Old World"...though time time with the odious imprimatur of the president and his spawn. America's overt pimping of the New World Order. AKA as the rapacious exploitation and exacerbation of the "elite" over the common man. In bed with fellow oligarchic families and their coterie. I have lived in the Philippines and India and watched first-hand how the poor are discarded. Trump degrades America with his every heart beat.Hi shame is boundless.
6
Pardon a potentially stupid question -- but why is the coming up now?
What is Trump doing differently than other wealthy politicians have done? Aside from that part where he’s revealing a complete and early disregard for any trappings of the position. And by trappings I mean protocol that protects not just the office of the presidency but the people under that presidency. In short, he has even said he can do whatever he wants and he’s excited about that.
So we follow the money and it shows a very clear conflict of interest. Then what? We must answer that sooner than later. I am getting terrified that there aren’t protections and/or that Trump will never resign. Can NYT please do a piece on what the law is around this? Help us know...
What is Trump doing differently than other wealthy politicians have done? Aside from that part where he’s revealing a complete and early disregard for any trappings of the position. And by trappings I mean protocol that protects not just the office of the presidency but the people under that presidency. In short, he has even said he can do whatever he wants and he’s excited about that.
So we follow the money and it shows a very clear conflict of interest. Then what? We must answer that sooner than later. I am getting terrified that there aren’t protections and/or that Trump will never resign. Can NYT please do a piece on what the law is around this? Help us know...
3
A friend of mine told me not to worry. Trump might be o.k. because he has an ego that's too big to fail.
How I wish Phil Ochs still walked among us!
I see here that many of the same people who so strongly denounced boycotts when it came to the BDS movement - called them excessive and punitive - now fiercely demand boycotting Trump products and any of the states which voted for him (that would be the majority of the USA).
This is a typical quotation: "If the WHOLE WORLD boycotted trumps (sic) businesses EVERYWHERE...he might notice and feel the pain."
So again, thanks to the late Mr. Ochs for noting that "Liberals are 10º to the left of center in good times but 10º to the right of center when it affects them personally."
https://emcphd.wordpress.com
I see here that many of the same people who so strongly denounced boycotts when it came to the BDS movement - called them excessive and punitive - now fiercely demand boycotting Trump products and any of the states which voted for him (that would be the majority of the USA).
This is a typical quotation: "If the WHOLE WORLD boycotted trumps (sic) businesses EVERYWHERE...he might notice and feel the pain."
So again, thanks to the late Mr. Ochs for noting that "Liberals are 10º to the left of center in good times but 10º to the right of center when it affects them personally."
https://emcphd.wordpress.com
1
Don't worry, the FBI will have an eye on him.
3
Omg, hahahahaha.
Why should Trump's businesses be a conflict? In Russia, Putin has secured loyalty by appointing his supporters as heads of lucrative state-run industries and, in return, has taken a "piece of the action" off the top. I don't see any serious attempts to question his "conflicts of interest." Everyone wanted Trump to run America like one of his successful companies: now they're getting squeamish that he might just do that? America likes success. America LOVES billionaires. Well, now we have a billionaire POTUS whose goal is to increase his profits by leveraging his position as the most powerful man in the world. Isn't that exactly what we just voted for?
I didn't vote for it.
4
I suspect you are being sarcastic, but one can never be sure.
You mean isn't that exactly what 25% of the nation voted for.
Only 50% voted in total and Trump got less than half of those votes.
You mean isn't that exactly what 25% of the nation voted for.
Only 50% voted in total and Trump got less than half of those votes.
1
Trump’s supporters wanted an outsider, a businessman for president, rather than an experienced politician. A businessman’s first concern is the bottom line; maximizing profit is his raison d’être. And how does he view government? Well, government is either an impediment — too many regulations, rules, taxes etc. — or a source of subsidies and tax breaks paid for by the rest of us. The idea that government, apart from the military, is useful and necessary is virtually alien to his way of thinking. However, the problem with Trump runs even deeper because his name —his brand — is his most important asset. To a large extent his name is what makes his real estate portfolio possible. His ascension to the presidency has burnished his brand to an incredible degree. Having achieved peak “Trump,” he’s not about to let that all go, especially when the opportunities to spread his brand now seem limitless. Hence his refusal to liquidate his assets, and put them in a blind trust. As a businessman, such a move would be unthinkable, so Trump refuses to entertain the idea. Is this the way the President of the United States should think and behave? No. Of course not. Trump claims to put America first, but clearly, the Trump Organization is uppermost in his thoughts. The conflicts of interest are legion and only likely to increase come January. I’m already anticipating scandal fatigue in advance.
6
Unfortunately, I fear that by the end of the (hopefully short) Trump Administration we'll be longing for the days when Nixon quipped that "when the President does it, its not illegal" and it only referred to political eavesdropping and contempt of court, and not the Presidents personal profiteering off of his office on the scale of Marcos and Putin.
7
I think these worries are completely justified.
For instance, since Trump seems to have some business connections in India, he will surely refrain from nuking India, or at least those parts of India where his properties are located.
And that should surely put a crimp on US foreign policy.
OK, sarcasm off.
The NYT is doing its best to continue to harm Trump and is heedless of the fact that once he is president elect it may be difficult to harm him without harming the US as well.
For instance, since Trump seems to have some business connections in India, he will surely refrain from nuking India, or at least those parts of India where his properties are located.
And that should surely put a crimp on US foreign policy.
OK, sarcasm off.
The NYT is doing its best to continue to harm Trump and is heedless of the fact that once he is president elect it may be difficult to harm him without harming the US as well.
Now it will be the Times' fault when Trump hurt our country's interests?! Wow.
Well, I guess we should just let Trump at it then.
Well, I guess we should just let Trump at it then.
1
Trump has no concerns about breaking any laws. He never has. He will now have all three branches of government behind him to help him abuse whichever American laws and traditions that get in his way as King of the US.
11
Don't you all "get it" - the more outraged we become the more his supporters are convinced they elected the right person. The goal was to flip the bird at the typical NYT readers and those who are of like mind. They don't care if he's corrupt, incompetent or ignorant, just so long we feel the same level of anger that they had to "endure" during Obama's presidency. Watch the video recently posted on Facebook of the ranter on the Delta flight from Atlanta to Allentown and it will give you insight into the mind of many, but not all, of DT's supporters.
8
I believe there are only about (12-20) million of the fanatics, and not enough to get him elected in the general.
The rest I believe fall in these categories.
1.) Very busy working people, that have no time to keep up, only catching snippets of the rhetoric and vote Republican no matter what
2.) Unemployed people, in very poor towns, that believe this billionaire will help them, as nothing/no one else has worked for them
3.) Very wealthy people/large corporations/banks/Wall Street, that realize the tax policies proposed will be very good for them only
4.) The religious that somehow feel Trump will represent them. Have you seen him go to church with his family yet?
5.) The one issue voter. Take Pro-life, Roe V Wade, that was approved by a Republican Supreme Court, has never been changed by either party. It is only used for the campaigns.
6.) The veterans, who are never helped, not even by McCain. They hear the military budget will increase, but what it will increase for will be to draft our children for another senseless conflict, in a country where we do not belong, and to buy $1000.00 toilet seats, The veterans will still be in the cold. It is shameful, and embaressing, but DT is not the answer.
God help us, and keep us safe. This is not a Party issue, and I wish people would have put country first.
The rest I believe fall in these categories.
1.) Very busy working people, that have no time to keep up, only catching snippets of the rhetoric and vote Republican no matter what
2.) Unemployed people, in very poor towns, that believe this billionaire will help them, as nothing/no one else has worked for them
3.) Very wealthy people/large corporations/banks/Wall Street, that realize the tax policies proposed will be very good for them only
4.) The religious that somehow feel Trump will represent them. Have you seen him go to church with his family yet?
5.) The one issue voter. Take Pro-life, Roe V Wade, that was approved by a Republican Supreme Court, has never been changed by either party. It is only used for the campaigns.
6.) The veterans, who are never helped, not even by McCain. They hear the military budget will increase, but what it will increase for will be to draft our children for another senseless conflict, in a country where we do not belong, and to buy $1000.00 toilet seats, The veterans will still be in the cold. It is shameful, and embaressing, but DT is not the answer.
God help us, and keep us safe. This is not a Party issue, and I wish people would have put country first.
6
I was watching a documentary about Nicolae Ceaușescu and his supporters the other day. History can be so revealing and a good teacher if one listens and takes heed.
3
This is an important article. Many more are necessary. Donald Trump will routinely run headlong into major conflicts of interest and ethical tests that will run the gamut throughout his already chaotic, unfortunate decisions of his future presidency. His arrogance and narcissism has dictated his response which is that he will not divest, he will not release his income tax returns and he will continue to comingle the presidency with his business interests and his children.
It is curious that so far, it seems to be a partisan issue - Democrats and some of the mainstream media.
It's possible that the curious silence of the Republicans is not so curious after all. They may be waiting for Trump's more and more outrageous actions, major business conflicts and ethical issues to finally result in his self immolation, even for his most rabid, blind supporters. This would lead to his inevitable impeachment and clear the way for Pence who is much more in line with the establishment in his party and who will be more easily controlled.
Of course, every time anyone has thought they can get over on Donald Trump - Republican, Democrat, Independent, mainstream media, et. al., all have been sadly mistaken. It's going to be important to figure out a way to cancel out the delirious reality show expertise of Donald Trump and his genius at manipulating the mainstream media.
It is curious that so far, it seems to be a partisan issue - Democrats and some of the mainstream media.
It's possible that the curious silence of the Republicans is not so curious after all. They may be waiting for Trump's more and more outrageous actions, major business conflicts and ethical issues to finally result in his self immolation, even for his most rabid, blind supporters. This would lead to his inevitable impeachment and clear the way for Pence who is much more in line with the establishment in his party and who will be more easily controlled.
Of course, every time anyone has thought they can get over on Donald Trump - Republican, Democrat, Independent, mainstream media, et. al., all have been sadly mistaken. It's going to be important to figure out a way to cancel out the delirious reality show expertise of Donald Trump and his genius at manipulating the mainstream media.
10
Trump is at an age when he should have a succession plan for his business empire. Put it all in trust, make his children the trustees, withdraw from the business except for being a passive beneficiary of trust income at a fixed annual rate, which would be unchanged regardless of the performance of the trust's assets.
Expecting him to sell would be unrealistic. The assets he owns are not liquid, and in many cases intangible. And the capital gains taxes.....we know how he dislikes taxable events.
Then, on the foreign relations side, have a S of S beyond reproach. Rudy is an aging jerk. Romney, a snake in the grass. Appoint Tulsi Gabbard, a veteran, whose views on foreign misadventures are well aligned with Trump's own views. And it would be a bridge to the Sanders wing of the Democratic Party, to women, to veterans, and to religious minorities.
Expecting him to sell would be unrealistic. The assets he owns are not liquid, and in many cases intangible. And the capital gains taxes.....we know how he dislikes taxable events.
Then, on the foreign relations side, have a S of S beyond reproach. Rudy is an aging jerk. Romney, a snake in the grass. Appoint Tulsi Gabbard, a veteran, whose views on foreign misadventures are well aligned with Trump's own views. And it would be a bridge to the Sanders wing of the Democratic Party, to women, to veterans, and to religious minorities.
2
Hard to believe, but not everyone loves us. Any structure worldwide bearing the Trump logo would require security not unlike our embassies. Obstructionists in Congress weren’t in a hurry to spend money on security for our U.S. mission in Libya. May we assume they’ll be happier to supply Marines/contractors at government expense to guard Trump assets?
I don’t get to watch the Sunday morning news programs from which Mr. Trump purportedly receives his current events information; the New York Times reports Ms. Conway has engaged in a “searing attack on Romney.” Again, just asking, but is it customary for an ‘adviser’ to so publicly enter a debate of which a president is the final arbiter? Per the Times:
“Ms. Conway said it was important for Mr. Trump to seek to unify the Republican Party by making gestures to those who opposed his candidacy. But, she added, “I don’t think the cost of party unity has to be the secretary of state position.””
Just a gentle suggestion: does Ms. Conway understand that the position of Secretary of State is not a presentation tea service or knighthood/lordship to be bestowed. It’s an actual job requiring actual work to be performed requiring an actual knowledge base. Naturally, I’m ambivalent about Mitt ‘Two Cadillacs’ Romney. I imagine he has little in common with many of Mr. Trump’s less well-off supporters. However, Mr. Trump has remarked that he thinks Mr. Romney looks the part. (By this, I assume he means Mr. Romney does not wear a dress.)
I don’t get to watch the Sunday morning news programs from which Mr. Trump purportedly receives his current events information; the New York Times reports Ms. Conway has engaged in a “searing attack on Romney.” Again, just asking, but is it customary for an ‘adviser’ to so publicly enter a debate of which a president is the final arbiter? Per the Times:
“Ms. Conway said it was important for Mr. Trump to seek to unify the Republican Party by making gestures to those who opposed his candidacy. But, she added, “I don’t think the cost of party unity has to be the secretary of state position.””
Just a gentle suggestion: does Ms. Conway understand that the position of Secretary of State is not a presentation tea service or knighthood/lordship to be bestowed. It’s an actual job requiring actual work to be performed requiring an actual knowledge base. Naturally, I’m ambivalent about Mitt ‘Two Cadillacs’ Romney. I imagine he has little in common with many of Mr. Trump’s less well-off supporters. However, Mr. Trump has remarked that he thinks Mr. Romney looks the part. (By this, I assume he means Mr. Romney does not wear a dress.)
7
NY Times, you spent over a year implying criminal activity by Hillary Clinton because of donations to a CHARITABLE FOUNDATION! You implied a "pay for play" that didn't even exist -- thanks to your terrible reporting and headlines and need for "balance" -- and managed to convince 60% of the American voters that Hillary Clinton was corrupt.
And now you act as if enriching your own family is somehow perfectly fine. Maybe it will be a problem and maybe not but no implications of "pay to play" mentioned even once. Let alone a constant call for investigation.
No doubt normalizing activity that is one million times worse than what you attacked Hillary Clinton for non-stop for over a year will be the kind of reporting by the NY Times we see. Tiptoe around the corruption the way you REFUSED to do when it was Hillary Clinton and the Republican lies were always included in your attempt to paint her as the most corrupt candidate ever.
Your Public Editor wants to give Trump a chance and be kinder to him. She says that you were far too pro-Clinton.
So utterly disgusted with the NY Times and your public editor who no doubt insists that you are very careful in making sure that everything you write about Trump gives him the benefit of the doubt. Unlike Hillary Clinton, whose actions were ALWAYS portrayed in the most corrupt fashion.
And now you act as if enriching your own family is somehow perfectly fine. Maybe it will be a problem and maybe not but no implications of "pay to play" mentioned even once. Let alone a constant call for investigation.
No doubt normalizing activity that is one million times worse than what you attacked Hillary Clinton for non-stop for over a year will be the kind of reporting by the NY Times we see. Tiptoe around the corruption the way you REFUSED to do when it was Hillary Clinton and the Republican lies were always included in your attempt to paint her as the most corrupt candidate ever.
Your Public Editor wants to give Trump a chance and be kinder to him. She says that you were far too pro-Clinton.
So utterly disgusted with the NY Times and your public editor who no doubt insists that you are very careful in making sure that everything you write about Trump gives him the benefit of the doubt. Unlike Hillary Clinton, whose actions were ALWAYS portrayed in the most corrupt fashion.
15
Brilliant!!
NOW you mention conflicts of interest? WHY?
What a dereliction of duty. NYTs (and every other supposed news outlet) failed us all miserably here. Perhaps, too happy to take the short-term bump in readership at the expense of the long-term viability of our civilization!
Thanks a lot!
NOW you mention conflicts of interest? WHY?
What a dereliction of duty. NYTs (and every other supposed news outlet) failed us all miserably here. Perhaps, too happy to take the short-term bump in readership at the expense of the long-term viability of our civilization!
Thanks a lot!
14
Is this Newsweek not a "supposed news outlet"?
http://www.newsweek.com/2016/09/23/donald-trump-foreign-business-deals-n...
http://www.newsweek.com/2016/09/23/donald-trump-foreign-business-deals-n...
1
The time for investigative journalism like this was BEFORE, not AFTER the election. Where were you, NYT?
13
Trump is a crook is dog bites man news.
Where was the NYT? With everyone else, smugly assuming that Hillary would win by a landslide.
I totally agree! This is exactly what I have been thinking this entire time as news outlets have only just now started to cover this AFTER he was elected. After all the articles demonizing Hillary Clinton's "conflicts of interest", which were covered a lot in part because Republicans kept bringing attention to it, how was this never addressed? This is so much worse! NYT, you really dropped the ball on this.
2
Could?
8
I believe the proper word is WILL not could!!
1
"Potential" conflicts of interest is the understatement of the year. NYT, you can do better with your headlines. America is selling its soul.
16
This appears to be considered a conflict of interest for everyone except Trump, his immediately family members, and the sycophants with whom he surrounds himself. For Trump his future presidency is a golden business opportunity! It is definitely not considered a conflict of HIS interests, as he's already talked about projects with foreign leaders with whom he recently met.
It'll be interesting to see if the highly ethical Republicans in Congress stand up to Mr. Trump, or whether they continue to compromise and do business as usual.
It'll be interesting to see if the highly ethical Republicans in Congress stand up to Mr. Trump, or whether they continue to compromise and do business as usual.
9
It is only when we have a Democratic president that we have to go on the morality and ethical bandwagon because inherently the democrats are corrupt and craven.
It is only the Republicans that has ethics, integrity and morals embedded in their DNA therefore how can one question their motives. It is We, The Republicans, that provide the only safeguard for the nation and prevent it from being parked in Hades antechamber.
.
It is only the Republicans that has ethics, integrity and morals embedded in their DNA therefore how can one question their motives. It is We, The Republicans, that provide the only safeguard for the nation and prevent it from being parked in Hades antechamber.
.
1
Maybe, if the Presidential debates hadn't been all about racism. misogyny. and credibility, the fact that Trump has pervasive conflicts that obstruct his Presidency -- a huge issue -- might have come up and been recognized as a significant barrier to his foreign policy decisions. It's not like this is a fringe issue that wasn't worth talking about before the election.
11
Ask Trump why the election was all about racism and misogyny, islamophobia and xenophobia. That was the platform he created, and he proved himself to be a pretty good one-man focus group. He found a niche market hungry for red meat and pandered to them shamelessly.
3
We have elected a neo-Nazi to the presidency of the United States. To his base, as long as he doesn't mess with their right to own a machine gun, he's OK. He has already explained how laws do not apply to him, so no worries. Goodbye, my beloved US.
7
The NY Times is amazing in its complete lack of a self-critical faculty. Yes Trump will have terrible conflicts of interest. But they are dwarfed by those there would have been under Clinton, which the Times would have probably have barely mentioned, let alone blared on its front page as a grave threat. Lets face it: the US has the most corrupt politics of any country in the developed world. At least Trump is wealthy in his own right and depends far less on donors for media time which he knows quite well how to get free. But Clinton was completely dependent on big money, and as her stint as Secretary of State made clear, that did not stop at US shores: the Clinton Foundation served as a conduit to peddle influence to foreign buyers as well as many others with an interest in US foreign policy from arms dealers to global corporate monsters. The Times should just shut up about Trump if wasn't going to make an issue of all the other money, foreign and domestic, in which American politics generally and the Clintons in particular are awash.
The reason Trump lost is because the Democrats OF 2016 now contain just as many conflicts of interest --caused by their big business synergies and foundations--as do the Republicans.
We have two parties for the billionaires whose de facto mission is to divide the rest of the population via culture and race wars.
"I can hire one half the working class to kill the other half"-- this quote was attributed by historian Philip Foner to the Robber Baron Jay Gould, c1875.
Today Wall Street has Hillary&Trump for that.
We have two parties for the billionaires whose de facto mission is to divide the rest of the population via culture and race wars.
"I can hire one half the working class to kill the other half"-- this quote was attributed by historian Philip Foner to the Robber Baron Jay Gould, c1875.
Today Wall Street has Hillary&Trump for that.
I have read several reader comments as to why this wasn't in the news before the election. Please, apparently he could have served time and it wouldn't have mattered to his supporters. When evangelicals back a man with perhaps a handful of moral fibers, then it doesn't matter what is reported. But give it more time. I am fairly confident they will abandon him in droves.
3
It WAS in the news. If you people were able to think for yourselves as opposed to blindly obey what the Times wants you to believe, you might have noticed.
http://www.cnn.com/2016/09/15/politics/trump-children-business/
http://www.newsweek.com/2016/09/23/donald-trump-foreign-business-deals-n...
http://www.cnn.com/2016/09/15/politics/trump-children-business/
http://www.newsweek.com/2016/09/23/donald-trump-foreign-business-deals-n...
Yes, but it could have made a huge difference to those opposed to him, and more importantly, those on the fence. The media taking their 'the more circus the merrier' approach to the campaign was a travesty to the fourth estate, and to the American people.
"Trump’s Ties in Business Could Pose Conflict on Foreign Policy."
Seriously? Try, Trump's business ties are a conflict of interest.
What's with puddyfooting around the plain facts?
Seriously? Try, Trump's business ties are a conflict of interest.
What's with puddyfooting around the plain facts?
12
There is no "conflict of interest". There is only DT's interest.
9
While many of the Trump enterprises have proven to be as poorly managed as were his Atlantic City casinos, most notably his UK golf courses, these could become petri dishes of purchased influence by nefarious parties seeking to curry favor.
An entity with evil intentions could purchase memberships in those money losing golf courses in the UK and thus put money in the pocket of the President-elect.
We need far more effective screens to preclude the obvious ill-fitted from running for the Presidency.
An entity with evil intentions could purchase memberships in those money losing golf courses in the UK and thus put money in the pocket of the President-elect.
We need far more effective screens to preclude the obvious ill-fitted from running for the Presidency.
4
You all wanted Hillary to run, which was an awful thing. Now look what you've done. There was no actual Democrat in the race. Hillary is/was a neocon, not a real Democrat. An inept neocon, striving to get to that evil boys club. A woman whose career was an uninterrupted string of failure and tragedy. By slavishly supporting her, because of your sexism alone, you -- astonishingly -- created this situation. A situation in which Donald Trump was the higher performing, more politically astute candidate, and he won. Without offering a viable alternative, I wonder, what do you intend to do with your influence? Suddenly you are concerned about conflicts of interest? Your candidate had the same problem. You just want power. This isn't about principles at all. Not this Editorial Board.
2
Isn't every building with a Trump sign on it now a prime terrorist target? And what happens when one gets hit? Does somebody get nuked? Do we have American troops protecting Trump-labeled properties around the world?
10
The US government should not be involved in what happens to a Trump building overseas. Like any other privately owned building of concrete and steel.
I am hoping whoever has the real nuclear codes gives fake ones to Trump.
I am hoping whoever has the real nuclear codes gives fake ones to Trump.
2
How quickly those signs will come down if there is even a whisper of that happening.
When Trump made the decision to run for President, did he not know that he could not continue to tout his business interests and should liquidate them? I get the impression that he didn't really expect (or want) to win the election. Now he is like a dog who chased a car, not expecting to catch it, of course, but did and now doesn't know what to do with it.
During the campaign, didn't his handlers advice him of the requirements he would have to fulfill and what he would have to give up if he were to win?
During the campaign, didn't his handlers advice him of the requirements he would have to fulfill and what he would have to give up if he were to win?
9
I suspect his handlers were far too taken with their paychecks.
2
Isn't the point that he never intended to divest? He refused to release his tax returns. That tells you he probably never had any intention to give up his business interests once in office.
Then he should be impeached.
Astonishing to watch people twist themselves into all sorts of contortions to explain why this man does what he does. Reminiscent of how abused partners justify the behavior of those who berate and beat them. But it's very simple. He does what he wants to do, when he wants to do it, and how he wants to do it. It makes no difference if he's running a beauty contest or running the country. It's all about what he thinks is good for himself. If anyone thinks he's going to give a second thought to the common man, I suggest making an appointment with a therapist, or better yet, attend a 12-step meeting for codependents. The collective denial of the voters who cast their ballots for this man qualifies as an epidemic of mental derangement. Some 62 million voters have cast their ballots for someone with a personality disorder, whose bottomless insecurity puts the nation, and the entire world, in grave danger. The country will be walking on eggshells for the next four years, accommodating his behavior as it becomes more an more outrageous, hoping against all hope to avoid lighting his fuse and igniting an inferno. We've already seen the GOP accommodate him, try to explain away his abuse of the electorate. And look at the breathtaking dysfunction of those who surround him. What an embarrassment, a tragedy, for America. How far the mighty have fallen, and the inauguration is still weeks away.
19
Narsasist is the proper diagnosis for Trump!
After reading the various articles that have been released elsewhere for the last two months, how could your writers even think that there "could" be conflicts of interest. Even though the president- elect, whose win was based on a very clear minority of voters, has still refused to reveal his tax returns, which is why you are making these conflicts not clear in writing, his conflicts are very much a clear danger to his being able to make any unbiased decisions in many international policies that might.
8
I wish someone in one of the debates had asked about his 2014 if 2015 was still being audited. Or 2013, 2012, etc. Must be some year where the audit has completed.
His business empire in all these countries will become terror targets, baiting the President to overextend our Military in response. Thus fulfilling Osama Bin Laden's strategy as articulated before Obama sent Seal Team 6 to kill him.
11
That never occurred to me and I bet it didn't occur to Ivanka either...
One more thing not considered by the American electorate. Whether this becomes a future factor in elections or just one more in a string of American exceptions will inform our history. At this point our self governance can hardly be considered a rousing success.
2
Trump's interests in other countries will likely be dangerous, not only for U.S. interests in general, but to Trump holdings overseas. They will all doubtless become targets for terrorists to take down. Some may be adequately defended, but many are probably not. We will likely see attacks on his holdings become a frequent event over the next few years. The potential decimation of his empire may become his biggest regret about running for the presidency.
5
If Trump limits his harm to making money because of being president, I'll consider us lucky!
I am much more concerned about privatizing Medicare.
I am much more concerned about the enormous deficit and debt I expect will come after four years of Trump, Ryan, and McConnell and all the lobbyists and tax cuts for the rich.
I am much more concerned about privatizing Medicare.
I am much more concerned about the enormous deficit and debt I expect will come after four years of Trump, Ryan, and McConnell and all the lobbyists and tax cuts for the rich.
9
If he can avoid not pressing the nuclear button over the next 4 year I will be happy. I have lowered my expectations for him as President. I expect him to do little to help any one or any country besides himself. Hopefully the world will make it 4 years until he leaves and someone who knows what he is doing and wants to move the US ahead will come into office. Although maybe in 2 years Congress will change enough to impeach him.
1
I once wrote a comment in this space comparing Kellyanne Conway to a lamprey I dissected 50 years ago in a biology class. Now that the Times has revealed she is going after George Romney all teeth and claws,I feel the need to revise that comment and admit that I never dissected the lamprey labelled Kellyanne Conway, but another one more comely than her. How she has survived all this time I don’t know, but I warn you she has these little teeth all over her head, and they never let go.
2
George Romney died 20 years ago. Please try to keep up.
Blah, blah blah blah blah!!! This entire article, or shall I say tireless article is meaningless. Wait; I take that back. It reveals one overarching theme; that we are finally going to have a president that is not corrupt, but knows how to work with and get along with people of every race, and work the systems of any culture to get things done.
It also reveals why Donald is wealthy. Namely because of his business savvy and hard work. Compare Hilary who became wealthy as a public servant while engaging in the most horrific acts of indiscretion ever witnessed in this country.
NYTimes team, if you want the respect and good ratings of a broader scope of Americans you should support Trump and acknowledge his ability to overcome these potential conflicts.
It also reveals why Donald is wealthy. Namely because of his business savvy and hard work. Compare Hilary who became wealthy as a public servant while engaging in the most horrific acts of indiscretion ever witnessed in this country.
NYTimes team, if you want the respect and good ratings of a broader scope of Americans you should support Trump and acknowledge his ability to overcome these potential conflicts.
1
“I don’t care about my company. It doesn’t matter. My kids run it.”
Beyond laughable. Listening to Trump talk, you realize he IS the business, and the business defines him.
When asked about a conflict of interest in Turkey, he lapses into proudly telling us about the buildings. “It’s a tremendously successful job. It’s called Trump Towers — two towers, instead of one. Not the usual one. It’s two.” That sounds more like a proud father than a businessman just doing a deal.
When it comes to all the projects around the world, the hidden, sometimes shady financial dealings. All the chances to do and receive favors with a wink and a nod, all those things that we will never see and only may hear about, the Trump organization has a simple answer--- "Trust Us." Really, what could go wrong?
So not only do we not get to see his tax returns, possible problems from the past, but now his entanglements around the world are just none of our business. Trump's apparent intention to make a profit off of his presidency, is not something we can put up with. He's got time to clean this up, but he doesn't see a problem.
Beyond laughable. Listening to Trump talk, you realize he IS the business, and the business defines him.
When asked about a conflict of interest in Turkey, he lapses into proudly telling us about the buildings. “It’s a tremendously successful job. It’s called Trump Towers — two towers, instead of one. Not the usual one. It’s two.” That sounds more like a proud father than a businessman just doing a deal.
When it comes to all the projects around the world, the hidden, sometimes shady financial dealings. All the chances to do and receive favors with a wink and a nod, all those things that we will never see and only may hear about, the Trump organization has a simple answer--- "Trust Us." Really, what could go wrong?
So not only do we not get to see his tax returns, possible problems from the past, but now his entanglements around the world are just none of our business. Trump's apparent intention to make a profit off of his presidency, is not something we can put up with. He's got time to clean this up, but he doesn't see a problem.
8
Not holding anyone accountable has become the norm. Only Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren appear to have any judicial/humanistic compass in the political pool.
Some comments are very informative.
3
Bravo! We need his tax returns to show his conflicts of interest and the completed investigation on the Trump campaign-Russian ties to avoid a Russian takeover of our government. DOJ and FBI should be working 24/7 on this just as they did with the Clinton emails. We are talking a matter of national security!!! when Trump is focused on protecting and increasing his wealth. Someone knows the truth, and for love of country, speak up NOW to save our nation.
5
If the NYT makes it its sacred mission to monitor Trump, that's great — it needs to be done. But I don't want it in my face every day, day in and day out. I find myself visiting the site less often, and that's a shame because I think I miss some great articles.
I don't agree.
Times, go for it! Protect the Republic! Day in and day out.
Thank you.
Times, go for it! Protect the Republic! Day in and day out.
Thank you.
6
So just don't read the articles on Trump. Nobody will force you to do so.
2
Trump may not use federal funds to do private business. There is absolutely no question that while Trump handles his business he cannot do so while using federal monies. The portion of his work day, travel and per diem must be paid with personal funds. Trump may choose to eschew federal ethics standards but it is the expenditure of general dollars that he cannot fudge. It is a federal offense to misuse federal funds.
4
And what if he's making business calls on the White House office phone? Or sitting in the president's chair? Or putting his feet on the president's desk? Or riding in the presidential limousine?
2
Merely to settle the controversy. . . Mr. Trump should simply sell his total interest in 'The Trump Organization'. . . -to his adult children, who are already executives within the organization as it is!!
I just hope Mr. Warren Buffet will ask Trump to meet him at a coffee shop in Omaha Nebraska, offer him $300M to buy the entire Trump Organization ($10B which Trump claims, minus $9.7B hype).
Then, hire all those unemployed Blue collar workers who voted for Trump, to work in newly acquired hotels, golf courses & resorts - replacing the thousands of illegal workers which Trump was employing
Then, hire all those unemployed Blue collar workers who voted for Trump, to work in newly acquired hotels, golf courses & resorts - replacing the thousands of illegal workers which Trump was employing
1
"What’s more, the true extent of Mr. Trump’s global financial entanglements is unclear, since he has refused to release his tax returns and has not made public a list of his lenders."
What you really mean is that the NYT doesn't have them, so you can make false accusations and write articles that put him in a false light.
The IRS has that information.
What you really mean is that the NYT doesn't have them, so you can make false accusations and write articles that put him in a false light.
The IRS has that information.
One way to deal with false accusations is to release his tax returns.
Trump has no one to blame but himself for creating this murkiness.
Trump has no one to blame but himself for creating this murkiness.
20
Never give up! He must release his private tax information!
The people who are to blame are the one's who make unsubstantiated accusations without proof. In this country the accuser has to prove the alleged crime and the accused is not obligated to incriminate himself, or create the appearance of guilt by giving away private information he isn't required to release.
The people who are to blame are the one's who make unsubstantiated accusations without proof. In this country the accuser has to prove the alleged crime and the accused is not obligated to incriminate himself, or create the appearance of guilt by giving away private information he isn't required to release.
The voters let him get away with this, as they will everything else.
This was a very uninformed, and clearly badly researched vote that put him here. There should be a test.
Now 64 million of us have to pay for this along with the rest who deserve what they get.
This was a very uninformed, and clearly badly researched vote that put him here. There should be a test.
Now 64 million of us have to pay for this along with the rest who deserve what they get.
1
If one of the Trump towers in the Middle East or Turkey, where there is great instability in government, should be attacked, will Trump cause American troops to combat the attacks on the grounds of American interests or specifically his own interests? Many oligarchs the world over are coming to this country to purchase expensive real estate in the name of shell corporations to protect their fortunes from corrupt governments. Or is it just the opposite, that they are the corrupt ones avoiding punishments by their own governments?
Crooked oligarchs in many countries control or have undue influence over their governments, such as Brazil, which has deep financial problems because of crooked oligarchs. Trump may be dealing with such oligarchs worldwide and it won't be discovered until criminal investigations are complete, such as is happening in Brazil now. We can't allow an American president to be involved with corrupt oligarchs and or their corrupt governments.
While I didn't vote for Trump, I hope he uses better judgment and uses the blind trust method of stepping back from his businesses in order to save our country from being branded as corrupt along with him.
Crooked oligarchs in many countries control or have undue influence over their governments, such as Brazil, which has deep financial problems because of crooked oligarchs. Trump may be dealing with such oligarchs worldwide and it won't be discovered until criminal investigations are complete, such as is happening in Brazil now. We can't allow an American president to be involved with corrupt oligarchs and or their corrupt governments.
While I didn't vote for Trump, I hope he uses better judgment and uses the blind trust method of stepping back from his businesses in order to save our country from being branded as corrupt along with him.
7
Whenever Trump guests that he will avoid the appearance of corruption by delegating business tasks to his children the only proper response is derisive laughter. Graft that benefits one's immediate family is no better than graft that benefits one's self. This is an Ethics 101 principle and no other employee of the federal government would be allowed to get away with it.
Congress's first order of business after January 20,2017 should be passing a law - with veto-proof majorities - that extends the ethics rules applied to Cabinet secretaries to the President and Vice-President, effective immediately.
This is about Trump but it's not just about Trump. The tone and attitude of the whole Executive branch and all the Cabinet-level agencies are set from the White House. If the President is engaged in an orgy of graft, corruption, and self-dealing you will see that example repeated throughout the government. We have enjoyed eight years of a White House remarkably free from scandal under President Obama. That has already changed with Trump and he's not even inaugurated yet. It's only going to get worse.
Congress's first order of business after January 20,2017 should be passing a law - with veto-proof majorities - that extends the ethics rules applied to Cabinet secretaries to the President and Vice-President, effective immediately.
This is about Trump but it's not just about Trump. The tone and attitude of the whole Executive branch and all the Cabinet-level agencies are set from the White House. If the President is engaged in an orgy of graft, corruption, and self-dealing you will see that example repeated throughout the government. We have enjoyed eight years of a White House remarkably free from scandal under President Obama. That has already changed with Trump and he's not even inaugurated yet. It's only going to get worse.
13
Congress has exempted itself from inside trading based on secret information available only to it.
1
Reading the paper and most of the posts here it is clear that Democrats have learned nothing and reality still eludes them. Hypocrisy and the double standard remain their only options. Simply note that none of these concerns were voiced about HRC, the State Department and the Clinton foundation by the same people now outraged by Trump. None of these concerns were raised when HRC's chief aides, full time Federal employees, were also allowed to work for the foundation and private consultants. I could go on but it is not necessary. America has given up on the biased, liberal, corporate media. The post election shenanigans of Democrats from riots, to faux recounts, to death threats have convinced Trump voters they were right and made many others wished they had voted for him. So much for reporting the news.
2
Wrong!
Concerns were raised about Clinton.
Concerns were raised about Clinton.
4
William, many concerns were raised which is why so many supported Sanders.
Since you are on the subject of hypocrisy, did you ever demand that Trump release his tax returns? If not, why not?
What would your reaction have been if the Clintons had NOT released theirs?
Hypocrisy indeed.
Since you are on the subject of hypocrisy, did you ever demand that Trump release his tax returns? If not, why not?
What would your reaction have been if the Clintons had NOT released theirs?
Hypocrisy indeed.
4
Rita
Concerns were raised by conservatives and Republicans. The corporate media largely ignored them and Democrats, the self-anointed arbiters of ethics, pretended they didn't exist or rationalized them. Lest we forget reality.
Concerns were raised by conservatives and Republicans. The corporate media largely ignored them and Democrats, the self-anointed arbiters of ethics, pretended they didn't exist or rationalized them. Lest we forget reality.
I subscribed to the NYT because of the US election.
I've never paid for American news but I think it's vital to support investigative journalism now more than ever.
That- said, I realize that the GOP owes Trump for their unexpected electoral success but for the good of the United States and the world, I hope a galvanized front emerges to stop this man before he causes unstoppable damage.
America you are better than this! Stop him!
I've never paid for American news but I think it's vital to support investigative journalism now more than ever.
That- said, I realize that the GOP owes Trump for their unexpected electoral success but for the good of the United States and the world, I hope a galvanized front emerges to stop this man before he causes unstoppable damage.
America you are better than this! Stop him!
5
This type of accountability reporting is valuable, but what remains perplexing is why there's never an exploration of why corporate America in general no longer feels a need to be patriotic. Or, after exploiting everything the USA has to offer, does declaring oneself "multinational" justify severing all ties to conscience? The story certainly doesn't begin and end with the Trumps.
3
The sad truth is that Trump will no more seek to distance himself from his financial empire than make his tax returns available. He lives in a world were the rules don't apply, and it is doubtful if a Republican controlled House and Senate will be willing to tell him they do. All the complaints and demands that he either divest or face impeachment are so much baying at the moon unless he does something so completely and visibly corrupt that it shocks the nation to action.
6
Where was the reporting on this story during the campaign? Crooked Hillary, emails, Clinton Foundation and Bengazi, indeed, Lyin' Ted, midnight tweets, outrageous lies, hidden tax returns. I was not conned but apparently our great investigative media was. And, now the fifth column Republican party will be in charge of the government.
2
i am disgusted that this issue (and so many more) failed to be more than a minor blip on the radar during the primaries and general election. The press dropped the ball. Trump's political opposition dropped the ball. "Wake up and smell the coffee?" More like, "Wake up before you drown in your coffee!!"
Trump is toxic and his stain will taint the Office of the Presidency" and the world standing of the United States and its citizens for many, many years.
Trump is toxic and his stain will taint the Office of the Presidency" and the world standing of the United States and its citizens for many, many years.
5
Does our standing in the world somehow affect my ability to pay my mortgage and fund college educations for my kids?
They were too interested in keeping the circus with the orange clown on the front page to sell papers/subscription. I agree. Disgusting.
1461 days during Trumps first term as President.
Will I have to read "Yet another made up hit piece against our President" each and every day?
If so, then the NYTimes will become the fake news source to be listed and avoided.
Will I have to read "Yet another made up hit piece against our President" each and every day?
If so, then the NYTimes will become the fake news source to be listed and avoided.
What part of this article isn't true? Closing your eyes and putting your hands over your ears won't make the fact that Trump is very unethical go away.
5
As a person who works on a farm in Massachusetts, I feel sad that we are so far apart on this issue. Trump will do nothing to save farms, nor will he deliver on one iota of his promises, as he has already shown; you’ve been played. And for the record, he is not my president. He’s not anyone’s president yet.
1
So, what has he said yet PS to give you an indication there will be farm issues and it's two months to his inauguration?
Trump was elected by the rust and farm belt because we do feel pain.
I guess it's still to early for the wounds to have healed - my mistake - I apologize for posting.
Trump was elected by the rust and farm belt because we do feel pain.
I guess it's still to early for the wounds to have healed - my mistake - I apologize for posting.
Trump needs to disentangle himself from his empire and not have his children involved in our government. He has a troubling back ground personal and in his businesses. When are we ever going to learn by our mistakes in accepting this presidency. He is only interested in his own personal gain. Are we going to stand by and let him do whatever he wants he is testing our government in letting him do whatever he wants. Shame on his for not raising our voices and objecting to his entanglements. Wake up everybody he is testing us to see if we won't notice or saying anything of what he is dishonestly trying to waste our money by his roaming around to his many homes and charging us rent for the secret service protection if he is so rich why doesn't he furnish his own and quit galavanting all over the place. Shame on all of us for putting up with his nonsense.
4
All the hullabaloo about Mr. Trump's conflicts of business interests appears to be a joke masquerading as if were not a joke. What are our Congresspeople, our Wallstreeters, the Koch Brothers, the Clintons, and Warren Buffett doing but exercising conflicts of interest (private enterprise) all over the place. A rose by any other name is still a rose, even a conflict-of-interest rose.
1
Ya THINK?
3
It's fairly clear to me that Trump's climate change denial is also the result of his business interests: if people with property on the coasts start panicking about rising ocean levels, the bubble will burst and his real estate business would go down the drain. He's sacrificing our world for his wealth.
6
Keep your powder dry for more important things. Will Trump parlay his win into licensing fees worth literally billions for himself and family? Well, yes he will and there is nothing you can do to stop him. His brand's value just shot up over tenfold. There are far more important issues on the table that could be won or lost and most of the readers of this paper know what they are. Keep your perspective balanced.
1
"Could post conflict"? They already are!
1
I can see how Trump needs Mitt Romney as Sec of State.
I had suggested elsewhere that the Trump kids could get into some more populist products domestically like inner city soccer franchises/stadiums/corollary infrastructure. Something similar abroad might help.
Luxury hotels for the crème de la crème surrounded by povedrty? Oh boy.
The conflicts don't bother me but how they are handled might.It seems the media are of like mind. After all, t's not like running Clinton Global Initiatives while serving as Sec of State isn't a conflict. Where was the outrage?
I had suggested elsewhere that the Trump kids could get into some more populist products domestically like inner city soccer franchises/stadiums/corollary infrastructure. Something similar abroad might help.
Luxury hotels for the crème de la crème surrounded by povedrty? Oh boy.
The conflicts don't bother me but how they are handled might.It seems the media are of like mind. After all, t's not like running Clinton Global Initiatives while serving as Sec of State isn't a conflict. Where was the outrage?
1
I'm laughing as I picture Mitt Romney prostrating himself before Lord Trump.
Just curious, if members of or advisors to Trump's team had been communicating with members of or advisors to the Russan government, and the Russian government had taken steps to influence the 2016 U.S. Presidential election as indicated in many MSM articles, similar to or worse than what the U.S. did to Iran and other countries decades ago, was any of it illegal? If yes, is NYT looking into U.S. investigations and response to this? To protect his business interests, Trump may easily become Russia's and any other country's poodle. Rather than making countries worried about playing ball with the U.S., Trump is worried about whether he gets to play ball the way he wants in other countries. Of course U.S. policy will become a pawn in this. But, maybe we are all focusing on the wrong thing. Maybe the Republican Congress is planning to impeach Trump so that Pence can take over, and articles such as this are just helping to drum up the fervor.
4
A Republican is in office. Nothing to see here. Press will fold like a cheap lawn chair. Trump has already bullied them into submission.
6
be afraid ...
be very afraid
3
What is stunning to me is the amount of focus Trump's business holdings and financial dealings and obligations are getting AFTER the election. Including his treatment of the residents in the Scottish town near his golf course there.
Since Mr. Trump refused to release his tax returns, his business dealings. failings, law suits, illegal use of Trump foundation donations, etc. should have generated as much media attention as Mrs. Clinton's emails and the Clinton Foundation.
Since Mr. Trump refused to release his tax returns, his business dealings. failings, law suits, illegal use of Trump foundation donations, etc. should have generated as much media attention as Mrs. Clinton's emails and the Clinton Foundation.
14
The mere refusal of Trump to disclose his taxpaying history should have warned any thinking person that he's more crooked than a barrel of snakes.
4
In spite of close to 2 years of political campaigning and countless opportunities the press has given to the Trump organization to voice (trumpet?) its outlandish positions on almost any topic why are we learning about this entanglement web now? None of this is recent. Yet throughout the last months it was always to much fun it seems to report on the candidate latest Twitter blast than on serious topics like this one. So the US government is now another subsidiary of the Trump empire fully funded by the taxpayer. Maybe it would not have changed the outcome of the election but it would have shown good journalistic work. Make Trump Great Again.
4
Can you impeach a president elect?
I hope Clinton, Stein et al. make great strides toward the recount.
Trump, a crazy oligarch. No wonder Putin loves him.
I hope Clinton, Stein et al. make great strides toward the recount.
Trump, a crazy oligarch. No wonder Putin loves him.
11
If you wait until the guy is in office to call him a crazy oligarch, you will be taken a lot more seriously. An oligarch is a ruler. The president elect has nothing to rule yet.
2
The US does not have rulers. Elected officials SERVE.
1
Serve? Trump serve? Don't you get it? He who serves no one, is named Trump. Trump wouldn't serve a flea. He is above serving and in his On words, above the law. Wake up!
Ironic, isn't it? The Trump brand has more appeal in other countries than is does here.
Just wait until his international business partners get the same treatment his domestic business partners have. He'll be looking for interplanetary financing then. I'd happily pitch in a few bucks to help him with his first ride to find it.
Just wait until his international business partners get the same treatment his domestic business partners have. He'll be looking for interplanetary financing then. I'd happily pitch in a few bucks to help him with his first ride to find it.
5
When Leona Helmsley said " "We don't pay taxes. Only the little people pay taxes." she went to jail and much of the world applauded. They even condemned her after death for taking care of her animals in her will.
When Donald Trump boasted about paying no Federal taxes for perhaps decades he was rewarded with election to the presidency of the US.
If that was not gender bias, then there is no such thing.
When Donald Trump boasted about paying no Federal taxes for perhaps decades he was rewarded with election to the presidency of the US.
If that was not gender bias, then there is no such thing.
8
Gender bias? Seriously? I think you are missing the not very subtle distinction Leona Helmsley (who was tried and convicted of tax evasion) and Donald Trump (who has never even been accused of such a thing, let alone tried and convicted). But sure, yeah, it's "gender bias."
Trump and his supporters don't care about all these conflicts. But they would certainly have a microscope on Hillary Clinton if she had won. (Let alone if she had never released her tax returns. Oh my, I can only imagine the hue and cry).
There lies the utter hypocrisy of Trump supporters.
There lies the utter hypocrisy of Trump supporters.
22
Dems made fun of Trump's "The Art of a Deal." Who's laughing now.
we made the mistake of thinking you people were too smart to fall for trump. we were wrong.
4
"Potential" conflicts??? Philippines? Argentina? Ukraine? Why did this take so long? Obsession with Hillary's emails?
19
Have you just started to pay attention? the Times has published a number of articles on the topic. My guess is that people like you were so sure of a Clinton victory that the press these potential conflicts of interest received was overlooked.
You can look it up in the archives section of this very paper. Other papers too.
You can look it up in the archives section of this very paper. Other papers too.
@IJReilly
Yes there were occasional editorials about Trump's potential conflicts. And even an occasional article. But not with the granularity and specificity that you are seeing now.
I've been raising the issue since Trump first looked like a serious candidate.
His obvious conflicts and lack of transparency should have excluded him from serious consideration.
Yes there were occasional editorials about Trump's potential conflicts. And even an occasional article. But not with the granularity and specificity that you are seeing now.
I've been raising the issue since Trump first looked like a serious candidate.
His obvious conflicts and lack of transparency should have excluded him from serious consideration.
3
http://www.newsweek.com/2016/09/23/donald-trump-foreign-business-deals-n...
Other media outlets were reporting on it too.
Other media outlets were reporting on it too.
My pail is already full and he hasn't even taken office. Instead of Flouride, can we please have Dramamine added to the water supply?
7
When has Ethics every been part or Trumps constitution? It will be up to us as informed citizens to challenge his corruption and nepotism. His focus on 2nd amendment challenges will be a formidable fight, since he will give appease and threaten the Republicans so they look the other way.
6
Is now when the US will run out of time to try everything else before doing the right thing?
Real democracies hold run-off elections when no candidate has won an majority. Try it. You may like it.
Real democracies hold run-off elections when no candidate has won an majority. Try it. You may like it.
7
You have a better chance of seeing God.
God is never present when miracles are required. But God's little pet minions are all over the place. Quite a pestilence, really.
The ultimate power grab his wealth and fame is not enough for him, being president of the USA will further his business aspirations. Never mind serving the people. Trump is in the White House to serve himself.
be
be
11
This can become a fertile ground for future scandals and corruption accusations.
9
I keep on reading comments if Trump really cares about this country, its people and its future that he should sell all his holdings blah blah blah blah. Can anyone post an example when Trump ever cared about anything or anyone but himself? What will be telling is how the Republican Party and Republicans in congress act towards Trump's indifference. Can't wait to hear what/how McConnell and Ryan inform "the American people." Where's Peggy Noonan on this topic? So far crickets.
23
Then again...perhaps business entanglements around the world make
military conflicts less likely. Don't business relationship around the world
represent the benefits of peace and tend to expand possibilities for civilization?
military conflicts less likely. Don't business relationship around the world
represent the benefits of peace and tend to expand possibilities for civilization?
1
i think the mcdonald's theory of international relations went out the window with russia vs ukraine
1
I think its time Americans prepared themselves for what's coming next. The country's position to take the moral high ground against any other country is now gone. You sold out the one thing you actually had going for you, your ability to claim to be a morally upstanding country. The US has sold out its 'values' and the veil has been lifted; its shown the US is actually morally bankrupt.
Trump's business dealings are clearly more important to him than anything else including the reputation of America. No longer will the US be able to point the finger at those they think are corrupt; considering America's own government now has the potential for corruption on a massive scale. America needs to realize just because Trump was able to con a massive chunk of Americans he isn't going to be able to do the same on a global scale. There are far smarter people than him in position of power who are rubbing their hands together at the thought of an inexperienced easily manipulated American President who cares more about making money for himself than protecting the interests of the country. Its clear he is going to be a disaster of a president. I wonder just how much damage he will do to America, both financially and socially in his four years of power? (that's if he even lasts 4 years in power)!
If the electoral college ever had a duty to stop a presidency from becoming legally binding, it's this one. If they have the power to prevent Trump taking office they need to exercise it.
Trump's business dealings are clearly more important to him than anything else including the reputation of America. No longer will the US be able to point the finger at those they think are corrupt; considering America's own government now has the potential for corruption on a massive scale. America needs to realize just because Trump was able to con a massive chunk of Americans he isn't going to be able to do the same on a global scale. There are far smarter people than him in position of power who are rubbing their hands together at the thought of an inexperienced easily manipulated American President who cares more about making money for himself than protecting the interests of the country. Its clear he is going to be a disaster of a president. I wonder just how much damage he will do to America, both financially and socially in his four years of power? (that's if he even lasts 4 years in power)!
If the electoral college ever had a duty to stop a presidency from becoming legally binding, it's this one. If they have the power to prevent Trump taking office they need to exercise it.
26
To quote President George H.W. Bush; " Not gonna happen. "
1
Of course it won't happen, the country isn't smart enough nor does it have the actual willpower to try and save itself
Apparently you didn't watch the election speeches.
The answer is: he doesn't care. Next issue.
The answer is: he doesn't care. Next issue.
11
Right ...but everyone else should
10
Electoral College, No Vote of Confidence in Trump. Abstentions.
House decides election. Ryan must tell world why states rights demand loser is the winner, and why he is thwarting efforts to hold US Presidential Snap Elections, under UN observation.
House decides election. Ryan must tell world why states rights demand loser is the winner, and why he is thwarting efforts to hold US Presidential Snap Elections, under UN observation.
8
You people are funny. Sad and delusional,,,but funny at the same time.
1
Trump has succeeded in placing himself in a position to wildly profit from the presidency. His children are being taken as advisors to the Trump presidency while they handle President Trump's many business interests. Some of which need bribery to work in places like India. My guess is that PM Modi will be more than happy to look the other way and let Trump have a quid pro quo. The same in the Philippines. Corruption will be a regular feature caused by Trump's businesses and the willingness of foreign gov'ts to cater to his wishes. The Trumps have been financing building in the US by using the immigration system to allow rich Chinese to invest in his projects for green cards. If Trump proves successful as president one can see a political dynasty in which his children follow him to the presidency.
9
Donald Trump, Jr. is already grooming his self for that possibility. The MSM is already firing up another no cost presidential campaign. With his ultimate power presidency, Trump could suspend the Constitution and just install Junior as his successor. That's what he wanted the country to do this past election. Junior's red cap will say; " Keep America Great! "
1
This sort of detailed and disturbing reporting should have been done before the election both by the media and through examination by his opponent. Instead we got the easy, sleazy and oh so dismissable smears about Trump's admittedly problematic sexual history.
The Democrats and the mainstream media have a great deal of explaining to do.
The Democrats and the mainstream media have a great deal of explaining to do.
19
I am pretty sure the Hillary targeted Trump's business issues as well as those pertaining to his history with women. These issues were brought up by the media too, just not forcefully enough, and a vocal minority was more interested in attacking Clinton. More should have been done but I hardly think you can blame the Democrats. The Republicans are the ones that sanctioned Trump to begin with.
3
this was all available in the news in many places all through the campaign. don't be shocked! shocked! there's corruption here--you've known it all along.
1
Could?
Potential?
Does the NYT understand the meaning of these two words?
Normalization, rationalization, delusion . . . all words I know the meaning of.
Potential?
Does the NYT understand the meaning of these two words?
Normalization, rationalization, delusion . . . all words I know the meaning of.
17
Like all good third-world countries, the president was elected by a minority of thr voters to run the country and use his new connections and authority to enrich himself. The USA is no longer exceptional, it joins a growing list of Oligarchies with embedded crony capitalism. Many thanks to the Trump supporter.
23
trump will conduct his business on the taxpayer dime using federal employees, also on the tax payer dime, from trump tower and will only occupy the white house when it suits him. corporate takeover of the USA is now complete. if you thought the lincoln bedroom scandal was bad? just wait, watch and learn how a a true raider uses our entire country to further his own fortune.
24
I live in a town an hour outside of NYC.
This town is an affluent Republican stronghold and always votes accordingly.
I am happy and proud to say that this affluent Republican stronghold voted for Hillary Clinton.
Down ticket was another matter - as usual going GOP.
We must encourage all persons - regardless of party affiliation to unite against Trump.
Let us call on Republicans of good conscience everywhere to get on board and unite to Dump Trump.
The country we save will be our own.
This town is an affluent Republican stronghold and always votes accordingly.
I am happy and proud to say that this affluent Republican stronghold voted for Hillary Clinton.
Down ticket was another matter - as usual going GOP.
We must encourage all persons - regardless of party affiliation to unite against Trump.
Let us call on Republicans of good conscience everywhere to get on board and unite to Dump Trump.
The country we save will be our own.
18
This is wonderful reporting, it would have been nice for the Times to come out with this before the election - you know, when it could have made a difference, rather than multiple articles about Hillary's emails, which now seen quite quaint in comparison to the depth and breadth of possibilities of venality and corruption.
54
Uh. They did.
2
"Could"?
5
Demand that the lame duck Congress legislate and authorize a special run-off election.
It is the only smart way forward.
It is the only smart way forward.
8
Could this be the making of the richest family in the world? Was this his ultimate hidden agenda all along?
4
hidden??
7
By placing his business interests above the public welfare, he should lose his presidential immunity.
8
I have among many questions the following: What influence did the visiting Indian businessmen have on the selection of Nikki Haley? Is this correlation or cause? Just askin!
7
I'M sure Hillary taking all those donations when she was Secretary of State wasn't a conflict. Oh we forgot to tell u we took 5 million from Quatar.
1
Irishman, Does this mean you feel that DJT does in fact have conflicts of interest which should be policed by congressional oversight and do you then support immediate investigation into the conflicts by Chaffetz committee? Or does that only apply when Hillary was the target?
19
What do you mean "could" pose ? It is inevitable that Trump will violate the Emoluments Clause again and again , as we have already seen him do in the case of the Argentine president and Scottish windfarms.
You are doing no one any service – not your readers, the public, the country or the international community – with such confusing, oblique headlines. Kindly report on what is happening right now, not on what "could" happen going forward. We are long past the point of having to speculate what sort of damage Donald Trump will do to this country and, in some cases, how he plans to do it.
You are doing no one any service – not your readers, the public, the country or the international community – with such confusing, oblique headlines. Kindly report on what is happening right now, not on what "could" happen going forward. We are long past the point of having to speculate what sort of damage Donald Trump will do to this country and, in some cases, how he plans to do it.
11
Just like it was inevitable that Hillary would win the election and the republican party would be forever destroyed?
I've thought from day one of the election that Trump's run was for no other reason than to bolster his brand and garner influence for business dealings in every sphere of his holdings--international and domestic.
Trump knows well, I think, the puppetry of developing governments and their relation to and reliance on private enterprise. My biggest fear (which is not at all allayed by this article) is that U.S. involvement in those relationships from the highest national office will allow--indeed, encourage--corruption to flourish the world over.
Trump knows well, I think, the puppetry of developing governments and their relation to and reliance on private enterprise. My biggest fear (which is not at all allayed by this article) is that U.S. involvement in those relationships from the highest national office will allow--indeed, encourage--corruption to flourish the world over.
8
i find the word "could" in the headline of this article completely problematic and in keeping with the Times' failures to state clear facts about the candidate DT and a reasonable comparison of him to his opponents for 12 months of the campaign.
Is there any way, in anyone's imagination, that there are NOT conflicts (and that they weren't known a year ago?) The conflict isn't the action taken, it's the predicament that the new President will be and already has been in for 2.5 weeks. There's no "could" or "maybe"
That softening is like having the front of your car replaced with a mattress and speeding at 80mph toward a wall that's already built.
Is there any way, in anyone's imagination, that there are NOT conflicts (and that they weren't known a year ago?) The conflict isn't the action taken, it's the predicament that the new President will be and already has been in for 2.5 weeks. There's no "could" or "maybe"
That softening is like having the front of your car replaced with a mattress and speeding at 80mph toward a wall that's already built.
8
Okay, I have the solved the problem! Trump spends three days a week being President of the United States and the rest of the week on his business interests. You could write it in his employment contract.
4
Just as anemically denouncing the alt-right, does nothing to change the fact that neo-Nazis identify with Trump, having his children managing the family's global interests presents no barrier to obsequious opportunists who recognize where they can manipulate American foreign policy and change the geopolitical climate.
The problem can no longer be resolved simply by Trump resigning. With each appointment he makes, each appointee's debt to him ensures that his business interests will remain protected. Democracy and our reputation on the world stage face perils we never dreamed might arise.
I grow weary from hearing Trump's advisors claim the American public knew all about his extensive business interests and chose to elect him anyway. It is difficult enough to comprehend the conflicts of interest when you have all the information ahead of time, let alone without tax returns to examine. Mr. Trump made sure that Americans were so busy chasing red herrings and hypnotized by chanting, "Lock her up!" that he could become king via 3-card Monty.
The problem can no longer be resolved simply by Trump resigning. With each appointment he makes, each appointee's debt to him ensures that his business interests will remain protected. Democracy and our reputation on the world stage face perils we never dreamed might arise.
I grow weary from hearing Trump's advisors claim the American public knew all about his extensive business interests and chose to elect him anyway. It is difficult enough to comprehend the conflicts of interest when you have all the information ahead of time, let alone without tax returns to examine. Mr. Trump made sure that Americans were so busy chasing red herrings and hypnotized by chanting, "Lock her up!" that he could become king via 3-card Monty.
12
Oooooh, such a poor pathetic world-leading democracy that can't even hold a run-off election when no candidate has won a popular majority. I don't need to fly to get airsick, I can experience it right here.
2
I am finding it equally creepy that Google is changing it's pinpoint map name for Trump Tower, to Dump Trump. Why sound the high ups of technology be dispensing what we should think? There is always going to be conflicts of interest, but somehow I cannot accept that technology = media, thought control. We need to rethink our media world. It has taken the game of politics to an all time low that we cannot escape from.
Didn't you come here hoping to influence thought yourself?
1
i'm not exactly a multinational communications industry
What exactly does the NYT want Trump to do? Drop everything and work on selling all his properties or reject contracts already signed? He shouldn't worry .about the next Secretary of State. Or maybe quit calling Carrier to see if they will not move to Mexico. As long as he is within the law, whether the NYT likes the law or not, most of the rest of us want him to get started on the more important business of running the country. He can let his children run the companies and if they are, he shouldn't have them banned from the White House. In fact they should be able to be with him as he works through the various problems he encounters. He can trust them not to blab every option they discuss in trying to find an answer. He says he wants his son-in-law to work on some kind of peace between the Palestinians and Israel. Let him try. Nothing else has worked. The law may have changed since the Kennedys but Bobby was a huge help to his brother during trying and dangerous times. As long as Trump is within the law, let him get on with his work. He isn't even sworn in as yet. Let the law define his limits, not the NYT.
1
Do you even know these people? Have you kissed their rings to be assigned a place in their pecking order?
6
Dear Nytimes, Where was this reporting before the election? The media never called out these conflicts of interests or made people aware of the implications for a Trump presidency.
14
yes, and i am also amazed at the detailed analysis we get about steve bannon and his propaganda methods within a week or so AFTER the election. they were too busy reporting what the donald wanted them to focus on and had no time for reporting real news. he totally played the media millions in free ads and almost completely on his terms.
10
(Another ostrich missed the 800 lb. gorilla walking by.)
4
That's what happens when you limit yourselves to liberal echo chambers. You miss things.
http://www.newsweek.com/2016/09/23/donald-trump-foreign-business-deals-n...
http://www.newsweek.com/2016/09/23/donald-trump-foreign-business-deals-n...
There is no way to eliminate the many real and potential conflicts between The Trump Organization, with its many complex domestic and foreign entanglements, and a president's sworn duties and Trump is not even trying. But there's an upside for democracy and working people, too. If the news media reveal these conflicts in detail as they come into play, we little guys who just work for a living and pay our taxes will come to understand exactly how the rich get rich and the game is rigged against us as we struggle and strive to provide for our families and improve our children's prospects. We will also understand that our laws are made by and for the wheeler-dealers and high-rollers and that there are different standards of justice for them and us. We might even come to see that some of our foreign wars are designed not so much to protect our freedom and security at home but to protect their assets and create their business opportunities abroad. Like so much of Trump's campaign did, his government will pull back the curtain. If the NYT does its job, and it will be a hard job, democracy will be strengthened by the knowledge.
9
Exactly. The entire thing rests on the press doing its job, vigorously and without rest
Trump supporters accepted a lot of unconventional behavior from Trump. They revel in his flouting convention. Why would anyone think they would be offended if Trump profits from the Presidency?
24
indeed..... we are all, sadly, used to politicians with modest means getting elected to office and exiting in 6-12 years wealthy..... and then they proceed to get much wealthier after out of office. most of the time they do not rub it in our faces. i am sure that what you will hear from trump supporters is "everybody does it. why are you singling out trump?". i guess what these supporters don't understand is that we used to use the law to punish politicians that used their office for personal gain. the lack of a statute for presidential behavior does not mean that he is beyond the law.
1
At the same time, they allegedly voted for him to be the voice of the working people. So they are going to have to come to terms with the fact that he's not draining the swamp but deepening it.
None of this surprises me in any way, and I'm sure it's just the start of it.
It's too late to close that barn door, the animals are long gone.
It's too late to close that barn door, the animals are long gone.
7
Of Trump it can be said that every time you offer him something for free, he says "That's a plan!" And every time you show him the bill, he says, "That's a scam!"
8
I can't even imagine how anyone would now stay at a Trump Hotel, given the threat of terrorism on these properties. I see this as the most devestating risk. What if terrorists attack a hotel in Mumbai and hold Americans hostage, or worse, kill them? He has invited anti-American terrorist groups to single out Trump properties. I wouldn't go near one of his hotels...OMG!
14
All the supplicants who come to Washington to kiss Trump's ring will need to register at his hotel. Already its occupancy has risen. I don't know why. Trump probably won't even stay at the White House himself.
Gas up AF-1 and send the bill to Uncle Sam, every night, as Trump commutes back to Trump Tower.
Hillary flew on a 737 with the latest engines and aerodynamics, using only about two thirds the fuel of Trump's B-757 to fly the same distance. Don't even ask what AF-1 burns.
But no worries, God will provide.
Gas up AF-1 and send the bill to Uncle Sam, every night, as Trump commutes back to Trump Tower.
Hillary flew on a 737 with the latest engines and aerodynamics, using only about two thirds the fuel of Trump's B-757 to fly the same distance. Don't even ask what AF-1 burns.
But no worries, God will provide.
7
Donald Trump, an agent for change, will inherit the title "Ruler of the Free World."
That will be the first change he will make: the "free world" will have a price. The Times headline is befitting the pivotal change the conflicted Trump administration poses. unless Mr. Trump acknowledges his absolute fidelity to the interests of our country over his busines interests by effectively distancing himself, we will devolve from world power to banana republic. The voters enabled trump to win without disclosing the financial details that tax returns would disclose. we know nothing about his foreign dealings, partners, creditors and business entanglements. Those who beliebe he can and will police himself are beyond nieve. Congress sould compel by passing a resolution requiring full disclosure of his finances so appropriate comtrols may be agreed to. If he is permitted to proceed as he hopes, to indirectly control and benefit from his business while serving as president, the office and the nation will suffer. It may take to evaluate the damage.
That will be the first change he will make: the "free world" will have a price. The Times headline is befitting the pivotal change the conflicted Trump administration poses. unless Mr. Trump acknowledges his absolute fidelity to the interests of our country over his busines interests by effectively distancing himself, we will devolve from world power to banana republic. The voters enabled trump to win without disclosing the financial details that tax returns would disclose. we know nothing about his foreign dealings, partners, creditors and business entanglements. Those who beliebe he can and will police himself are beyond nieve. Congress sould compel by passing a resolution requiring full disclosure of his finances so appropriate comtrols may be agreed to. If he is permitted to proceed as he hopes, to indirectly control and benefit from his business while serving as president, the office and the nation will suffer. It may take to evaluate the damage.
5
Can we please stop saying "potential conflicts" and call them what they are: Conflicts of Interest Around the Globe. The meetings taking place now are with the same private citizen who tweets in the middle of the night. They are business meetings with his business partners - heads of foreign governments and his children. No potential about it.
9
Oh, how we needed this article before the election! I suppose since Trump wasn't expected to win, this subject didn't get the attention it now so obviously deserved. When I read this article, my takeaway is "this person is obviously disqualified from being president of the US by these financial entanglements."
9
http://www.newsweek.com/2016/09/23/donald-trump-foreign-business-deals-n...
Were you living under a rock? Sometimes it helps to put away the Times and look for other news sources. Articles like the this were all over the place before the election. TV news stations all reported on it too.
Were you living under a rock? Sometimes it helps to put away the Times and look for other news sources. Articles like the this were all over the place before the election. TV news stations all reported on it too.
1
So where are all of the trolls who kicked up their heels and fussed over the Clinton Foundation?
Silence.
Corruption is apparently just fine with them, as long as it's their guy who's getting rich and abusing his position.
Silence.
Corruption is apparently just fine with them, as long as it's their guy who's getting rich and abusing his position.
13
This is a no-brainer; of course Trumps businesses are a conflict of interest. Just as Obama's progressive liberalism and cowardice posed conflicts of interests. Just in a different manner.
I think that we have, at long last, defined "high crimes and misdemeanors".
May the Impeachment effort take root here and now.
May the Impeachment effort take root here and now.
6
Which high crime or misdemeanor has been committed?
To UReilly. (Is your first name Mark, by any chance.)
Show me your definition and I will show you mine.
Let me start by noting that fleecing the following:
the work force on his questionable building projects, the banks and investors, the electorate with lies and innuendos, and the stiffed small businesses persons would qualify as meeting the definition.
Sooner or later Don the Con will be impeached for one thing or another. Trump believes that he answers only to himself.
He lives in a bubble of unreality and is self-delusional.
Sooner or later the population - single-issue voters, those uninformed, misinformed, and of low information - who are outside this bubble will catch on to what Trump is doing, has done, and is projected to do to us all in the future.
The population will react, define in their own minds the "high crimes and misdemeanors" and act accordingly.
The end game still lies in the future and how Trump goes will be decided by ......... a means of impeachment.
Show me your definition and I will show you mine.
Let me start by noting that fleecing the following:
the work force on his questionable building projects, the banks and investors, the electorate with lies and innuendos, and the stiffed small businesses persons would qualify as meeting the definition.
Sooner or later Don the Con will be impeached for one thing or another. Trump believes that he answers only to himself.
He lives in a bubble of unreality and is self-delusional.
Sooner or later the population - single-issue voters, those uninformed, misinformed, and of low information - who are outside this bubble will catch on to what Trump is doing, has done, and is projected to do to us all in the future.
The population will react, define in their own minds the "high crimes and misdemeanors" and act accordingly.
The end game still lies in the future and how Trump goes will be decided by ......... a means of impeachment.
It seemed like a no-brainer: I kept asking how on earth you could hire someone who has never worked for anyone but himself and expect him to understand the concept of public service. Now we are left with the exhausting task of reminding our elected officials that this man works for us. ALL of us.
9
Although I'm pleased that Trump's myriad business and financial entanglements have been covered by the media on a daily basis since the election, I'm still waiting for the "OK, what are we going to do to stop him from even taking office?" follow-up. Nearly everyone in the media and most voters (including most Republicans I'd guess, although they're keeping quiet) get it: this man cannot be president. He can't be president for many reasons, all of which were discussed over and over again ad nauseam during the campaign, but it's for this reason alone that our national security is at stake (besides of course that Trump is unpredictable and unstable)
Trump believes that US interests are for sale, that he can "make deals" that will only end up increasing his own wealth, while undermining this nation's sovereignty. To allow him to take the oath of office on January 20 is madness. Perhaps Republicans are thinking that they'll eventually impeach him but is that what's best for the country? Do we really want this country to suffer through the agonies of an impeachment hearing? The world is a complicated dangerous and often very volatile place. What happens if there's a major terrorist attack during the impeachment? Or Russia decides to invade the Ukraine? Or North Korea launches a missile into South Korea?
Trump should not be allowed to take office: plain and simple. We're allowing a train wreck to happen. Please, someone in the IRS release his tax returns and do it soon.
Trump believes that US interests are for sale, that he can "make deals" that will only end up increasing his own wealth, while undermining this nation's sovereignty. To allow him to take the oath of office on January 20 is madness. Perhaps Republicans are thinking that they'll eventually impeach him but is that what's best for the country? Do we really want this country to suffer through the agonies of an impeachment hearing? The world is a complicated dangerous and often very volatile place. What happens if there's a major terrorist attack during the impeachment? Or Russia decides to invade the Ukraine? Or North Korea launches a missile into South Korea?
Trump should not be allowed to take office: plain and simple. We're allowing a train wreck to happen. Please, someone in the IRS release his tax returns and do it soon.
9
National Security you say is at risk. Should have elected Bernie to run, because Mrs. Clinton put our National Security at risk, and she didn't even care after she was warned.
Bravo! We need his tax returns to show his conflicts of interest and the completed investigation on the Trump campaign-Russian ties to avoid a Russian takeover of our government. DOJ and FBI should be working 24/7 on this just as they did with the Clinton emails. We are talking a matter of national security!!! when Trump is focused on protecting an increasing his wealth. Someone knows the truth for love of country speak up now to save our nation.
1
Trump is not in the construction business anymore. He's in the branding business, and just sells his name for these projects to use. (And if the project fails, he's not out any money.) As soon as he shows he's not so great as President, creates anti-American sentiment, and his brand gets tarnished badly, then the global side of his business will be nearly worthless.
15
Two words: Tax returns!
6
Those who voted for Trump, including Mitch McConnell, Clarence Thomas, Paul Ryan, and their ilk along with other Americans wanted this farce. Now we will have a grifter in chief who does not care what happens to these USofA as long as the pockets of he and his family are lined. The biggest scam has been achieved with the help of Russia, Wiki leaks and the news media. The sexual predator nature of Trump and his alleged accusers has been dropped in the media along with racist birtherism...in fact, when Trump met with the NY Times, no one even bought up the birther movement, his sexual proclivities and just seemed to be in awe of his persona. Stop being gullible and call Trump out on his lawsuits, business interests, white nationalist leanings, hateful language and failings as a decent human being.
Country over party didn't matter as long as Hillary was defeated. I am ashamed of this new America of Trump and so should every fair American.
Country over party didn't matter as long as Hillary was defeated. I am ashamed of this new America of Trump and so should every fair American.
11
Time for a new law that prevents the President from actions that benefit him or her financially. The President should not be exempt from conflict-of-interest laws.
5
Could? Now THAT is an understatement
3
In Trump we have an internationally powerful man whose power is only matched by the opacity of his connections. He has been conclusively shown to be a serial liar who will fabricate any story he likes in the furtherance of his own interests.
We cannot have any confidence that any of the many problems facing this country and the world will be solved by the Trump Administration, at least not in ways that benefit the country if the solutions are at odds with the interests of The Trump Organization.
We cannot have any confidence that any of the many problems facing this country and the world will be solved by the Trump Administration, at least not in ways that benefit the country if the solutions are at odds with the interests of The Trump Organization.
9
By popular request, here's a link to the Electoral College members by State:
http://heavy.com/news/2016/11/electoral-college-names-list-of-electors-v...
http://heavy.com/news/2016/11/electoral-college-names-list-of-electors-v...
5
Pretty obvious why Trump won't release his IRS returns: His organization is intertwined with almost every country, and involved with sleaze, slime, corruption, and graft.
Look how 'Trump Towers' tower over the impoverished areas of these countries. Grotesque.
And yet 46% of American votes somehow ignored every warning sign and every piece of evidence this pathetic man is without honor, without honesty, and without scruples. Ludicrous.
We look like idiots ushering in either utter Fascism, or a entirely new level of ruthless monarchy.
Look how 'Trump Towers' tower over the impoverished areas of these countries. Grotesque.
And yet 46% of American votes somehow ignored every warning sign and every piece of evidence this pathetic man is without honor, without honesty, and without scruples. Ludicrous.
We look like idiots ushering in either utter Fascism, or a entirely new level of ruthless monarchy.
12
We are so enamored of the will of dead that will succumb to their errors rather than correct them.
The dead are far more influential than the living in the US. They are used as lavishly as God to justify the opinions of those who make reference to them.
The dead are far more influential than the living in the US. They are used as lavishly as God to justify the opinions of those who make reference to them.
We can't impeach horrors like Duterte, but the impeachment of Trump should start immediately.
9
This web cannot be untangled merely by selling properties. Since he has myriad business partners, Trump would not be free to put a property on the market without their agreement. He would have to sell them his interest in the venture. Thus, as if we needed further evidence, Trump never intended to separate himself from his business interests. It's hard to imagine someone like Mitt Romney taking the post of Secretary of State after reading this article.
19
I'm incredulous to read comments claiming that this article contains information that readers were previously unaware of regarding Trump's businesses and connections, not to mention his children's. It was out there all along, it was just ignored.
Given that Putin is greatly admired by Trump, it will only be a matter of time before Trump turns the office of the U.S. President into his personal U.S. Treasury. After all, he's learning from the most corrupt leader in the world. And we all know Trump loves the best!
Given that Putin is greatly admired by Trump, it will only be a matter of time before Trump turns the office of the U.S. President into his personal U.S. Treasury. After all, he's learning from the most corrupt leader in the world. And we all know Trump loves the best!
8
I think there are several ways to look at Trump's "potential" conflicts of interest. First, no doubt, he's had business dealings all over the world, well-documented by this article; he's already made lots of deals (he told us so many times) and since these deals are "in the past" perhaps his interests are also in the past (one can hope). Second, also no doubt, there are loads of acolytes and wanna-be's who would like to make deals with him of a business nature and these are the folks we should be wary of. That he has connections all over the world might be a good thing if he can use his influence to gain some level of traction. But if he uses his connections as leverage to gain financially or personally then he's crossed a line that was drawn at the beginnings of our Republic: Alexander Hamilton established these rules which have been the hallmarks of holders of public office. I hope that whoever is charged with enforcing these common-sense rules and standards of behavior won't cave in and let the deal-maker-par-excellence ply his way through the Presidency and come out more than hole when he's had his fun in the White House. He isn't there to discuss his own business: He's there to discuss the Nation's business and nothing else. Period.
9
Wow - so when is he going to get around to making America great again?
6
Making Trump Great Again means Making America Great Again! Having no conflicts of interest as President in Trump's mind, should lead all Americans to believe in this natural conclusion!
Trump's financial entanglements abroad pale in comparison to the potential terrorist threats against his multitude of foreign properties. I fear that we will be taking military action and endangering our service people by defending his personal interests. We can only conclude that commander-in-chief Trump will be in direct conflict with mogul Trump.
2
So the Trump would use his office as a way to expand his brand? What else could be new?
3
My sense is that Trump will not be able to distinguish between the "business" of the nation and that of Trump, that to Trump they will be the same. I suspect this inability will mirror his apparent incapacity to sort truth from falsehood (i.e. lies). In unfortunate addition, Republicans will continue to offer up the notion these multiple potential or real conflicts are a special Trumpian circumstance and, as such, are no big problem (e.g. just as lies and childish behavior are now overlooked, excused, or even justified).
I think otherwise, but hope I'm wrong. Anyone taking bets?
I think otherwise, but hope I'm wrong. Anyone taking bets?
5
Trump named and branded properties around the world seem to be prime terrorist targets. Is there any precedent or plan for US response to such attacks? Can Trump make it a war in his own narcissistic way without any constraint?
3
The potential conflicts of interest between Hillary Clinton and the Clinton Foundation were positively quaint by comparison.
6
And we elect him because we think he is a principled "outsider," "means what he says," and is going to "look out for our interests"? Oh, please! Sound evidence contradicts such naive assumptions at every step--and this is just the tip of the iceberg.
4
great article. too bad you didn't write it BEFORE the election.
11
Honestly, I don't care. We're looking for Trump to "repair" our country. I'm sure George Washington, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson had "business interests" that even though might be considered "conflicts" still made them great leaders.
Why does this news report discuss only the damage to American efforts to reduce corruption abroad, and not the massive corruption that Trump's election has already inflicted on the U.S. domestically?
It is not just a matter of conflicts of interest.
Call corruption by its right name: corruption.
During the campaign Trump called Clinton the most corrupt politician to ever seek the White House. Time to replay all of those clips with each news story about Trump using his newly acquired power for personal and familial and crony gains.
Corruption. Corruption. Corruption.
It does not rhyme with Benghazi, but it is a heck of a lot more true.
Shouldn't the Congressional investigations be starting now? The corruption has a running head start.
It is not just a matter of conflicts of interest.
Call corruption by its right name: corruption.
During the campaign Trump called Clinton the most corrupt politician to ever seek the White House. Time to replay all of those clips with each news story about Trump using his newly acquired power for personal and familial and crony gains.
Corruption. Corruption. Corruption.
It does not rhyme with Benghazi, but it is a heck of a lot more true.
Shouldn't the Congressional investigations be starting now? The corruption has a running head start.
6
I really wish the media would have raised the question about his conflict of interests during his campaign. He was never going to "drain the swamp". Corruption is going to be a staple of this administration.
9
Why weren't wonderfully through articles like this published 8-weeks ago and aggressively put into the public forum by the Democratic Party as a means to destabilize the Trump campaign ?
10
The Constitution's Emoluments Clause does not "appear to prohibit" -- it Explicitly, Unequivocally Prohibits a President from receiving pecuniary or other material gains associated with foreign citizens or states, while serving in office. The transition period should also count as "serving."
4
That's not what it says. Read it carefully.
Trump..One lie after another.
How about the Whopper "This is Bigger Than Watergate" ?
Comey and Trump hatched this one Just before the election.
The Burger King of Politicians, serving up those Whoppers...
I remember the Dr. Good and Snake oil of old days.
Every Con Man knows; "You can fool some of the people all of the time".
Since getting away with shoving "W and Cheney" down our throats, the electoral college seems to think "some of the people" is all it takes to railroad con men into the oval office, against the Will of the majority who don't want them,.. didn't vote for them,..didn't elect them!
You can tell that the republicans knew what was going on when they refused to consider Obama's Supreme court nominee. Do you think they would chance Hillary choosing a decent nominee if they were not privy to this scam? Their entire agenda depends on another Scalia on the court.
Is this The Democracy the Greatest Generation died for? The vote that doesn't count? Multiplied by millions of times in order to make sure that the Candidate we voted for and Want for our president, never makes it to the oval office.
Talk about Voter Suppression! It doesn't get any more suppressed than this.
How about the Whopper "This is Bigger Than Watergate" ?
Comey and Trump hatched this one Just before the election.
The Burger King of Politicians, serving up those Whoppers...
I remember the Dr. Good and Snake oil of old days.
Every Con Man knows; "You can fool some of the people all of the time".
Since getting away with shoving "W and Cheney" down our throats, the electoral college seems to think "some of the people" is all it takes to railroad con men into the oval office, against the Will of the majority who don't want them,.. didn't vote for them,..didn't elect them!
You can tell that the republicans knew what was going on when they refused to consider Obama's Supreme court nominee. Do you think they would chance Hillary choosing a decent nominee if they were not privy to this scam? Their entire agenda depends on another Scalia on the court.
Is this The Democracy the Greatest Generation died for? The vote that doesn't count? Multiplied by millions of times in order to make sure that the Candidate we voted for and Want for our president, never makes it to the oval office.
Talk about Voter Suppression! It doesn't get any more suppressed than this.
3
My question is, with the known business conflicts that he has, how was he allowed to go as far as he did as a candidate in the first place? Although he wouldn't release his tax returns, these conflicts are not a surprise to anyone. Unfortunately it seems highly unlikely that it will stop him from actually being inaugurated, but we need to give serious consideration to changing the procedures for choosing candidates in the future. Every other job on earth has some sort of referenced/vetting/qualification process - why not the job of president of the United States??
7
Excellent investigative reporting by all. Trump's global business ventures are a mess, but we must yield to the voters who swung the Electoral College vote to put him in office. They just love Trump's business entanglements; they're right out of reality TV.
No good can come of this election that was fueled by the irrational anger of the heartland. The only supportive response is that from Robert Blackwell, not to prejudge Trump. Trump has controversial entanglements throughout the world. We can prejudge him because we are intelligent.
Trump's is a pure fascism that allows Trump's business interests to be supported by his governmental appointees; it doesn't stop with him. Trump will have to have a shady Secretary of State to support his business interests. He has the blind ego of a fascist; he has no thoughtful demeanor as he lashes out on Twitter, the ideal medium for him. We'll see Trump attack nations that push back on his businesses. Then his Secretary of State will have to explain his behavior to the intelligent people in this country.
I wonder if Trump will send the CIA into regions in which his businesses experience political difficulties. It's now a big business leverage for him.
No good can come of this election that was fueled by the irrational anger of the heartland. The only supportive response is that from Robert Blackwell, not to prejudge Trump. Trump has controversial entanglements throughout the world. We can prejudge him because we are intelligent.
Trump's is a pure fascism that allows Trump's business interests to be supported by his governmental appointees; it doesn't stop with him. Trump will have to have a shady Secretary of State to support his business interests. He has the blind ego of a fascist; he has no thoughtful demeanor as he lashes out on Twitter, the ideal medium for him. We'll see Trump attack nations that push back on his businesses. Then his Secretary of State will have to explain his behavior to the intelligent people in this country.
I wonder if Trump will send the CIA into regions in which his businesses experience political difficulties. It's now a big business leverage for him.
9
As Trump's Insidious House Of Cards unwinds, I am reminded of the deck of cards that was used as, one-by-one, accomplice of Saddam Hussein was captured. The only question here is: Will each of them, as Donald's partners becomes unveiled turn-out to be a Joker, or will Donald reserve that dubious honor for himself.
Also, to those, who continues to question: "Why can't Trump just sell them?" The answer might very well be that he doesn't own any of the overseas buildings. He probably is just paid one source of royalty for the use of his name.
If Donald Trump had been truly serious about his run for President, and many firmly believed that he was really just milking the run to embellish his "Brand", HE WOULD HAVE HAD SOME SORT OF A PRESIDENTIAL OPT-OUT IN THE CONTRACT.
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
Also, to those, who continues to question: "Why can't Trump just sell them?" The answer might very well be that he doesn't own any of the overseas buildings. He probably is just paid one source of royalty for the use of his name.
If Donald Trump had been truly serious about his run for President, and many firmly believed that he was really just milking the run to embellish his "Brand", HE WOULD HAVE HAD SOME SORT OF A PRESIDENTIAL OPT-OUT IN THE CONTRACT.
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
1
Mr. Trump is violating two clauses of the constitution. First, he runs afoul of the constitution's emoluments clause, Article I, Section 9 which states that (capitals mine):
"No Title of Nobility shall be granted by the United States: And no Person holding any Office of Profit or Trust under them, shall, without the Consent of the Congress, ACCEPT OF ANY PRESENT, EMOLUMENT, Office,
or Title, of ANY kind whatever, from any King, Prince or foreign State."
Mr. Trump also seems to be violating Article II, Section 4 of the constitution in two ways. First he seems to be accepting bribes. Second, he could be committing treason (one definition of which is a betrayal of trust). Both are specifically listed as impeachable offenses (again, capitals are mine):
"The President, Vice President and all civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, TREASON, BRIBERY, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors."
We must never accept these blatant violations of the constitution. Democrats, the media, concerned citizens or anyone else who values our democracy, should never hesitate, loudly and frequently, to call for Mr. Trump's impeachment.
"No Title of Nobility shall be granted by the United States: And no Person holding any Office of Profit or Trust under them, shall, without the Consent of the Congress, ACCEPT OF ANY PRESENT, EMOLUMENT, Office,
or Title, of ANY kind whatever, from any King, Prince or foreign State."
Mr. Trump also seems to be violating Article II, Section 4 of the constitution in two ways. First he seems to be accepting bribes. Second, he could be committing treason (one definition of which is a betrayal of trust). Both are specifically listed as impeachable offenses (again, capitals are mine):
"The President, Vice President and all civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, TREASON, BRIBERY, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors."
We must never accept these blatant violations of the constitution. Democrats, the media, concerned citizens or anyone else who values our democracy, should never hesitate, loudly and frequently, to call for Mr. Trump's impeachment.
8
The only way for Trump to preserve what little is left of the United States' standing in the world is to divest his company irrevocably.
Now. There is no other way.
Now. There is no other way.
9
With Trump we're talking about a man who accused a well respected federal court judge of being incapable of conducting a fair trial due to his ethnicity.
7
Now you write about this in detail. Methinks this should have been written about a few months ago. It is now Too Blooming' Late.
7
We need a more refined term than "oligarchy" to capture the uniqueness of the global and domestic criminal unconstitutional enterprise that Trump and family and business associates are about to set into motion under the name brand of the Presidency of the United States. Kleptoimperialism? Nepokleptodespotism? However we want to term the unholy alliance of capitalist nepotism, kleptocractic imperialism, and the despotic pursuit of self-aggrandizement and emolumental benefits, these are now the fundamentals of the Executive branch of the United States and the noxious principles that will guide the decision-making powers and policies of the Office of the President. I for one won't be anticipating any sort of outrage from Congress, for that would require a deeper sense of decency about democracy and a firmer sense of the meaning of corruption than this branch of the government run by Ryan, McConnell, & Co. is capable of understanding. The scaffolding of our constitutional structures may still be intact but the termites are busy hollowing out the insides -- and somewhere a fiddler is playing.
11
In addition to the global reach of President-elect Trump’s real estate developments, there is, no doubt, a global network of loans, other financing, and assorted tax abatements for all these developments. What happens when contractors in Turkey, India, or the Philippines are not paid or claim they’ve been defrauded, like Trump University students? What happens when a development fails, like Trump’s New Jersey casinos? Our “businessman” President may expose the USA and the governments of countries now currying his favor to unintended consequences beyond the ken of the ordinary citizens hoping Trump would “make America great again.” Lawsuits, business bankruptcies, and claims of unlawful emoluments may be the least of those consequences.
20
Regardless his claim, it is naive to even consider his hands can remain clean.
If he does not divest himself of his interests, he will indelibly stain himself and our nation.
I trust the American voters who stayed home for whatever reason have learned the importance of supporting Democracy.
If he does not divest himself of his interests, he will indelibly stain himself and our nation.
I trust the American voters who stayed home for whatever reason have learned the importance of supporting Democracy.
6
Why care if Trump continues pursuing his business interests while President? If Hillary Clinton were the President-elect and did the same thing, her supporters would be all for it and never be against it.
1
Talk about selective interpretation of the Constitution. All of the liberals who want to trash the Electoral College, the Second Amendment, and Presidential term limits (so Barack can rule ad infinitum), think the so-called "emolument clause" was a stroke of genius by the Founders.
Settle down. That great crusader for justice and democracy (the Democratic variety) Jill Stein will find enough fraudulent votes in the Rust Belt to restore the Clinton Dynasty to it rightful place in the Oval Office. She just has to unrig the election that wasn't rigged in the first place until Devil Putin rigged it for his puppet.
Settle down. That great crusader for justice and democracy (the Democratic variety) Jill Stein will find enough fraudulent votes in the Rust Belt to restore the Clinton Dynasty to it rightful place in the Oval Office. She just has to unrig the election that wasn't rigged in the first place until Devil Putin rigged it for his puppet.
Never mind the conflicts of interest. Just keep a close eye on the cash register.
1
If Mrs. Clinton had presented the number of conflicts of interest, or expressed the level of indifference to the potential for impropriety, that Mr. Trump does, the right wing hate machine would be in intensive care due to cardiac arrest...
7
Tangentially...
There is one way Trump could derail the effort to recount.
Trump could announce he supports Garland's Supreme Court nomination, and intends to forward it to the Senate, upon taking office himself in January.
That statement from Trump, might possibly take some steam out of the recount effort.
There is one way Trump could derail the effort to recount.
Trump could announce he supports Garland's Supreme Court nomination, and intends to forward it to the Senate, upon taking office himself in January.
That statement from Trump, might possibly take some steam out of the recount effort.
These concerns are well and good but where were they when HRC was the SOS and appears to have been selling access to her? Where is the article about ol'Bill and Holder selling pardons or the Clinton's uranium deal with Russia? Where were these same concerns about Harry Reid's land deals, Biden's 27 "special mortgages" or the business dealings of Pelosi and her husband....I could go on. In this lights the concerns about Trump seem to be very selective and highly partisan. Apparently the establishment and corporate media still haven't learned anything and still think people are buying their stale, hypocritical "reporting".
1
Clinton lost the Presidency because f these allegations.
But for some reason Trump gets a free ride?
But for some reason Trump gets a free ride?
6
Apparently, Mr. Boyer, the distinction between the operation of a bona fide Clinton charitable foundation and Mr. Trump's hydra-headed, multi-national, multi-billion dollar, for-profit real estate and licensing 'Organization' has escaped you.
As I type, Mr. Trump leases property not far from the White House -- from the federal government no less -- and operates a hotel on that property. Before his election, that hotel was eerily quiet and largely unoccupied because the 'brand' had been sullied by Trump's campaign antics. It is now humming, with the rooms filled with lobbyists and foreign dignitaries hoping to curry favor with the new administration, who of course would not dream of dissing Mr. President and the various family members in his Presidential entourage by lodging and dining elsewhere.
And that is the barest tip of this iceberg of self-dealing and corruption.
There is indeed a difference between a phonied-up 'Clinton scandal' and the real thing. This, Mr. Boyer, is the real thing, of major Constitutional proportions.
As I type, Mr. Trump leases property not far from the White House -- from the federal government no less -- and operates a hotel on that property. Before his election, that hotel was eerily quiet and largely unoccupied because the 'brand' had been sullied by Trump's campaign antics. It is now humming, with the rooms filled with lobbyists and foreign dignitaries hoping to curry favor with the new administration, who of course would not dream of dissing Mr. President and the various family members in his Presidential entourage by lodging and dining elsewhere.
And that is the barest tip of this iceberg of self-dealing and corruption.
There is indeed a difference between a phonied-up 'Clinton scandal' and the real thing. This, Mr. Boyer, is the real thing, of major Constitutional proportions.
7
I think the NY Times should be focusing on would could possibly go right instead of wrong. And remember when Hillary scolded Trump for saying he would not accept the results of the election if he lost?
The minority President-elect Trump has gotten away with so much since he announced his candidacy that he no doubt believes he can continue to thumb his nose at conflict of interest protocol and no one will object. We shall see how much the public and press will allow.
6
Now that he has appointed women in his cabinet and other high positions, and offered a cabinet position to a black man, charges of racism and misogyny start to sound a bit hollow.
But a drum is loudest when it is hollow and the NYT is that drum.
True, Trump has a possible conflict of interest problem and he should resolve it in a way which satisfies most of the nation.
But the NYT has NO interest solving this problem. They simply want to use that problem to discredit him and his presidency.
Ladies and Gentlemen, that game is over. You should now think of doing what is best for the nation.
True, Trump has faults. But he also has some good points in his favor:
his opposition to regime change, his opposition to trade deals which undermine American workers, and his opposition to political correctness which has now become a tape on the mouths of everyone except a few Democrats.
PC is in direct conflict with the First Amendment. True, politeness has its place and should be practiced whenever possible.
But when Lawrence Summers was fired for saying that men were better than women at science, I came to realize that far too many liberals were opposed to ANYONE saying something they did not like.
That MUST go. Perhaps Hillary would have broken the glass ceiling. But Trump is the hammer which will break our glass walls.
But a drum is loudest when it is hollow and the NYT is that drum.
True, Trump has a possible conflict of interest problem and he should resolve it in a way which satisfies most of the nation.
But the NYT has NO interest solving this problem. They simply want to use that problem to discredit him and his presidency.
Ladies and Gentlemen, that game is over. You should now think of doing what is best for the nation.
True, Trump has faults. But he also has some good points in his favor:
his opposition to regime change, his opposition to trade deals which undermine American workers, and his opposition to political correctness which has now become a tape on the mouths of everyone except a few Democrats.
PC is in direct conflict with the First Amendment. True, politeness has its place and should be practiced whenever possible.
But when Lawrence Summers was fired for saying that men were better than women at science, I came to realize that far too many liberals were opposed to ANYONE saying something they did not like.
That MUST go. Perhaps Hillary would have broken the glass ceiling. But Trump is the hammer which will break our glass walls.
Lying is not the opposite to politically correct speech. Neither is deliberately provoking violence.
For all we know, Trump the great businessman has been bought and paid for by the millions of dollars he owes to foreign banks. Declaring bankruptcy as a business strategy has served Trump well but it does not bode well for our nation.
For all we know, Trump the great businessman has been bought and paid for by the millions of dollars he owes to foreign banks. Declaring bankruptcy as a business strategy has served Trump well but it does not bode well for our nation.
1
Perhaps this helps explain the mutual attraction between Putin and Trump. Putin has apparently managed to make himself fabulously rich while running Russia, storing much of that wealth in "off shore" banks and investments, perhaps immune to international sanctions.
Trump seems determined to continue to build his fortune while in the White House, and to help out his friend Vladimir wherever he can.
And both "leaders" seem content to rule by disinformation, oppression, fear-mongering, and violence.
Trump seems determined to continue to build his fortune while in the White House, and to help out his friend Vladimir wherever he can.
And both "leaders" seem content to rule by disinformation, oppression, fear-mongering, and violence.
10
Were the Trumps or any of the cronies they are appointing listed in the Panama Papers?
1
Let's hope that this experience will reawaken interest in aggressive, accurate, in-depth reporting based upon relentless research. Balanced, fair reporting may appear to be impossible to provide given how far we've let our priorities stray, conflating capitalism with democracy during at least the past thirty-six years. So, we should expect relentless attacks upon journalism in general, as well as intimidation of specific organizations and individuals at particular instances.
As for a particular real-estate empire, it does seem that some apparently well-educated people can't separate nuts from bolts, not knowing there's a deference.
As for a particular real-estate empire, it does seem that some apparently well-educated people can't separate nuts from bolts, not knowing there's a deference.
5
NYT: Please continue to hit this issue hard and consistently: point out our Constitution's Article 1, Section 9, specifically: "...and no person holding any office of profit or trust under them, shall, without the consent of the Congress, accept of any present, emolument, office, or title, of any kind whatever, from any king, prince, or foreign state." and see: https://thinkprogress.org/electoral-college-trump-top-lawyers-8a8b6e0ca9...
9
This might be a good time to audit the amount of gold bullion reserve in Fort Knox. Who knows what will be missing after January 20, 2017?
5
The Trump campaign was the biggest con in history, aimed solely at glorifying and enriching himself. 62 million Americans fell for it.
12
And why was the obvious conflict of interest largely ignored bu the New York Times?
Because, this newspaper choose the lazy path of reporting the "news" by incessantly reporting on the low=hanging fruit of Hillary Clinton's emails and her "trustworthiness" and Donald Trump's "entertaining" over-the-top rhetoric which dominated the news cycle in this newspaper, thus denying the voters about the real dangers of a Donald Trump presidency until it was too late.
So, once again New York Times, thanks for nothing!
Because, this newspaper choose the lazy path of reporting the "news" by incessantly reporting on the low=hanging fruit of Hillary Clinton's emails and her "trustworthiness" and Donald Trump's "entertaining" over-the-top rhetoric which dominated the news cycle in this newspaper, thus denying the voters about the real dangers of a Donald Trump presidency until it was too late.
So, once again New York Times, thanks for nothing!
2
While it's great to share your thoughts with NYT, EVERYONE needs to write / call their Senator & Congess person about this issue. It's funny how coming in everyday to a full email / voicemail box, sways their opinion.
6
If HRC had been elected, wasn't Chelsea going to run the Clinton Foundation? Dems paved the way by shutting their eyes to the corruption going on with the Clinton Foundation.
The Clinton Foundation is a charity. It is not a privately held profit-making business like the Trump Organization.
5
Conflicts of interest are clear, the real question is who or what institution is going to be able to protect the integrity of the office and hold Trump accountable to disclose and divest his assets. Republican congress? Media? Doubt it. It is going to take some incredible investigative journalism and a real smoking gun; a pile of evidence so damaging that even Rebublican members of congress will not be able to turn a blind eye without fear of insulting and alienating their constituency. Unfortunately, the Trump team has muzzled the media to an extent to which his supporters don't care and don't believe anything they see or hear in the news that is negative to their beloved leader. However, I have no choice but to put my trust and faith in the NYT and other reputable news outlets. This is going to be the fight of our lifetime, please don't disappoint and let us down.
5
The electoral college should keep these conflicts in mind when the vote on December 19. They could keep this con artist out of the White House.
6
Where was this information and analysis BEFORE the election when it might have mattered? Once again, it's too little, too late. There was (and is) plenty of evidence that Donald Trump (and his co-conspirators) is a stone cold criminal interested only in his own well-being at the expense of everyone else. The Republican Party (and, unfortunately, the rest of us) is about to reap what it has sown with thirty years of lying and cheating. We now have the poster boy that will make the previous three decades pale into insignificance by comparison. Buckle your seat belts, folks. You're in for a bumpy - and expensive - ride!
3
It appears the Bank of China is a state owned entity. B of C rents space in Trump Towers, i.e. Trump and/or his companies are B of C's landlord. If Trump wants to raise the rental rates, he could move to do so and then say--we can renegotiate your rent and give you a break. In return I want something from you and/or the Chinese government. Or he could renegotiate the $900,000,000 lean he has from the B of C and seek a quid pro quo. Seems either would be in violation of the Federal Bribery Act. But the FBI and Congress will be under Republican control. So how likely is it that Federal bribery law will be applied? Can a U.S. Attorney start an investigation on her own, without the blessing of the FBI/Congress and seek an indictment? Are there lawyers who can weigh in on this?
4
Trump says the conflict of interest laws do not apply to him because he will be President of the United States.
However, none of his children are POTUS. There are laws against corruption, and against influencing elected officials. Maybe the way to shut him down is to look into penalizing his children if they violate corruption laws by influencing him. When Jimmy Carter was President, people investigated his brother Billy for possible corruption. So there is precedent.
What is he going to do, pardon them again and again?
However, none of his children are POTUS. There are laws against corruption, and against influencing elected officials. Maybe the way to shut him down is to look into penalizing his children if they violate corruption laws by influencing him. When Jimmy Carter was President, people investigated his brother Billy for possible corruption. So there is precedent.
What is he going to do, pardon them again and again?
9
Let's all do what the right wing and Republicans do: Flip a switch and make all of the conflicts of interest disappear. Now..before we do that, how about we start with the fact that the Penthouse President Elect was slapped with that FinCEN fine from the U.S. Treasury for money laundering to terrorists at the Taj Mahal.
Everyone in NJ knows he was ferrying his Middle Eastern High Rollers to the Taj aboard that private helicopter across the Bay to his casino. He was warned three time to cease and desist. He did what he always does, ignored rules and regulations he feel are for the "little people" as his arch enemy the Queen of Mean, Leona Helmsley once announced regarding paying taxes.
This is a matter of government record. Why do the Republicans continue to pretend it never happened? Do they intend to allow him to do what GWB did to the millions of records that implicated Daddy in Iran ContraGate? Hold a shredding party to destroy government documents?
The Penthouse President made a fool of himself the minute he started in on Islam. This was smoke and mirrors for him getting zapped with that FinCEN fine he now blames his Middle Eastern high rollers for.
When do you people think this loony plans to take responsibility for what he does? Or is this now the New Age of Irresponsibility?
Everyone in NJ knows he was ferrying his Middle Eastern High Rollers to the Taj aboard that private helicopter across the Bay to his casino. He was warned three time to cease and desist. He did what he always does, ignored rules and regulations he feel are for the "little people" as his arch enemy the Queen of Mean, Leona Helmsley once announced regarding paying taxes.
This is a matter of government record. Why do the Republicans continue to pretend it never happened? Do they intend to allow him to do what GWB did to the millions of records that implicated Daddy in Iran ContraGate? Hold a shredding party to destroy government documents?
The Penthouse President made a fool of himself the minute he started in on Islam. This was smoke and mirrors for him getting zapped with that FinCEN fine he now blames his Middle Eastern high rollers for.
When do you people think this loony plans to take responsibility for what he does? Or is this now the New Age of Irresponsibility?
5
Good to know before I vote.
1
What is it that Donald Trump could do that would cause the American people to reject him in sufficient numbers to make him go away? The answer should be disgustingly obvious by now. He is the golden goose, and as such he is expected to lay the golden egg no matter what the externalized costs might be. Gone are the days when enough of us care about character and ethics to allow such trivial concerns to tarnish our idealized view of the American Dream.
1
In the same way, Hillary Clinton's policies would've been influenced by decisions to make her donors happy and wealthier, and they in turn would've donated more to their 'foundation'.
I don't see much of a difference. At least this is out in the open.
I don't see much of a difference. At least this is out in the open.
2
Except that Bill, Hillary and Chelsea were going to quit all contact with the foundation if Hillary were elected. That is what Trump and family refuse to do.
Sorry but these are not potential conflicts of interest, they are Real conflicts of interest.
Anyone who believes that our President-elect will not seek to increase the value of his brand and personal wealth while in the oval office has not been paying attention to his behavior since announcing his candidacy.
Even after he won the election I received an email from his campaign offering to sell me a beautiful collectible Make America Great Again Christmas ornament for only $149.00 https://shop.donaldjtrump.com/products/red-cap-collectible-ornament?
'Nuff said
Anyone who believes that our President-elect will not seek to increase the value of his brand and personal wealth while in the oval office has not been paying attention to his behavior since announcing his candidacy.
Even after he won the election I received an email from his campaign offering to sell me a beautiful collectible Make America Great Again Christmas ornament for only $149.00 https://shop.donaldjtrump.com/products/red-cap-collectible-ornament?
'Nuff said
11
So where were these articles about Trump's conflicts of interest during the election? Among the missing while the NY Times theatrical reviewers turned political reporters salivated over "emails!" and the "optics" of the Clinton Foundation's good works. It's been clear to most people for a year that Trump's focus is on "making the Trump Brand great again." Golly gee. But now it's also clear that the NY Times is no longer in the news business. Instead, it's in the business of making the NY Times Brand great again. #notmynewspaper.
3
Donald, is a Billionaire Businessman with interests all over the world.
He was not some unknown penniless person, who suddenly appeared on the world scene.
We all knew what and who is was.
He loves promoting himself, this is good business, but maybe not good politics. But, don’t hate Trump for being successful.
We cannot blame Donald for expansion, this is the game call capitalism which American’s love.
There will be many conflicts of interest, it is par for the course.
Let’s focus on jobs, social programs and feeding the poor. Trump is not bought and sold like so many career politicians. He has the potential to do great things.
He was not some unknown penniless person, who suddenly appeared on the world scene.
We all knew what and who is was.
He loves promoting himself, this is good business, but maybe not good politics. But, don’t hate Trump for being successful.
We cannot blame Donald for expansion, this is the game call capitalism which American’s love.
There will be many conflicts of interest, it is par for the course.
Let’s focus on jobs, social programs and feeding the poor. Trump is not bought and sold like so many career politicians. He has the potential to do great things.
1
Now you may kiss Trump's ring.
2
How do you know he isn't already bought by the foreign banks he owes millions to?
2
Ask you average Trump supporter what a "conflict of Interest", you will not get an answer, most if not all have not a clue, and they still voted for him......
These "high and mighty" restrictions only apply to Democrats I guess
These "high and mighty" restrictions only apply to Democrats I guess
5
Before we all get too excited about the Emolument Clause of the Constitution, consider how that might work -- or rather not work -- in a practical sense:
Trump is going to immediately appoint the Supreme Court Justice that will tip the balance of the Court back to the right and the Republican agenda. That Republican/right balance will probably be solidified for generations with a second pick during his tenure.
And, as far as impeachment goes, as long as Trump is willing to go along with the Congressional Republican agenda of shilling for the 1% -- not a heavy lift for a billionaire who also will profit from that agenda -- why would they?
So this is another false hope, a nice theoretical idea to be bandied about by Democrat intellectuals, but with no chance of succeeding in the Republican world of power politics which will be controlling all three branches of government. It has the same chance of happening as that revolt by delegates at the Republican National Convention had last summer, or a revolt by electors at the Electoral College will have next month. That is, no chance.
Trump is going to immediately appoint the Supreme Court Justice that will tip the balance of the Court back to the right and the Republican agenda. That Republican/right balance will probably be solidified for generations with a second pick during his tenure.
And, as far as impeachment goes, as long as Trump is willing to go along with the Congressional Republican agenda of shilling for the 1% -- not a heavy lift for a billionaire who also will profit from that agenda -- why would they?
So this is another false hope, a nice theoretical idea to be bandied about by Democrat intellectuals, but with no chance of succeeding in the Republican world of power politics which will be controlling all three branches of government. It has the same chance of happening as that revolt by delegates at the Republican National Convention had last summer, or a revolt by electors at the Electoral College will have next month. That is, no chance.
4
If there isn't a run-off election to restore confidence in democratic government now, the future looks extremely chaotic. The more unpredictability there is, the tougher it is to plan and think effectively.
1
Your analysis is very sound. He must be stopped before taking office or our nation is doomed. Someone knows about his tax returns and the Russian-Trump campaign connections and needs to speak up NOW.
1
This is an excellent job of reporting the news. And as another commenter noted, the Times and other news outlets are going to have to be the watchdogs. There are too many foreign government officials involved, and now they are tied directly or indirectly to the soon to be POTUS and his family.
I can understand Trump not wanting to divest himself of these interests. This is not nearly as simple as selling stocks and putting the funds into a blind trust.
But none of this was a secret during the election. It should have been given a much higher priority. This makes the Clinton Foundation dealings look like a lemonade stand in comparison.
I can understand Trump not wanting to divest himself of these interests. This is not nearly as simple as selling stocks and putting the funds into a blind trust.
But none of this was a secret during the election. It should have been given a much higher priority. This makes the Clinton Foundation dealings look like a lemonade stand in comparison.
27
Instead of applauding the media for these news breaking stories on November 27, we should question why there was not more focus on the conflicts of interest prior to the election. The press and media were lost in the abyss of sensationalism, tweets, name calling and email revelations that were innocuous. Very little time was spent on issues of substance. This is not a story of “potential” conflicts, it is a story of overt conflicts.
Where was this information hiding before the election? These conflicts are so clearly germane to Trump's unsuitability for office.
So why now, not then? Too busy with emails? Disappointment doesn't begin to express my feeling about NYT lapses into click-bait journalism during this campaign.
Like the song says, money changes everything.
So why now, not then? Too busy with emails? Disappointment doesn't begin to express my feeling about NYT lapses into click-bait journalism during this campaign.
Like the song says, money changes everything.
5
Money is the stuff that flows through the circulatory system of a technological civilization. Plutocrats hoard it.
1
The return of the robber barons is upon us.
And one of them is headed for the White House.
Kind of depressing.
Thanks for shining a light, NYT.
And one of them is headed for the White House.
Kind of depressing.
Thanks for shining a light, NYT.
8
Re: Clinton Camp Will Join Recount Efforts
Why not include the video of Hillary Clinton's righteous (or outrageous) comments on the topic from Oct. 19th debate and from subsequent rallies she held? She may want to listen to the lecture she gave to Trump and the rest of us.
Why not include the video of Hillary Clinton's righteous (or outrageous) comments on the topic from Oct. 19th debate and from subsequent rallies she held? She may want to listen to the lecture she gave to Trump and the rest of us.
1
Last time I looked, when being selected for jury duty, you're disqualified from being a member of the jury if you know any of the parties involved- either on the defense or the prosecution, if you or a member of your family have been a victim of the specific crime/complaint of the trial or if you have already reached a judgement of guilt or innocence before hearing all the evidence.
Seems to me the average person going thru jury selection has a higher degree of threshold for proving a conflict of interest when being evaluated for making a decision of the outcome of who was at fault in a civil or criminal trial than the perpetrator of this nation's moral 9/11 and who just became the President and no one can stop him.
And that's how a billionaire sociopath rolls....
Seems to me the average person going thru jury selection has a higher degree of threshold for proving a conflict of interest when being evaluated for making a decision of the outcome of who was at fault in a civil or criminal trial than the perpetrator of this nation's moral 9/11 and who just became the President and no one can stop him.
And that's how a billionaire sociopath rolls....
5
Has anyone noticed that Trump doesn't even bother to attend national security briefings? With all his business dealings how can he be expected to attend to matters pertaining to U.S. security?
God help us.
God help us.
9
Good to see Australia is Trump free!!
3
Questions and considerations that should have been made prior to the election. Instead, news outlets choose to go for cheap gasps with the more salacious aspects of this man, focusing instead on what he had done in the past to a handful of people rather than consider what he could do to the future of an entire planet. Shameful.
4
As Trump surrounds himself with billionaire appointees, his claims of wanting help the little people recede into the sunset. When will these fools wake up?
5
Government of the Trumps, by the Trumps, for the Trumps.
14
The order of action here is skewed. We are going to tell Trump what he can do with his businesses at ascension to the Presidency, not the other way around. If Congress does not step in and stop this bullying by Trump, it will never stop. Trump's way is not our way. The many conflicts of interest that are extant should be eliminated. The Congress must not allow this beat down by an elected officer of our government for his personal aggrandizement, ever.
8
Correction to the article: Anti-Bribery law violations are triggered by payments or promise of payments to foreign government officials to obtain a business advantage. The article incorrectly states these laws only apply to foreign government contracts. Within these laws "payments" include tangible and intangible things of value, such as, cash payments, entertainment, employment, when such payments are made to secure a business advantage.
Seimens AG paid a multi-billion dollar fine for FCPA violations.
Seimens AG paid a multi-billion dollar fine for FCPA violations.
2
Here's the first and clearest test - Cuba
President-elect Trump has said he wants to keep the economic embargo even in the face of Fidel Castro's death but....
Resort/Hotel Developer Trump would be derelict of duty if he didn't move immediately to develop hotel properties in Cuba...
Watch and learn...
President-elect Trump has said he wants to keep the economic embargo even in the face of Fidel Castro's death but....
Resort/Hotel Developer Trump would be derelict of duty if he didn't move immediately to develop hotel properties in Cuba...
Watch and learn...
7
We knew this was coming. We've seen the same headline quite a few times. When pressed, Donald says the president can't have a conflict of interest.
The entire responsibility for keeping this nation on an even keel lies with Paul Ryan and Mitch McConnell.
Since Newt Gingrich, the Republican Party has been comfortable putting party over country. Now, however, we, the people, rely on the GOP to keep the president in check, as they are constitutionally bound to do.
The entire responsibility for keeping this nation on an even keel lies with Paul Ryan and Mitch McConnell.
Since Newt Gingrich, the Republican Party has been comfortable putting party over country. Now, however, we, the people, rely on the GOP to keep the president in check, as they are constitutionally bound to do.
5
"The entire responsibility for keeping this nation on an even keel lies with Paul Ryan and Mitch McConnell."
Now there's a scary thought. There's always 2018!
Trump is safe from Congressional scrutiny as long as he signs whatever bills the GOP presents to him. He might be a crook, but he's THEIR crook, so everything's fine. Move along, nothing to see here.
Now there's a scary thought. There's always 2018!
Trump is safe from Congressional scrutiny as long as he signs whatever bills the GOP presents to him. He might be a crook, but he's THEIR crook, so everything's fine. Move along, nothing to see here.
It's plain that Trump is engaging in graft. He used his presidential campaign to sell his brand, and now he is using his position as president-elect to enrich himself and his family. Let's face it, we are witnessing the beginnings of widespread corruption.
10
I am so tired of the term "uncharted territory." Put some the tax, justice, and other lawyers on it and chart it. As of now the answer seems to be "whatever you say." Once he takes office that will be virtually impossible to "fix" short of impeachment. Congress and the courts are the check. Congress has no stomach for an easy fight, well maybe to hold another year long investigation of Hillary, which will be as fruitful as the past 7 or 9.
The courts will demand standing and I'm not sure who has that. So need a law or a ruling or something to build the case.
We need to see his tax returns. That is the first lever into his financial affairs and potential conflict of interest and he knows it. Congress was trying to pass a law to make it mandatory for POTUS (and maybe candidates) to show his tax return. Do it.
Or electoral college get us out of this hell.
The courts will demand standing and I'm not sure who has that. So need a law or a ruling or something to build the case.
We need to see his tax returns. That is the first lever into his financial affairs and potential conflict of interest and he knows it. Congress was trying to pass a law to make it mandatory for POTUS (and maybe candidates) to show his tax return. Do it.
Or electoral college get us out of this hell.
9
I cannot see how every one of these multifold, clear and troubling conflicts can be resolved in two months.
They aren't going to be.
This man cannot be inaugurated legally. So it follows he will be inaugurated illegally.
The opposition to a fait accompli can never slow or stop.
The Fourth Estate, the citizens, and all opposition parties have a serious task before us. I deeply feel this task will not be completed.
Bush, Cheney, Rove, Gonzales et al—all should have been prosecuted. Because whatever you allow—will continue.
They aren't going to be.
This man cannot be inaugurated legally. So it follows he will be inaugurated illegally.
The opposition to a fait accompli can never slow or stop.
The Fourth Estate, the citizens, and all opposition parties have a serious task before us. I deeply feel this task will not be completed.
Bush, Cheney, Rove, Gonzales et al—all should have been prosecuted. Because whatever you allow—will continue.
13
Absolutely well put, Will from Oakland. He has utter disregard for the Constitution. There is not only no blind trust, but we are being asked for blind faith. Impeach.
11
We need to get the Republicans out of the House and Senate. As long as they control the majority, there will be no way to ever impeach.
5
This comes as a complete shock. Nobody knew before the election. Another great job by the times.
2
Why was this not HAMMERED in the news cycle PRIOR to the election?
I blame the Democrats.
I blame the free press.
I would also blame the GOP and Donald Trump but that's like blaming the criminals for not policing themselves.......
An utter disgrace.
I blame the Democrats.
I blame the free press.
I would also blame the GOP and Donald Trump but that's like blaming the criminals for not policing themselves.......
An utter disgrace.
10
It is complex. I doubt that Trump will alter US policy in exchange for favorable treatment of his businesses abroad. For one, it is a legal tight rope, that could land him in legal trouble. Secondly, he doesn't need to. The weight of his office is enough.
Finally, his business ventures are a two way street. Perhaps Trumps ventures in other countries will influence those countries to be more responsive to US interests.
Having said that, we need to keep an eye on these dealings to insure that US interests are not being compromised.
Finally, his business ventures are a two way street. Perhaps Trumps ventures in other countries will influence those countries to be more responsive to US interests.
Having said that, we need to keep an eye on these dealings to insure that US interests are not being compromised.
12
Seriously? He doesn't have to but he also is not even trying. Legal tightrope? He thinks he can buy/talk himself out of anything. No one in Congress is going to keep their eyes on anything and his fans as he calls them don't care.
It is not that complex. One simply puts all his assets in a blind trust for the duration of his presidency. I'm sure his team of bright lawyers can handle this for him. If he refuses to do this, then his dealings are questionable, and US interests are indeed extremely vulnerable to being compromised. The "weight of the presidency" is substantial but it does not put him above the law or above the code of ethics in government.
He doesn't mind legal trouble. Laws are not important to the uber wealthy.
2
Mr Trump's business holdings may be our country's saving grace. The Democrats need to take a page from the Bill Clinton era GOP play book and attempt to paralyze Trump's presidency with endless accusations of scandal and criminality. In Trump's case, there appears to be plenty of fodder for legitimate investigation and probable prosecution. It should be possible to entangle his businesses and the president elect in a constant series of costly and embarrassing investigations and lawsuits. I suspect that Trump values his wealth (and his freedom) more than he does whatever political agenda he has. Since he has so far refused to place his assets in a blind trust, one can assume that Trump intends to spend time running his businesses. Without control of the House or the Senate, the Democrats may find it difficult to launch federal investigations. But the distraction of civil and criminal lawsuits brought by US states, individuals and overseas countries and citizens should at least reduce the capacity of Trump's (limited) mind to make mischief as President.
4
Of course, now Trump will try to insure taxpayers pay the legal costs on his behalf!
4
Trump will look at his potential business conflicts the same way he did his taxes: By disdainfully dismissing it as none of of anyone's business. Trump will do what is best for Trump -- and by extension the 1%. And at the end of his presidency, we will have had corruption and crony capitalism that would make Boss Tweed blush.
The working and middle classes will suffer the consequences, just like the contractors and investors that got into bed with him. Unless, of course, you believe there is some grand upside to your life from "building a wall." There are no "good paying manufacturing jobs" coming back to the U.S., only cuts to SS and Medicare by the Republican Congress and President to pay for massive tax cuts to the 1%.
The working and middle classes will suffer the consequences, just like the contractors and investors that got into bed with him. Unless, of course, you believe there is some grand upside to your life from "building a wall." There are no "good paying manufacturing jobs" coming back to the U.S., only cuts to SS and Medicare by the Republican Congress and President to pay for massive tax cuts to the 1%.
232
Medicare Privatization is one of the first items on the agenda. No problem, just take your little voucher to an insurance company, and you will get insurance. I am sure insurance companies want to add a lot of (70-80) year old's to their list.
Thank you to all of the seniors that helped this happen. It is on you.
Thank you to all of the seniors that helped this happen. It is on you.
1
For the first time we need legal protection from our President using his office for personal gain. In retrospect, Trump's refusal to give his tax returns was brilliant setting up a pattern he clearly intends to follow in office. How do we know Trump is acting in our country's interests rather than his own? Is he wealthy or is he so in debt to German, Chinese, (and Russian?) banks that he has been bought before he won the election? Oh right, just trust him as he and his children say.....
247
The problem is if someone can be bought they can just as easily be sold.
Obama should propose a law prohibiting conflicts of interest as any other Federal employee NOW and dare the Republicans to shoot it down in the Lame Duck session. Do it before Dec 19. Have it become effective immediately. What does he and the country have to lose?
"Trump First" or "America First"...? not sure which is the focus of the President-Elect or the yes men and women he surrounds himself with.
4
The Donald has business overseas but he denounces like Apple, Ford, Carrier, Walmart to name a few that do business overseas. Double standard. Hypocrisy. What a lament for folks who voted him.
5
Trump is conducting so much of his future business ventures abroad because he has so many legal problems in the US and has incurred the wrath of many in the business and financial community. After so many bad experiences many do not want to business with him at all.
While I rarely have much sympathy with the brotherhood of high finance and corporate America, they happened to correct in this case. The man is a liar, cheat, and fraud. A man so dishonest ever the dishonest don't like him. Dishonesty being relative by degrees in this case.
While I rarely have much sympathy with the brotherhood of high finance and corporate America, they happened to correct in this case. The man is a liar, cheat, and fraud. A man so dishonest ever the dishonest don't like him. Dishonesty being relative by degrees in this case.
4
Well, Mitt Romney once laughed and said, "corporations are people."
Now we have Donald Trump (and his family, and his cultists) laughing in our faces and saying "the US Presidency is a corporation, and a private one at that."
Welcome to the Oligarchic States of America, with Trump crowning himself Kleptocrat-in-Chief.
Here we have a man who has already started to monetize the highest office in the land - for private gain - and he's still eight weeks away from entering the Oval Office.
This is not going to end well - for Trump or for the country. Of course, Trump being Trump, and Republicans being Republicans, will find someone else to blame.
Now we have Donald Trump (and his family, and his cultists) laughing in our faces and saying "the US Presidency is a corporation, and a private one at that."
Welcome to the Oligarchic States of America, with Trump crowning himself Kleptocrat-in-Chief.
Here we have a man who has already started to monetize the highest office in the land - for private gain - and he's still eight weeks away from entering the Oval Office.
This is not going to end well - for Trump or for the country. Of course, Trump being Trump, and Republicans being Republicans, will find someone else to blame.
5
Trump properties will be prime targets around the world not only for protests but terrorism. Will he be taking the US to war to protect them?
275
That's a terrifying thought. I would hope not.
Frankly, I could not care less about whether Donald Trump's properties around the world might be targets for terrorists, except for the fact that some innocents, like property staff or some passerby might be among the victims.
But of course, do not expect a one-percenter like Donald Trump to really give a darn about this, because he never cared one whit for the average person to begin with.
But of course, do not expect a one-percenter like Donald Trump to really give a darn about this, because he never cared one whit for the average person to begin with.
I just asked the same question over breakfast with my family. It's terrifying, really. If one of his buildings is targeted, he will of course treat it as if it is an embassy, which it is not. Good god, what have we done?
"America's reaction could possibly shaded"... Are you kidding? Trump should not be allowed to take the oath of office UNTIL he at least creates a TRUE blind trust without his children involved. Chances are dealing is already going on. This is precisely what the spirit of the Constitution forbids.
6
It is naïve to think that Donald Trump will not conduct business as usual despite holding office. His children, if they are managing the business, will be de facto representatives of the president. What kind of a vetting process are the Trumps prepared to institute for potential business partners now that Donald is president? Will they weed out the kleptocrats who have stolen pension funds or looted national treasuries, or will they warmly embrace anyone with luxury property to develop and several hundred million dollars? The state department will be working extra duty every time the Big Fish, Donald, swallows a worm with a hidden hook and compromises our nation’s best interests and the office of the president.
123
He has already had his kids - and kid-in-law - attending business meetings with him, and meeting with representatives of foreign governments. Given that there are probably interests that haven't even been dug up, would we ever know?
So, Donald is going to run his business from the White House, and run the country? Yo Ivanka: American Idea,Why doesn't Donald simply DONATE all his profits from his businesses to a few worthy charities (Planned Parenthood!) and buy, win back the other half of the USA? And, how about setting a series of "The Apprentice," in the WH, make a smash hit, win an Oscar on top of the Nobel Peace Prize after he (with son-in-law behind the scenes) achieves an accord between the Palestinians and Israelis? All the world's a stage, Donald, and you get to play it, bigly. UGH.
7
Duh. And why didn't this article run BEFORE the election?
16
Because Hillary's emails and "trustworthiness" and Donald Trump's outrageous statements were phoned in by their political "reporters" and approved by this newspaper's lazy management that was more concerned with generating click-bait than actually encouraging reporting about the REAL issues in this campaign.
2
NYT: please stop pussyfooting around Trump. The press not calling him for what he really is - a cheat and a liar who wants to commit war crimes - is what helped get him elected.
This is guaranteed conflict of interest. This is not 'potential' conflict.
This corruption will sully what was previously the most hallowed position in our country: the presidency.
This is a tragedy for our country and we need to be honest about it.
This is guaranteed conflict of interest. This is not 'potential' conflict.
This corruption will sully what was previously the most hallowed position in our country: the presidency.
This is a tragedy for our country and we need to be honest about it.
19
It is a virtual certainty that there will be conflicts of interest. Let's hope quid pro quos are not given in policy. It is unlikely and maybe impossible for Trump and Trump family to completely extricate themselves from all potential conflicts. His counsel will have his hands full and fortunately Trump has picked an experienced and wise hand at this. Sure they could sell everything and convert it to cash or sell the entire business in a sort of fire sale but is that realistic? We elected a man with an enormous domestic and international business. This was not unforeseen.
1
I am as disgusted by trump's "taste" in gaudy baroque furnishings as I am by this never ending, unseemly pandering, schmoozing, badgering, extorting grifting. The man, as we know, has no morals. But the mass of evidence is like a stinking pile of manure. Tarnishing our nation. Spattering all of us in its fetid, ever-growing pit of smelly "deals".
On top of that we have a GOP gleeful about pulling Medicare and Social Security out from under the feet of the elderly. Of which I am one.
This is so disheartening. This is deeply disturbing. This weighs heavily on too many people who are sick, old and feeble. Attacking such people is a crime!
Grifting all over the world is a crime!
What can the elderly do, except call on the Electoral College to right this terrible wrong. To listen to the call of the Founders, who feared that voters might be hoodwinked, so they arranged for cooler heads to rise above the fray and Right the Ship of State.
There is no reason to wait. We've seen enough! And we surely have seen just the tip of a reeking iceberg.
Every day I wake up with a sense of shock.
I appreciate all our Free Press is doing to investigate the ever-expanding secret tunnels leading to buried misdeeds named Trump.
When will good men and women act? The Electors must ponder the plight of the nation, the plight of the old and sick. They must remember: "Evil flourishes when good men do nothing."
Evil sits on the doorstep of each Elector.
On top of that we have a GOP gleeful about pulling Medicare and Social Security out from under the feet of the elderly. Of which I am one.
This is so disheartening. This is deeply disturbing. This weighs heavily on too many people who are sick, old and feeble. Attacking such people is a crime!
Grifting all over the world is a crime!
What can the elderly do, except call on the Electoral College to right this terrible wrong. To listen to the call of the Founders, who feared that voters might be hoodwinked, so they arranged for cooler heads to rise above the fray and Right the Ship of State.
There is no reason to wait. We've seen enough! And we surely have seen just the tip of a reeking iceberg.
Every day I wake up with a sense of shock.
I appreciate all our Free Press is doing to investigate the ever-expanding secret tunnels leading to buried misdeeds named Trump.
When will good men and women act? The Electors must ponder the plight of the nation, the plight of the old and sick. They must remember: "Evil flourishes when good men do nothing."
Evil sits on the doorstep of each Elector.
8
Come to think of it, we are heading for trouble. Orson Welles, The War of the Worlds. Richard W. Painter's emoluments fold into the way real estate mavens do business. They make the arcana of our most sincere arbitrageurs at Bob Freeman and Rubin's Goldman, Sachs, Ivan F. Boesky & Company, Wasserstein of FOB, Robert Barry Allardice III of Morgan Stanley seem pikers. The tax return of these folks is Ulysses by Joyce, descriptive poetry, codes, footnotes akin to death relief, the parties unable to release each in perpetuity. So, guess what: a constitutionally defined presidential emolument will be redefined. It will be so impossible for all those involved to prove they are not so engaged, for proving the negative is a null set of effort in the law, with the pyramidal complexity and endlessly nauseating effort to defy disclosure seen for what it is in that office, Rosemary Woods' 18 minutes: cause for impeachment - pure and simple. That will bring up Mr. Pence... who may seem the best defense Mr. Trump will have, but congress will execute a two for one in this case, for the VEEP in question here is a virtual drone clone operated by his master from the 3 floor glass penthouse. It's 119 minutes, Rosebud and the American Flyer, Citizen Kane (1941) Orson Welles, Herman Mankiewicz, John Houseman. Agnes Moorehead, Dorothy Comingore, move over, we have Ivana, Ivanka, Barron, Melania and Marla. Fifth Avenue to Palm Beach. The White House is for show.
Liar, liar, pants on fire.
Liar, liar, pants on fire.
1
Robert Schiller wrote in a story on NYT today : "To be truly successful, Mr. Trump shouldn’t shoot for flashes of genius with immediate results."- the problem with Prof Shiller's advice was that Trump would shoot in his foot while remaining completely unaware before any flicker of his genius come on to the fore!
He is struggling even to recognize that there exists a potential web of conflict of interest cases at home and abroad .
He is struggling even to recognize that there exists a potential web of conflict of interest cases at home and abroad .
1
In justifying that sea wall off the Irish coast to the Irish government, Trump and his people cited the risk of global climate change. More hypocrisy.
8
I wouldn't be surprised if the Republicans impeach him if he opposes Paul Ryan's measures to privatize our social safety net--and they'll cite Trump's myriad international business entanglements as grounds for the impeachment. Then Pence will be take over, and we'll have a quasi-theocracy. But whether Trump is impeached or not, we're cooked.
4
Don't hold your breath on the roll on congressional oversight. I predict eerie silence from Jason Chaffetz and Trey Gowdy.
The oligarchs have nearly completed world domination. That's why Putin is so pleased with the Trump win. The US and the world may never be the same.
The oligarchs have nearly completed world domination. That's why Putin is so pleased with the Trump win. The US and the world may never be the same.
1
It's not as though we have anything to worry about, right? If Donald Trump were not the most upright, honest, accountable, fair, and forthright businessman, this might be a colossal ethics nightmare in the making, but.....hey, it's Donald!
3
Who can stop this from happening? Electoral college? Congress? Supreme Court? What is the mechanism for enforcing the Emoluments Clause?
5
And the minority of the American people whose votes delivered a meaningful Electoral College majority to Donald Trump do not care about any apparent nor real conflicts of interests domestic or foreign. While Donald Trump is a natural born rich royal juvenile delinquent beyond reform and rehabilitation.
4
Until the Electoral College decides, no one has won. He has compared himself to the military heroes who won purple hearts and medals of valor. He said he has a different type of sacrifice. Well here is is opportunity to show he is willing to sacrifice, to put the country ahead of his family and fortune, just as thousands of enlisted people do every day. He should turn his holding over to a third party to liquidate and reinvest in a blind trust. That is what he needs to do, or the Electoral College should do its job and pick Hillary.
10
His decisions will be wholly shaded by his business history. He has already said that he is proud of his conflicts of interest and there's nothing you can do about it. He just declare that there is no conflict of interest. America has just elected the most corrupt president they've ever had.
4
Dear Mr. Chaffetz,
Would you like to comment on this article? Any thoughts?
Or will you and your GOP buddies just look the other way?
Or will you say Dems/Clinton = BAD and GOP/Trump = GOOD play for pay?
Would you like to comment on this article? Any thoughts?
Or will you and your GOP buddies just look the other way?
Or will you say Dems/Clinton = BAD and GOP/Trump = GOOD play for pay?
5
You have to hand it to the guy- if branding is what you sell what better way to do it than as President of the United States? He is very proud of using dysfunctional laws to enrich himself. He has made no secret that this is what he is all about.
9
It seems like Trump owns the naming rights to these properties and of course he collects a high percentage for the use of his name. But who has the has the actual ownership and liability for these properties? His empire seems intangible,
Kodak was a great brand. Polaroid was a great brand. Take a picture, The Trump brand might be just another brand that has reached its peak.
Kodak was a great brand. Polaroid was a great brand. Take a picture, The Trump brand might be just another brand that has reached its peak.
44
As much as anything else, terrorists act to attract news coverage. That is how they hope to get their message out there, and to instill fear.
If terrorists preferentially attack buildings that have his name on them BECAUSE his name is on them, knowing that will get them infinite coverage, his brand will be worth less than nothing.
Who needs to put up a sign that basically says "kick me please"? Who needs to visit a location that is clearly a preferred terrorist target?
If terrorists preferentially attack buildings that have his name on them BECAUSE his name is on them, knowing that will get them infinite coverage, his brand will be worth less than nothing.
Who needs to put up a sign that basically says "kick me please"? Who needs to visit a location that is clearly a preferred terrorist target?
Do everything you can to make it happen!
1
We can only hope.
1
He should take the presidential salary and turn over all of his business dealings to the American people that he cares about so much. Or has this all been a scheme to 'Make an American rich again'?
3
Those who don't care if Trump separates from his businesses, don't care if he is corrupt.
6
What will happen when Trump makes the population of one of these foreign cities angry at him? When they come to protest or attack the buildings with his name on it, will there be some expectation that American troops protect it?
Can you imagine if there were an Obama hospital chain or a Bush owned a baseball team? (Oh wait, that second example is probably a bad one.)
Can you imagine if there were an Obama hospital chain or a Bush owned a baseball team? (Oh wait, that second example is probably a bad one.)
6
Trump ran for President to further his brand. Now that he ended up as President he's going to use that opportunity to enrich himself and his friends at the expense of everyone else, as he has done all his life. Watch and see, America, and grieve for what might have been.
15
There are not only the conflicts mentioned in the article, there are potentially future conflicts. Would there be anything to stop the President from making a deal with Putin in which Russia would get Eastern Europe and the Trump organization would be permitted to develop Crimea as a casino-tourist destination?
3
Yay, NYT.
First you berate Trump for claiming he is wealthy and call him a failed businessman and a liar. Now you do a 180 and paint him as a global gazillionaire whose tentacles threaten the integrity of the presidency. Which is it?
But then again you gave a complete pass to the Clinton Foundation, that cut deals with a laundry list of the world's most oppressive regimes in exchange for the promise of sweet favors when HRC was elected.
What's worse, building a hotel in Manila, or profiting from the sale of uranium to the Russians?
Your hypocrisy and that of your lapdog readers is truly breathtaking.
First you berate Trump for claiming he is wealthy and call him a failed businessman and a liar. Now you do a 180 and paint him as a global gazillionaire whose tentacles threaten the integrity of the presidency. Which is it?
But then again you gave a complete pass to the Clinton Foundation, that cut deals with a laundry list of the world's most oppressive regimes in exchange for the promise of sweet favors when HRC was elected.
What's worse, building a hotel in Manila, or profiting from the sale of uranium to the Russians?
Your hypocrisy and that of your lapdog readers is truly breathtaking.
4
You people really are deluded by false equivalence. Nobody got promises for donating to the Clinton Foundation. They did get referrals and introductions, which is something every last politician out there does.
1
It says plenty about you that you don't seem to care about this at all!
By the way, your uranium assertion is so fantastically wrong that anything else you say becomes null and void!
By the way, your uranium assertion is so fantastically wrong that anything else you say becomes null and void!
1
Have you worked out who will pay for security around Trump buildings in foreign countries not necessarily friendly to the USA when they are threatened? Will US soldiers be put in harms way to protect this man's global assets? Have you considered that Trump's ascent means America works for Trump and not the other way around? I don't think the issue here is hypocrisy as much as it is facing the realities of this major electoral disturbance.
2
Just, THANK YOU. And please keep up this kind of journalism, and provide six reporters with the resources they need!
10
With Trump, we have to assume the world will be his playground for business related corruption. He has just paid 25 million for defrauding thousands of people out of their money, some whose life savings were wiped out. He has dubious other relations with known entities, and then there are those we do not know about because Trump will not make his tax returns public. He said throughout the campaign he would do so, but we see that was just another of his lies. And what can we conclude from this refusal but he has a great deal to hide. It will be of little consequence to his supporters, we assume, that they simply do not care how corrupt Trump will be, or to hold him to account for his claims, even exceedingly stupid ones such as the following he made at his rallies: "If Hillary is elected, she will bring 632 million people into the country in a week." This is the biggest obvious lie I have ever heard from a politician, and even the supporters, who often showed more than a bit of stupidity, seemed to accept, as they did the other lies. We are in for the greatest level of corruption in over a hundred years, and the only thing we can do is protest against Trump every day and every way.
7
Trump is like a kid in the candy store--positively giddy over the improved prospects for expanding his business interests as President. Much too busy to participate in security briefings for instance. Please start reporting more on our de facto President Pence. Don't know much about him other than his obviously scary views regarding the gay community.
6
Mr. Trump is going to do what ever he wants for the entire time he is in office. All the noise and outrage that his critics, whether Democrat or Republican, make will not matter for three reasons:
The media in all it's formats will continue to promote his ever evolving agenda just as it gleefully covered his every move during his campaign. They follow the money. He NEVER pays for advertising.
Calls for his impeachment by anyone in Congress will fall on deaf ears. Any Republicans dissenting will promptly face a primary.
He will fashion a Supreme Court that will be worthless to anyone but him.
It's already happening.
Enjoy the ride.
It's what happens when the MAJORITY of eligible voters registered or not DON'T VOTE.
The media in all it's formats will continue to promote his ever evolving agenda just as it gleefully covered his every move during his campaign. They follow the money. He NEVER pays for advertising.
Calls for his impeachment by anyone in Congress will fall on deaf ears. Any Republicans dissenting will promptly face a primary.
He will fashion a Supreme Court that will be worthless to anyone but him.
It's already happening.
Enjoy the ride.
It's what happens when the MAJORITY of eligible voters registered or not DON'T VOTE.
4
With concerted effort, he should be able to catch up to the 200MM+ in ill-gotten claims earned by the Clintons with their speeches for various and sundry groups seeking US political influence. Now that the Clintons are out of power, donations to their “Foundation“ are plummeting.
http://nypost.com/2016/11/20/donations-to-clinton-foundation-fell-by-37-...
http://nypost.com/2016/11/20/donations-to-clinton-foundation-fell-by-37-...
2
So when is the FBI going to investigate Trump's 'charitable' (?) foundation?
It would seem from last week's tax filing that Trump has been using charitable donations as his personal and business cookie jar.
Who has paid who off?
It would seem from last week's tax filing that Trump has been using charitable donations as his personal and business cookie jar.
Who has paid who off?
11
I have a major major problem with this crazy man and his billions which he seems prone to throw around to get what he wants. Also, this "let's give him a chance" mantra reminds me of the fact that Hitler was in Poland in less than a year after his move to power. So he power brokers in the United States need to go after this scheme of global President. After all Caeser also had vast holdings all over the world. Look to history - always repeats.
9
My fear is that this will be the last time we hear of this from the NYT. Let's hope the Washington Post has another courageous dynamic duo who will Follow the Money. There is a reason why congress is so silent on this issue.
8