Trump has never shown that he cares about anyone else besides himself, his loyal insiders, and his family. He has 8 days to divest of his businesses and put his presidential priorities in order: country first.
Unless he is hoping to be impeached, I don't see how he can lead without a vortex of conflicts of interest distracting him and the public. Between dealmaking that seeks to curry favor with the Trump clan and the potential for riots and protests at the Trump properties worldwide, these conflicts will make headlines and affect policy.
The job of president requires the utmost focus. Trump succeeded to win the Oval Office. It is the most important job in the world. All else is a distant second. Choose, Mr. Trump: your country or your business.
Unless he is hoping to be impeached, I don't see how he can lead without a vortex of conflicts of interest distracting him and the public. Between dealmaking that seeks to curry favor with the Trump clan and the potential for riots and protests at the Trump properties worldwide, these conflicts will make headlines and affect policy.
The job of president requires the utmost focus. Trump succeeded to win the Oval Office. It is the most important job in the world. All else is a distant second. Choose, Mr. Trump: your country or your business.
4
Trump could turn the White House into an overt brothel with price lists on the door for buying presidential decisions and appointments.
And the only reaction from the GOP Congress would be to open investigations into Benghazi and Hillary's emails while Putin instructs Trump on methods of eliminating political opponents.
Welcome to the end of the American republic.
And the only reaction from the GOP Congress would be to open investigations into Benghazi and Hillary's emails while Putin instructs Trump on methods of eliminating political opponents.
Welcome to the end of the American republic.
5
I hope the crowds at the inauguration of the illegitmate "president" will tell him where to go. It's either Trump going to hell or the USA.
4
Trump repeatedly says that he can not have a conflict of interest because there is no law prohibiting the president having a conflict of interest.
The last part is true, but it has no logical connection to the first part.
What he should be saying is that there is no law prohibiting from having a conflict of interest, and therefore any conflicts of interest that he does have are not breaking a law.
His proposal for putting his holdings into a trust run by his closest family leaves him with massive conflicts of interest.
Whether that bothers the congressional members who are responsible for legislation, or the Trump supporters in the electorate is another question.
The last part is true, but it has no logical connection to the first part.
What he should be saying is that there is no law prohibiting from having a conflict of interest, and therefore any conflicts of interest that he does have are not breaking a law.
His proposal for putting his holdings into a trust run by his closest family leaves him with massive conflicts of interest.
Whether that bothers the congressional members who are responsible for legislation, or the Trump supporters in the electorate is another question.
5
What he doesn't seem to get is that his conflicts-of-interests problem is not legal but moral and political: did he do this, that or the other thing, consciously or unconsciously, to benefit the country or himself ? If too many of his decisions are under a cloud of doubt about his conscious or unconscious motives, he will have no moral authority, and without that his presidency will be much more contentious and less productive than it could and should be.
2
This article only proves that there are indeed rare instances when you can take the Fabricator-in-Chief at his word. (Does he have a 'word'?). He once said that he could shoot someone on 5th avenue and get away with it. So here is one verifiable instance when he spoke the truth. He has indeed been getting away with murder ever since.
8
So many Trump defenders have latched onto the "Nelson Rockefeller" defense his lawyer offered up in the press conference.
The only problem is that it's blatantly untrue.
Rockefeller's wealth was a huge cause of concern, even though he had already served three terms as governor of New York.
Rockefeller declared all of his assets and trust funds and places them in a blind trust before he was confirmed.
Just more classic misinformation to muddy the waters by the Trump Team.
The only problem is that it's blatantly untrue.
Rockefeller's wealth was a huge cause of concern, even though he had already served three terms as governor of New York.
Rockefeller declared all of his assets and trust funds and places them in a blind trust before he was confirmed.
Just more classic misinformation to muddy the waters by the Trump Team.
5
The entity that will hold Trump's assets is a "grantor trust" for tax purposes. That means Trump can revoke the trust at any time. So much for avoiding conflicts of interest.
3
Listening to NPR this morning, I heard a segment exploring criticisms from Mr. Shaub and co around Trump's divestiture plans. When asked what Trump could do to satisfy them in this area, the response was something to the affect of ... liquidate his entire base of assets and put the proceeds into US treasury bonds. That one nearly made me swerve off the road, as I laughed "Get the heck out of here", with maybe a tad more naughty language.
I mean, sure, he should do that right after you Mr. Shaub. Clean out all of your 401k, 403b, IRAs and dump them into treasuries. Aren't you and your ilk, people of influential opinion, feeding at the public trough? What's good for the goose is good for gander. Except, oh wait, no, Hillary would never be asked to recuse herself from The Bill Clinton Foundation. It's a charity, after all, and as we've had it drilled into our heads repeatedly, she has a lifetime of public service, so we were to just blindly trust her to make objective decisions. And it's perfectly OK for besty Huma Abedin to bank roll 1/2 a million a year from the Foundation's international donor base, and of course no probs with Chelsea working there either, but oh no no, Trumps family has to be put completely out of the equation.
I think 100% a blind trust would be appropriate for Trump. But you people, he is making you just crazy, and it is borderline embarrassing to read the neurotic, hypocritical rants every day.
I mean, sure, he should do that right after you Mr. Shaub. Clean out all of your 401k, 403b, IRAs and dump them into treasuries. Aren't you and your ilk, people of influential opinion, feeding at the public trough? What's good for the goose is good for gander. Except, oh wait, no, Hillary would never be asked to recuse herself from The Bill Clinton Foundation. It's a charity, after all, and as we've had it drilled into our heads repeatedly, she has a lifetime of public service, so we were to just blindly trust her to make objective decisions. And it's perfectly OK for besty Huma Abedin to bank roll 1/2 a million a year from the Foundation's international donor base, and of course no probs with Chelsea working there either, but oh no no, Trumps family has to be put completely out of the equation.
I think 100% a blind trust would be appropriate for Trump. But you people, he is making you just crazy, and it is borderline embarrassing to read the neurotic, hypocritical rants every day.
1
I am not a fan of Donald at all but enough is enough; he's built up his business over 50 years; let him distance himself from it a bit and let's move one.
What happens since the ethics chief doesn't approve of his actions? Where are the teeth?
6
He wants to build a wall. And wants us to pay for it. And we all,,, all of us, know that a wall won't stop a mouse, or a man. All walls can be breached.
What a waste of effort and money.
What a waste of effort and money.
7
Trump could sell all of his assets and pay no capital gains tax, under a special exemption available to government officials. The fact that he refuses to do that and refuses to release his tax returns, means that he is clearly hiding something, probably something pretty bad.
3
May fall short? Make that: Will. Just as his plans for the Trump Organization fell short with him at the helm. It is quite astounding to read comments asserting how "great" a businessman Trump is coming from the Hinterlands, from folks who simply do not have a clue how terrible a businessman Trump is.
Trump bungled his very first foray into the Manhattan market when his Commodore Hotel "tremendous deal" went belly-up. He needed Daddy's buttressing, co-signing, and damage control to salvage that and many projects conceived by the ill-equipped Donald.
From the moment Trump set foot in Manhattan, he first ensconced himself on the Upper East Side, spending more time cultivating his reputation as a "ladies man" than a savvy real estate developer. He fancies himself a cross between Hugh Hefner and James Bond, always seen with some eye candy on either arm, Mister Lady Killer he.
During the day Trump dabbled a little in real estate, but his forte was being a helluva party guy. His nights, turning to dawn forays, at dens of inequity like Studio 54's VIP Lounge, got more of his short attention-span than his business. Trump parlayed Daddy's name much the same way George W. did his, who became a Texas oil man whose company Arbusto went el busto.
Like W., Trump traded on his name and that is all he now has left. Banks own Trump, allowing him to use the only thing he has left of value, his name. That same irony allowed him to be president. Suckers all.
DD
Manhattan
Trump bungled his very first foray into the Manhattan market when his Commodore Hotel "tremendous deal" went belly-up. He needed Daddy's buttressing, co-signing, and damage control to salvage that and many projects conceived by the ill-equipped Donald.
From the moment Trump set foot in Manhattan, he first ensconced himself on the Upper East Side, spending more time cultivating his reputation as a "ladies man" than a savvy real estate developer. He fancies himself a cross between Hugh Hefner and James Bond, always seen with some eye candy on either arm, Mister Lady Killer he.
During the day Trump dabbled a little in real estate, but his forte was being a helluva party guy. His nights, turning to dawn forays, at dens of inequity like Studio 54's VIP Lounge, got more of his short attention-span than his business. Trump parlayed Daddy's name much the same way George W. did his, who became a Texas oil man whose company Arbusto went el busto.
Like W., Trump traded on his name and that is all he now has left. Banks own Trump, allowing him to use the only thing he has left of value, his name. That same irony allowed him to be president. Suckers all.
DD
Manhattan
4
"Trump parlayed Daddy's name much the same way George W. did his, who became a Texas oil man whose company Arbusto went el busto."
I mean was W a psychic, or what? Arbusto? He couldn't have been that dumb to name the company, uh, well maybe. Anyway, that was a brilliant and fact laden comment (not just that great line).
How did the Republican party go from respected generals and brilliant legal minds (that eventually went bat crazy, but I digress) to B-list actors and business failures that have ZERO substance behind the facade?
Suckers all, indeed.
I mean was W a psychic, or what? Arbusto? He couldn't have been that dumb to name the company, uh, well maybe. Anyway, that was a brilliant and fact laden comment (not just that great line).
How did the Republican party go from respected generals and brilliant legal minds (that eventually went bat crazy, but I digress) to B-list actors and business failures that have ZERO substance behind the facade?
Suckers all, indeed.
3
The next 4 years have a high probability of being a complete disaster for this country. After watching the train wreck of a "press conference" yesterday full of smoke and mirrors, and All Star pivoting, I am terrified. This man is an arrogant fool, who sold a bridge to many Americans, that he won't be able to deliver. But all of those who have been conned will admire the bright shiny objects that he dangles in front of them as he disrespects the press, screams "fake news" while avoiding an answer to any question. How will the professional press get any type of information out of this fool is beyond me. Keep digging, keep pressing- the veneer will come crashing down.
4
As opposed to the last 8 years which were a disaster to the country. Mr. Trump didn't sell a bridge to the American people but Mr. Hope and Change sure did.
1
other than your "fake news sources" please provide some facts regarding your challenge. But I digress- why should massive reductions in unemployment matter, or the increase in the stock market, elimination of Bin Laden, health care for 20 million more Americans be of any importance to you. Trump has promised you the moon- and all you will get is bread and circuses.
2
It sure appears that the American People were tired of "business as usual" in our government, so much so that there were willing to jump into a boiling cauldron - anything but the staus quo.
I don't think that they will be happy with what they get, as Trump said whatever he needed to say as a con man will tend to do.
Our government is supposed to be of, by, and FOR "We the People", and it has been anything but. It has only served those in government and corporations.
Change, such as it is, came only out of frustration.
Sad but true.
I don't think that they will be happy with what they get, as Trump said whatever he needed to say as a con man will tend to do.
Our government is supposed to be of, by, and FOR "We the People", and it has been anything but. It has only served those in government and corporations.
Change, such as it is, came only out of frustration.
Sad but true.
2
An absolute train wreck. I think his lawyer has a fair point in noting that the sale price of his businesses would (and should) be subject to scrutiny, if he were to sell them off. If there's no way to shield him from that knowledge, it becomes clear that there's no way for him to 'serve' as president.
The only lawful option remaining is for him to resign.
The only lawful option remaining is for him to resign.
3
I wonder how these pages would have dealt with Queen Hillary, who made an absolute fortune while on what she thought would be a brief hiatus from the halls of power, and had Clinton Foundation ties all over the world. Perhaps they would have shut it down, but the cat was already out of the bag.... who knows how much money came in to their pockets in the anticipation of her becoming president.
The die was cast by Bill Clinton transforming the presidency into a pathway to obscene wealth.
The die was cast by Bill Clinton transforming the presidency into a pathway to obscene wealth.
3
I have figured out that the one thing the future Trump administration has, is consistency; they are simply bottomless. They are consistent without any pesky hinderances like integrity, morales, honor, sacrifice. Nothing gets in the way. I think it's nice to find the good traits in people.
I warn you, even after this week not to think they have hit the bottom, it's still to come.
I warn you, even after this week not to think they have hit the bottom, it's still to come.
4
"They are consistent without any pesky hinderances like integrity, morales, honor, sacrifice. Nothing gets in the way."
Now we know that PEOTUS really stands for Psychopath Elect Of The United States.
Now we know that PEOTUS really stands for Psychopath Elect Of The United States.
2
Can we please, please focus on what the Constitution and the law regarding gifts to Federal officials says? Congress needs to investigate. If Trump is suspected to be in violation of long standing Constitutional provisions and current ethics laws then he simply needs to be impeached if he will not alter his situation, and we need to start over with another person. We are only as good as the laws we setup for ourselves and follow.
11
I'd worry more about U.S. foreign and environmental policy becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of ExxonMobil.
3
It sure seems like Trump, as president, exposes his personal life to the public eye. Somebody needs to sue ASAP.
3
Im a super liberal. I voted for Obama twice, and Jill Stein this time. I cant stand Trump.
However, the Democrats expectations for Trump to basically sell all his assets in a firesale and then make a vow of poverty is a bunch of bunk. I am tired of politicians who have to rely on donors to give them money and speeches after they get out of office in order to survive. Hillary was a bad candidate in large part because she relied on super rich donors lile Goldman Sacs to pay her $250000 for a one hour speech. Her and Bill became multimillionaires, but it was all because her donors and corporations gave it to her in exchange for becoming a neo-con.
Trump is beholden to no one, and even though I think he will be a horrible president, I want my future leaders to also not be beholden to the 1%.
I think his plan for divestment is about as good as its going to get. Trump should be allowed to retain his buisiness after he is done being president, hopefully in 4 years.
However, the Democrats expectations for Trump to basically sell all his assets in a firesale and then make a vow of poverty is a bunch of bunk. I am tired of politicians who have to rely on donors to give them money and speeches after they get out of office in order to survive. Hillary was a bad candidate in large part because she relied on super rich donors lile Goldman Sacs to pay her $250000 for a one hour speech. Her and Bill became multimillionaires, but it was all because her donors and corporations gave it to her in exchange for becoming a neo-con.
Trump is beholden to no one, and even though I think he will be a horrible president, I want my future leaders to also not be beholden to the 1%.
I think his plan for divestment is about as good as its going to get. Trump should be allowed to retain his buisiness after he is done being president, hopefully in 4 years.
1
Walter M. Shaub Jr. appointed by Barack Obama and the author of tweets "Shaub was also the author of a series of tweets published on the Office of Government Ethics Twitter account, which gained media attention for breaking from the account's typically serious tone to mimick Donald Trump's tweeting style and congratulate him on his announcement that he would divest himself of his business assets " (Wikipedia)
Nothing like some non-partisanship and that is nothing like non-partisanship. He will be gone soon along with all the other committed progressive Democrats currently infesting the appointed areas of the Federal Government.
Nothing like some non-partisanship and that is nothing like non-partisanship. He will be gone soon along with all the other committed progressive Democrats currently infesting the appointed areas of the Federal Government.
1
"Nothing like some non-partisanship and that is nothing like non-partisanship. He will be gone soon along with all the other committed progressive Democrats currently infesting the appointed areas of the Federal Government."
By all means, just expect everyone to roll over for the bully-in-chief. Man, you just can't see the stalks from the corn.
By all means, just expect everyone to roll over for the bully-in-chief. Man, you just can't see the stalks from the corn.
1
Here's the big question; How long can the American people that didn't vote for Trump tolerate his lying and his aggressive, baiting antics? I'm willing to bet that more people right now despise the President-Elect than any other elected official in our history (maybe aside from Nixon). People that I talk to that didn't vote for Trump do not take a wait-and-see approach. They strongly oppose him and everything he stands for. I don't live in a bubble or an "Echo Chamber" and this is not something Kellyanne Conway can lie-splain away. The fact is that there are many, many well-connected, well-educated, well-organized ANGRY people that are going to do everything they can to take down Trump. We're not going anywhere. He is only one scandal away from a failed Presidency and he hasn't even taken office yet. His arrogance and hubris will cause the Republicans great pain in the years to come
12
Applause to DJT for not being a victim to the bully pulpit of CNN at the press conference Wednesday. Mainstream media is politicized ---- like the NYT.
B'bye media!! Go talk amongst yourselves cuz no one listens to self-important scams.
B'bye media!! Go talk amongst yourselves cuz no one listens to self-important scams.
and yet here you are..
6
Irony is lost on the ironic.
1
Trump tweeted an endorsement of a private company today, telling his followers to by from LL Bean. This is going to be a big adjustment for the president.
Like I said, a civil servant and a salesman have different brain structures. I don't know if he will make it. It may not be possible.
Like I said, a civil servant and a salesman have different brain structures. I don't know if he will make it. It may not be possible.
8
He's already affected stockprices for Boeing, Lockheed Martin and many others through his "pronouncements". It's incredible to think that he will have time to renegotiate all the "stuff", while still doing the job of President. It boggles the mind of just how inappropriate these comments are, and how naive his view of the job is. Maybe his genius lies in the fact he sees himself as redefining the job from the traditional statesman/commander-in-chief role to one of threaten, bully and insult. His term, however brief, will be just a slow motion train-wreck that we just can't stop from watching, while recoiling in horror as to the inevitable result.
It must just kill Alec Baldwin that he's just playing it straight and still getting the laughs. Tina Fey on Palin was just a primer.
It must just kill Alec Baldwin that he's just playing it straight and still getting the laughs. Tina Fey on Palin was just a primer.
1
Well, one thing is certainly clear. No honeymoon period for Trump.
3
I really don't care about a potential conflict of interest for the President. Any decision or directive he issued that would be biased towards his many businesses would be reported instantly by the plethora of news sources. And, if he happened to do something that helped his businesses and also help the rest of businesses I'm all for it. If he leveraged his power for gains specifically for his own business, that would be a different matter. Similarly to Hillary forcing foreign powers to donate to the Clinton Foundation before gaining access to her office in the State Department. Those actions should have been admonished and she should have been forced to stop. If President Trump acted similarly he should also be admonished and forced to stop. But, insisting he sell all of his businesses to avoid a conflict of interest I think is unnecessary. He just needs to avoid a conflict with those interests.
2
"But, insisting he sell all of his businesses to avoid a conflict of interest I think is unnecessary. He just needs to avoid a conflict with those interests."
Trump? Avoiding conflicts of interest? My goodness, Pollyanna, your sensibilities are in for one very rough ride.
Trump? Avoiding conflicts of interest? My goodness, Pollyanna, your sensibilities are in for one very rough ride.
1
1. Mr. Schaub, where were you when The Clintons were getting all the donations to their Foundation and the enormous speaking fees to Bill?
2. Why don't you apply for the job of ethics officer for Trump? You know what to look for.
2. Why don't you apply for the job of ethics officer for Trump? You know what to look for.
Clinton vis not a sitting President.The foundation is under constant review.You can't get Trump to show his tax return.If you have nothing to hide ,then what's the issue?
5
Trump is defiling the presidency, just like he defiles everything else he touches.
7
If only they had let them get rid of the ethics committee, we wouldn't have this problem now !!
5
How much money does a person need to be happy?
4
Some people are more interested in money than happiness. Sad.
4
The Democrats and all interested parties, meaning US citizens, need to develop the emergency appeal NOW to the Supreme Court to rule on whether the Emoluments Clause of the Constitution applies to the President. Only then will we be able to impeach Trump.
4
Trump chose to run for President and therefore we should all expect him to make the sacrifice of selling his businesses and properties and forgoing potential profits. No one forced him into this position, he did it of his own free will. The man already has gobs of money, more than enough to live very comfortably for the rest of his life. He's over 70, an age when most people hope to be retired. He's just showing himself to be greedy and is not taking his new role as president very seriously, although that's no big surprise.
16
It makes sense that he is hanging on with everything he has got. This is all he has known and he is going to try to work every angle to keep it. He never thought he would be president, so only now is it dawning on him what this really means and what he has to give up. He's 70 plus years old, he's not going to change on a dime and without a fight. I would like to see the Republicans come out more strongly against him, to make him correct course. If he is going to be our president, then it's up to them to guide him correctly for the good of all.
8
Despite the fact who really cares besides the Clinton Foundation supporters, this is the best means down the road for Congress--most of whom loathe Trump as much as the NYT "Opinion Kingdom" and "reporters"--to impeach the fellow.
Will take time for Congress to build the case, though. Assuming, of course, the CIA and fellows don't get him first for trashing them--not without merit given their recent and past history. Criminal enterprises are always the most effective, generally speaking. To paraphrase Schumer's warning to Trump a few days back: They can get you.
Will take time for Congress to build the case, though. Assuming, of course, the CIA and fellows don't get him first for trashing them--not without merit given their recent and past history. Criminal enterprises are always the most effective, generally speaking. To paraphrase Schumer's warning to Trump a few days back: They can get you.
6
I'm a Canadian looking from the outside in. If I were an American I would have a major concern with him not liquidating his assets into a trust. He has many properties and hotels overseas that become easy targets for enemies of the US and his policies. Let's say there is a plot that attacked his property in India and a golf course in Scotland. Does he use the American military to protect his private interests and put soldiers lives at risk and use tax payer dollars? The fact that he still has these vested interest in these businesses and the fact that he refuses to let go is simply inviting a situation for him to be distracted from the business of running the country. In my opinion it's not about him profiting, but rather people using his business interests as leverage to goad the US into conflicts or forcing policy change that is not in the interest of the American people.
13
Why would assume that he would use the military to protect his property. You do know we have a Congress. Unlike the current President he is not passing himself off as the new messiah.
You are absolutely correct.
2
Well.....He'd probably have to look at his insurance policy first, if inadequate, then he can send in the cannon fodder.
1
The King Of Fake News calling out the media for Fake News -- now that is really rich -- the man who has trafficked in nothing but fake news, from the birther issue to the fake story (pushed by his national security adviser Gen. Flynn) about Mrs. Clinton and child sex crimes) This behavior is also a "deflection" (pretty soon he will also have the title of King of deflection) from the real issues being #1 Trump's connections to Russia and #2 Trump's connections and business dealings with Russia and #3 Trump's refusal to divest his business holdings. The man is devoid of ethics -- hard to believe that he won (even by the thinest of margins) the presidency.
15
There is no "may" about it. If a judge has any financial connection to/stake in the outcome of a case, s/he must recuse.
How can we allow a LOWER standard applied for the presidency, when the stakes are infinitely higher, affecting ALL of us, quite possibly the very survival - and certainly the security, prosperity, & well-being of the country in the balance?
Trump absurdly appeals to a law exempting the president from "conflict of interest" litigation & the fact that voters knew of his business involvements when electing him. "The president can't have a conflict of interest. The law is totally on my side!" trump ludicrously declared.
Obviously the apparent exemption only exists to avert the danger of a president becoming embroiled in conflict of interest litigation, & the practical difficulties of applying a policy that as written requires subordinates to inform their superiors - who then make determinations, such as requiring recusal, l when the issue arises: obviously a chief executive cannot do that. The only reasonable interpretation is it is up to the president himself to avoid that situation, the financial stake, direct or indirect, in any policy action or decision, just as a judge loses impartiality by such a stake.
As to the voters knowing- the simple answer is a) trump promised to adhere to the ethical standard and is now reneging, and b) the voters were distracted (Comey, wikileaks & myriad scandals deflecting scrutiny); c, the press frankly dropped the ball.
How can we allow a LOWER standard applied for the presidency, when the stakes are infinitely higher, affecting ALL of us, quite possibly the very survival - and certainly the security, prosperity, & well-being of the country in the balance?
Trump absurdly appeals to a law exempting the president from "conflict of interest" litigation & the fact that voters knew of his business involvements when electing him. "The president can't have a conflict of interest. The law is totally on my side!" trump ludicrously declared.
Obviously the apparent exemption only exists to avert the danger of a president becoming embroiled in conflict of interest litigation, & the practical difficulties of applying a policy that as written requires subordinates to inform their superiors - who then make determinations, such as requiring recusal, l when the issue arises: obviously a chief executive cannot do that. The only reasonable interpretation is it is up to the president himself to avoid that situation, the financial stake, direct or indirect, in any policy action or decision, just as a judge loses impartiality by such a stake.
As to the voters knowing- the simple answer is a) trump promised to adhere to the ethical standard and is now reneging, and b) the voters were distracted (Comey, wikileaks & myriad scandals deflecting scrutiny); c, the press frankly dropped the ball.
9
A final, by no means less important - perhaps the *most* important - point is this: Trump dangerously imagines, apparently from the aforementioned apparent exemption, that the prosperity of his business empire cannot be in conflict with good policy- what's good for Trump Street will be good for Main Street (an inevitable conclusion of "the president can't have a conflict of interest." This thinking stems from a businessman's conventional "faith" (exactly what it is) that pursuing his own economic self-interest contributes to/coincides with the general prosperity. Trump's assumption is that a president's self-interest is organically entwined with the national interest, as if he were a king ("l'etat c'est moi"). That mentality is the only reasonable interpretation of Trump's "the president can't have a conflict of interest" (ie, rather than viewing the exemption as a purely pragmatic measure to avoid embroiling the administration in distracting, potentially crippling, litigation).
That Trump thinks this way shows how prone he is to conflating his own prosperity with the common good, & that he will automatically slant decisions & actions to make the two coincide. Faced with a choice that could save the nation at the expense of bankrupting Trump inc., could he do it? No- he would reinterpret the matter to merge both priorities, that'sounds to say, appear to do so. His very tenacity in this matter is a case in point, & preview of what is to come if he doesn't divest fully.
That Trump thinks this way shows how prone he is to conflating his own prosperity with the common good, & that he will automatically slant decisions & actions to make the two coincide. Faced with a choice that could save the nation at the expense of bankrupting Trump inc., could he do it? No- he would reinterpret the matter to merge both priorities, that'sounds to say, appear to do so. His very tenacity in this matter is a case in point, & preview of what is to come if he doesn't divest fully.
4
d) The voters were stupid.
7
PM: yes, that was euphemistically implied in my (b).
2
Ethical objections to the business deals notwithstanding, endeavors to besmirch and sully Trump's impeccable impressions of a virtuous man, may not stick, since a few from an army of lawyers were seen parading thru Trump's tumultuous press conference, yesterday.
Trump's irresistible ire, in general, seemed to pervade the room like a thick cloud. Any attempts, at an assumption, or an objection, could trigger Trump's presumption, and the latter would react with ''his proverbial pomposity and then with a wrath'', much to the chagrin of, shall we say, some viewers.
Trump's truculent behavior was at full display. But then again, any follow up interview of a non-sheepish, and sly Kellyanne Conway, regarding his business and other deals, with Anderson Cooper of CNN could have resulted in her loathsomely circumlocutory answers. As an astute attorney, she handles all the blitz with poise, aplomb, and a foxy smile. Kellyanne's gift of the gab has been serving her and Trump quite well. Some of her Anderson interviews have been reminiscent of boxing bouts, and a few times, Anderson seemed nonplussed.
Welcome to the Trump's universe of glitzy business transactions, florid prevarications and fantasies, and be prepared for certain bolts from the blue. His pugilistic and highfalutin attitudes, at being questioned, on business and other issues, have to be challenged by someone some day.
Trump's irresistible ire, in general, seemed to pervade the room like a thick cloud. Any attempts, at an assumption, or an objection, could trigger Trump's presumption, and the latter would react with ''his proverbial pomposity and then with a wrath'', much to the chagrin of, shall we say, some viewers.
Trump's truculent behavior was at full display. But then again, any follow up interview of a non-sheepish, and sly Kellyanne Conway, regarding his business and other deals, with Anderson Cooper of CNN could have resulted in her loathsomely circumlocutory answers. As an astute attorney, she handles all the blitz with poise, aplomb, and a foxy smile. Kellyanne's gift of the gab has been serving her and Trump quite well. Some of her Anderson interviews have been reminiscent of boxing bouts, and a few times, Anderson seemed nonplussed.
Welcome to the Trump's universe of glitzy business transactions, florid prevarications and fantasies, and be prepared for certain bolts from the blue. His pugilistic and highfalutin attitudes, at being questioned, on business and other issues, have to be challenged by someone some day.
4
This is what you get when you elect a crook as president. Nice work America!
15
Since when did the NYT start caring about ethics? This paper did everything in its power to see that a corrupt queen sashayed into office complete with a tiara so she could sell the U.S. down the river on deals kept hidden on her secret server.
If Mr. Shaub Jr is a person so disturbed by things he considers unethical, he must not have gotten any sleep since Obama appointed him.
It's no secret that the MSM intend to slam and tear apart Trump, not out of some kind of sense of "duty" but out of pure hate and revenge that he dared win the election that the media did their damnedest to manipulate.
Trump ripping the CNN hack was superb. It's time the media get called out and report news, not fabricate it. The media spent the last 8 years coddling and protecting a total idiot whose ultimate goal was to weaken this country. But according to the press, that's ethical.
By the way, isn't it hilarious that the Hollywood community, dwellers of Beverly Hills mansions, is painting itself as a bunch of victims and demands that the press "do its job"?
If Mr. Shaub Jr is a person so disturbed by things he considers unethical, he must not have gotten any sleep since Obama appointed him.
It's no secret that the MSM intend to slam and tear apart Trump, not out of some kind of sense of "duty" but out of pure hate and revenge that he dared win the election that the media did their damnedest to manipulate.
Trump ripping the CNN hack was superb. It's time the media get called out and report news, not fabricate it. The media spent the last 8 years coddling and protecting a total idiot whose ultimate goal was to weaken this country. But according to the press, that's ethical.
By the way, isn't it hilarious that the Hollywood community, dwellers of Beverly Hills mansions, is painting itself as a bunch of victims and demands that the press "do its job"?
What. exactly, did CNN "fabricate"? You need to stop thinking about your hatred of Hillary Clinton and start thinking about the good of this country.
1
Why didn't the media ask to see all those documents sitting on the table that supposedly involved his many different companies?
8
Because it was an obvious, ridiculous stunt. and by the way.....Show your tax returns!
And answer the question: "Did any of your campaign meet with the Russians"?
And answer the question: "Did any of your campaign meet with the Russians"?
1
I thought the same thing! They're probably filled with scrap paper. This guy is a total charlatan. Even if people are willing to excuse his misogyny and bullying, how can you look the other way when the emperor wears no clothes? The office of the president has been reduced to meaningless and actually is a threat to this nation and democracy, beginning January 20.
1
Clearly this issue has stirred comment – but for those who understand ‘conflicts of interest’, as I’ve had to most of my working life, there are at least two parts of the test: (a) can your control or influence, allow you to personally gain from your role, that otherwise would not have been available, and (b) will your decisions cause you to deviate in your ability to carry out that role.
We tend to focus on (a) in this discussion about PEOTUS, but (b) can easily surface if the president were expected to decide on behalf of the American people, but instead decides on personal considerations. The loser becomes the public's welfare.
All of this comes to a final, and seemly simple conclusion: this person must FULLY separate himself from any engagement that influences either (a) or (b).
We tend to focus on (a) in this discussion about PEOTUS, but (b) can easily surface if the president were expected to decide on behalf of the American people, but instead decides on personal considerations. The loser becomes the public's welfare.
All of this comes to a final, and seemly simple conclusion: this person must FULLY separate himself from any engagement that influences either (a) or (b).
3
Business "Trust"
(Ha, Ha, Ha, Ha, Ha, Ha, Ha,...)
I'd refrain from using the word trust in any subject that applies to Donald Trump.
(Ha, Ha, Ha, Ha, Ha, Ha, Ha,...)
I'd refrain from using the word trust in any subject that applies to Donald Trump.
8
Please Mr. Shaub !!! We shan't let such concerns deter us. See you in a couple of weeks for the dismantling of your office !!!
2
So true.....and Donald Jr.(our new ethics officer) will be moving in shortly. Ha ha ha ha ha.
1
So if a president has business holdings, they are to sell them before taking oath? What about Congress - lots of insider trading going on there and no one does anything. Gore owned millions of shares of stocks in 'climate change' companies while he pushed for climate change regulations. Is that a conflict of interest? Or no, because it delights the progressive agenda?
It seems to me that all in politics have holdings that might influence their decisions. Isn't that why we have (had) 3 branches of government? Or is the NYTimes and readers finally concerned about Executive Orders and Memos?
Obama had few holdings (perhaps stocks) as he hadn't really had a job except community organizer. His home in Chicago was purchased from Rahm at below market price, including an adjacent lot that was 'gerrymandered' to avoid extra taxes. Was this a conflict?
I'm not thrilled with Trump, didn't vote for him and don't like his blustery twitters. However, it seems bizarre that he has to sell all his investments to be president. Very bizarre.
It seems to me that all in politics have holdings that might influence their decisions. Isn't that why we have (had) 3 branches of government? Or is the NYTimes and readers finally concerned about Executive Orders and Memos?
Obama had few holdings (perhaps stocks) as he hadn't really had a job except community organizer. His home in Chicago was purchased from Rahm at below market price, including an adjacent lot that was 'gerrymandered' to avoid extra taxes. Was this a conflict?
I'm not thrilled with Trump, didn't vote for him and don't like his blustery twitters. However, it seems bizarre that he has to sell all his investments to be president. Very bizarre.
1
President Obama taught constitutional law at the University of Chicago Law School from 1992 to 2004. His employment as a community organizer took place before he entered law school. He served three terms in the Illinois Senate.
9
Where do you get your information???
1
Honestly, who cares?! He has done more than what is constitutionally demanded of him. He DIDN'T have to do what he has already done. The main stream media likes to harp on anything they can to make news. If he were to ever do anything unethical, it would be found out, and he would be prosecuted. The main stream media would not let such an incidence go without night and day coverage. The repercussions of him doing something unethical with one of his businesses while president greatly outweigh what he could profit from a business deal. He is our president. I didn't vote for him and I thought he was unfit to be president, but he is our (almost) president now. There is nothing we can do to change it. We need to heal. Come together. Act like mature adults and find a way to compromise. I am just so sick of the divisiveness, discord, and division in our country. We all need to step up and "be the bigger person". BOTH on the left and the right. A sign of maturity is being able to agree to disagree without hating, shooting, looting, bad mouthing, and belittling those who are on the opposite side from us.
I'm sure such "main stream media" outlets like Fox and Breitbart will be the first to report any of his ethical breaches.
4
Tell that to the president-elect. He will NEVER be my president. He's out to destroy America with his greed. A true patriot will continue to fight for justice and seek the truth. THAT'S being "the bigger person."
3
If we criticize Trump's divesting plan, then we should change the government's revolving door policy. How do you prevent Wall Street private firm especially Goldman Sachs employees switch and instantly become Secretary of Treasury or Secretary of State? Or stepping down from a high position in the government and instantly become a high paid executive in a Wall Street firms? There is no way to disconnect important information exchange between government and private firms unless you have a change in total rebuild of our government regulations and laws. Blame on the lawyers in the government. They know best how to get around all the hurdles and prevail in the government.
2
Is it really too much to ask of the president-elect to act ethically and morally?
3
You can’t make this up: The corporate law firm currently advising Trump on his business conflicts was named "Russia Law Firm of the Year" last year by a group that ranks legal groups.
Question to judges: How will you judge ethical problems from government employees to ordinary folks when the very top is rotten?
Question to judges: How will you judge ethical problems from government employees to ordinary folks when the very top is rotten?
8
Should Trump or any of his 'senior advisors' read the Times and comment sections, please note that the public does expect Trump to release his tax returns which can be done even during an audit.
Not only does the media want these returns released, but the public does as well.
Not only does the media want these returns released, but the public does as well.
12
Yes, a recent poll shows 67% of Americans are interested in his tax returns. For a guy who was so into birth certificates, this should be easy!
3
The administration's approach seems to violate the first rule every high school debater learns: the burden of proof is on the affirmative.
Here, the plan has finally been presented but there is no discussion of the standard it was designed to meet - except the assertion that the president is exempt from the statute so the plan derives from PE-DT's voluntary desire to adhere to his own ethical sensibilities. Further, it lacks a discussion of how implementing the plan is believed to meet even that subjective standard.
Yes, there is no dearth of credentialed experienced ethicists who vociferously take issue with the asserted standard and the plan's perceived deficiencies. Thus, Americans will hear asserted deficiencies and the administration's rebuttals, in whatever form and forum.
But are not Americans entitled to a president and an administration which, in the first instance, steps up to the high school debate norm, shouldering the burden of proof, in a matter of such gravity? And does so, for example, in the manner that the solicitor general would prepare a brief for the matter to be argued before and decided by SCOTUS. If that manner is not highly desirable if not required here, then when? Is impeachment the only way this democracy can address the issue? If so, in this observer's view, sad.
Here, the plan has finally been presented but there is no discussion of the standard it was designed to meet - except the assertion that the president is exempt from the statute so the plan derives from PE-DT's voluntary desire to adhere to his own ethical sensibilities. Further, it lacks a discussion of how implementing the plan is believed to meet even that subjective standard.
Yes, there is no dearth of credentialed experienced ethicists who vociferously take issue with the asserted standard and the plan's perceived deficiencies. Thus, Americans will hear asserted deficiencies and the administration's rebuttals, in whatever form and forum.
But are not Americans entitled to a president and an administration which, in the first instance, steps up to the high school debate norm, shouldering the burden of proof, in a matter of such gravity? And does so, for example, in the manner that the solicitor general would prepare a brief for the matter to be argued before and decided by SCOTUS. If that manner is not highly desirable if not required here, then when? Is impeachment the only way this democracy can address the issue? If so, in this observer's view, sad.
4
Trump's business trust is not adequate enough? While I get that we need to eliminate as many of the distractions and conflicts of interest as we can, this type of draconian demand that they give up all of their assets is one of the very reasons why excellent, qualified NON politicians dont enter public service. (Im sure George Washington didnt give up his ownership/control of Montecello) We desperately need to have more "citizen legislatures" not less. I prefer to have politicians with little political experience who have a life outside of it.
1
DT is soon a public servant. He needs to understand he is here to serve all citizens. Unfortunately he seems to be confused in that, as citizens in whatever capacity, we are not here to serve him or his interests!
9
How can a plan be "wholly inadequate" when it's not even required?
1
It's getting to be that the only people that can serve are poor or professional politicians with no assets. What kind of a government would that be?
Um, one that is composed of representatives who are a lot like the rest of us 99 percenters?
3
The only reason Donald Trump finds the solution advocated by the Government's Office of Ethics "impractical" is because the president-elect continues to place his own business interests above the interests of the nation. If he cannot adhere to the ethical standards that the job requires, and that every previous occupant of the Oval Office has followed, he should return to the private sector and allow Mike Pence to become president.
7
Agree except for the Mike Pence part.
3
What Trump doesn't get: He was elected by (slightly less than half) of the voters, but now he is the President elect of ALL Americans and the requirements are higher.
It is not just the ones who voted for him that matter, and its not just the media who is asking for his tax returns. He needs to prove to ALL Americans that he can be their President, free of conflicts of interest and foreign government influence.
If he fails that test, impeachment proceedings need to start on Jan 21st.
It is not just the ones who voted for him that matter, and its not just the media who is asking for his tax returns. He needs to prove to ALL Americans that he can be their President, free of conflicts of interest and foreign government influence.
If he fails that test, impeachment proceedings need to start on Jan 21st.
10
So weve elected a prominent member of the exploitative American plutocracy and were wondering why ethics might be his problem and assume that he will help average Americans and Main Street businesses because he already has a lot of his own money? Good luck with that naïve assumption. What is needed is to separate wealth from political office in this country as much as possible. Let's have a farmer or teacher or auto worker run for prez and get rid of Citizens United -- with campaigns limited in length and public financed -- and the avalanche of "bigly" lobbying by corporations and banks. Then we might see some of the Trump voters economic hopes begin to be realized.
7
What qualifies someone to be an ethicist. Is it a theoretical position based on university education and command of rarional and theoretical structures or is it a life well and ethicalky lived? I would like a vetting of the ethicists before they pass judgment on the rest of us. The only one I trust to tell me about a life well and ethically lived is a good or ethical man or woman. All the rest can continue to pat themselves on their backs in silence please.
1
It seems that none of the alternatives assure a complete detachment of the business interests of the Trump organization and the office of the POTUS. Regardless of the level of “detachment” proposed by Mr. Trump, even if amended from yesterday’s proposal (although it’s highly unlikely), wouldn’t alleviate the concerns raised by the ethics committee, the media, and the concerned citizens. It’s because of the history of Mr. Trump’s business practices and the image of such practices created by him on the campaign trail, proudly and arrogantly – tax evasion, shady business ventures, etc. – are hard to ignore and don't leave room for a leap of faith. Had it been a different organization, a different business tycoon in place of Mr. Trump, there could be possibility of devising a plan to address conflicts of interests that is agreeable to the concerned parties.
4
After 1/20/17, Donald Trump will appoint the director of the Office of Government Ethics. From that time forward, ethics will be redefined as "whatever Donald Trump does."
The only way to enforce ethics on Donald Trump will be through impeachment, and he has inoculated himself against that: The name of the inoculation is "President Pence."
The only way to enforce ethics on Donald Trump will be through impeachment, and he has inoculated himself against that: The name of the inoculation is "President Pence."
11
Can we set up a fund to help pay the fine and do the time that would result from a release of Trump's tax returns by someone at the IRS? I believe the penalty is $5,000, 5 years in prison or both. 1,825 people volunteering to do a day each would cover the jail time. I volunteer to be first in line.
11
I am stunned at Trump's attempts to communicate through actual speech. It's a tortured, fractured word salad of non sequiturs, lies and deflections. And the incoherency of his thoughts, and his obvious difficulty to locate and retrieve words, honestly reminds me a bit of my late father's struggle to communicate in the late stages of Alzheimers.
Never mind the absurd measures he's taken to hand over his business to his children ("they won't talk about it with me") and his continuing Kafka-esque responses about his tax returns–I honestly worry about Trump's mental state, especially in conjunction with his terrifying, infantile, needy, fragile personality.
When this man is confronted with the realities of his job, or if he is confronted with incontrovertible evidence of scandal on his part, does he have the intellectual and mental tools to handle it? I think the obvious answer is a resounding NO.
Never mind the absurd measures he's taken to hand over his business to his children ("they won't talk about it with me") and his continuing Kafka-esque responses about his tax returns–I honestly worry about Trump's mental state, especially in conjunction with his terrifying, infantile, needy, fragile personality.
When this man is confronted with the realities of his job, or if he is confronted with incontrovertible evidence of scandal on his part, does he have the intellectual and mental tools to handle it? I think the obvious answer is a resounding NO.
11
Yes, but the meltdown will be really entertaining, painful, but entertaining.
1
In business those that know say nothing, those that say, know nothing. We our all in big trouble !!!
6
The alleged billionaire will not get much sympathy if he has to liquidate property at fire-sale prices. Especially when many of his supporters are out of work and likely to be disappointed that MAGA is a bit of an illusion and the promised jobs just won't be coming back. Donald Trump wanted to be President. Well, he will be. Sacrifice is something foreign to him. This comes with the job. Get over it and divest!
7
I recall as a child being sat in front of the TV by parents, aunts and uncles who gathered round solemnly to watch Richard Nixon resign from the office of the presidency. "This is an historic moment," one of the adults said quietly.
Not to diminish Watergate but my god, how in 40 years have we gone from that costing a man his office to this bumbling, ignorant buffoon boasting of crotch-grabbing, cozying up to the Russians, cheating, unimaginable levels of financial conflicts of interest, hiding his tax returns, quipping about shooting people with impunity -- and he's going to be INAUGURATED next week as President of the United States.
It's surreal. And tragic. And some of us over age 50 will not live long enough to see American society recover from the depradations coming in the next four years.
Not to diminish Watergate but my god, how in 40 years have we gone from that costing a man his office to this bumbling, ignorant buffoon boasting of crotch-grabbing, cozying up to the Russians, cheating, unimaginable levels of financial conflicts of interest, hiding his tax returns, quipping about shooting people with impunity -- and he's going to be INAUGURATED next week as President of the United States.
It's surreal. And tragic. And some of us over age 50 will not live long enough to see American society recover from the depradations coming in the next four years.
16
The crooks are going to have a field day
5
Release your tax returns Mr. Trump! More of us than not really do want to see them.
12
This is the first time in my life that I have seen someone about to become president claim that he is making a sacrifice in becoming our president. Being president or working in the White House is an honor--not an imposition on one's life.
In yesterday's news conference, both Trump and his lawyer said or implied that becoming president was a sacrifice for Trump and for his family. The lawyer talked about the sacrifice that Trump and his family were making. In reference to Jared Kushner becoming a White House senior advisor, she pointed out the sacrifices his family would have to make in moving to DC. She also pointed out that the Trump family had taken huge losses recently in a cancellation of some deals (in order to address criticisms).
It's not the first time that I've heard Trump claim the becoming president is a sacrifice for him. He said it throughout the campaign.
It's despicable that the Trumps are claiming that the presidency is a "sacrifice". It's an honor and a privilege.
In yesterday's news conference, both Trump and his lawyer said or implied that becoming president was a sacrifice for Trump and for his family. The lawyer talked about the sacrifice that Trump and his family were making. In reference to Jared Kushner becoming a White House senior advisor, she pointed out the sacrifices his family would have to make in moving to DC. She also pointed out that the Trump family had taken huge losses recently in a cancellation of some deals (in order to address criticisms).
It's not the first time that I've heard Trump claim the becoming president is a sacrifice for him. He said it throughout the campaign.
It's despicable that the Trumps are claiming that the presidency is a "sacrifice". It's an honor and a privilege.
13
WE are the ones being sacrificed.
7
It is supposed to be an imposition and not an honor...something so demanding of self and such a sacrifice that no one should want it. That is precisely why it is an honor. No one seeks an honor of their own volition. And if one does it should be an act viewed suspiciously.
It is a sacrifice. Very few qualified people would chose to undergo the scrutiny that running for office involves. Which explains why we got to where we are today.
It is evident that Trump never expected to win; he expected to gain political and economic power by running for President, but not to actually assume the job. The last thing he would want to do is give up his businesses and, on top of it all, have to deal with co-equal branches of government that could tell him "no."
It is evident that Trump never expected to win; he expected to gain political and economic power by running for President, but not to actually assume the job. The last thing he would want to do is give up his businesses and, on top of it all, have to deal with co-equal branches of government that could tell him "no."
4
don't understand - the whole point of this country is for the 1% to get richer - mission accomplished - case closed - next - why it will be good for the 1% to have voucher medicare.
2
One must disabuse oneself of any notion that T rump as any ethical bone in his body. All the rest is flim flam and rhetoric.
7
Baloney. He has no legal obligation whatsoever to turn over anything. Next.
1
cjhsa may be right in a narrow sense, but as soon as he makes a decision that demonstrably benefits his businesses, some competitor is going to file a lawsuit or some politician with a conscience is going to open an investigation. He painted himself into a corner by winning the Electoral College election, and until he reveals his tax returns and truly divests his companies, the paint will never dry.
3
Thats what I want from my president. Not ethical behavior. Just the bare minimum required by the law.
2
I do not believe that many people throughout the country trust the majority of public servants at any level of government or holding any responsibility. Our system of government at federal, state and local is not working for the good of the ordinary citizens of our country. That is why we voted for President-Elect Trump. If he were the only individual who serves in government about whom there are questions about his ethics or morality then I would be more concerned about the points that all of you have made here about him and his business interests. Many people expect him to shake things up in government just as we had hoped that other non-mainstream candidates would have done had they been elected - candidates like Bernie Sanders or even Ross Perot. I am happy to see him shaking things up because the federal government cannot remain as it has been. Even after offering these comments, I believe that President Obama, for whom I voted, was a good president who has earned my respect for all he has accomplished for our country.
2
The Trump organization will have significant problems in obtaining casualty insurance for its flag assets abroad. It'll be interesting to see how this problem is overcome. Most, if not all, mortgagees require casualty insurance on properties securing mortgages
1
Ethics and Washington, D.C. An oxymoron if ever there was one.
2
I didn't vote for him; I'd sooner vote for Satan, who, in every biblical story is at the very least clear with His evil intentions. So, I'll end with some familiar Trump twitter-speak: UNFAIR! SAD!
8
It is my opinion that Donald is not fit mentally, emotionally, or ethically to be president of America. May I get a REAL president, plesase???
How about those tax returns, Donald?? He's set himself up to be the most corrupt profiteer in our history, let alone what he will do to our national security. Do we now chant, "Lock HIM up"?
How about those tax returns, Donald?? He's set himself up to be the most corrupt profiteer in our history, let alone what he will do to our national security. Do we now chant, "Lock HIM up"?
15
Avoiding even the appearance of impropriety is the fundamental ethical obligation of the legal profession. Doing no harm is the basic ethical obligation of the medical profession.
Making money by any means necessary is the base amoral ethical guide-line of any business in a free market crony capitalist corporate plutocrat oligarch welfare nation like America. Preventing fraud rests on full disclosure of all relevant information to any reasonable investor.
But since Trump has not disclosed any of his income tax returns nor any records regarding his personal nor corporate business holdings or investments we do not know what or who he owes and owns him. Nor do we know what action or inaction as President will benefit or harm his personal and business family interests.
Total divesture and investment of the proceeds in a blind trust has been the politically bipartisan only ethical solution. Falling short is too kind a critique.
Making money by any means necessary is the base amoral ethical guide-line of any business in a free market crony capitalist corporate plutocrat oligarch welfare nation like America. Preventing fraud rests on full disclosure of all relevant information to any reasonable investor.
But since Trump has not disclosed any of his income tax returns nor any records regarding his personal nor corporate business holdings or investments we do not know what or who he owes and owns him. Nor do we know what action or inaction as President will benefit or harm his personal and business family interests.
Total divesture and investment of the proceeds in a blind trust has been the politically bipartisan only ethical solution. Falling short is too kind a critique.
6
Trump's tangled web of deceit and conflicts of interest would keep a cat playing with this ball of confusion forever. Trump is a walking talking contradiction, sometimes, as noted yesterday, within the span of one news "conference", just another display of Trump playing the media.
We the people who will never support Trump are getting sick and tired of a fawning media clamoring to get Trump to say something revealing, pertinent or intelligent. None of these will occur.
Trump is psychotic. The only thing missing is a psychiatrist's diagnosis. How anyone could with a smidgen of common sense vote for such a dangerously unstable person is mind-boggling. It just goes to show how when hate trumps logic a person is apt to do most anything, including voting for someone who I guarantee you will take this nation to a Constitutional crisis. And that will begin in just eight days.
DD
Manhattan
We the people who will never support Trump are getting sick and tired of a fawning media clamoring to get Trump to say something revealing, pertinent or intelligent. None of these will occur.
Trump is psychotic. The only thing missing is a psychiatrist's diagnosis. How anyone could with a smidgen of common sense vote for such a dangerously unstable person is mind-boggling. It just goes to show how when hate trumps logic a person is apt to do most anything, including voting for someone who I guarantee you will take this nation to a Constitutional crisis. And that will begin in just eight days.
DD
Manhattan
10
Before deciding to run for president, certainly once he becMe the nominee, he knew or by the exercise of reasonable diligence, that he could not responbly serve the country as our chief executive and comcomitantly run his business and reap the profits.
Every president in recent history has known that the cost of public service required relinquishing control of business interests to comply with ethical standards of the office and the appearance of falling short of those standards-except for,the president elect. It was clear from the outset, by his refusal to release his tax returns based upon the baseless excuse that those s returns were under audit (if, indeed they are) that he was not going to abide by the ethical reguirements of his office.
So, he refuses to make the choice of his recent predecessors-he refuses to relinquish his business for the presidency. If he continues to operate as both
CEO of his business empire and the Commander in Chief, he cannot fulfill his constitutional city as president. We know it. The world knows it. He knows it.
Make a choice, president elect. You should have made it months ago. This won't go away. It may lead to the House of Representatives.
Every president in recent history has known that the cost of public service required relinquishing control of business interests to comply with ethical standards of the office and the appearance of falling short of those standards-except for,the president elect. It was clear from the outset, by his refusal to release his tax returns based upon the baseless excuse that those s returns were under audit (if, indeed they are) that he was not going to abide by the ethical reguirements of his office.
So, he refuses to make the choice of his recent predecessors-he refuses to relinquish his business for the presidency. If he continues to operate as both
CEO of his business empire and the Commander in Chief, he cannot fulfill his constitutional city as president. We know it. The world knows it. He knows it.
Make a choice, president elect. You should have made it months ago. This won't go away. It may lead to the House of Representatives.
4
Re the assertions in your first paragraph - I don't think his mental machinery got that far. If he ever expected - or really wanted - the nomination in the first place. I think he was just expecting to participate in the campaign to get some publicity, hog the spotlight for a time, etc - much like another reality TV show.
Only ten days to go and Chump is continuing to show us what a disaster he's going to be once inside the Oval Office. He couldn't handle his first press conference like a grown-up and now he's been caught in a tangled web involving his buddy Putin he's flailing around more than usual. But not to worry, he'll be gone in a hundred days or less. Then, perhaps, a return to some sense of civility and commonsense will return to Washington. I mean, let's face it: anything would be better than having to wake up each day and know that Chump has a role in determining the destiny of the American people. Sad, bad days are ahead--but not for long.
2
The remarks by Trump and his attorney clearly indicate Trump's financial holdings will not be placed into a blind trust. Even Nelson Rockefeller, when he became the vice-president, put his fortune, no doubt considerably in excess of Trump's holdings, into a trust. The duties of the presidency are so difficult and profound that any distraction is a disservice to the nation. He has revealed himself to be both an Un-American and a false patriot.
9
Do lawmakers in the congress have the guts to stand up against this crook?
I am counting on McCain, Graham, Rand Paul and Rubio to stand up against this lunatic President as of 1/20.
I am counting on McCain, Graham, Rand Paul and Rubio to stand up against this lunatic President as of 1/20.
3
Who smells of impeachment if/as soon as his popularity begins to falter ?
However much I see the republican party as an intellectual failure, I really don't see Congress and Trump getting along, but considering the move to gut the ethics office, I don't quite know which one is the most corrupt of the two.
If they indeed repel the ACA without a plan, combine that with a ban on imported pharmaceutical (ahah), Congress and White House will throw the responsibility of the huge social cost on their voters at each other to no end like a hot tungsten potato with a heart of depleted uranium long before election day.
However much I see the republican party as an intellectual failure, I really don't see Congress and Trump getting along, but considering the move to gut the ethics office, I don't quite know which one is the most corrupt of the two.
If they indeed repel the ACA without a plan, combine that with a ban on imported pharmaceutical (ahah), Congress and White House will throw the responsibility of the huge social cost on their voters at each other to no end like a hot tungsten potato with a heart of depleted uranium long before election day.
3
If we do not insist that Mr. Trump live up to well-established ethical standards, they cease to be standards and we cannot insist that any subsequent president live up to those standards.
9
Publicize the campaign to make January 20th a "national day of mourning". Wear black on inauguration day. "It's Mourning in America", as Ronald Reagan once said. Very few people will be able to get to Washington to protest, but wearing black can be done by anyone.
13
I'm no fan of Donald Trump, that he is about to become President is truly disturbing to me.
However, I think his plan to avoid conflicts is actually pretty good and exhibits more consideration of potential conflicts than I thought he ever would. The cessation of new transactions and in progress deals, selling equity and the installation of compliance process are all positive steps. I believe it's one of the few truthful statements Trump's made when he says selling off his holdings would create more conflict than the plan he's proposed. He runs a large private business mainly comprised of holdings which would require a lengthy process to liquidate. And, love him or hate him there's no requirement for a President to forfeit the value of his assets when he takes office which is what what would happen if Trump tried to sell by "dumping" his properties on the market.
Fair is far.
Can Trump circumvent the process he says he'll put in place - of course. Any President with bad intent can profit from being in the office but if we're to take Trump's measures at face value his announced plan is a small step in the right direction
However, I think his plan to avoid conflicts is actually pretty good and exhibits more consideration of potential conflicts than I thought he ever would. The cessation of new transactions and in progress deals, selling equity and the installation of compliance process are all positive steps. I believe it's one of the few truthful statements Trump's made when he says selling off his holdings would create more conflict than the plan he's proposed. He runs a large private business mainly comprised of holdings which would require a lengthy process to liquidate. And, love him or hate him there's no requirement for a President to forfeit the value of his assets when he takes office which is what what would happen if Trump tried to sell by "dumping" his properties on the market.
Fair is far.
Can Trump circumvent the process he says he'll put in place - of course. Any President with bad intent can profit from being in the office but if we're to take Trump's measures at face value his announced plan is a small step in the right direction
1
There is a simple math problem with Mr. Trump's proposal with regard to the Trump Hotel in Washington, and how he is going to give the profits to the Treasury.
If you add the cost paid by Mr. Trump for the Hotel to the cost of the renovations, take away the depreciation, and then factor in the profits from the rooms and other areas, there is no way that the hotel will run a profit for many years.
Mr. Trump is completely duping the taxpayers! And he thinks he is smart!!
If you add the cost paid by Mr. Trump for the Hotel to the cost of the renovations, take away the depreciation, and then factor in the profits from the rooms and other areas, there is no way that the hotel will run a profit for many years.
Mr. Trump is completely duping the taxpayers! And he thinks he is smart!!
3
Of all the words and hoopla at that news conference, only one statement by President Elect Trump is actually informative. President Elect Trump said, and stretched his arms out to emphasize, that he could run his vast business organization and also run the Presidency.
The only real question then is which one is the part-time job? Or are they both equal in his mind?
The American Public might have a few thoughts on which is important to us.
The only real question then is which one is the part-time job? Or are they both equal in his mind?
The American Public might have a few thoughts on which is important to us.
6
And I can walk and chew gum at the same time.
Some reasonable voices among us, from the right and even from the left, seem to be cautioning against over-reacting, against running to the barricades, against playing into the President-elect's usual hyper-polarizing, sleight-of-hand style of dealing with substantive inquiry and criticism.
I think I understand what those folks are saying, but I can't join them.
For me, the patient and determined, principled and utterly professional scrutiny of the press, of legal experts in ethics and government, of informed and experienced public servants and citizens, is absolutely essential. Now.
It starts now--holding this newly elected President and his administration to the highest values and proven best practices which safeguard our democracy. It is, quite frankly, not up to the President-elect and his motley crew to tinker with those values, or blithely manufacture their own.
I think I understand what those folks are saying, but I can't join them.
For me, the patient and determined, principled and utterly professional scrutiny of the press, of legal experts in ethics and government, of informed and experienced public servants and citizens, is absolutely essential. Now.
It starts now--holding this newly elected President and his administration to the highest values and proven best practices which safeguard our democracy. It is, quite frankly, not up to the President-elect and his motley crew to tinker with those values, or blithely manufacture their own.
5
"Over the weekend, I was offered $2 billion to do a deal in Dubai with a very, very, very amazing man,"
This is a typical manner in which Trump mis-characterizes nearly everything. If you see what he said, it implies that all he needed to do was say "yes" and this guy would give him $2 Billion. That's not how business works...even in TrumpWorld.
There may (emphasize "MAY") have been some aspect of the supposed deal that adds up to $2 Billion, over some period of time, and assuming the "deal" was successful...but I can guarantee that it would have a lot of opportunities to go south, and that the eventual potential profit would be far less...if such a "deal" even exists.
This is a typical manner in which Trump mis-characterizes nearly everything. If you see what he said, it implies that all he needed to do was say "yes" and this guy would give him $2 Billion. That's not how business works...even in TrumpWorld.
There may (emphasize "MAY") have been some aspect of the supposed deal that adds up to $2 Billion, over some period of time, and assuming the "deal" was successful...but I can guarantee that it would have a lot of opportunities to go south, and that the eventual potential profit would be far less...if such a "deal" even exists.
5
Get ready for the sleaziest, most debased presidency ever, Trump is off to a fast start with the most debased behavior and least accountable ethics I have ever seen and backed by the support of the Republicans who should know better and refuse to stand up against him. Recipe for disaster, look out.
9
When eventually things close in on him (and they will), will he turn into a complete fascist and try to get the military on his side, to take over? Perhaps you think that's a foolish question?
15
The Man-Baby and his Crime Family are going to rob us blind and there is no 'trust' involved anywhere in their lexicon.
WHERE ARE THE LAWYERS? We The People need Constitutional lawyers to be our voice and on January 20, they need to go to work. Somebody needs to stop him. Who?
WHERE ARE THE LAWYERS? We The People need Constitutional lawyers to be our voice and on January 20, they need to go to work. Somebody needs to stop him. Who?
15
The sad thing is most people are not going to start paying attention until the price of gas hits $3.00 per gallon. I give about two weeks maybe three. The president is suppose to be the commander and chief not a deal maker. Wake up the coffee is brewing! Why because deal makers do not care what they have to do to close the deal.
4
A Crook and his Grifter kids just doing what comes natural.... Donald has a Bridge in Brooklyn for sale Cheap...as well...
6
Trump had a real chance to enter office beholden to no one, and to rise above the kind of political privilege that voters rallied against. Instead, the only messages I heard yesterday were that the rules don't apply to him, and that the ideas and ideals of publice service are completely lost on the president-elect. He has squandered the hopes of my fellow citizens on hubris and greed.
6
S0 - where was that 'Ethics - Chief' when the Clinton Foundation was created? Or, when Secretary Clinton was tapping-away at home about their Foundation donations and US State Department messages - and oh-yes, lets not forget the messages to family and friends . . . who would have known there is an "Ethics-Chief?' POTUS received messages from HRC home-computer - didn't say a word about it to his protégé or the 'Ethics - Chief.' Now, a big hullabaloo about the need for the oversight of the "Ethics - Chief."
These 'yuge and colossal conflicts pale in comparison to purported Clinton Foundation issues. Not saying the latter are untrue but until I see hard cold evidence and facts about HRC. Besides, you are in the CA, why do you even care? 'He who must not be named' will stiff the American people just like he has stiffed many of his contractors and vendors. 'He who must not be named' is NOT my President, even after Jan. 20, 2017.
3
Here we go again: please readers do not assume anything: such as 'mind-reading' or the 'citizenship' of the readers, nor assume residency of a reader means their citizenship. I vote and I am an American citizen - who is extremely disappointed in the foul comments and behaviors of too many NYT readers.
Does anyone trust Donald Trump to tell the truth about anything? This so called ethical arrangement is a joke.
8
So Donny and his boys are sitting around before dinner with Ivanka and hubby: Trump can't talk about government business, his kids can't talk about work. Trump asks how the latest deals are doing (in broad strokes) and talks about his coming travel/meetings (again in broad strokes). And we are supposed to trust this bunch? The man who uses bankruptcy as a business strategy to avoid paying investors and contractors? The man who has disavowed his campaign slogans as gimmicks to get him elected? The man who shills for his Wash. hotel as President while construction liens are being filed for unpaid work; the man who has no friends, only business acquaintances.
Those stocks? sold, just trust him. His net worth--whatever he says, trust him. Russia? His son said in 2008 a disproportionate amount of Trump business comes from Russia with huge amounts of money. Is Donny or his son having problems with the truth?
Records, records, records....he owes us the actual truth, not another campaign gimmick. Or, he will be presumed to be corrupt and unfathomably aligned with Russia--whether he is or not.
Those stocks? sold, just trust him. His net worth--whatever he says, trust him. Russia? His son said in 2008 a disproportionate amount of Trump business comes from Russia with huge amounts of money. Is Donny or his son having problems with the truth?
Records, records, records....he owes us the actual truth, not another campaign gimmick. Or, he will be presumed to be corrupt and unfathomably aligned with Russia--whether he is or not.
9
His plan is simple and clear: put the businesses out of the way for his term in office, then step right back in when he leaves. This is the biggest conflict of interest of all. Trump will have every incentive to pursue policies that will improve his businesses once he leaves office and is back in charge.
4
Hope all of you that voted in Trump can now see that he is creating an even bigger swamp that instead of being filled with Washington insiders is filled with powerful businessmen that are going to use their positions of power and the policies of the United States to line their pockets, all at the expense of the American citizen.
Trump spelled backwards is snake oil salesman
Trump spelled backwards is snake oil salesman
9
Trump's statements as to his wealth and indebtedness vary all over the map. He listed in the report required for election only those businesses which he owned completely. In other reports when adding the assets he owns a partial share in, he is indebted a Billion+ dollars! And his net worth is estimated at maybe 1.5 billion. Trump has every incentive to profiteer while President. We need an honest President and that starts with honest answers, not "just trust me," from a man who doesn't make a distinction between fact and fiction.
7
In another article, Mr. Leonhardt discusses a question asked of Mr. Trump yesterday at his news conference.
The question was
“Mr. President-elect, can you stand here today, once and for all and say that no one connected to you or your campaign had any contact with Russia leading up to or during the presidential campaign?”
The answer, apparently given later to the question (repated) was "No."
Taken literally, "no" means that Trump *CANNOT* "say that no one connected to you or your campaign had any contact with Russia leading up to or during the presidential campaign."
That is simply an UNACCEPTABLE answer if correct.
The right answer would have been "yes" as is "Yes, I can say that no one connected to me or my campaign had any contact with Russia leading up to or during the presidential campaign."
Mr. Leonhardt is correct that we need better answers, to the above question and to many more. And we need them NOW. But Donald Trump answers to no one but himself, and that is going to be his downfall.
The question was
“Mr. President-elect, can you stand here today, once and for all and say that no one connected to you or your campaign had any contact with Russia leading up to or during the presidential campaign?”
The answer, apparently given later to the question (repated) was "No."
Taken literally, "no" means that Trump *CANNOT* "say that no one connected to you or your campaign had any contact with Russia leading up to or during the presidential campaign."
That is simply an UNACCEPTABLE answer if correct.
The right answer would have been "yes" as is "Yes, I can say that no one connected to me or my campaign had any contact with Russia leading up to or during the presidential campaign."
Mr. Leonhardt is correct that we need better answers, to the above question and to many more. And we need them NOW. But Donald Trump answers to no one but himself, and that is going to be his downfall.
11
Press Conference? What press conference? All I heard was more of the same from someone eminently unqualified to be president of the United States.
4
The only way this can be done is to sell everything, put all the proceeds in T-bills so that the interests of the president are identical to those of the nation and, oh yes, to tell his son-in-law, who would not qualify to be an intern in any government office, to go back to New York, build a wall between himself and is father-in-law and stay away from the White House except to bring the grandkids to visit. Put it all in a trust now; appoint an institutional trustee to see it all; have the return invested in treasuries and find out at the end of the term how all that went. Ask nothing about and know nothing about the disposition of the businesses and take the name off every building it is on, starting with the tower. That is the only way to do this and anything less is a fraud, a cheat, crooked and impeachable.
5
Don't be so upset folks, the Republicans will get rid of the Office of Government Ethics so that we don't have to trouble ourselves with these pesky, distracting details. Thank you Republicans, now I can spend more time watching Fluff and Fake Reality TV, Inc. and keep myself informed about issues that matter.
2
He says nobody wants to see his tax filings except the media. Wrong! I want to see them, as do a majority of Americans.
7
The entire family has DISDAIN for America, rule of law, democracy, history. Their disgust is evident when anyone or anything 'attacks' their twisted primacy and 'whatever $$ can buy' modus operandi. Their lack of ethics are publicly displayed as "Catch me if you can" if not, then you're the loser and I got away with it. "I won, right, I'm the President' from his mockery of a news conference. Democracy is not Monopoly. You don't collect $200 and pass Go. Juvenile behavior and warped mental model of leadership. Business is not Governance. Patriotism is not Nationalism. Keen Journalism, Investigative and Fact-Checking essential. Activist Democracy. Follow Bannon!
8
Donald Trump sees himself as the exception to the rules. What's the difference whether he or his two eldest sons control his holdings? They are one and the same. His son-in-law as his senior advisor is above all else his son-in-law. His attacks on the American press and security agencies have been brutal, but he himself cannot tolerate any criticism without viciously attacking the critic. Trump’s loyalty to Putin and Putin’s associates is obvious and borders on treason. Trump enjoys playing cat and mouse with the republicans because he knows they will tolerate and support anything he throws out to further their agenda. Trump has been tap dancing all around his tax returns and has no intention of making them public. He has gotten away with everything that is immoral and dishonest so far and I'm sure this is only the beginning of his agenda. I think that Trump thinks the American people are a dumb bunch. Are we?
6
So, his plan to avoid conflict of interest is to separate himself from his business interests. He is doing that by putting his sons in charge. But if they can't leverage the Trump brand while he is President, he says he will fire them!
He will separate them from their jobs, not separate himself from his business.
He will separate them from their jobs, not separate himself from his business.
3
Trump chose to accept the nomination.
That means he chose to follow the rules and customs of a transition of power.
Instead he is choosing to cover up his business interests, hide behind lawyers, sow doubt about our government, and lie to Americans.
Clearly he is not interested in being a good leader for this country.
He is in it to make money, like everything else he's done his whole life.
That means he chose to follow the rules and customs of a transition of power.
Instead he is choosing to cover up his business interests, hide behind lawyers, sow doubt about our government, and lie to Americans.
Clearly he is not interested in being a good leader for this country.
He is in it to make money, like everything else he's done his whole life.
4
Tax returns, tax returns, tax returns....
Dear President Elect,
Since "money is speech" we, the people, need to know who is paying for the things you say and do.
The office holder of the President of the United States is the occupant of that office, not its owner. The office of President of the United States must never be for sale!
Dear President Elect,
Since "money is speech" we, the people, need to know who is paying for the things you say and do.
The office holder of the President of the United States is the occupant of that office, not its owner. The office of President of the United States must never be for sale!
4
In the first Republican debate he told he would be the first president to make a profit off of the position.
He is disgusting on every level.
He is disgusting on every level.
3
How typical of the way Team Trump approaches the presidency. We have former Trump attorney, Sheri Dillon, offering a facile explanation of why President Trump should be exempt from creation of a true blind trust for his businesses and holdings with an independent trustee.
Her main argument seems to be that her old/new boss would have to make a financial sacrifice for becoming a public servant. Never mind that many people moving from the private sector to the public make such a sacrifice.
Then, we have the head of the Office of Government Ethics, Walter M. Schaub, Jr., whose job it is to make these calls on ethics, speaking out in stark disagreement with Ms. Dillon’s side-stepping explanation.
Schaub is now being vilified by Mr. Trump and his surrogates as political. Republicans on Capitol Hill appear to be siding with Mr. Trump. No surprise there.
Welcome to America, Inc.
Her main argument seems to be that her old/new boss would have to make a financial sacrifice for becoming a public servant. Never mind that many people moving from the private sector to the public make such a sacrifice.
Then, we have the head of the Office of Government Ethics, Walter M. Schaub, Jr., whose job it is to make these calls on ethics, speaking out in stark disagreement with Ms. Dillon’s side-stepping explanation.
Schaub is now being vilified by Mr. Trump and his surrogates as political. Republicans on Capitol Hill appear to be siding with Mr. Trump. No surprise there.
Welcome to America, Inc.
5
The Trump's have no ethics.
2
What stuns me about his conflict-of-interest presentation is that he believes it's okay to be a part-time "president".
4
Don't believe it when the Tumpster tries to claim he was unaware of anything having to do with his fortune & the presidency. He stated in his "press conference" that he'd only learned a few months ago about the law's exemption for the president & vp concerning disclosure & blind trusts. Ha! That's a good one! Why do you think he hasn't released his tax returns? After all, there are those who might "take advantage of something."
This was planned, period! The Trumpster may be ignorant about government, world politics & protocol. But, he is NOT stupid! He knows exactly what he wants & will stop at nothing to get it. He is a salesman! We've just been sold us a bill of spoiled goods. He's made idiots of the media, congressional republicans, and everyone who voted for him.
This baloney of Kellyanne's, "don't listen to his words, listen to what's in his heart," is another sales tool or brainwashing tool, depending upon your perspective. His allegations about Hillary and others were merely projections. Aside from projection being another distracting & brainwashing tactic , a narcissist cannot control themselves when an opportunity arises where they can covertly flout their intentions to their victims. I makes them feel powerful and superior! It proves that their victims deserve to be victimized.
Putin has him in his pocket. It'll all come out in due time. Wait and see.
This man has no business being president. There is no doubt in my mind that he is severely mentally ill.
This was planned, period! The Trumpster may be ignorant about government, world politics & protocol. But, he is NOT stupid! He knows exactly what he wants & will stop at nothing to get it. He is a salesman! We've just been sold us a bill of spoiled goods. He's made idiots of the media, congressional republicans, and everyone who voted for him.
This baloney of Kellyanne's, "don't listen to his words, listen to what's in his heart," is another sales tool or brainwashing tool, depending upon your perspective. His allegations about Hillary and others were merely projections. Aside from projection being another distracting & brainwashing tactic , a narcissist cannot control themselves when an opportunity arises where they can covertly flout their intentions to their victims. I makes them feel powerful and superior! It proves that their victims deserve to be victimized.
Putin has him in his pocket. It'll all come out in due time. Wait and see.
This man has no business being president. There is no doubt in my mind that he is severely mentally ill.
6
...America has made its bed,...now it must sleep in it...as uncomfortable as it may be for the next four years. Where Hilary C. failed,...will Michelle O. enter the presidential foray next time?
2
So when the Trump boys go down to the White House for dinner with the old man I doubt the conversation will revolve around sports and the grandkids. Will there be a lawyer present to prevent talk about things are going up in NYC?
2
Any greater distance than that created by the proposed trust would end Trump's company. There is no law that suggests this is a necessary precondition of running for President. Keep it up NYT soon you will RIP with CNN et al.
1
'Serving' POTUS is entirely different than 'running' for POTUS, an ocean of difference as 'yuge as the Atlantic you see from Miami, FL.
1
Sheri Dillon, the lawyer claiming that Trump was in compliance, spoke of the millions of dollars that Trump was giving up by not making any "new" deals while president with the same crack in her voice that normal people have when they speak of the death of a loved one. Tells you a lot about the moral values of this administration.
6
His lawyer -- calling a blind trust impractical -- says “President Trump can’t unknow he owns Trump Tower." But in fact this is the very key to why Trump must liquidate his holdings. Otherwise this master businessman, who has bragged about taking full advantage of all legal roads to riches, cannot expect to earn our trust as president
3
Doubt? There is doubt that a "divestiture" that retains 100% ownership is insufficient? REALLY?
What universe must one be in to misunderstand the meaning of "divestiture"?
That term generally means the sale of a business.
Donald Trump says he hires "the best." Yeah, right. In this case, "the best" do not know what the chore they are working on even means.
Donald Trump would be a mere buffoon if he did this as a private citizen. As the prospective POTUS, this suggestion shows that he is dangerously out of touch with the ethical requirements of his office.
Nobody put a gun to your head and made you run for President, Donnie. Get your act together, or get yourself impeached, convicted and removed. Your call.
What universe must one be in to misunderstand the meaning of "divestiture"?
That term generally means the sale of a business.
Donald Trump says he hires "the best." Yeah, right. In this case, "the best" do not know what the chore they are working on even means.
Donald Trump would be a mere buffoon if he did this as a private citizen. As the prospective POTUS, this suggestion shows that he is dangerously out of touch with the ethical requirements of his office.
Nobody put a gun to your head and made you run for President, Donnie. Get your act together, or get yourself impeached, convicted and removed. Your call.
7
Don't worry America, all the principled, ethical Republicans in the Senate and House will make sure that all is well and above board ..... and if you believe that I have some swamp land in D.C. to sell you
6
Shocking that the Mr. Shaub is not happy with Trumps arrangements. The difference it we usually elect officials who are political insiders who have much less to divest. Now we have, like him or not, a billionaire who is very successful and has a global empire. I think you have to see how he governs before you decide he is in it only for financial gain. This seems just like one more politically motivated criticism. At lease his biases will favor successful business relations and jobs in America instead of foreign interests, and globalization like Obama/Clinton (I lump them together now as I watch Obama's legacy diminish).
1
Of course it doesn't go far enough.
The "president-elect" will do all he can to benefit from his office at the expense of the American people, as he has always done, with his serial bankruptcies and multiple business failures, not paying workers, partners and investors, not paying taxes, and on and on.
But what can be done about it? Probably nothing.
The "president-elect" will do all he can to benefit from his office at the expense of the American people, as he has always done, with his serial bankruptcies and multiple business failures, not paying workers, partners and investors, not paying taxes, and on and on.
But what can be done about it? Probably nothing.
1
What seems clear is that the Trump considers the presidency to be his side-job.
Not to be confused with his true identity as leader of the Trump organization.
Not to be confused with his true identity as leader of the Trump organization.
1
The hilarious thing about all this is that during the presidential campaign there were all these articles on the mainstream media, including the New York Times, about how Trump wasn't a billionaire at all, that his "alledged fortune" was actually fake, it was all made up by him. Now, we see articles everywhere, including the NYT, about how Trump's vast holdings and immense fortune pose an enormous conflict of interest. Yet the most outrageous thing in all this, is that there isn't one single indepth, investigative article about the huge, criminal conflict of interest in Clinton soliciting and accepting hundreds of millions of Dollars from foreign nations and corporations while serving as the US Secretary of State. I guess we shouldn't hold our breath for that to happen because it won't.
4
PLEASE, take a moment to contact your representatives and voice your views every time you disagree with DJT or the Congress....even if you have to email/call about a different issue every day. Keep the pressure on for them to make responsible, decent decisions that truly reflect the people they represent.
Reading/writing comments here may help us feel better, but it doesn't do anything to influence the decisions of our congress/president-elect. Let's first do what can have some impact.
Find your elected officials here:
Www.commoncause.org/take-action/find-elected-officials/
Reading/writing comments here may help us feel better, but it doesn't do anything to influence the decisions of our congress/president-elect. Let's first do what can have some impact.
Find your elected officials here:
Www.commoncause.org/take-action/find-elected-officials/
2
This is good for the nytimes-.They will have plenty of scandals to report.
2
With son in law Kushner in the White House telling him about the impact of policies on his holdings, Ivanka advising him on how to profit from his job, and his sons Quesay and Usay running the day to day aspects of his business, Trump will be able to focus on ensuring he will leave office the richest man in America.
7
Trump spent most of his life building his businesses and when the time comes, he will leave this legacy to his children. At the same time, he will be President only 4, or maybe 8 years. So he is in effect giving them the business now. It makes perfect sense. Why should Trump and his family be penalized because he wants to give back to the country that has served him so well in his lifetime?
1
With the army of your lawyers he has....someone didn't tell him what would happen if he became President in regards to his finances.....I smell impeachment eventually.
1
The hack Democratic Director of Ethics ought to address himself to seeing that the law is faithfully enforced and drop the charade of being an impartial adviser to the biased liberal media. His tenure needs to be short, and his departure should be sudden once the new administration arrives to drain the swamp of Obama's political elites.
Before Trump takes office, a special prosecutor or independent counsel should be appointed to audit Trump's tax returns. The IRS cannot audit Trump's tax return with the required degree of independence or, apparently, with any reasonable alacrity.
1
Greek Ethics were studied 350 years ago .If Trump studied He would not say so because he is a juggler. He has to many things going on and he may need to file more bankrupt motions at any time no matter who gets hurt.He is one of the most in debt moguls I have seen. He needs to wake up one day and ask who or what am I.,Than he will have to put the V P in charge.
As soon as he takes the oath, the impeachment proceedings must begin. The Senate must put the country first. BTW...senators also took an oath to uphold and defend. The emoluments clause requires it. If it does not happen, then we might as well throw out the Constitution. Then what?
2
We had a revolution in 1776 when we had a non-responsive King. It is an old family tradition. Read the Declaration of Independence.
http://www.ushistory.org/declaration/document/
http://www.ushistory.org/declaration/document/
1
There are no preordained results. Let's not make the assumption that there are, regardless of historical commentary.
1
I think the GOP used him as a tool because it was their only chance of getting control of the executive branch. It is no secret the establishment has no love for him and I think the GOP will turn on him regarding corruption, impeach him and make their loyal marionette Pence the new POTUS.
3
Trump has always been a 'me first' kind of guy who left contractors and vendors in the dust when he didn't pay them what was owner and left everyone involved holding the bag(s) with his multiple bankruptcies. People like him don't change. He bragged about assaulting women when he was 59.
3
We knew this was coming and the press said little about this during the campaign. The Clinton Foundation got much more press about Trumps conflict of interest problems. Very little was found about the Clinton Foundation but you had to blind not to see that this was coming and it will be a big problem.
3
My, my, the trump sons just might have to give up hunting to go to work.
As for that poor hired ethics advisor who will join the firm, isn't that like hiring a fox to watch the hen house?
The president elect who hired investigators to go to Hawaii to research President Obamas birth certificate and who continued for years to claim that President Obama had not been born in the US now finds himself on the other end of the stick. Not so much fun when all the innuendo and unsubstantiated claims are directed at him.
He claims to be a germaphobe but doesn't mind getting his hands dirty when it comes to women.
How are we supposed to believe this man when we are told not believe what he says but it's what is in his heart? How do you read hearts?
As for that stack of folders. Not large enough.
And I'm not a reporter but I'd be very interested in seeing his taxes.
As for that poor hired ethics advisor who will join the firm, isn't that like hiring a fox to watch the hen house?
The president elect who hired investigators to go to Hawaii to research President Obamas birth certificate and who continued for years to claim that President Obama had not been born in the US now finds himself on the other end of the stick. Not so much fun when all the innuendo and unsubstantiated claims are directed at him.
He claims to be a germaphobe but doesn't mind getting his hands dirty when it comes to women.
How are we supposed to believe this man when we are told not believe what he says but it's what is in his heart? How do you read hearts?
As for that stack of folders. Not large enough.
And I'm not a reporter but I'd be very interested in seeing his taxes.
4
"Ethical behavior" is an alien concept to Donald J. Trump. The two are wholly mutually exclusive. God help us all over these next four years...I think we're all in for a very rough ride...What really annoys me right now is that DJT will be nominating the next Supreme Court justice thanks to the inexcusable obstructionism of that troglodyte, Mitch McConnell. Can you imagine how the Republicans would have reacted had the Democrats used the same tactics as McConnell and his fellow troglodytes during the Bush-Cheney reign of terror?...Now there's another example of a stolen presidential election (Gore would have actually won Florida in 2000 had all of the votes been counted and the conservative US Supreme Court hadn't interjected itself prematurely into the process to stop the vote counting.) I guess you can say that "cheating" has become "second nature" to the Republican mindset.
4
Narcissists need constant admiration, attention and compliments.
Putin has a grip on his man but It's a great shame, for us all, that the GOP just doesn't understand what it's dealing with and where this whole thing is going.
It will all end in tears.
Putin has a grip on his man but It's a great shame, for us all, that the GOP just doesn't understand what it's dealing with and where this whole thing is going.
It will all end in tears.
2
Sorry, if he was serious about running for the Presidency he should have done something about this at least 2 years ago. Not. He obviously has the attitude he can do anything he wants because he's, gasp, Donald Trump. "Don't you know I can anything I want". This is not going to work. It will be the most corrupt administration in our history. And why is this okay with some voters? They think because he's the Donald he gets a pass. Not.
2
Trump does not really care what the press thinks, or anyone else or that matter. He does what he want to do. This makes him popular with right wingers but also makes him a potential demagogue.
4
The portions of Trump's press conference yesterday that were dedicated to placating Americans about him using his position as President to advance his business interest were a very obvious smoke screen. He will be involved on a daily basis. Take that to the bank. The man is a pathological liar.
4
How about if DJT sells all his businesses and pays his bills? Millions of dollars in loans to many banks around the world, payments due to people who worked for him, etc. He could keep jobs by paying the companies who did work on his hotels that he still owes for that work.
4
Reporters should have been asking Trump these questions starting the day he came down the escalator at Trump Tower to announce his candidacy and every day after that.
My guess is that Trump would have declared victory and gone home after stuffing his ego by winning some primaries if he realized he would have to divest.
Instead, the question the press asked every day and twice on Sunday was whether a few emails sent to Clinton might have been confidential.
I don't recall Trump being asked about this until after he became the Republican nominee, when he told Stephanopoulos he would divest, without, it appears, up until that moment, even having thought about it.
My guess is that Trump would have declared victory and gone home after stuffing his ego by winning some primaries if he realized he would have to divest.
Instead, the question the press asked every day and twice on Sunday was whether a few emails sent to Clinton might have been confidential.
I don't recall Trump being asked about this until after he became the Republican nominee, when he told Stephanopoulos he would divest, without, it appears, up until that moment, even having thought about it.
2
For all his career Trump has approcached solutions to legal problems with the tactic of "try it, and see if it works."
He will get his way on this one, I'm afraid. I would be really really surprised if the frowning of ethics officials will ever come to anything. Who is going to initiate what process to stop Trump from anything? And how far would they get, given Republican control of everything now.
He will get his way on this one, I'm afraid. I would be really really surprised if the frowning of ethics officials will ever come to anything. Who is going to initiate what process to stop Trump from anything? And how far would they get, given Republican control of everything now.
2
Walter Shaub, one of the few civil sevants with the integrity and the courage to face this travesty of an ethics situation and speak truth to Trump and his minions. Wonder what will happen to him?
6
The Times report states that Trump 'turned down a $2billion deal' in Saudi.
The Times' transcript of the presser records that Trump said, 'I was offered $2billion TO DO A DEAL' in Saudi (my emphasis in CAPS), which is in fact what he said.
I'm sure that on reflection the Times will agree there's a huge difference between the two statements. The first represents the reality. The second, Trump's duplicity and customary deceit.
C'mon guys, you can do better than this.
The Times' transcript of the presser records that Trump said, 'I was offered $2billion TO DO A DEAL' in Saudi (my emphasis in CAPS), which is in fact what he said.
I'm sure that on reflection the Times will agree there's a huge difference between the two statements. The first represents the reality. The second, Trump's duplicity and customary deceit.
C'mon guys, you can do better than this.
3
He was offered 2B to do a deal... and he turned it down.
So what is the problem here??????
So what is the problem here??????
The only "Blind Trust" Trump is ever going to have comes from his supporters.
6
Well done!
Unfortunately nothing can make the socialistic democrats happy. Trump is donating his salary as his son-in-law yet socialistic democrats are skeptical and refuse to believe it or that other money will be donated to the U.S. treasury. It would never happen with a democrat. Now businesses are turned over to his sons and they complain (probably because they have never had an accomplished/successful candidate in business). He is doing what is required by law and not the public and that is fine with me and many others.
1
Could someone please explain to me why the following extract from the 'press conference' should not be interpreted as the ramblings of an unhinged and intellectually-challenged individual who (and I mention this purely as an aside) is about to become the most powerful man in the world?
Asked when he would be nominating the new SC Justice (simple answer would have been, 'In two weeks'), we got this:
"I’ll be making the decision on who we will put up for justice of the United States Supreme Court, a replacement for the great, great Justice Scalia. That will be probably within two weeks of the 20th. So within about two weeks, probably the second week. I consider the first day because we’ll also be doing some — some pretty good signings and I think what we’ll do is we’ll wait until Monday.
That will be our really first business day as opposed to doing it on Friday, because on Friday, people are going to have a very good time at the inauguration, and then Saturday, as you know, we’re having a big church service and lots of good things are happening. So our first day — and you’ll all be invited to the signings, but we’ll be doing some pretty good signings on Monday and Tuesday and Wednesday and Thursday and Friday, and then also the next week. And you’re all invited."
Asked when he would be nominating the new SC Justice (simple answer would have been, 'In two weeks'), we got this:
"I’ll be making the decision on who we will put up for justice of the United States Supreme Court, a replacement for the great, great Justice Scalia. That will be probably within two weeks of the 20th. So within about two weeks, probably the second week. I consider the first day because we’ll also be doing some — some pretty good signings and I think what we’ll do is we’ll wait until Monday.
That will be our really first business day as opposed to doing it on Friday, because on Friday, people are going to have a very good time at the inauguration, and then Saturday, as you know, we’re having a big church service and lots of good things are happening. So our first day — and you’ll all be invited to the signings, but we’ll be doing some pretty good signings on Monday and Tuesday and Wednesday and Thursday and Friday, and then also the next week. And you’re all invited."
8
May God have mercy on us all.
2
Mr. Trump fails to see that the ethics rules are his best protection against corruption allegations that will surely characterize his presidency. His refusal to provide tax returns, fully separate himself from his businesses or provide transparency into his ongoing operations guarantees ongoing investigations by the press. Given Mr. Trump's disdain for the customs and constraints on the presidency, I think he's in for a rough time.
How long before we hear the first cries of impeachment?
How long before we hear the first cries of impeachment?
1
As far I, and thousands of other Americans are concerned, Trump's plan to have his sons run the family business is OK. Time to stop haggling over nit picky details and get down yo governing this nation. Thank you.
3
Oh? Well guess what Southern Boy, there are countless millions of us who are NOT Ok with almost everything about this man. And regardless of what you and your buddies think, we are just as American as you, and we have just as much say in what goes on around here. And one more thing: you have not seen even the tip of the iceberg of what is about to be unleashed on your boy Trumpy... just a matter of time before the hammer falls.
4
Trump needs to sell these businesses! He stated he knew the ethic rules and playing a game that laws apply to everyone but him and his family is corruption! The USA is becoming a third world country under a corrupt Trump! Trump thinks he was elected King! We need to stop this crazy man!
4
But who can prosecute Trump, not the GOP congress..............
3
I just want to know if the legislative branch of government is really going to let him get away with all of this, especially after the incessant pillorying of the other candidate.
4
This man is not even president yet, and I'm already so utterly disgusted that I've stopped watching the news. He's a traitorous, farcical, narcicisstic brat. And I've simply got to pace myself because I've got at least 48 months of this clown looking at me in the face everyday.
God help us all.
God help us all.
11
Does any of this matter anymore. It's clear, particularly after yesterday's "press conference", and to that we are now under authoritarian regime. The old rules no longer apply.
7
"Ethics Chief *Doubts* Divestiture Plan Goes Far Enough"? "Trump's Plans on Business *May* Fall Short"? It's quite clear. The top ethics monitor, Walter M. Shaub, Jr., in an unprecedented announcement, states unequivocally that Trump's plans for his business are wholly inadequate to avoid conflicts of interest.
Why not just state what the nation's top expert has explicitly said? Is there any authority on the subject that doubts Trump will be in violation of the United States Constitution from the moment he's sworn in?
Why not just state what the nation's top expert has explicitly said? Is there any authority on the subject that doubts Trump will be in violation of the United States Constitution from the moment he's sworn in?
1
I thought Trump was having problems before the election. Since the election he is melting like a snowman in April. Yesterdays press conference looked like a Marx Brothers production. Pat yourselves on the back my fellow Americans, with a special nod to our Midwest states, who did so much to elect this cartoon character.
4
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1
So in short, his son is running the business, and this would solve all problems related to perceived conflicts of interests that he will face once assumed office? This is a ridiculous smoke and mirror to cover the fact that Trump cannot and will not let go of the business that he built. And judging from his past behaviours, I do not think it is likely that he give any consideration to ethics, perception, or even expectations. The move today is only to appease the public. But the sad thing is that he is now used to doing all these things and not get called out on it. Like insulting women, disabled persons, not releasing his tax return, alleged rendezvous with Russia, his foul and demeaning language towards women. America, it is your duties to stop Trump from becoming a mad man. The world depends on it.
1
I hope somebody hacks Trumps accountants files and releases Trumps tax returns . I bet Trump cant sell his businesses before taking office because they are so far under water he would need the US taxpayers help to bail him out so the Russian oligarchs and Russian mob doesn't blackmail him.
3
Before his latest "press conference" and in the absence of fewer late night tweets from the President Elect....my relationship with my 35 year old son was on the mend. Now? Not so much! I only wish Mr.Trump knew and understood how compromising his often raucous behavior and hair trigger reactions are to those of us who voted for him can be... "back home".
1
I think that Mr. Trump still has no idea of what he's gotten himself into. He has never taken any part of this process seriously. Yesterday's news conference was shockingly embarrassing, rude, as he always is, and it shows him to be a cheap, crude, undignified, unworthy president of my country. He doesn't yet understand the seriousness of the job just as he doesn't understand that "words have consequences".
Something is missing in his brain, a link that will define norms and propriety.
He cannot continue to do what he wants to do "because he can."
Billy Bush is the only person who has paid for Trump's behavior, and he was an unwitting participant in a "warm-up conversation" before a TV appearance. It showed Trump as a despicable person and Mr. Bush as a young fool.
He's way in over his head with no sense of decency or moral core.
We are toast while he rides his destructive wave with glee and we stand by, disgusted.
Something is missing in his brain, a link that will define norms and propriety.
He cannot continue to do what he wants to do "because he can."
Billy Bush is the only person who has paid for Trump's behavior, and he was an unwitting participant in a "warm-up conversation" before a TV appearance. It showed Trump as a despicable person and Mr. Bush as a young fool.
He's way in over his head with no sense of decency or moral core.
We are toast while he rides his destructive wave with glee and we stand by, disgusted.
2
I'm no fan of Mike Pence, but if Mr. Trump cannot do what is necessary to assure us that he is pursuing our national interest and not his own, he doesn't want the job and should resign.
1
Trump is not constrained by an ethics law. The voters who put him in office don't care that making America great again also will enhance Trump's businesses and wealth. They just want their part of the action.
With a Republican Congress watching his back, Trump and his family will prosper, Republican elites will prosper, corporate America will prosper, American middle-class taxpayers will get a very small cut in their taxes and maybe see their retirement portfolios get bigger, the poor will continue to go begging, and Trump's "high crimes and misdemeanors" will never result in an impeachment! That's the bargain that Trump voters have agreed to.
With a Republican Congress watching his back, Trump and his family will prosper, Republican elites will prosper, corporate America will prosper, American middle-class taxpayers will get a very small cut in their taxes and maybe see their retirement portfolios get bigger, the poor will continue to go begging, and Trump's "high crimes and misdemeanors" will never result in an impeachment! That's the bargain that Trump voters have agreed to.
3
In the end, much of Trump's defense rests on the assertion that it is not practical to comply with the law. Since when is that a defense? "I'm sorry officer, obeying the speed limit isn't practical because I need to get to the office." "I'm sorry IRS, paying taxes isn't practical because I need the money." "I'm sorry Supreme Court but complying with this subpoena isn't practical because I'd have to turn over my so much paper."
4
This is a man who used tax loopholes (shady, at best) to avoid paying taxes. Why is anyone surprised that he wont disinvest (not legally required), or that he would appoint his own ethics watchdog? All of it is legal. Is it the right thing to do? Of course not, but why start now?
I dont see how he can effectively govern (well, pretend to govern) from day 1. His Republican party is using him to further their own agenda, foreign governments are using him to weaken us and all the while he Tweets about how great he is. He has no clue.
This emperor has no clothes but he has a great big ego and its us who will pay the price. We already are.
I dont know how we will 'be great again' when so many people were duped by this madman.
I dont see how he can effectively govern (well, pretend to govern) from day 1. His Republican party is using him to further their own agenda, foreign governments are using him to weaken us and all the while he Tweets about how great he is. He has no clue.
This emperor has no clothes but he has a great big ego and its us who will pay the price. We already are.
I dont know how we will 'be great again' when so many people were duped by this madman.
3
Why, therefore, would anyone think of stepping away from private life for a while—ala George Washington—if such unrealistic demands are made of them? What do people expect of others to do that they would not be prepared to do themselves? It's no wonder that incompetents usually are the only people electing to go the "public service" route. Instead, the whole idea that citizens should be willing to spend some of their lives in public service has been utterly negated by those who think only in legalese—those who also live in a state of perpetual cynicism of those who elect to serve, banging the constant drumbeat that they have only their own interests at heart. I guess they should have impeached Washington.
1
But if THE CLINTONS were refusing to do this you'd be all up in arms I bet.
Though interestingly...they did not.
Perhaps ehat this really signifies is that business people, who's business interests come before the needs of their country, are not, in fact, the best people to go into public service. Or in any way th best people.
Republicans always think that we should run the government like a business...well here you are...a government run for the benefit of the people who RUN it...thats how businesses work.
Though interestingly...they did not.
Perhaps ehat this really signifies is that business people, who's business interests come before the needs of their country, are not, in fact, the best people to go into public service. Or in any way th best people.
Republicans always think that we should run the government like a business...well here you are...a government run for the benefit of the people who RUN it...thats how businesses work.
2
Washington and the other slave-holding Fathers are good examples of conflict-of-interest: they built slave-owning into the Constitution and ultimately precipitated the Civil War.
1
The President and Vice-President are specifically exempted from the ethics law to avoid this sort of sniping that undermines the presidency. Part of Trump's attraction to the voters was that he was not the same old professional politician and his success in business was considered a plus.
Democrat dead enders are not serving the interest of their country by ceaselessly attacking Trump before he is even sworn in. Can't think of a better way to assure Trump eight years as president. The best thing the Democrats can do for their country is to reorganize their party so they can win elections again.
Democrat dead enders are not serving the interest of their country by ceaselessly attacking Trump before he is even sworn in. Can't think of a better way to assure Trump eight years as president. The best thing the Democrats can do for their country is to reorganize their party so they can win elections again.
2
Ethics and conflicts of interest will never be a concern of the Trump administration. We are in a new era, complete with corruption. What I am waiting for is a brave individual who will reveal the contents of the Trump tax returns. It might be illegal but isn't this necessary for the good of our country?
3
Please someone stop the inauguration. Anyone who doesn't see that Trumputin is a train wreck needs to take his head out of the sand.
6
He's an expert at hiding profits, so the Treasury shouldn't expect much. Instead, he should donate all monies received, or refer all government customers to the next hotel down the road if he thinks donating all the money is too great a sacrifice for an alleged "billionaire" to make for his country.
4
Neither of these two headlines accurately describe the content of the story and the words of ethics advisor. For him, there was no doubt that what Trump is doing is enough.
7
Professionals concur there remains conflicts and the proposal doesn't solve the problem.
My question is: What happens now? It is apparent Mr Trump has no interest in voluntarily correcting anything. So who gets to be the adult in the room; who has the power to compel compliance or follow through on consequences? If there aren't consequences the Trump kid isn't going to pay any attention to you.
My question is: What happens now? It is apparent Mr Trump has no interest in voluntarily correcting anything. So who gets to be the adult in the room; who has the power to compel compliance or follow through on consequences? If there aren't consequences the Trump kid isn't going to pay any attention to you.
6
OK, the largest corporate takeover in history: the Trump Organization had taken over the USA.
Note how many long argued political issues has been positively resolved. That nonsense with commercial organizations being hobbled by regulations/bureaucrats (who know nothing of business). Now the Trump Organization will regulate itself.
Labor laws? If you have conflict with your employer, file petition with your ultimate CEO, Donald Trump.
Note how many long argued political issues has been positively resolved. That nonsense with commercial organizations being hobbled by regulations/bureaucrats (who know nothing of business). Now the Trump Organization will regulate itself.
Labor laws? If you have conflict with your employer, file petition with your ultimate CEO, Donald Trump.
4
Well, I hope Mr. Schaub has his resume up-to-date. But I appreciate his backbone and his unflinching loyalty to the people of the United States and our Constitution, exactly what a good civil servant is supposed to have.
11
I hope the country never accepts this excess of sleaze and lack of dignity as normal. By the way, this is not the way to get our true allies to respect the United States.
5
America has elected a snake oil salesman with zero substance. He sold the country a bill of goods with the sleight of hand of a practiced confidence man. Trump lies about or embellishes his accomplishments almost constantly. He will sell the US down the river and tell everyone he's made great deals. The Carrier 'deal' is one great example. How many read the fine print? It's not a great deal by any stretch of the imagination. He gave away a lot to gain very little. If this is his idea of great negotiation, America will be bankrupt in short order. I have not seen one person ask the question of how he's going to make up the revenue that will be lost by cutting corporate taxes. The 'yuge' deficit was brought up repeatedly during the campaign. How do you cut corporate taxes and undertake vast infrastructure projects without increasing the deficit even more? Where is the money going to come from? I'd love to know.
5
It would seem that if any real proof of some kind of unseemly relationship between Trump and Putin existed it would have come to light by now. Interested parties have been at this for at least months now and all we have is this spook dossier of anonymous and unsubstantiatable hearsay. It wouldn't surprise me if there were an actual Trump-Putin link that would forever undermine the validity of Trump's election, just as it would surprise me even less, not at all, if tapes of Trump cavorting with Russian prostitutes existed. But I do not expect to ever see any of this exposed to the factual light of day. The idea that either Panetta or Hayden would have instant, across-the-board credibility to lead any further investigation is absurd. What we would get from such an investigation is bound to be at best some more vague suggestions that things that should not have been done were probably done and none of it will amount to enough rope to tie a noose. I do not doubt we are about to see a thoroughly corrupt, contemptible and likely criminal fraud installed as the leader of our country. I would like to see as much energy as possible now put towards building up a coalition of electable candidates who are capable of persuading those Trump voters not yet hopelessly sunk in sheer, morally bankrupt idiocy that they were perhaps somewhat understandably duped this time around, but should have the intelligence, fortitude and self-esteem to admit it and not get fooled again.
5
Trump represents to Republicans what our Democratic candidate felt like. This country needs a coalition of leadership to marshal us to better policy-making across party lines. Policies for the people not multinational corporations.
The headline on the front page of the NYT site says the ethics chiefs "doubts" Trump has gone far enough - yet the body of the article says that he believes Trump's plan is "wholly inadequate". That doesn't sound particularly doubtful to me.
9
First the Donald will chose the ethics advisor who will judge his business deals, rather like allowing the fox to select the hen house guardian and then he will turn over his "empire" to doum and dumber, No mention is made of the son in law /adviisor who is meeting with foreign dignitaries on his own business deals. This whole arrangement is a conflict of interest on its face,
1
With Trump's business empire we have a rather unique situation as he assumes office—and there will ALWAYS be ethical questions regarding his businesses.
But he was elected because of his experience with businesses—so let's hope he can, with a cooperating Congress, really change things. Build build, jobs jobs, infrastructure infrastructure—we're in dire need of some inward directed energy and change.
But he was elected because of his experience with businesses—so let's hope he can, with a cooperating Congress, really change things. Build build, jobs jobs, infrastructure infrastructure—we're in dire need of some inward directed energy and change.
No, he was elected because of the ElectoralCollege.
The majority of voters clearly rejected this divisive hate-spewing, narcissistic con man, who lost a billion dollars and stiffed the small family business contractors who actually built his hotels.
The majority of voters clearly rejected this divisive hate-spewing, narcissistic con man, who lost a billion dollars and stiffed the small family business contractors who actually built his hotels.
2
Any time a politician takes a substantial contribution to her/his campaign, or plans to seek one in the future, a conflict of interest is created. (That's why Bernie Sanders was so proud of the multitude of small contributions that funded his campaign.)
Trump has a different set of conflicts. Because we're not used to them (as we are with the fund-raising conflicts) we see them as worse. No, they're neither better nor worse, just unfamiliar. The unfamiliar can be uncomfortable.
Trump has a different set of conflicts. Because we're not used to them (as we are with the fund-raising conflicts) we see them as worse. No, they're neither better nor worse, just unfamiliar. The unfamiliar can be uncomfortable.
1
Donald must think Americans are stupid. We are expected to think Donald will not know what his sons are doing with his business. So unfair to his competition. Loans, mergers, bids, real estate holdings, etc. fall under laws and by laws of the US government. A government run by the father who gets to appoint the people who make decisions on how laws are interpreted. If there is any question, he will have the Supreme Count to help with the interpretation.
2
Everything Trump does is smoke and mirrors. Deflection, manipulation and disparagement are his tools. He will be the first President to take the oath to "preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States" and break it in the same breath.
4
I think both Trump boys know enough to not get their father angry over ethics.
1
With the frequency with which the Donald lies and exaggerates are we to believe he will never discuss business with his children? Where is the Republican outrage shown towards the Clinton Foundation?
1
The reality that most people on here want is not possible without gravely harming Mr. Trump's personal wealth. Do we really want to limit the office of president to people that can easily divest their assets or blindly trust the assets? If so does that mean that only marginally successful people or people with simple asset structures can be president? This borders on the ridiculous.
The Clintons become members of the one per cent club by profiting from the public positions they held. Mr. Trump earned his fortune either through inheritance or growth of that initial inheritance while he was a private citizen yet he must convert the assets to cash, or create a blind trust, in order to serve; but Mr. and Mrs. Clinton get to keep all of their ill gotten gains! Ridiculous.
The Clintons become members of the one per cent club by profiting from the public positions they held. Mr. Trump earned his fortune either through inheritance or growth of that initial inheritance while he was a private citizen yet he must convert the assets to cash, or create a blind trust, in order to serve; but Mr. and Mrs. Clinton get to keep all of their ill gotten gains! Ridiculous.
4
The media should have been on this every single day before the election. Instead we got "EMAILS!" Massive failure. Most outlets (including NYT) could be blacklisted by Trump and it wouldn't make a difference. They are impotent. Worse than worthless; they have enabled the rise of this monster.
5
The requirements for eliminating potential conflicts of interest have been well known for decades.
If one is not ready, willing, and able to divest business holdings, one should should not hold oneself out for this democracy's highest position of trust.
If one is not ready, willing, and able to divest business holdings, one should should not hold oneself out for this democracy's highest position of trust.
4
Trump is a circus, another P.T. Barnum who believes to his core that we are all suckers. And so far, we have been. I have faith in the system, though - faith that the people whose jobs are to investigate and report will investigate and report, faith that at least some of the people elected to represent us will represent us. Sooner or later, Trump is going down, his clan will go down, buried by litigation and criminal charges and probably impeachment proceedings.
In the meantime, he is a smokescreen covering those in the GOP who see their chance to make radical attacks on human rights and long-established programs. We must be vigilant. Call your Senators and Representatives on important issues, donate to organizations that are watchdogs, and organize locally to make 2018 the end of the Republican Congress. I have the phone numbers for Toomey, Casey, and Shuster in my contact lists, and I added my voice to their voice mails to oppose the repeal of Obamacare (which I speculate they will just re-brand as TrumpCare and call it a day), and the gutting of the ethics office. It just takes a few minutes to call them and express an opinion. They need to know we are watching. Thank goodness for journalists, who keep us informed! Remember, those who opposed Trump outnumbered those who voted for him - we do have power and must use it.
In the meantime, he is a smokescreen covering those in the GOP who see their chance to make radical attacks on human rights and long-established programs. We must be vigilant. Call your Senators and Representatives on important issues, donate to organizations that are watchdogs, and organize locally to make 2018 the end of the Republican Congress. I have the phone numbers for Toomey, Casey, and Shuster in my contact lists, and I added my voice to their voice mails to oppose the repeal of Obamacare (which I speculate they will just re-brand as TrumpCare and call it a day), and the gutting of the ethics office. It just takes a few minutes to call them and express an opinion. They need to know we are watching. Thank goodness for journalists, who keep us informed! Remember, those who opposed Trump outnumbered those who voted for him - we do have power and must use it.
1
I'm not a big fan of lawyers, and feel that a great deal of human ingenuity and energy is squandered by this profession. Having said that, please, please, I'm begging ... all you bright, energetic legal professionals, do what it takes to roadblock any and all of Donald Trump's illegal and immoral endeavors. He uses the legal system to the fullest for his advantage. It's time life is made really hard for the him. Make him sweat.
3
"Profit" is easily manipulated. Having Trump personnel provide the oversight is putting the Fox in charge of the hen house. This plan is totally unworkable.
1
Federal law specifically exempts POTUS Trump from a conflict of interest situation. Since POTUS Trump would under any circumstance be in a conflict of interest situation, I believe Mr Trump is going the extra mile to show his honesty and integrity.
Trump has nothing significant to resolve his massive conflicts of interest. To believe otherwise is dishonest or naive. His sons and son in law participate in his conflicts of interest as do many of his appointees, such as his Secretary of State and Labor Secretary nominees. Given that he will not be transparent with his financial dealings, any promises he makes cannot be verified. Based on a business career where he pulled con job after after con job that enriched while hurting thousands of people, "just trust me" doesn't cut it.
1
why is trump still on the campaign trail..he regrettably won so get on with it.the best thing he said was wouldn't it be great if putin called him an "asset".Doesn't this clown know that's an intel word for a spy?What happened to the law about presidents renting federal property, as in trump's gaudy post office hotel he's leasing from the gov.Everytime he opens his mouth,there's a conflict.
2
If one of Trumps companies does a deal with the American subsidiary of a foreign company, how do you consider that not a conflict? In the world of globalization, this is all fungible.
1
And where is the 'pillow talk' buffer in this novel approach to divestiture. If his son-in-law and Senior Adviser, Jared Kushner, talked in his sleep about a looming 45% tariff on Chinese imports, would his wife go high and cast golden opportunity to the wind? I'd sure like to think she would. In the Trump White House - which will appellation will best apply - First Family or Family First?
1
It's hopeless. Trump doesn't understand ethics. His son doesn't understand ethics. Neither of them care. The people that voted him into office don't care. Our foreign policy will either correspond to his business interests, or he'll quit in a huff.
3
And where is the 'pillow talk' buffer in this novel approach to divestiture. If his son-in-law and Senior Adviser, Jared Kushner, talked in his sleep about a looming 45% tariff on Chinese imports, would his wife go high and cast golden opportunity to the wind? I'd sure like to think she would. In the Trump White House - which appellation will best apply - First Family or Family First?
1
Reality check top ten things Donald will do in his first hundred days in whit ehouse end disabilty an welfare for any one doing drugs . Invade mexico an declare war on drugs , mandate all local governments an towns consolidate with citys an countys to form sentral government reducing taxs by 90 percent home owners. mandate all governmnet agencys must buy made in america cant use tax money to buy imports. Build bigger prisons to import prisoners from other countrys
Yes the conflict-of-interest terms are insurmountable -- which is another reason he never should have run for office & people never should have voted for him. But the media were busy with dribbles of gossip from Russia about Hillary. The way out of this is to impeach & remove Trump as soon as he takes the oath on the grounds that he's violating the emoluments clause of the constitution. The attorney general must appoint a special prosecutor and the Republicans in Congress must fasten their sights on integrity and the survival of our Republic.
4
The Trump boys are Dad's twin myrmidons that will manage Dad's money generator at his behest. As Trump enriches himself on the backs of the electorate who are looking to the GOP for a fair shake, there will be thousands of T-Rump acolytes wondering what happened to their money. Trump can and will do more damage to public trust of elected officials. It feels like betrayal on a grand scale.
3
A sick joke. The Trump family comes out and says "the rules don't apply to us.: We can break laws, and my lawyer says the Constitution wont stop me. Think twice Donald.
Its either 15 minutes before you are impeached, or 4 years to govern. The choice is up to you-alone.
Its either 15 minutes before you are impeached, or 4 years to govern. The choice is up to you-alone.
5
The challenge Mr. Trump, his family and his team possesses as their own relates to their attempt to litigate to gain advantage yet again. Goodness. The argument being made that the "Ethics Act" doesn't apply to President is a rather flimsy one. The technical exemption, which likely wouldn't stand a 14th Amendment challenge, wasn't even in the original act enacted in the 70s post Nixon crises. The exemption he claims was added during a series of technical revisions well over a decade later. Rather than follow precedent Mr. Trump is bending law and precedent into soft malleable pretzel dough. The litigious approach envisioned, thereby working a deal in his mind, could very well force a challenge to the entire Ethics Act on 14th amendment grounds for all workers in the Executive Branch. Do we really want to potentially unravel this statute? Think it through Mr. President-Elect. Bottom line, the President Mr. Trump, you or otherwise, is not above the law. Is your litigious approach on this matter wise or is it foolish? Yes, there are limits to what one can do as a government employee to make a buck even when the employee in question is the President of the United States. President Nixon taught us that or at least I thought he did. History repeats itself yet again.
2
Tough. Given the uniqueness of this situation, Trump (and his lawyers, AND his own ethics people) probably have come up with the most rational way forward -- and a pretty generous one to the American people, at that. The MSM will be examining every dealing of the Trump organization for the next 4-8 years, and it's highly unlikely that anything curious will escape their notice -- or our attention. Trump knows this.
Just how stupid does Walter M. Shaub Jr. think Trump is? But rely on someone who is paid to find fault, and don't be surprised when he does.
Just how stupid does Walter M. Shaub Jr. think Trump is? But rely on someone who is paid to find fault, and don't be surprised when he does.
2
Uh, did you watch his press conference yesterday? All Trump will do is obfuscate and deflect any negative reporting with outlandish statements and lies ('I had a press conference every day...'). Supporters such as yourself will continue to equivocate all of this and end up cheerleading as he amplifies his wealth in the background. Trump claims he has no business interests or loans in Russia. How can we be sure without examining his tax returns?
The bottom line is the following: should we give free license to a boor who is intellectually inquisitive about policy and world affairs and will vastly deflate the dignity of the office just so he may sign a few bills that forward your conservative agenda?
The bottom line is the following: should we give free license to a boor who is intellectually inquisitive about policy and world affairs and will vastly deflate the dignity of the office just so he may sign a few bills that forward your conservative agenda?
3
BrianP:
Yes.
Yes.
Piles of papers were on display next to where Trump spoke during his conference. But journalists were not allowed to examine documents handing control to his sons. The piles served as misleading tactics - a Potemkin village - and did little to satisfy the ethical and constitutional concerns that have been raised.
Given his ineptness to be serious and focused, and his aversion towards media, journalists would have to wait a long while for Trump's next conference.
Given his ineptness to be serious and focused, and his aversion towards media, journalists would have to wait a long while for Trump's next conference.
17
He doesn't like "conferences". He has too much to hide. The man has shown himself to be nothing but a liar and a cheat...I guess his tax returns are still being "audited"...Now there's an example of just another lie amongst many that issues forth from his unethical mind...People voted for this man because they wanted "change"....Well, they're going to get it but they won't like it. The only change this man likes is the type that fills his bank account. That's where his morality begins and ends.
1
Trumpy is not releasing information about his plans. And that's different how?
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Trumpy said he would release his tax returns and he hasn't, and he won't. Trumpy is a liar and he continues to lie. If you're expecting honesty from his administration you should have your head examined.
.
Trumpy said he would release his tax returns and he hasn't, and he won't. Trumpy is a liar and he continues to lie. If you're expecting honesty from his administration you should have your head examined.
25
Face it, if you're expecting honesty from any politician you are delusional.
2
A politician lying. No, it can't be! Sort of like, "If you like your Doctor you can keep your doctor, if you like your plan you can keep your plan." Or maybe like, the Bengazi attack was caused by a video and was not a terrorist attack. Those lies effected millions of hard working Americans and disgraced the deaths of a sitting U.S. ambassador and 3 brave soldiers killed who died defending their country. Both were purely for political gain by your heros Obama and Clinton.
But all of Trumps supporters claimed over and over again that they liked Trump because he WASN'T a politician. He would be a man of his word and not cave to corruption, unlike corrupt Hillary.
As soon as he won all of that talk flew right out the window. Now it's "Who cares about political corruption, as long as it's my guy?"
As soon as he won all of that talk flew right out the window. Now it's "Who cares about political corruption, as long as it's my guy?"
1
Trump asks"is this Nazi Germany?" How were journalists treated in Nazi Germany?
49
Conflict of interest makes it almost impossible for a highly successful businessperson to be in elected office without divesting themselves of what they worked to build. But maybe that's okay. The wealthy and powerful already have enough power with their influence over politicians. If they want to actually be a politician--maybe that's the price you pay. There are other values besides how much money you make.
28
That's really naive and u can't compare the two. The Clintons, who were the subject of a financial witch hunt didn't make any money while in office. After they became private citizens, they were entitled to make the same as you or me. Secondly, of the money they did make, they paid 95 million in taxes and 20 million or more in charity. Secondly, I don't think there is a question that trumps are going to use the presidency to make money while he is president on assorted business. That would be using the office for financial benefit and carries a host of conflicts. This has never been the case. Third, he did lie about carrying on in Moscow as he does about everything. No honest person would give so many excuses to cover himself to the point that he said it couldn't have happened in the way they said cause he's a germophobe. The lie gets bigger and bigger just like the reason for being president. Lastly, anyone who knows wealthy people, they just want to get wealthier cause that's all they know.
1
Of course he was still Trump, why expect a miraculous transformation into someone other than a huckster? Donny, he's got to have it ... and he got it, so far. His lawyer's presentation was lawyerly ... and nonsensical, an insult to the brain. Those sloppy piles of files were a nice touch of nothing dispositive of probity. The con game was complete, and Donny won ... for the time being.
33
Somebody should tell Trump junior to knock off on the pomade. The two of them look slick enough with adding a visual reminder of their slippery business dealings.
42
I think junior wants to look like George Clooney in "Oh Brother, Where Art Thou?".
17
If there is anything that people need to protest is the incessant persecution by the media of Donald Trump before he even takes office. I don't remember anyone suggesting that Rockefeller needed to divest himself of his wealth and businesses when he served as Vice President under Gerald Ford. We didn't live in such an anti-American, anti-success in those days. The current milieu has become so irrational and bitter that people can no longer think rationally or objectively. As long as Trump's sons run the Trump organization, Trump will have the freedom to focus on the job of president. He is already wealthy. What motivation would he have to use the presidency to make money? That form of peculiar activity was already accomplished by the Clintons.
7
Donald's enablers seem to think he is the most unjustly persecuted person since Jesus Christ. I wonder what the legendary Jesus Christ would make of it.
48
Fred, your comment is so disconnected from reality it needs no other response than this.
20
Yes and let's not forget that Walter Shaub was appointed by Obama.
We really need to let him do the job he was elected to do. Trump has an enormous and diversified portfolio that would take years to divest. It's quite inane to demand that he devote himself to divesting his interests when we need him focused on the presidency.
Yes, hand it to his kids and be done with it.
We really need to let him do the job he was elected to do. Trump has an enormous and diversified portfolio that would take years to divest. It's quite inane to demand that he devote himself to divesting his interests when we need him focused on the presidency.
Yes, hand it to his kids and be done with it.
Wake up America! Wake up! This clown cannot become President. Hollywood couldn't have invented a more appallingly wrong choice for POTUS. Where are the Democrats??? This national nightmare should not go on another minute much less inauguration.
I see a daily parade of respected news sources trying to normalize this fascist tyrant. I see his staff day after day attempting an erasure of his lies and disgusting behaviors. Have we no shame anymore? Can this really be happening??
WAKE UP AMERICA!
I see a daily parade of respected news sources trying to normalize this fascist tyrant. I see his staff day after day attempting an erasure of his lies and disgusting behaviors. Have we no shame anymore? Can this really be happening??
WAKE UP AMERICA!
80
Much too late David, he will be in 8 days. Deal with it.
1
NYT, even if Trump sold absolutely everything he owns (including the members of his own family) and put all the proceeds in a blind trust, you'd still pen a 10000 word article criticizing him. It really doesn't matter what he does; the NYT will find fault. It's exhausting. Which has rendered the NYT largely irrelevant!
5
Actually it really doesn't matter what Trumpy does because he's a liar and dangerously unqualified. And the Times will still be around long after Trumpy has taken his hair and orange glow and gone home to sulk.
22
You can make that criticism once Trump actually does anything positive for anyone.
So far, he's had 30 years in the public eye and there's nothing good to say about the man. Ask the people who know him best, his fellow New Yorkers.
So far, he's had 30 years in the public eye and there's nothing good to say about the man. Ask the people who know him best, his fellow New Yorkers.
2
Irrelevant to whom? Maybe only to people who believe the fake news on Fox....
"Suspicion" of corruption. Come on people, this guy is corrupt to the bone. He's planning on making a ton of money via the office of the POTUS. Hoe dense does one need be to not understand that fact. Obviously, he considers personal profit far more important than service to his country. I doubt that he even thinks about country beyond what it can do for him.
45
Lock him up!
54
It has come to light that he is a traitor, and a pathological liar, once his tax returns are disclosed we will know the truth. Why isn't Congress pressuring him to do the right thing and release his tax returns? It doesn't matter! Hah, its not hard to get them leaked, nor is it too difficult to hack them....Either way, the american people will discover the truth about the Don the Con. And sadly it will be too late.
2
At this point, my only hope is that trump, his kids, and his appointees will all end up being indicted. The problem: he will pardon himself and everyone else.
3
Ethics and laws appear to now be a recommendation for the incoming administration. If they were laws, the Electoral College would have been unable to have voted for Trump, but they did.
23
Obviously we need some serious reform in our government, e.g. ethics laws and not recommendations. I'd like to see the Dems get out front on this issue. Where's the leadership?
We need to enforce the Constitution.
29
You need to read and understand the Constitution and the Federal Conflict of interest laws.
That's it? That's what he handed the country today and we're all supposed to trust him to conduct himself with honor and integrity? Who owns his debt?
Does he have financial ties to shady Russian oligarchs?
We need to see his tax returns.
Does he have financial ties to shady Russian oligarchs?
We need to see his tax returns.
40
I do not like Trump and his policies but I wish him good luck. You elected a business man. First time in modern history. he should go broke or lose an enormous amount of money and take away the work for his children. It's their company now and Trump is a brand. Like Colgate toothpaste. If he owned Colgate toothpaste and he gave it to his kids what would you say to that. He covered all new projects in foreign countries by saying the company will not open any new businesses. It's the kids company now not his. Give this guy who I do not like a break. He has enough money. There comes a point where enough is enough.
1
First time in modern history? Carter and George W. Bush were both businessmen.
1
The pile of papers sitting up on stage was hilarious. Surely if his separation from his business involves this much paperwork, then it must be airtight! Reminded me of an infomercial.
31
It reminded me of Joe McCarthy holding up his "list" of suspected communists. All lies.
12
Given his penchant for... post-truths... I suggest we get it in writing. Have a team of crackerjack ethics and financial types draft an iron-clad agreement that satisfies all requirements and have him to sign it. He could talk with his lawyers first to make sure it is a satisfactory (legally speaking) document. Tough boogies if he doesn't like the result, as long as the language is consistent with law and policy.
I'm sure he would demand nothing less in a contract with a potential business partner, and that stakes are far higher here.
I'm sure he would demand nothing less in a contract with a potential business partner, and that stakes are far higher here.
6
It's my understanding that when Bloomberg became mayor of NYC he put his business in a blind trust, thus this very wealthy man was able to proceed as mayor without financial conflicts of interest.
Now we have a President-Elect pushing the issue and in essence thumbing his nose at all Americans. It's apparent that Congress needs to take action to prevent the failure to file taxes in the future and set clear parameters on what a actions a President Elect must take.
But for now, how do we proceed? Where will the authority come to demand that the President Elect stop playing games and semantics with this issue? Or will we have to wait until it becomes impeachable?
Now we have a President-Elect pushing the issue and in essence thumbing his nose at all Americans. It's apparent that Congress needs to take action to prevent the failure to file taxes in the future and set clear parameters on what a actions a President Elect must take.
But for now, how do we proceed? Where will the authority come to demand that the President Elect stop playing games and semantics with this issue? Or will we have to wait until it becomes impeachable?
35
The Corrupt Decadence of a Declining Empire
Caligula, Nero, Julianus, the sale of the empire to the highest bidder.
Trump
The Corrupt Decadence of a Declining Empire
Caligula, Nero, Julianus, the sale of the empire to the highest bidder.
Trump
The Corrupt Decadence of a Declining Empire
28
Welcome to the United States of Trump. I can only believe his goal is to become richer than Putin.
30
Bigfoot - "become richer than Putin" - I have thought this for a while. The sychophant-like behavior, unremitting support for Putin (fawning by refusal to admit facts), and constant focus on maintaining his loyalist stand on Russia, suggest a near and dangerous obsession.
Thank heaven or more aptly, our founding fathers, for the 1st amendment and news organizations like NYT that apply journalistic rigor incessantly to probe and educate. PE Trump evidently will stop st nothing to protect his top priority: Donald Trump.
Slowly we are gaining a more sturdy understanding of the unbalanced, conflictive, vindictive reality star who is our elected president. As this understanding deepens, we the nation will be better equipped to hold our own state together against the assaults by this self-focused bully who acts like a partisan enemy among us rather than a leader of Our (not in his lexicon) nation.
Thank heaven or more aptly, our founding fathers, for the 1st amendment and news organizations like NYT that apply journalistic rigor incessantly to probe and educate. PE Trump evidently will stop st nothing to protect his top priority: Donald Trump.
Slowly we are gaining a more sturdy understanding of the unbalanced, conflictive, vindictive reality star who is our elected president. As this understanding deepens, we the nation will be better equipped to hold our own state together against the assaults by this self-focused bully who acts like a partisan enemy among us rather than a leader of Our (not in his lexicon) nation.
1
Did you hear this during today's press conference? Trump said: "I could run the company and run the company." He quickly corrected to: "I could run the country and run the company."
Oh no.
Oh no.
33
Company, country, it's all the same to him. That's the problem. But what would we expect from a man who spent his whole life in business and never so much as a nanosecond in public office where we might learn to recognize the public interest? He's unqualified for the office of the presidency.
Mr. Trump won the Presidential election. The mantra ethics critics should double down on is: The President is not free to pick and choose either the ethics laws or compliance mandates of office.
There are consequences to being President... Ma y positive, some negative... Divesting ownership of his business interests IS a cost of being elected President.
Perhaps for the first time in Donald's life he can't wiggle out of a personal responsibility. The Vietnam War may have been dodged, tradesmen left unpaid, women harassassed, and shareholders taken advantage of...
So, Mr. Trump, you are soon to find out that yes, you will divest your business ownership and fully comply with the obligstions as Commander in Chief... Or, no, you will not be President of the United States of America.
Business (& the introduction of President Pence) or the highest elected office in America are your only two choices Donald.
There are consequences to being President... Ma y positive, some negative... Divesting ownership of his business interests IS a cost of being elected President.
Perhaps for the first time in Donald's life he can't wiggle out of a personal responsibility. The Vietnam War may have been dodged, tradesmen left unpaid, women harassassed, and shareholders taken advantage of...
So, Mr. Trump, you are soon to find out that yes, you will divest your business ownership and fully comply with the obligstions as Commander in Chief... Or, no, you will not be President of the United States of America.
Business (& the introduction of President Pence) or the highest elected office in America are your only two choices Donald.
30
Completely ignore that very few of his holdings are in publicly traded corporations. An attempt to divest his business inside a year would completely destroy the value and would cause significant damage to several real estate markets.
Of course, that's likely to be the intent of certain parties that are astroturfing.
Of course, that's likely to be the intent of certain parties that are astroturfing.
3
Perhaps he should have actually prepared for the consequences of winning the Presidency.
1
Then he shouldn't be the president. It doesn't work in his case. If he can't compromise the value of his holdings, then he can't do it. Nothing wrong with that.
trump will try and try and try to cover his darker sides but it is going to come out very soon.
all we need is some of his pix in compromised positions at various points of time.
all we need is some of his pix in compromised positions at various points of time.
5
It's all made worse by him not showing his Tax Returns. We can never ever trust him.
11
Long time NYT reader, but these message boards have become a sounding board for liberals, not an open discussion of ideas. Can we at least import some conservative viewpoints from the WSJ comment boards?
6
If you want "an open discussion of ideas" why don't you post some?
1
People tend to read publications that reflect their own viewpoints and moral values. Fact of life.
1
Total agree MH....NYT disproportionately fomenting large groups of liberals, using Reader Comments to express disdain. This is not discourse.
Not since Nixon have I felt so badly for our country,
28
Well,well,well...now all the morons who assumed "business guys" will make "great government leaders or public servants", "Presidents and PMs", "Senators and Governors"...will be forced to eat their words.
There is a reason why in most cultures, races, religions and spiritual communities businessmen were always lower than thinkers, philosophers, intellectuals, researchers, academics, etc. Why? The very nature of business is "money, profits, skewing psychology or perceptions, marketing, selling, posturing, luxury life, etc."...which requires distortions, manipulations, lying, cheating, exaggerating, bombast, showing off, going-along-and-getting-along for deals and profits...".
Most businessmen make rotten "social or political leaders": either become incompetent or corrupt. Nepotism, lying, denying truth, excessive bombast, etc. are all part of their corruption or their incompetence.
Jesus, Mahavira, Buddha and so many spiritual mena and women demanded of the business crowd, traders, lenders and financiers including, more charity, more reflection, more guilt, more repentance, more community work, more prayers for forgiveness and more sacrifice, in their late life, to atone for all their sins...and lessen their karmic baggage in the next life.
Hopefully PE Trump may be an exception, but the look of it...not so much.
Business people...kindly stand up, own up to your stupidity, arrogance and false self beliefs, and start recruiting more academics, thinkers, researchers...
There is a reason why in most cultures, races, religions and spiritual communities businessmen were always lower than thinkers, philosophers, intellectuals, researchers, academics, etc. Why? The very nature of business is "money, profits, skewing psychology or perceptions, marketing, selling, posturing, luxury life, etc."...which requires distortions, manipulations, lying, cheating, exaggerating, bombast, showing off, going-along-and-getting-along for deals and profits...".
Most businessmen make rotten "social or political leaders": either become incompetent or corrupt. Nepotism, lying, denying truth, excessive bombast, etc. are all part of their corruption or their incompetence.
Jesus, Mahavira, Buddha and so many spiritual mena and women demanded of the business crowd, traders, lenders and financiers including, more charity, more reflection, more guilt, more repentance, more community work, more prayers for forgiveness and more sacrifice, in their late life, to atone for all their sins...and lessen their karmic baggage in the next life.
Hopefully PE Trump may be an exception, but the look of it...not so much.
Business people...kindly stand up, own up to your stupidity, arrogance and false self beliefs, and start recruiting more academics, thinkers, researchers...
21
I can't detest Trump more but your diatribe against business people is just plain warped. Enjoy your bowl of philosophy for breakfast.
1
If the Dems are focused on his personal business interests -- I mean, really, this is small money and petty "ethics" in the big picture -- then Trump has already won this battle.
2
Remember the fable about the greedy monkey who got his hand stuck in the jar with the narrow neck? Being an animal, he had no ethics. He could see the peanuts in the bottom of the jar and he really wanted them. He reached in, grabbed some, but with a fist full of nuts, he couldn't pull his hand out of the jar. If he'd been willing to let a few nuts fall, he could have released his hand and even had some peanuts, but he was unwilling give up any of them. So there he was, hand full of nuts stuck inside of the jar and it was thus that he was caught and taken to a zoo.
One can only hope.
One can only hope.
37
I think this is true. Donald Trump is in way over his head. It was all something he had to win, no matter what. Only guess what the prize isn't all its made out to be. That seems to be his whole mantra go after something get it, toss it aside. That not only includes real estate, TV, pageants, women, etc., all a game only the game this time means peoples lives.
2
"President-elect Donald J. Trump said Wednesday that he would place his vast business empire"
"Vast business empire" according to whom? Is this Trump's self assessment or is it verified independently by the New York TImes? Labyrinthian does not necessarily mean vast in assets. In fact for all we know it is puny or even flat out bankrupt. Trump's inability to pay on time may not simply be a sign of corrupt practices but due to an honest shortage of funds.
Sloppy business practices that landed him underwater six times (that we know of ) does not bode well about the actual size of his "vast business empire".
The last thing the US needs if a bankrupt fake billionaire president. It is an outrage that Trump has not opened his tax returns to scrutiny.
"Vast business empire" according to whom? Is this Trump's self assessment or is it verified independently by the New York TImes? Labyrinthian does not necessarily mean vast in assets. In fact for all we know it is puny or even flat out bankrupt. Trump's inability to pay on time may not simply be a sign of corrupt practices but due to an honest shortage of funds.
Sloppy business practices that landed him underwater six times (that we know of ) does not bode well about the actual size of his "vast business empire".
The last thing the US needs if a bankrupt fake billionaire president. It is an outrage that Trump has not opened his tax returns to scrutiny.
20
I think either a Federal Law or individual state laws should be passed requiring all Presidential candidates to release a complete set of tax returns for the past 10 to 15 years in order to be able to participate in the individual state primary's or caucuses, effective for the 2020 election.
Trump is hiding something and thinks he's above the law, and he hasn't even been sworn in yet.
This jerk is a constitutional crisis in the making, Trump will soon learn that no matter how much money he has, he is in public service and whether he likes it or not, he's not above the law.
Trump is hiding something and thinks he's above the law, and he hasn't even been sworn in yet.
This jerk is a constitutional crisis in the making, Trump will soon learn that no matter how much money he has, he is in public service and whether he likes it or not, he's not above the law.
17
He can't give up his business interests, because when he is impeached he will need to fall back on his day job.
10
I think Trump has some serious psychological issues going on and gives indications that he is not right in the head.
17
If there is no law saying Trump MUST divest his holdings in the Trump organization or put them in a blind trust etc., then all this is much ado about nothing:
https://www.bostonglobe.com/news/politics/2016/06/08/trump-could-preside...
https://www.bostonglobe.com/news/politics/2016/06/08/trump-could-preside...
3
Really not good enough. The President is a volunteer position. You did not have to run. You chose to run. Already sick of the nonsense and he has yet to be inaugurated. His positions waste time in congress and the judiciary who have actual important work to do - let's not make it work for the upcoming POTUS - just folllow the rules.
14
Trump is a shill for Putin, when you add up all the pro-Russian statements Trump has made during and after the election. I hope this helps disqualifies him from becoming commander in chief. Donald J Trump Jr. made this statement in 2008, “Russians make up a pretty disproportionate cross-section of a lot of our assets. We see a lot of money pouring in from Russia.” This was from a real estate conference and published at the website of eTurboNews, a trade publication. Trump wanting to weaken NATO plays right into Putins plans for aggression towards the newest members of NATO, who were former soviet satellites with puppet governments from Russia. They started declaring independence in 1991. And then to add insult to injury, Trump claims the people of the Crimean Peninsula are happy the Russians are there. The Crimean Tartars whom Russia tried to ethnically cleanse in 1944 would not agree.
11
Is there any constitutional scholars among NYT readers who knows who has standing to bring a lawsuit for a constitutional violation of the emoluments clause and what the procedure would be?
10
First off, all Congress has to do is give its permission for Trump to receive emoluments and voilà, they become constitutional.
You think a Republican Congress might do that? Maybe. Maybe they want the Sword of Damocles option though.
Second, should Trump NOT receive Congressional permission to receive his Emoluments, then he is in violation. But I suspect that the courts would decline to hear such a case as being a "political question.". Meaning that rather than the Judicial branch taking charge, that Congress would have to impeach and convict in order to remove him.
In summation, Trump receives emoluments. Congress can either grant permission or not. If not, they can either ignore or impeach.
Sadly, I think they will neither grant permission nor impeach.
You think a Republican Congress might do that? Maybe. Maybe they want the Sword of Damocles option though.
Second, should Trump NOT receive Congressional permission to receive his Emoluments, then he is in violation. But I suspect that the courts would decline to hear such a case as being a "political question.". Meaning that rather than the Judicial branch taking charge, that Congress would have to impeach and convict in order to remove him.
In summation, Trump receives emoluments. Congress can either grant permission or not. If not, they can either ignore or impeach.
Sadly, I think they will neither grant permission nor impeach.
Oh, for crying out loud. Let's get off the Trump hate train. Hillary lost, kids. Now quit your temper tantrum.
3
You mean like the eight-year long temper tantrum the Republicans threw after Obama's election? Or did you think we'd already forgotten that?
.
Now they're getting as good as they gave, and it's well deserved.
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Now they're getting as good as they gave, and it's well deserved.
11
The right wing Republicans went after Obama relentlessly and never considered him legitimate. They wouldn't even consider his pick for Supreme Court. And now the man who kept asking for Obamas birth certificate for 8 years is freaking out because he is being criticized?
1
Why? How long did Trump go on about the birth certificate? Trump is getting what he richly deserves.
1
Listening to Trump is like watching a drunk stumble bum trying to navigate his way through a crowd. We are starting to see clearly where Trump is coming from. He isolates himself from both sides of the aisle which will make his progress in Govt a bumper car experience only a fool would select as the best way to get things done. Trump does not cultivate loyalty or partnerships. He is the Lone Ranger without a Tonto.
8
Someone wonders if he really wants to be president. Good point! It seems more likely that he wants to be the star of the USA show with others running the country and his businesses for him. He'll be free to preen and swan about, tweeting, insulting and complaining to his hearts content while everyone in the world watches him...all the time. Trump Heaven! He'll be, at the same time, a tool of both the Republicans and the Russians. Just imagine all that will be accomplished!
12
My thoughts exactly, I don't truly believe that he thinks he can handle the job. I think Trump knows he's in way over his head and he's hoping to be impeached. I think he just wanted to win. Scary for the rest of us.
1
It's too late for now, but I hope this will prompt Bills requiring candidates to release tax records, and agree to put their businesses into blind trusts. That would have prevented this whole mess.
11
I doubt Congress can pass laws related to qualifications for President over and above those in the Constitution.
In fact, I'm sure of it.
In fact, I'm sure of it.
1
Good point. Pass a constitutional amendment. It's the only way.
It wouldn't apply retroactively, so why would Trump supporters be against it? Unless they plan on voting for an unethical candidate in all future elections, that is.
It wouldn't apply retroactively, so why would Trump supporters be against it? Unless they plan on voting for an unethical candidate in all future elections, that is.
2
Its sad reading the comments posted by liberals who obviously hate Trump. I watched the presser, I was impressed with the female attorney who outlined the separation of business . Let's face it, Trump is a success. His companies are world wide. He didn't prepare to be president by having a ghost writer help him with a book , not did he spend time calling himself a neighborhood organizer , or give part time lectures at a university then let his followers refer to him as a faculty member... He has substance .. Obama is a nothing .. An empty suit full of jive ... a useless do nothing who has accomplished nothing in 8 years ... Rock on Trump
6
You talk as if you know Trump's business dealings first hand. Enlighten us: he certainly hasn't released his tax returns. Whom is he beholden to? And I assume if he bankrupts the U.S. like he did several times to his businesses, you'll think he's a winner? What 'inspiring' talk did you take away from this news conference -- compared to a scandal-free Obama, who handled the office of President with dignity and grace? Now that's what I call a winner, and a leader -- not this two-timing snake oil salesman named Trump.
29
1) Trump WENT BANKRUPT six times as in one,two, three, four, five, six!
2) Trump lost his shirt as a casino businessmen NOT as a casino gambler, which normal to lose your shirt.
3) He is not paying the contractors who did construction of the Trump hotel in Washington DC not because he is smart businessman but because he is BAD businessman and he is out of cash.
What makes you think he has money in the bank and not debt? Loans to loan shark Russians or worst?
Nobody hates the degenerate who was elected with three million LESS votes than the 66 million who voted for Hillary. You simply hate truth. Now go get a real job.
2) Trump lost his shirt as a casino businessmen NOT as a casino gambler, which normal to lose your shirt.
3) He is not paying the contractors who did construction of the Trump hotel in Washington DC not because he is smart businessman but because he is BAD businessman and he is out of cash.
What makes you think he has money in the bank and not debt? Loans to loan shark Russians or worst?
Nobody hates the degenerate who was elected with three million LESS votes than the 66 million who voted for Hillary. You simply hate truth. Now go get a real job.
2
Of course Trump had a ghost writer! Google
Tony Schwartz.
And you speak about this poor excuse for a man--who "grabs women by the pu--y "and makes fun of a disabled reporter as having substance?? Time to enter the world of
reality, not that of Faux News.
Obama has more substance in his pinky
than Trump does in his whole body.
Tony Schwartz.
And you speak about this poor excuse for a man--who "grabs women by the pu--y "and makes fun of a disabled reporter as having substance?? Time to enter the world of
reality, not that of Faux News.
Obama has more substance in his pinky
than Trump does in his whole body.
2
Throwing our intelligence community 'under the bus' sort-of-speak in order to deflect deserving criticism for his unsavory words and deeds nodding obedience to Russia, should be the very first misdemeanor Trump should be charged with for impeachment to begin. All of Congress needs to set party and partisanship aside and coalesces around the unprecedented nature of this man's belligerence against our democratic principals and Constitution.
9
What kind of man brings in his own cheering section?
27
This word gets thrown around too much, but it has to be said:
Fascists. Fascists make sure they always have a cadre of loyal followers surrounding them, to cheer them on and silence opposition.
Fascists. Fascists make sure they always have a cadre of loyal followers surrounding them, to cheer them on and silence opposition.
3
What does it say about our collective American mentality that this ignorant slob of a bully businessman was elected to the office of President of the United States? It is if America is trying to commit suicide!
20
Did we save the receipt? Maybe we can take "it" back. It's not working properly.
19
Don't just complain in an online forum. Call your Senators and Congress persons and leave a message that this is unacceptable. Stop the confirmation hearings until we get the truth. Defend our country.
19
When someone gets up their and brags about great he is, and how it's the media who is out to get him and compares the US Intelligence Agency to Nazi Germany, it reminds me of a Hitler.
What Trump is going to learn is although he is acting imperial and like he's above the law, he is not.
I think he should take a hard look at the history of the United States; Joe McCarthy wasn't above the law, Nixon said he was no crook, Gary Hart denied having an affair, Bill Clinton denied it, and what we've come to learn is that where there is smoke there is fire.
In Trump's case there is plenty of smoke, the Howard Stern tapes and the Billy Bush bus where he brags about his proclivity with woman, his plethora of accusers of Trump's sexual predatory habits, and a lot of it is in his own words.
Now, the BBC is reporting it has multiple sources confirming the Russian dossier on Trump, it's only a matter of time before this bully is brought down, so he better think long and hard about how far he thinks he can bring this country down into the gutter with him.
His news conference today with Trump paid props of people to clap from him is disgusting and smacks of Nazi Germany, Russia and a totalitarian dictatorship, still actin like he's campaigning against Hillary and attacking the Intelligence Agency's and the Press, Trump sounds like an insecure little man who is doomed to fail....and to use his words....Big Time!
What Trump is going to learn is although he is acting imperial and like he's above the law, he is not.
I think he should take a hard look at the history of the United States; Joe McCarthy wasn't above the law, Nixon said he was no crook, Gary Hart denied having an affair, Bill Clinton denied it, and what we've come to learn is that where there is smoke there is fire.
In Trump's case there is plenty of smoke, the Howard Stern tapes and the Billy Bush bus where he brags about his proclivity with woman, his plethora of accusers of Trump's sexual predatory habits, and a lot of it is in his own words.
Now, the BBC is reporting it has multiple sources confirming the Russian dossier on Trump, it's only a matter of time before this bully is brought down, so he better think long and hard about how far he thinks he can bring this country down into the gutter with him.
His news conference today with Trump paid props of people to clap from him is disgusting and smacks of Nazi Germany, Russia and a totalitarian dictatorship, still actin like he's campaigning against Hillary and attacking the Intelligence Agency's and the Press, Trump sounds like an insecure little man who is doomed to fail....and to use his words....Big Time!
20
Trump doesn't understand what democracy is.
When will Americans the criticizing President elect, Donald Trump? He hasn't taken office yet and the mud slinging continues to increase every day. Some people have problems dealing with the reality of soon to be President Trump. THEY NEED HELP!!!
He's a completely reprehensible human being and will be treated as such. That's reality. Deal with it.
2
A Commander in Chief who won't give up his company but would order others to give up their lives.
Maybe they're just little people.
Maybe they're just little people.
11
Trump is a flimflam artist. He thinks that he can get away with anything, And the sad part is that he is doing so. Who will put the brakes on this guy? Someone must do so soon or we will be living in a dictatorship.
13
We know Trump lies. We know he refuses to respect the norms of the office he will be taking and he displayed it in the interview. Why does he think we are all fools and can say anything because he thinks he has one on us. Actually, the Republicans have done a great deal for Trump to display his madness. This has led to the arrogance that he believes he can destroy our Constitution if he doesn't divest of his foreign holdings. PLEASE WHERE ARE ALL THE LAWYERS OUT THERE? This man must be given a mental exam before he comes close to becoming president.
14
Crook in Chief
10
And Bully in Chief . And Racist in Chief.
And Misogynist in Chief. I could go on and
on.
And Misogynist in Chief. I could go on and
on.
Emperor Donald is just going to try to bluster and bully his way past any conflicts, any ethical lapses, and even any Constitutional violations. Are we, the American people, going to stand for that? I say "NO."
One comment that I have seen has already pointed out that the idea of making an annual contribution of the profits that are paid in by foreign governments (for example to his hotel, or rent payments at Trump Tower) does not suffice, because the Emoluments Clause problem is *RECEIVING* the money, and not what is done with it after receipt.
Warren G. Harding's reputation is about to get a lift, from MOST corrupt President to 2nd most corrupt President.
One comment that I have seen has already pointed out that the idea of making an annual contribution of the profits that are paid in by foreign governments (for example to his hotel, or rent payments at Trump Tower) does not suffice, because the Emoluments Clause problem is *RECEIVING* the money, and not what is done with it after receipt.
Warren G. Harding's reputation is about to get a lift, from MOST corrupt President to 2nd most corrupt President.
8
Just imagine there WAS some malfeasance. Who are we going to call to testify? Trump over his sons? One of his sons over his brother-in-law? Are the Republicans really going to roll over on this?
5
Fake news? Really? What a hypocrite!
How about all the time he spread fake news about Obama's birth certificate?
I guess the presidency is not agreeing with his ego...
How about all the time he spread fake news about Obama's birth certificate?
I guess the presidency is not agreeing with his ego...
25
Trump said he was worth more than 1.5 billion when he was running for office.
4
From the other side of the planet, this whole Trump thing plays like a B-grade sitcom. Incredulity is all I feel. I keep hoping someone's going to pull a statesman out of the hat, but all we get is the same old same old from Mr President elect. Is he really about to be the President of the United States of America, the same United States whose outgoing President just delivered an inspiring farewell speech?
28
Are the so called "Republicans" going to ask him to show his taxes?
Why are they so quiet about it?
Why are they so quiet about it?
18
Start the Impeachment process.
28
I am afraid history may soon repeat itself . . .
"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair…"
TAKE HEED!
Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities
"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair…"
TAKE HEED!
Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities
11
Where is the "spring of hope" in the present concoction of events?
5
The PEOTUS is continuing the same behaviors and attitudes by which he's lived his life. It is totally unreasonable to expect that he will comport himself any differently once he is POTUS. So that means we will be subject to the same behavior and statements of non-reality after 1/20. However, he will remain under the most intense scrutiny on a daily basis of any POTUS ever. So I expect, given his penchant for denying any shortcomings ever, his classic hubris will result in true issues coming to light due to this scrutiny. And that will be his downfall. Whether it comes from the right or the left, he will not survive it. And those of us who did not support him will be able to say " We told you so!" Possibly cold comfort, given the damage and furor which may come in the meantime. I wish us all well.
17
Enablement of psychopaths like Trump sets off a nuclear chain reaction.
7
It's funny when Trump calls the hacking a "witch hunt" well since his wife rides her own broom, he strides a broom pretty well himself.
3
I can find Kellyanne Conway on CNN any time.
2
When is the public going to get it, Trump is a liar, plain and simple, wouldn't surprise me one bit with regards to his flings with prostitutes, I mean look at the mans wife, she isn't with Trump for his tiny hands, it's his fat wallet. That's going to get fatter at our expense his sons are going to be calling him. The democrats should prepare for his impeachment in two years.
16
Too funny. The perpetual conflicts of interest with the Clintons was never a concern for the Democrats. Hillary even signed the agreement to step aside from foundation work while serving as Sec of State. Instead, she did just the opposite. The foundation was open for business and access was for sale.
1
Just make it up or follow the script if you must, but that is not true.
8
Introductions were arranged, that is all.
4
I'd give him a B-/C for effort but he simply cannot distance himself from his business interests unless he doesn't speak to his family for the duration. Yes, it's a new paradigm because it's the first time since Eisenhower that a previously elected official wasn't elected to the presidency. As much as I've come to dislike and distrust Trump as an individual, there's nothing inherently wrong in electing a professional businessman to the office. Carter, Reagan, both Bushes and Romney all made major career changes when they entered politics. It's just that the presidency wasn't their first elected position.
5
Take it from most of the rest of major the players in the real estate business in NYC: Trump is all hat and no cattle.
8
Come January 20, 2017, there will be an indelible stain on our country, democracy, and our Constitution the likes of which we have never seen before, and which will signify the end of America as we know it.
Having watched his despicable actions and heard this man's lies for the past two years and watched him retract a lie, then lie again and retract that, over and over and over again - I believe NOTHING that he says. He is the most unfit person to ever be elected president of the greatest nation on earth, he is devoid of character, unable to filter himself, owns nothing he says or does unless it benefits him.
Watching him today at his "press" conference was unbearable, excruciating, and incomprehensible - that we are here, faced with this awful man, his "outraged" sycophants, and this ugly majority in the Congress that can't wait to grind most ordinary Americans into the ground. The glory days are over.
Having watched his despicable actions and heard this man's lies for the past two years and watched him retract a lie, then lie again and retract that, over and over and over again - I believe NOTHING that he says. He is the most unfit person to ever be elected president of the greatest nation on earth, he is devoid of character, unable to filter himself, owns nothing he says or does unless it benefits him.
Watching him today at his "press" conference was unbearable, excruciating, and incomprehensible - that we are here, faced with this awful man, his "outraged" sycophants, and this ugly majority in the Congress that can't wait to grind most ordinary Americans into the ground. The glory days are over.
25
Oh please. Take a deep breath. Give the guy a chance.
BigD,
Trumpy is given a chance every day. Every day he wakes up and has a new chance. And so far, every day he wrecks the chance he's been given, and he's been doing it all along.
.
Why do you think that come January 21 he's going to wake up and all of a sudden start making good on his chances? What has Trumpy done to give you such hope? He is not going to change - this is who Trumpy is.
.
Trumpy will continue to ruin his chances and demonstrate how dangerously unqualified he is. And you will never see it, you'll just spend 4 years saying "give the guy a chance!"
Trumpy is given a chance every day. Every day he wakes up and has a new chance. And so far, every day he wrecks the chance he's been given, and he's been doing it all along.
.
Why do you think that come January 21 he's going to wake up and all of a sudden start making good on his chances? What has Trumpy done to give you such hope? He is not going to change - this is who Trumpy is.
.
Trumpy will continue to ruin his chances and demonstrate how dangerously unqualified he is. And you will never see it, you'll just spend 4 years saying "give the guy a chance!"
4
Representative Jason Chaffetz, will you pursue Trump's conflicts of interest with the same indefatigueable zeal that you showed in pursuing Secretary Clinton's e-mails? Representative Trey Gowdy, will you subpeona Trump and grill him about his conflicts for 11 hours, as you did, Secretary Clinton about Benghazi?
23
Trump would lose attention before Trey Gowdy could conclude his questions.
4
That's if he actually turned up, more likely it is that he would send Kellyanne Conway to appear in place of him!
Does the regulator in question have the authority to dictate a solution? Or is their job to grant their stamp of approval using whatever random criteria they feel like using?
3
Start impeachment process.
16
As many people have pointed out, it is rather infeasible for Mr. Trump to sell off his assets on a piecemeal basis. However, if his assets are held by the Trump Organization, wouldn't it be possible to "simply" convert this privately held company into a publicly traded company, possibly selling its shares on a restricted basis (e.g. prohibiting initial sale to foreign individuals and companies), thereby allowing Mr. Trump to divest while obtaining a more or less fair market price for the assets?
For it to go public would require a level of public scrutiny that Trump doesn't want - for instance, to see how much of his business is bad debt. Considering the numbers of lawsuits outstanding against Trump and the number of people he has stiffed, it isn't likely his business would make it through an IPO. Someone should buy all his debt and force T out of business and save us all some grief.
Trump supporters don't seem to understand that if he and his children do not divest himself, his overseas real estate holdings could become likelier targets of terrorism, which would result in his using the US military to protect those interests.
Are Trump's supporters really so blindly loyal that they would send their own soldier children to their potential deaths just for the sake of Trump's hotels?
Sure seems like it, given his supporters' pushback on this topic.
Are Trump's supporters really so blindly loyal that they would send their own soldier children to their potential deaths just for the sake of Trump's hotels?
Sure seems like it, given his supporters' pushback on this topic.
16
The biggest takeaway I got is not what he said, but what he didn't say.
I don't believe him when he said he had no loans or deals, and that he stayed away. It does not square with his son Don's statements about Russia being an out-sized part of the company's revenues.
What I am curious about is where their revenues are derived from, particularly in regards to the Trump Organization's sales of condos and services to Russian buyers, both in the US and abroad. How do they ensure they comply with the Anti-Money Laundering Act, the Patriot Act, the Bank Secrecy Act, and other applicable legislation? What steps have they taken to ensure no illicit money was accepted by them in exchange for any assets or services? Would scrutiny of their customers from the past 10 years reveal nefarious, if not illicit connections and potential violations of these statutes?
And let's not forget, with global operations and sales in the US to numerous foreign buyers - by their own admission - it is not just Russian connections that should be scrutinized.
We can start with all those nations he has sought to combat with before and after the election. After all, he is consistent in attacking his perceived enemies. That almost always points to a reason why he feels threatened, and is a worthy avenue of inquiry.
I don't believe him when he said he had no loans or deals, and that he stayed away. It does not square with his son Don's statements about Russia being an out-sized part of the company's revenues.
What I am curious about is where their revenues are derived from, particularly in regards to the Trump Organization's sales of condos and services to Russian buyers, both in the US and abroad. How do they ensure they comply with the Anti-Money Laundering Act, the Patriot Act, the Bank Secrecy Act, and other applicable legislation? What steps have they taken to ensure no illicit money was accepted by them in exchange for any assets or services? Would scrutiny of their customers from the past 10 years reveal nefarious, if not illicit connections and potential violations of these statutes?
And let's not forget, with global operations and sales in the US to numerous foreign buyers - by their own admission - it is not just Russian connections that should be scrutinized.
We can start with all those nations he has sought to combat with before and after the election. After all, he is consistent in attacking his perceived enemies. That almost always points to a reason why he feels threatened, and is a worthy avenue of inquiry.
13
Rise and fall of a "great" nation: Charlie Wilson,1950s (Eisenhower Cabinet nominee): what's good for GM (massive industrial enterprise employing 10,000s) is good for America. JFK: "Ask not what your country can do for you..." Donald Trump: what's good for the Trump Organization (my personal enrichment) is good for America. I love my business more than I love the USA.
This is shocking, and appalling.
This is shocking, and appalling.
20
Will President-elect Trump release the newly created trust documents?
If President-elect Trump was offered two billion dollars for a deal in Dubai last weekend wouldn't the spirit and intent of the trust preclude this? Was the trust not yet effective? The number of possible conflicts defy rational explanation.
If President-elect Trump was offered two billion dollars for a deal in Dubai last weekend wouldn't the spirit and intent of the trust preclude this? Was the trust not yet effective? The number of possible conflicts defy rational explanation.
14
What did Nelson Rockefeller do when he was vice president?
3
The fix is in. Congratulations America.
12
Trump brought in his own supporters to clap and cheer.
Laughably pathetic.
Laughably pathetic.
24
I do not believe Donald Trump actually wants to lead this country. He has not even discussed the various offices with his nominees, as witnessed by Tillerson's reply to that very question. What he wants, is for his cabinet and Congress to run the government for him, so he is free to do little more than use his presidency to whine about the press, preen his ego online, and enrich himself, his family and his businesses. It will be a sad statement indeed If Congress turns a blind eye this blatant disregard for ethics and the solemnity of the office. Republicans would never, ever tolerate that from a Democrat -they must also be willing to stand up and reign in one of their own.
24
or make some cash and take advantage of the opportunity to come from under water.
The multi-bankrupt tax cheat who was a defendant in fraud case on election day proposes a non-divestiture plan that's "wholly inadequate" and leaves him "vulnerable to 'suspicions of corruption'"? Who could have imagined that?
15
Of course Presidents gain wealth after leaving office. But I imagine Trump will increase his riches beyond compare while in office. And still receive a Presidential salary, protection, and healthcare for life should he decide to leave office someday.
3
What did Mike Bloomberg do with his business when he became Mayor? Whatever he did should be what Trump does.
5
Bloomberg did a blind trust.
4
And every time these issues - Russia, tax returns, business conflicts, nepotism, unqualified cabinet members - are pointed out to Trump voter, the response is that Trump is still better than Hillary Clinton. Really?
14
Its utterly amazing that in 9 days this man will become president of the USA without being subjected to any kind of drugs test, any kind of rudimentary medical let alone revealing his tax returns. He said again today that his taxes are under audit. How long does a tax audit take? Who runs government's tax auditing department? Is it not possible to publicly verify whether his tax returns are under audit at this time - if necessary without revealing the returns?
Many corporations require that their senior executives undergo regular, thorough medical checks. Somehow this is deemed not necessary for the person charged with running the world's most powerful country. We are about to give the nuclear codes and keys to the kingdom to a person who constantly exhibits erratic behavior with all night tweeting, contradictory and inflammatory statements, non stop lies and relentless focus on minor issues that irritate him. These obsessions and behaviors are the traits of crystal meth or cocaine users. A simple test of one of those golden colored hairs would reveal the real truth. Can we not even manage that? What on earth is going on with our country?
Many corporations require that their senior executives undergo regular, thorough medical checks. Somehow this is deemed not necessary for the person charged with running the world's most powerful country. We are about to give the nuclear codes and keys to the kingdom to a person who constantly exhibits erratic behavior with all night tweeting, contradictory and inflammatory statements, non stop lies and relentless focus on minor issues that irritate him. These obsessions and behaviors are the traits of crystal meth or cocaine users. A simple test of one of those golden colored hairs would reveal the real truth. Can we not even manage that? What on earth is going on with our country?
8
You've elected a three card monte dealer. The rubes always lose (however the rest of us are the innocent victims of this crook and his henchmen). Question for those of you who voted for him: did you realize you were also voting for Don Jr, Eric and Ivanka?
14
Donald Trump is not yet president and he won't be president until January 20. But he is already lining himself up to be instantly in violation of the Constitution the moment he takes the oath of office. Though he would like to believe and would like all of us to believe otherwise, Donald Trump is not above the law. Even presidents are not above the law.
Nobody forced this man to ran for president and no matter how smart he likes to think he is, ultimately he cannot outsmart the Constitution.
Nobody forced this man to ran for president and no matter how smart he likes to think he is, ultimately he cannot outsmart the Constitution.
16
He probably can't sell it. It's the life work of his kids to make it have a positive cash value.
4
Silly people, laws are for the little people, not for our Dictator-elect.
10
I don't think Trump is able to understand how special it is to be President.
If he did he would want to do the right thing by divesting himself from his investments as he would know he can't be President unless he puts the nation's needs before his own.
If he isn't willing to divest then he is putting his needs before the needs of the country.
He should never been elected but since he was it is up to the Congress to make sure he lives up to the oath of office he will be making.
This means the Democrats and the Republicans will have to stop fighting each other and fight Trump if he does not put America first.
I can only hope Trump does the right things but if he doesn't then someone has to do the right thing.
If he did he would want to do the right thing by divesting himself from his investments as he would know he can't be President unless he puts the nation's needs before his own.
If he isn't willing to divest then he is putting his needs before the needs of the country.
He should never been elected but since he was it is up to the Congress to make sure he lives up to the oath of office he will be making.
This means the Democrats and the Republicans will have to stop fighting each other and fight Trump if he does not put America first.
I can only hope Trump does the right things but if he doesn't then someone has to do the right thing.
6
It should be obvious to everyone by now that our President-elect will never do the right thing.
2
Anyone who believes that this plan is anything more than a process to monetize Trump family holdings is exceedingly naive.
Nefarious parties now have a simple means of placing dollars into the pocketbook of the Trump family, apparently tax-free with the tax loss carry forwards from the one billion loss established in the earlier Trump tax return published in the NYTimes. Simply buy a membership in a Trump golf course or Mar A Largo. Ca-Ching!!!!
Nefarious parties now have a simple means of placing dollars into the pocketbook of the Trump family, apparently tax-free with the tax loss carry forwards from the one billion loss established in the earlier Trump tax return published in the NYTimes. Simply buy a membership in a Trump golf course or Mar A Largo. Ca-Ching!!!!
9
This guy is a virtual Christmas tree of conflicts, nepotism and abuse of power. He has succeeded in merging the running of the government into his business empire - all in the service of his self-adulation.
But gravity has a way of bringing everything down. Eventually his the adoration of his supporters will wear off and they will see his arrogance and corruption for what it is. It may take a while but I believe it will happen. And when it does the Republican enablers will find a way to rid themselves of this threat to their political skins very quickly.
But gravity has a way of bringing everything down. Eventually his the adoration of his supporters will wear off and they will see his arrogance and corruption for what it is. It may take a while but I believe it will happen. And when it does the Republican enablers will find a way to rid themselves of this threat to their political skins very quickly.
6
Time to gear up the lawyers on our side--apparently lawsuits are the only way to get Trump to heel, with the Trump University suit being the latest blow. Considering how tight-fisted this man is, letting go of that $25 million in settlement money without much of a fight probably hurt him deeply. Death by a thousand lawsuit settlements from private citizens harmed by his actions may be a good way to finally make him realize that we, the American people, mean business when it comes to conflicts of interest, violation of the Constitution's Emoluments Clause and cronyism/nepotism.
More importantly, in these lawsuits, discovery and other tools of court-ordered forced disclosure will finally get this man and his cronies to cough up the crucial info we desperately need, like his tax returns and the complete structure of his financial and business holdings. And if he wants to keep this info secret, then he'll have to cough up more and more dough for settlement payments. The Trump Organization will be hurt by this--no right-thinking investors will want to get involved in the morass of lawsuits that will consistently drain the business budget. And these investors themselves are likely to come under the glaring light of public scrutiny if they decide to involve themselves. The Trump Organization will therefore suffer too.
Time to gear up, people, for long and tough fights ahead to get this man to understand that he is within the bounds of the law.
More importantly, in these lawsuits, discovery and other tools of court-ordered forced disclosure will finally get this man and his cronies to cough up the crucial info we desperately need, like his tax returns and the complete structure of his financial and business holdings. And if he wants to keep this info secret, then he'll have to cough up more and more dough for settlement payments. The Trump Organization will be hurt by this--no right-thinking investors will want to get involved in the morass of lawsuits that will consistently drain the business budget. And these investors themselves are likely to come under the glaring light of public scrutiny if they decide to involve themselves. The Trump Organization will therefore suffer too.
Time to gear up, people, for long and tough fights ahead to get this man to understand that he is within the bounds of the law.
11
Trump told a reporter (NBC?) that she was the only one interested in his taxes. WRONG, Mr. Trump. Sad! We ALL want to know about your financial dealings. Because you lie so fluently, why should we believe anything you say? We do want to see financial documents to prove that you are not in debit to Russian individuals or government.
If his lawyer is correct and the conflict of interest does not extend to the Presidency, how is that possible? That MUST be rectified.
If his lawyer is correct and the conflict of interest does not extend to the Presidency, how is that possible? That MUST be rectified.
18
By donating all profits from his businesses, in this case, lets just say hotels, to the US Treasury they may think they have weaseled this question, but in the LONG run Trump will profit in the billions after his term is up and the overall VALUE of his empire has, oh, say, CENTUPLED due to increased top-of-mind name recognition due to his being the number one celebrity in the galaxy. If that isn't a direct violation of the SPIRIT of the emoluments clause, then nothing is. At the end of the day, and this constitutional question goes to the Supreme Court, they will have to answer this question. He may say he has not been 'enriched' by hotel profits day-to-day if he gives that money up, but he is more than enriching himself/family through the increasing valuation over time of the entity of the empire, which is unconstitutional.
11
If you peruse articles as to Trump's loans to foreign banks, you can get the entire picture of how ethically conflicted it is for Trump himself. It is unreal.
Trump's Department of Justice will likely be handling the case that President Obama initiated this fall with Deutsche Bank. This had to do with the bank's aberrant behavior in the recession-related banking crisis. It is in negotiations.
So you figure, quite obviously...days pass quickly...perhaps that settlement is not completed by the time Trumpland arrives in the White House.
The in-coming Trump Administration Justice Department could have that case to follow through with....
Trump specifically owes a ton of money to Deutsche Bank. His own family fortunes are tied to this bank. Bigly. Very Bigly.
But those sons of his--who seemed attached to some sort of umbilical cord--aren't going to tell him anything??
Or Trump's not going to know the outcome related to that bank from his own Justice Department?
Seems like an enormously obvious conflict of interest to me.
http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2016/12/guide-donald-trump-debt
Trump's Department of Justice will likely be handling the case that President Obama initiated this fall with Deutsche Bank. This had to do with the bank's aberrant behavior in the recession-related banking crisis. It is in negotiations.
So you figure, quite obviously...days pass quickly...perhaps that settlement is not completed by the time Trumpland arrives in the White House.
The in-coming Trump Administration Justice Department could have that case to follow through with....
Trump specifically owes a ton of money to Deutsche Bank. His own family fortunes are tied to this bank. Bigly. Very Bigly.
But those sons of his--who seemed attached to some sort of umbilical cord--aren't going to tell him anything??
Or Trump's not going to know the outcome related to that bank from his own Justice Department?
Seems like an enormously obvious conflict of interest to me.
http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2016/12/guide-donald-trump-debt
9
Wow - had he not run for prez, I don't think even Donald Trump would want Trump as prez.
5
What personal character traits will the new President inspire in the children of today?
5
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius, the law firm advising President-elect Donald Trump on handling his business conflicts, won the Russia Law Firm of the Year award in 2016.
http://fortune.com/2017/01/11/donald-trumps-morgan-lewis-russia-award/
Show us your tax returns, Mr. Trump.
http://fortune.com/2017/01/11/donald-trumps-morgan-lewis-russia-award/
Show us your tax returns, Mr. Trump.
43
Show us your tax returns, Mr. Trump.
You work for us and are a servant of the people.
I want to see them and see where you have conflicts of interest.
You work for us and are a servant of the people.
I want to see them and see where you have conflicts of interest.
40
Leafing through the comments . . . It doesn't matter how vociferously y'all complain. You are howling at the moon. And the moon doesn't care.
He is about to be president. That's a given. He will not be impeached. That's a certainty.
In today's world, it is important that America be strong. That means it needs to be united. Foreign leaders must believe that they cannot subvert our country by appealing to Trump's enemies (which includes me) to undermine his authority. First, we can't. Even so, for those leaders, it is essential that they understand that we stand strong together -- even behind a man we abhor.
To the world, we must be America United. That is critical.
He is about to be president. That's a given. He will not be impeached. That's a certainty.
In today's world, it is important that America be strong. That means it needs to be united. Foreign leaders must believe that they cannot subvert our country by appealing to Trump's enemies (which includes me) to undermine his authority. First, we can't. Even so, for those leaders, it is essential that they understand that we stand strong together -- even behind a man we abhor.
To the world, we must be America United. That is critical.
9
Texas Liberal; Why did some of the American people not do this when Obama was president? They did not stand behind Obama just because he was Black. Why should we support a person with no scruples? That surely will make people from other countries look down on us and we will not have any resect at all. Would you like to bet on the probability that Trump will not serve four years as president? He will be lucky to make it up to inauguration day.
2
Nope. Not doing that. At the height of the Cold War, with the Soviet Union our implacable enemy, we and our democracy self-corrected by giving the boot to Nixon and his henchmen. Nixon had plenty of enemies by 1973, but we went ahead and did what was right for our republic and to keep our government clean and upright, disregarding the way this could influence foreign leaders. That was the right move.
It is absurd to stand united with someone who does not deserve that respect, deference or benefit of the doubt, who is corrupt and self-serving to the core. Nixon in 1972 had won 520 electoral votes and 60.7% of the popular vote. By 1974 we had him packing his bags from the White House. Trump won 306 electoral votes and only 46% of the popular vote. He's far weaker than Nixon. So he'll be easier to dislodge through impeachment, which is surely coming.
It is absurd to stand united with someone who does not deserve that respect, deference or benefit of the doubt, who is corrupt and self-serving to the core. Nixon in 1972 had won 520 electoral votes and 60.7% of the popular vote. By 1974 we had him packing his bags from the White House. Trump won 306 electoral votes and only 46% of the popular vote. He's far weaker than Nixon. So he'll be easier to dislodge through impeachment, which is surely coming.
7
But think about it. Who is the source of our divisiveness?
4
Ethics?
Trump and the word "ethical" have never been spoken together. More like undiluted, swamp-filling corruption. The likes of which we've never seen before. Courtesy of the republican party and perhaps the least intelligent people inhabiting the earth.
Very hard to watch Trump attempt to speak intelligibly a day after an Obama speech. He should have given it a little time. Like a year. He has nothing of any substance to say anyway. And it only gets worse.
Trump and the word "ethical" have never been spoken together. More like undiluted, swamp-filling corruption. The likes of which we've never seen before. Courtesy of the republican party and perhaps the least intelligent people inhabiting the earth.
Very hard to watch Trump attempt to speak intelligibly a day after an Obama speech. He should have given it a little time. Like a year. He has nothing of any substance to say anyway. And it only gets worse.
35
Supported by a minority of American voters and unable to get better mileage out of the influence of Putin, Donald will be talking daily to Eric, Ivanka and Jared about company business while on the federal payroll. He continues to play the public for fools, now capturing in that net anyone who believes that appointing his own ethics advisor, etc., will ensure that he isn't spending time on his personal business interests. Act II: The Russians secretly record Donald telling his minions at TTO which foreign investors to deal with, which cities to buy and build in and threatens to blackmail him unless he terminates sanctions on Russian oligarchs.
33
"Trump will donate to the United States government all profits from foreign government payments to his hotels, the officials said, describing the arrangements as voluntary measures..."
Donald, we are not idiots. There is no way to segregate these room payments as they are often made by a travel company, a third party or the US entity of a company. As to donating profits from specific rooms, I would love to hear the Donald tell us how you figure out profits on individual rooms. You can bet there will be no profits on the rooms rented to foreign governments, whatever that means - ever.
In addition, Trump is on the lease for the new hotel in DC with a 75% ownership listed on said lease. It is illegal for a government employee to hold a lease with GSA, the govt. agency that owns the property. When will Trump get off this lease?
Donald, we are not idiots. There is no way to segregate these room payments as they are often made by a travel company, a third party or the US entity of a company. As to donating profits from specific rooms, I would love to hear the Donald tell us how you figure out profits on individual rooms. You can bet there will be no profits on the rooms rented to foreign governments, whatever that means - ever.
In addition, Trump is on the lease for the new hotel in DC with a 75% ownership listed on said lease. It is illegal for a government employee to hold a lease with GSA, the govt. agency that owns the property. When will Trump get off this lease?
36
Just have the Fed govt sell it to a third party
5
It sure is illegal and while the framers of the constitution couldn't anticipate a billionaire lunatic being elected they have the right idea. If Trumps mouthpiece be it a lawyer or the sinning head Kelly Ann Conway say that he shouldn't have to sell his business then he should have never run for president, or do like other rich presidents do and put it into a blind trust. I'm more in favor of the former he should have stayed under the rock he slithered from.
7
And so it begins. This fraudster declared he is above the law and will take whatever he wants to take by virtue of holding public office. And spit on America all he wants.
51
There are many people whose future job I do not envy. It is indeed challenging to try to have a (reasonable) conversation with a man who only has three brain cells. And who only talks to people, not with them.
44
I must repeat my concern that not only will Trump’s decision create situations where his business interests differ from the interests of the country, but also will have other serious consequences. First, it will create irresistible targets for terrorists around the world. If a terrorist group attacks a Trump property will Trump’s response reflect his need to protect his business interests or the security interests of the United States? The two courses of action will not necessarily be the same. Since we do not even know all his business interests, will we know whether he is acting in our behalf? Second, Trump’s business interests create a unique opportunity for foreign powers or terrorist groups to blackmail him. If people were to contact Trump’s children threatening action against his businesses unless he adopted a position favorable to them, would we even know it? How would he react?
This is a remarkably bad decision legally, politically, and even personally. Trump’s businesses will suffer immense damage if there is even one successful attack on a Trump property. The country will suffer unknowable damage if he reacts in his or his family’s business interests ahead of the interests of the country either from such an attack or the threat of an attack.
This is a remarkably bad decision legally, politically, and even personally. Trump’s businesses will suffer immense damage if there is even one successful attack on a Trump property. The country will suffer unknowable damage if he reacts in his or his family’s business interests ahead of the interests of the country either from such an attack or the threat of an attack.
10
Who cares? The man is taking an enormous pay cut to be president and we're supposed to be worried that he will use the Oval Office to boost occupancy rates in his hotels? Get a grip.
9
No, we're worried he will use his business connections to foreign governments to influence policy. For example, dropping support of the Kurds (who fight ISIS) because the anti-Kurd Turkish president and Trump talked about his hotel in that country.
2
Normal citizens, even white collar criminals, have gone to jail for lesser crimes than what Trump proposes to do. Just read some cases in securities litigation or the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. POTUS must be held to the same standards as used against those normal citizens (in fact, being that he's the ultimate leader, I personally think he should be held to an even higher standard). Otherwise one of our cherished principals as Americans--that no one is above the law--will go out the window. The benefits that could be accrued through the violation of the law, or its spirit, should not be taken into account at all.
5
Chris - So you’ve already accepted the world has to be a corrupt place? I take homage in knowing that the majority of Americans voted otherwise. It does matter that a president ignores the ethics of his office. It’s not about hotels, my friend. Don’t allow yourself to be so duped.
3
Last night I listened to President Obama speak at length with grace and gratitude about what an honor it was to serve our country; he was honest about what was accomplished, but humble in that there is so much more to do to make the United States a safer, more decent place.
What we got today was Trump's news conference in which it is clear that he disdains the office he has been elected to and the responsibilities that actually come with it. This is all just another business deal in his mind, one in which he will do everything and anything to benefit financially from. It's hard to imagine him not being impeached before long.
What we got today was Trump's news conference in which it is clear that he disdains the office he has been elected to and the responsibilities that actually come with it. This is all just another business deal in his mind, one in which he will do everything and anything to benefit financially from. It's hard to imagine him not being impeached before long.
37
He is a crook, plain and simple. I feel nothing but shame that he will be taking the office of President.
37
Donald Trump ran for office in bad faith - he knew he could not keep holding onto his businesses and be president without breaking the law. He's acting like the mobsters who supply his companies with cement and labor.
13
"My two sons are going to run the company - they're not going to discuss it with me".
I just had to laugh.
I just had to laugh.
54
If a news conference has as its objective news, this performance in the lobby of the tower wasn't such an event. What it did was reinforce the notion, which has been the case well before he became president elect, the Mr.Trumo is a petulant, petty,
liar. He continues to maintain the mean spirited mien he learned at the knee of Roy Cohen. Few in the public sector find him a credible human being.
He's the least presidential person to have entered the Oval Office. He lacks those qualities of humility, grace and empathy Mr, Obama exhibited through his tenure and which we saw again last night in his final speech as our President.
Trumps refusal to entertain a question from a CNN reporter and a threat from one of his staff to have security throw him out is an assault on our First Amendment and the beginning of tyranny.
liar. He continues to maintain the mean spirited mien he learned at the knee of Roy Cohen. Few in the public sector find him a credible human being.
He's the least presidential person to have entered the Oval Office. He lacks those qualities of humility, grace and empathy Mr, Obama exhibited through his tenure and which we saw again last night in his final speech as our President.
Trumps refusal to entertain a question from a CNN reporter and a threat from one of his staff to have security throw him out is an assault on our First Amendment and the beginning of tyranny.
25
Can someone please explain to me how Donald Trump's children can be legally so separate from him that they can run his international business while he's in the White House when it's his sons, but so close to him as to be considered equivalent to the First Lady when it's his daughter? Because that's what we have taking his business plans and his nepotism plans together.
The former is neither a blind trust nor is the latter pillow talk. The American public is being finagled.
The former is neither a blind trust nor is the latter pillow talk. The American public is being finagled.
16
Sounds a lot like the cozy State Dept/Bill Clinton/Clinton Foundation relationship that you Democrats so loved. The Clintons went from "dead broke" to a huge net worth, at the nation's expense.
1
He doesn't have to do ANYTHING to remove himself! There's nothing in the Constitution that says the Pres or VP have to do anything with their businesses when in office. He's doing so because it's the right thing to do.
1
Trump's not really doing anything other than a token gesture, and he's only doing that much because of political pressure. Don't assign honorable motives to a man with no history of honor.
4
The adjective that invariably comes to mind, whenever I see, read about or think about this creature who is about to become president, is "execrable." The adjective that invariably comes to mind when I think of those who voted for him is "stupid." And the adjective that best applies to the future with this execrable creature in charge is "frightening." Really, America, how could you have done this?
25
The long-dead slavers who demanded this to accept union with free states matter more than living people today.
2
How about somebody in the press asking Trump if he will direct the IRS to release any tax returns from the last 5 years that are no longer under audit and release any as they clear audit?
14
I have been disappointed by the Times' performance over the past 24 hours; first, by its fawning attitude towards Trump over the publication of the two page synopsis (rewarded by Trump during the press conference)
and second, by its misreporting of his proposals to avoid conflict.
Trump is not proposing to transfer his business assets to a trust. Rather he intends to transfer 'control' of those assets to a trust. There's a vast difference.
C'mon guys. You can do better that this.
and second, by its misreporting of his proposals to avoid conflict.
Trump is not proposing to transfer his business assets to a trust. Rather he intends to transfer 'control' of those assets to a trust. There's a vast difference.
C'mon guys. You can do better that this.
13
Sadly (to me), the New York Times showed throughout the presidential campaign, and post-election continues to show, that it can't do better. Had the Times done even a minimal job during the campaign of investigating and reporting on who and what Trump was/is, as a person and a businessman, I'm certain America wouldn't now be facing the terrifying possibilities of his impending presidency. So no, the Times cannot do better than this.
3
We've now had a chance to listen to the President-elect, and it is painfully obvious to any sane person that he is spectacularly unfit for office. We also know that, at least as of this writing, there is no effort being made to preclude his taking office. We know from his own statements that he is, at best, seriously compromised in a manner that is clearly a threat to the nation. We also see that the current Republican-led Congress has very little or no concern about these very obvious deficits in the President-elect.
It appears that in addition to contacting our Congressional representatives, peaceful civil protest is our only avenue to attempt to hasten this man's removal from our Executive branch, and the success of either of these actions is by no means certain.
So I ask NYTimes readers, very sincerely, for suggestions as to what other actions decent Americans might take, to restore our democracy, as it appears our options are dwindling. I thank you for your suggestions.
It appears that in addition to contacting our Congressional representatives, peaceful civil protest is our only avenue to attempt to hasten this man's removal from our Executive branch, and the success of either of these actions is by no means certain.
So I ask NYTimes readers, very sincerely, for suggestions as to what other actions decent Americans might take, to restore our democracy, as it appears our options are dwindling. I thank you for your suggestions.
14
I am with you. I was hoping for signs when I watched Sessions’ hearing. Not even a hint that there was any life in that group. And Obama’s be together speech, while elegant and needed for his legacy, isn’t exactly doable when the other side is playing a completely different game and rewrites the rules as they go along. What I feel the heaviest about it how much this stinks of excess and decay, and how much this appears to look like the road to America’s demise. If America appears to or worse accepts the corruption that is the Trump family, no matter how close they try to skate toward the law, then our message to the world is that the world is a Mad Max kind of place. We’re leaders, for goodness sake. Again, it looks like our own destruction has begun. I hope you get other advice that is more helpful, but sorry, got nothing.
5
This 'news conference' was embarrassing. ENOUGH with Trump's insistence that his cynical, racist, and classist appointees are 'brilliant'; enough with his refusal to release his tax returns or to fully divest from his businesses; enough with his lies; enough with his attempts to act the injured party, without acknowledging the hate he has unleashed in this country; enough with journalists trying to treat this clown's bully-talk as if he were a serious statesman; ENOUGH. Mr. Trump acts like a moron, does not speak in intelligent sentences, shows no empathy. What I would not give for the journalists in the room to continue to pursue the questions and not get bullied down or threatened. The press could walk out en masse in the face of his shenanigans.
I also have to laugh at Mr. Trump insisting on a hacking report. Like he'll read it. I am deeply disturbed that the country has decided to hand over control to an individual who is this much of an anti-intellectual, and who claims that he has no time to read books. This does not bode well for anyone in America. As my wonderful wife, who grew up in communist Romania said, under Communism the communists would at least try to hide being disingenuous. Here, Trump is doing it right to your face. ENOUGH.
I also have to laugh at Mr. Trump insisting on a hacking report. Like he'll read it. I am deeply disturbed that the country has decided to hand over control to an individual who is this much of an anti-intellectual, and who claims that he has no time to read books. This does not bode well for anyone in America. As my wonderful wife, who grew up in communist Romania said, under Communism the communists would at least try to hide being disingenuous. Here, Trump is doing it right to your face. ENOUGH.
31
I don't know what I find more offensive. A man trying to enrich himself while supposedly acting as a public servant or people who minimize what he is doing. This man is going to live in the people's house, our house, paid for with our tax dollars. He is supposed to serve, not get wealthy. That is what the framers intended and enshrined in our constitution with the Emoluments Clause. And this isn't just about us. When you travel overseas, many people still look to the US in aspiration terms, wishing their government maintained certain ethics and norms that bind or are respected by even the most powerful. We haven't always met these standards ourselves but never had I seen an incoming president so blatantly flout the rules, thinking he can act with impunity. And impunity in one area spreads everywhere. We go down this slippery slope at our peril. My only hope is I think Trump, the GOP and the press are greatly underestimating how angry and disgusted Americans are with this and will be very surprised at how strong the backlash will be.
20
I think he's modeling his public service after the Clintons.
Without repeating numerous other comments about the insufficiency of Mr Trump's plan, I will just say that there are so many ways to define and calculate "profit" (and companies put great effort into negotiating such definitions to benefit their interests) that we can be sure there will suddenly be no profit derived from transactions with foreign parties. A simple accounting process change is all it will take. If the Trump Organization does donate any such profits to the US Government? I'd call that the most "taxes" the organization has paid in decades. On the other hand, they'll probably just write off the donations as a tax deduction!
9
Political propaganda is a non-profit business. Whatever isn't expenses is management salaries.
1
Tax returns should be released now - inexcusable to continue hiding this. His sons are welcome to run his business into the ground but that does not remove the conflict of interest. And despite what his lawyer said in the press conference, Rockefeller offered to do anything Congress requested including putting all assets in a blind trust.
The media can not let up on this president elect - demand his taxes, demand answers to your questions and defend those media outlets he attacks. An honest and democratic media is all that stands between us and a fascist decline - do your job like it matters.
The media can not let up on this president elect - demand his taxes, demand answers to your questions and defend those media outlets he attacks. An honest and democratic media is all that stands between us and a fascist decline - do your job like it matters.
46
If it is not possible to divest his businesses then it is not possible him to be president of the United States. This is not that complicated, folks.
61
When did the conservatives, tea party, evangelicals, and GOP become Russian? Well, the rest of America had better stand-up and start fighting back or you'll be learning Russian as a primary language and you'll be hearing the Russian National Anthem instead of God Bless America.
(AsP) Donald Trump, while writing in a note book, was overseen writing how he believes that he can “save” America. He writes in his notes that he wants to “sell” a state. The security service man that saw the writing quit and found outside employment.
I am guessing that Trump would sell Alaska to Putin. Putin has always wanted Alaska back into the motherland. If not for the oil, Russia could put their military on the North American Continent and Trump is big on Putin.
(AsP) Donald Trump, while writing in a note book, was overseen writing how he believes that he can “save” America. He writes in his notes that he wants to “sell” a state. The security service man that saw the writing quit and found outside employment.
I am guessing that Trump would sell Alaska to Putin. Putin has always wanted Alaska back into the motherland. If not for the oil, Russia could put their military on the North American Continent and Trump is big on Putin.
5
Trump has no credibility and it is impossible to believe that he will not continue to be intimately involved with Trump Inc. This is the best time for him to divest, when his name value is at an all time high. In a while his name will be associated with scandal and the value of his name will fall. We are being bamboozled. Everything about Trump is for-profit. Trump has to decide if he wants to be President or a businessman.
22
37% approval rating and headed for the basement. He's toast already, but he will be the last to know, and then he will offer to trade his kingdom for a horse. The art of the deal to the very last.
19
There is no crossing the Rubicon backwards.
3
Steve: Reread Richard III. "My kingdom for a horse!" was not an offer to trade. It was a cry for a horse so he could retain his kingdom.
That's the generally accepted interpretation.
That's the generally accepted interpretation.
2
With all the impeachment talk, what was his, "high crimes and misdemeanors"?
Nelson Rockefeller became VP and there wasn't much squawk about his interests, and he could have bought and sold Donald Trump. (Trump actually brought his name up today.) I'm certainly not defending him, but has he ever pretended to be anything other then what we saw today? It was that authenticity that Americans liked about him, and (apparently), voted for.
His instincts are to monetize everything, and it's no surprise the Presidency is next. The guy is not going to end up on Mount Rushmore. He's not FDR, or a progressive New Yorker, he's installing right wing ideologues throughout is Cabinet. What were people expecting?
It's like a giant wave is hurtling toward the beach and people are on their blankets, not moving. We're going to get wet, and tumbled, and it's going to hurt.
Nelson Rockefeller became VP and there wasn't much squawk about his interests, and he could have bought and sold Donald Trump. (Trump actually brought his name up today.) I'm certainly not defending him, but has he ever pretended to be anything other then what we saw today? It was that authenticity that Americans liked about him, and (apparently), voted for.
His instincts are to monetize everything, and it's no surprise the Presidency is next. The guy is not going to end up on Mount Rushmore. He's not FDR, or a progressive New Yorker, he's installing right wing ideologues throughout is Cabinet. What were people expecting?
It's like a giant wave is hurtling toward the beach and people are on their blankets, not moving. We're going to get wet, and tumbled, and it's going to hurt.
116
Ahem, 46% of Americans voted for Trump on the basis of "authenticity" (whatever that may mean). The other 64% saw clear through him and did not vote for someone with such a long history of lies, corruption and selfishness. It wasn't "Americans" who liked that about him--it was "some Americans," and a large minority at that. So please don't make it sound like this is something "Americans" wanted. Some terribly misguided Americans did. But not the majority. And Trump will soon learn this the hard way.
4
Nelson Rockefeller was not super wealthy and what wealth he had was not controlled by him.
Even his brother David was not as wealthy as you believe.
Their Grand father was by far the riches man in the world and would still be if he was alive.
That fortune has been divided between his heirs so none of them can as you say could buy or sell Trump.
It's not Trumps wealth that is the problem.
If he divested he would still have tat wealth.
The problem is that he has businesses all over the world.
Most of it in countries where many people are not given their human right and there is massive corruption.
These are places that we should not support.
Do you think Trump will do the right thing to improve the life of these people if by doing so he most likely will have his businesses taken away from him by the corrupt people who run these countries.
I highly doubt he would do the right thing.
Nelson Rockefeller even if he was able buy or sell Trump did not have this conflict of interest Trump has.
Even his brother David was not as wealthy as you believe.
Their Grand father was by far the riches man in the world and would still be if he was alive.
That fortune has been divided between his heirs so none of them can as you say could buy or sell Trump.
It's not Trumps wealth that is the problem.
If he divested he would still have tat wealth.
The problem is that he has businesses all over the world.
Most of it in countries where many people are not given their human right and there is massive corruption.
These are places that we should not support.
Do you think Trump will do the right thing to improve the life of these people if by doing so he most likely will have his businesses taken away from him by the corrupt people who run these countries.
I highly doubt he would do the right thing.
Nelson Rockefeller even if he was able buy or sell Trump did not have this conflict of interest Trump has.
1
Bill Clinton was impeached because he lied under oath about about an unconsummated affair with an intern. That was not high crime or misdemeanors. Trump is an accessory to a digital coup d'etat by the Russians, who were our enemies. Some call it treason. If he is inaugurated next Friday, he should be investigated as thoroughly as Hillary Clinton was about her emails, and then he should be impeached.
1
So let me get this straight. Trump did nothing but criticize Hillary for conflicts of interest possibly related to her position as Secretary of State and the Clinton Foundation (which has been acknowledged and proven engages in many charitable works around the globe), but it's okay for his family to continue to run the Trump Organization (totally for the profit of the family as a privately held corporation), which he will still own?!?
And he harassed and berated Hillary for not bringing forth emails which may or may not have contained questionable dealings, which may or may not have put the U.S. at risk, but Trump won't even allow the experts to analyze his tax returns to verify foreign influence or lack thereof?!!!? Which almost certainly could be problematic in terms of foreign influence going forward?
What is wrong with our country? What is wrong with our Congress? Is there not an honorable man or woman left in government? One? Anywhere?
And he harassed and berated Hillary for not bringing forth emails which may or may not have contained questionable dealings, which may or may not have put the U.S. at risk, but Trump won't even allow the experts to analyze his tax returns to verify foreign influence or lack thereof?!!!? Which almost certainly could be problematic in terms of foreign influence going forward?
What is wrong with our country? What is wrong with our Congress? Is there not an honorable man or woman left in government? One? Anywhere?
69
You forgot to ask what is wrong with the voters. At the end of the day, they are the one who made this possible. And yet, people are still placating these idiots by pretending they are just a poor misunderstood bunch who have been so victimized. They are a victim of their own stupidity.
19
And not one allegedly patriotic Republican has the guts to call him out.
8
"What is wrong with our country?"
Everything now!
What is wrong with our Congress?
Everything for some time!
Is there not an honorable man or woman left in government?
Every bit NO!
"One? Anywhere?"
Sorry! You'll only hear your echo!
Everything now!
What is wrong with our Congress?
Everything for some time!
Is there not an honorable man or woman left in government?
Every bit NO!
"One? Anywhere?"
Sorry! You'll only hear your echo!
3
Foreigners with true feelings of affection for the good old US of A are naturally reticent to point out the obvious - you are handing over tremendous power to a megalomaniac. A resourceful people who put a man the moon ought have little trouble solving this.
19
Most people here know that. The sad thing is a lot of them don't care.
8
Nerds are usually better at hacking computers than human brains.
1
@Leigh
OK. Just for the record.
Trump did NOT receive the popular vote .... which means not everyone is asleep at the wheel in this country.
Another thing.
Don't think for a minute there aren't a few more folks out there who now wish they had voted differently --
Foreigners aren't the only ones with affection for the good old US of A.
OK. Just for the record.
Trump did NOT receive the popular vote .... which means not everyone is asleep at the wheel in this country.
Another thing.
Don't think for a minute there aren't a few more folks out there who now wish they had voted differently --
Foreigners aren't the only ones with affection for the good old US of A.
2
Will Trump circulate the actual trust agreement? If not, the attorney's description is meaningless.
13
Litigating trust agreements can last longer than the mean human lifespan.
2
Precisely my point.
Bending the rules or bending people's will is how he operates.
14
Frankly, a train wreck of a news conference...but not really surprising given the mans narcissism, inflated ego and questionable character.
One can only imagine just how many senior Republicans are squirming with unease and embarrassment at Trumps undignified performance.
I wonder who will end up being his Brutus ?
One can only imagine just how many senior Republicans are squirming with unease and embarrassment at Trumps undignified performance.
I wonder who will end up being his Brutus ?
35
Ted Cruz is ready to nail Trump to a cross.
5
are you kidding? They are squirming with joy!!! They all aim to benefit greatly. I doubt one single republican will turn him in. They will all gut the treasury together. And the spineless dems will just roll over as usual.
Like Obama said last night- it's up to us to stave off the ruin coming our way.
Like Obama said last night- it's up to us to stave off the ruin coming our way.
3
Drain the swamp? This is a family who goes upriver to dump their trash. Hillbilly stuff.
25
Mr. Trump has no interest in America. He has no pride in having been elected President of our great nation. He has only one though in his mind at all times...That is his own personal agenda. What makes him feel good, what makes him richer. He is the most egotistical President I have ever seen. He is the Manchurian Candidate just at a later time, with a different minder, named Putin. Every day I see him I am more mortified that this man was supported by so many in America, and as I cannot put myself in the shoes of Americans who must own and carry guns wherever they go, I cannot understand who would vote for this man who brings disrespect and disrepute to America the minute he opens his mouth. Whatever the truth is about this man and his Russian connections, one thing is striking...he continues to bluster and nastily insinuate that Russia controlled by a man who does not respect human rights (the history of Russia sadly) is more palatable to him than our own intelligence community and media, which he constantly trashes each time he has the opportunity. He has shown that each time he opens his mouth it is to argue or deny the norms that most have respected for our history.
18
I can only surmise that those who voted for him were desperate souls. Was it not Thoreau who said that most most men lead lives of quiet desperation?
2
It's time for our self-righteous moralistic Senators to stuff their politics and step up to the line and end this assault on our democracy. It's the worst joke in the history of Western Civilization. Is this how McCain and Graham want to be remembered? As rubber- stamping these potentially felonious, amoral cabinet nominees of Trump? Do the right thing!
25
Stop wishing for it. It's not going to happen. This is the same group willing to go ahead with the hearings before they cleared ethics.
Everyone of them's a crook. Trump is the granddaddy of 'em all.
Everyone of them's a crook. Trump is the granddaddy of 'em all.
2
It is hard to put Donald Trump and the word ethics in a single sentence without sighing.
19
"Donald Trump has no ethics."
3
perhaps the ultimate takeaway after 4 years of Donald Trump is that the Republican party is not capable of contributing to the governing of this nation.
20
This whole ball of mess is an outrage. None of this would ever stand if the person was a democrat.
25
Vile.
24
It is interesting that this type of issue hasn't come up for a very long time, because so many of our politicians have spent pretty much all of their lives, robbing the public.
Trump is quite another story. After spending a lifetime taking advantage of other business men, wannabe real estate sharks, and the occasional little old lady as well, he has now set his sites on robbing the natural resources of our nation - stealing not just from the taxpayer, but from all of nature as well.
I expect our National Parks to become a crime scene; in Trumps case, previous performance should be an excellent indicator of future performance.
Trump is quite another story. After spending a lifetime taking advantage of other business men, wannabe real estate sharks, and the occasional little old lady as well, he has now set his sites on robbing the natural resources of our nation - stealing not just from the taxpayer, but from all of nature as well.
I expect our National Parks to become a crime scene; in Trumps case, previous performance should be an excellent indicator of future performance.
17
Going forward the emoluments clause says he can't make a profit off of dealings with foreign countries. Does this apply to taxes owed by Trump Industries to other countries? He'd have to pay them in full and on time, no? He can no longer bargain them down, he has to pay standard rates. That is as long as he doesn't divest himself of the company. Maybe stockholders may want to think about that. It could also be that Trump Industries now has to pay standard rates for building supplies and labor.
2
His company isn't publicly traded. Shareholders are him and his family.
4
By saying he "could actually run my business, and run government at the same time" Trump is advertising that he's for sale. At no time during his term will interests of the people proceed those of Trump-and-family.
24
Give 'em the old razzle dazzle
Razzle dazzle 'em
Back since the days of old Methuselah
Everyone loves the big bamboozler
Does he have only a four word vocab Brilliant, great, fantastic and hugh.
What about DC Hotel.
I see Nixon all over. it is scary. And everyone around him ignores him pretending he is normal.
Razzle dazzle 'em
Back since the days of old Methuselah
Everyone loves the big bamboozler
Does he have only a four word vocab Brilliant, great, fantastic and hugh.
What about DC Hotel.
I see Nixon all over. it is scary. And everyone around him ignores him pretending he is normal.
11
Trump has many less flattering word to apply to women when discussing them in locker rooms.
7
Nixon was small potatoes compared to this one.
2
Trump's ethics adviser should rule that it is unethical to use an ethics adviser who is is assigned by him.
31
The people who voted for this guy don't care that he's a con man. They don't care that his family will milk this opportunity for every possible profit. They don't care about the huge conflicts of interest involved.
It will be interesting to see when they _will_ start to care, when they start to notice that things that are happening in the White House are affecting their lives, health, and future. My guess is that for many Trump voters, it will be the case of the frog in the slowly heating pot of water: it's going to take a while, and there will be plenty of distractions ("800 jobs saved!") along the way.
For the rest of us, full boil is already here.
It will be interesting to see when they _will_ start to care, when they start to notice that things that are happening in the White House are affecting their lives, health, and future. My guess is that for many Trump voters, it will be the case of the frog in the slowly heating pot of water: it's going to take a while, and there will be plenty of distractions ("800 jobs saved!") along the way.
For the rest of us, full boil is already here.
60
Does anyone really think Trump is going to subsist on the U.S. Presidential salary? He complained bitterly some years ago when his creditors forced him to live on "just" $450,000 a month. It simply wasn't enough, he whined. As a president, that monthly pittance will be his annual salary. As a result, he's likely going to build monthly cushions from Trump businesses. And that's going to crush the concept he outlined in his news conference that he'll remain apart -- to avoid conflicts of interest -- from his tangle of companies. I mean, it's his own sons who will be in charge, after all. He runs his family like his businesses, meaning they'll have to pump out enough cash to keep the gilded leader happy. Consequently, covertly, he will want to direct their operations and output. So much for separating himself from his companies, which do a lot of business with foreign companies that are linked to criminal suspects and foreign governments. Good luck to the White House ethics office, which will have to balance their desire to appease him with his desire to live richly and keep his projects healthy enough for him to return to.
13
Many baby-boomers whose careers are over have less net worth than that to live out the rest of their lives.
10
Mr. Trump's immense ego apparently won't allow him to let go of his business completely. One would think that the achievement of holding the most powerful office in the world would provide all of the personal satisfaction a man of seventy would ever need for the rest of his days. The same immense ego that refuses to completely and permanently let go of his real estate empire is the most dangerous thing about him. The President Elect's inability to chose between his personal needs and those of the country that he will soon be sworn to serve, may eventually bring him down. Let us just hope he doesn't end up taking the whole country down with him.
15
Most US professionals are quite satisfied to be single-digit millionaires.
2
Wanna see Trump's tax returns? Ask Putin he's got copies.
34
Because ethics, laws, decorum, paying taxes, transparency, honesty and keeping promises are all for other people, chumps and especially those who are not related to or within the circle of Trump Inc. Thank goodness, though, that we have been reassured that Agent Orange could, if he chose to, run a complex business as well as act as Commander in Chief of this great nation. And I'm so comforted in knowing that Comrade Trump will not be discussing the family business with any of his progeny. Finally, the grand gesture of sending profits from the Trump Hotel in DC to the Treasury will be seen as magnanimous, great, huge, conflict-free and Presidential. Hail to the Cheat!
12
Trump supporters, meanwhile, are ecstatic. They certainly didn't vote Trump for his integrity. They voted to see him screw over Washington, the media, and liberals. Now they get what they wanted.
And when the dust settles, and the second Great Depression hits, they'll find a way to blame Washington, the media, and liberals for what they wrought.
And when the dust settles, and the second Great Depression hits, they'll find a way to blame Washington, the media, and liberals for what they wrought.
25
Trump continues to play by his own rules, assuming he can run a country the same way he has run a business. He surrounds himself with the only people with whom he is comfortable and trusts--his family. This new administration is a disaster unfolding before our eyes on a daily basis. We are in crisis.
14
When addressing the peasants and serfs today, Trump used the word "empire" several times.
The press needs to get on board with His royal Highness, King Trump, and start using the proper words.
The press needs to get on board with His royal Highness, King Trump, and start using the proper words.
13
We are heading towards disaster. This is not normal; nothing about what's happening to the country right now is normal.
And yet, given how much all relevant systems (of check and balance) have been totally eviscerated by the relentless pounding of the neoliberal battering ram against the city gates (and democratic and civil institutions), other than loud complaints and half-measures, at the end, no one will do anything about it.
People expecting anyone within the Democratic party structure to show any kind of sign of courage (and backbone) will be highly disappointed.
And yet, given how much all relevant systems (of check and balance) have been totally eviscerated by the relentless pounding of the neoliberal battering ram against the city gates (and democratic and civil institutions), other than loud complaints and half-measures, at the end, no one will do anything about it.
People expecting anyone within the Democratic party structure to show any kind of sign of courage (and backbone) will be highly disappointed.
7
LOL. Signs of courage from the Republican party are illusory. Unless you think what we've seen for 8 years under Obama and up through now as we await Trump's inauguration is courage and backbone. Stubbornness and evasiveness are not courage and backbone.
The man earned his wealth as a businessman with innumerable holdings, much in real estate. Is he expected to do as those entering Holy Orders and divest himself of all his worldly goods? He is beholden to no one after his campaign, unlike most politicians.
As for his wealth increasing during his administration - I find that ludicrous considering the Clintons started out as people of very modest means but have feathered their nests quite nicely during all their years of "public service".
As for his wealth increasing during his administration - I find that ludicrous considering the Clintons started out as people of very modest means but have feathered their nests quite nicely during all their years of "public service".
6
He is only expected to do what is ethical and what is lawful! Satisfied?
1
It's clear to everyone now, isn't it, that we live in a corporate oligarchic empire, an empire whose main function is to aggressively protect the hyper-wealth of the elites, individuals whose only gestures while occupying political office are always to covertly (and now overtly) increase "their" wealth in any way possible? I don't believe it's a conspiracy, or necessarily nefarious; it's a trap of our secularized neo-Calvinist obsession with "freedom." "America's" moral universe, weak New Deal policies withstanding, is dominated by the idea of winners + losers, good + evil, insiders + outsiders. Those w/the most power and money will always be seen as having "God's favor," while those without (even when some paltry empathy is given on the presidential microphone) will always be "losers." This system does not have the ability to change itself under current mythological memes. The horrifying way it ignores probably 90% of the voting populace's wishes is this system's "self," its core. If we want real change, we are going to have to adjust our mythological system to be more empathic, more open to the idea that vast majority of people in this country, if they don't "succeed," are not "losers," but just struggling with the real failures of this corporate empire neoliberal system. This system favors the few and destroys the many. Watching Trump today was evidence of that. Heaven help us.
15
America possesses a wonderful mythology in its founding documents, but the mythology of the so-called American Dream - mostly centered on becoming rich - is deficient and often empty spiritually and, more and more, unsustainable economically and environmentally. It appears that Trump is prepared to open wide national parks to economic exploitation. Imagine the depths to which a nation falls so as to generate wealth from a virtual sacred trust, wealth that will go into the pockets of the elite, to boot. I am reminded of the 18th C English poet, William Blake, who wrote not of the material riches of the world but the immense and infinite riches of the mind, riches that set one free as Emerson has said. Sadly, few pursue these riches.
1
I respect the thought and care put into the country's founding documents by people like Jefferson, Madison, Monroe, and Washington. However, I think the stage was set, from the very beginning, for a society in which a very few entitled elites were pigeon-holed into lording over a large segment of the population.
I don't think any of these men considered, or were able to deal with philosophically, the ridiculous amount of suffering that most of the Colonial American population dealt with. Honor culture, war, prayer--that was their "gift" to most Americans (with they being the chosen elites, with "God's blessing, of course) and that is what they etched out as the pattern for the future of our country. The Industrial Revolution and its accompanying philosophy of Manifest Destiny, with "America" being uniquely chosen by God to shed its light onto the world (translation: expand its markets due to endless economic recessions and depressions) was merely a continuation of this torturous philosophy.
I don't think any of these men considered, or were able to deal with philosophically, the ridiculous amount of suffering that most of the Colonial American population dealt with. Honor culture, war, prayer--that was their "gift" to most Americans (with they being the chosen elites, with "God's blessing, of course) and that is what they etched out as the pattern for the future of our country. The Industrial Revolution and its accompanying philosophy of Manifest Destiny, with "America" being uniquely chosen by God to shed its light onto the world (translation: expand its markets due to endless economic recessions and depressions) was merely a continuation of this torturous philosophy.
1
No matter what he dopes he will not make the readers of this paper happy. So do as little as possible and let them whine.
4
What cheapskate Trump really is. He should at least call in Urban Harvest to scavenge after his banquets.
2
what has he done?
2
Why do you and other Trump supporters and sycophants constantly claim that NYTs' readers, liberals and socialists to your way of thinking, are whiners when they are in fact being critical thinkers? This reveals something elemental and deficient in the Trump supporter: they solely emote.
5
This would be like if Rex Tillerson held onto his Exxon stock. Sure, Tillerson isn't running the enterprise but his incentives are to protect his own investment, not do what is best for the country. It is ridiculous to consider this adequate to remove conflict of interest. But lets be honest, even if he sold the enterprise to his kids, this administration would still be about plundering the country for the Trump family pockets. The US has officially become a banana republic.
10
While conflicts of interests are easy to see here, isn't conflict of interest an inherent part of the presidency? A president acts in ways that provides personal benefits to all Americans, including the president and those close to him/her. Those personal benefits might be economic or non-economic. Economically, how does a blind trust eliminates conflict, if the trustee has a duty to manage the assets of the trust in a prudent manner for the trust beneficiary (which I assume is the president)? For example, President Jimmy Carter put his peanut farm in a blind trust while he as president. But when he finished his presidency, he went back to his peanut farm. In other words, he still had an interest in the peanut farm, and could take actions that could personally benefit him because of that ongoing interest. It seems to me the same principle applies to securities and other property that are held in a blind trust -- the president might not know what the investments are while serving as president, but the president could nonetheless take official actions that he or she knows are likely to increase the value of those assets. This is particularly so with real estate, where it's hard for a trustee to hide what happens.
So isn't the only way to eliminate these conflicts to give away all of the assets? But no one expected any president prior to this point to do that, right? And has it been expected that family members also give away their assets?
Norm Eisen, please help?
So isn't the only way to eliminate these conflicts to give away all of the assets? But no one expected any president prior to this point to do that, right? And has it been expected that family members also give away their assets?
Norm Eisen, please help?
2
Nine more days.
Nine more days before this cabal of thieves, thugs, racists and Russians takes the helm.
Nine more days before the ship of state sails over the edge of the world into the abyss.
We're taking command of the Enterprise from Captain Spock and giving it to Harcourt Fenton Mudd.
Sigh...I gotta get my Xanax refilled.
Nine more days before this cabal of thieves, thugs, racists and Russians takes the helm.
Nine more days before the ship of state sails over the edge of the world into the abyss.
We're taking command of the Enterprise from Captain Spock and giving it to Harcourt Fenton Mudd.
Sigh...I gotta get my Xanax refilled.
43
Mr Trump, contrary to what you said in your press conference, I really want to see your tax returns. So does everyone sitting in the Drs waiting room I was in, and the staff, who were watching your press conference. Some of them were yelling at the screen. All were in agreement.
57
Last night, on the Seth Meyers show, Trump aide Kelllyanneconway made it pretty clear that Trump would not be releasing his tax returns in the next four years (Seth Meyers asked this specific question), but that people would be so ecstatic over the things Trump had done they wouldn't care anymore whether he released them.
7
I can't listen to Kelly Anne Conway without wanting to scream. I love the way you transformed her into Kellyannconway. Somehow it helps to minimize her importance.
2
She almost qualifies as slimier than him.
1
Sure, there is no rule for the president to divest his investments or put them in a blind trust, but there are still laws against conflict of interests and corruption. It would not be hard to prove a quid-pro-quo "deal." I look forward to Trump's impeachment soon.
9
Hogwash. Nothing has changed. I'm sure the Trump Corporation will make lots of money over the next four years. While the rest of us lose tax dollars on ridiculous walls, tax breaks for the Trumps and their wealthy friends and health care for those of us with pre-existing conditions. But hey. It's all good right? Trust him. He's going to make American Great Again.
11
Nothing to see here but business as usually.
5
One of the most important task facing investigative journalists is to find out all that is possible about Trump's complex interwoven financial world. We must have laid out before us a complete picture of his internationals connections, especially those with the Russian banking and investment community. Trump does not understand the concept of conflict-of-interest and certainly does not believe it applies to him in any case. It will be up to those government agencies and Democratic Congressmen and journalists not corrupted by Trump's influence to bring the truth to the surface. We cannot expect a Republican controlled House to open a Russiagate hearing any time soon.
19
Being Republican means you are so objective and impartial that you are too disinterested to be biased in any way. I hope it comforts some people to believe that Antonin Scalia had to explain this to a judge to get into the inner circle of someone, i.e. God, who has already seen it all, to share infinite wisdom for all eternity going forward.
3
So many ways this is built on false premises and promises. First, the "conflicts advisor" cannot be paid by, hired by or managed by Trump. The official government agency responsible for monitoring ethics of government officials, including the president, should be the only actor overseeing and monitoring potential or actual conflicts.
His offer to donate profits is specious. All of his real estate holdings are hotels - occupancy is needed for them to survive, any use of the hotel by a foreign government is a benefit to him. And the alleged trust run by his sons is no trust. They are committed to him and his wellbeing.
And, how can anyone determine whether he is receiving benefits for his real estate "empire" without his tax returns. Russia apparently owns condos in his buildings and may have loaned him money that he still owes them. Their interests must be determined in order to understand whether their continuing interest in his properties, for which he apparently agrees he will receive revenues, just not "profits," is a direct benefit to his ownership and thus financial interests. And as is virtually certain, when he lifts sanctions on Russia he will have betrayed his duty to put America first. And, of course, there's the huge amount he owes Deutsche Bank and apparently, the Chinese. This can't stop here, we are being taken for a ride.
His offer to donate profits is specious. All of his real estate holdings are hotels - occupancy is needed for them to survive, any use of the hotel by a foreign government is a benefit to him. And the alleged trust run by his sons is no trust. They are committed to him and his wellbeing.
And, how can anyone determine whether he is receiving benefits for his real estate "empire" without his tax returns. Russia apparently owns condos in his buildings and may have loaned him money that he still owes them. Their interests must be determined in order to understand whether their continuing interest in his properties, for which he apparently agrees he will receive revenues, just not "profits," is a direct benefit to his ownership and thus financial interests. And as is virtually certain, when he lifts sanctions on Russia he will have betrayed his duty to put America first. And, of course, there's the huge amount he owes Deutsche Bank and apparently, the Chinese. This can't stop here, we are being taken for a ride.
11
Enough. If the Republican Party still has any sense of honesty, they will start impeachment hearings in the House the second he takes office then have the Senate convict him and get him out of the Presidency before either or war starts, he sends Putin his security briefings or ever worse.
This man is a disgrace to America and the entire western world. Oliver Cromwell said it best when he spoke of the Long Parliament . "... Ye are grown intolerably odious to the whole nation; you were deputed here by the people to get grievances redress'd, are yourselves gone! So! Take away that shining bauble there, and lock up the doors. In the name of God, go!
This man is a disgrace to America and the entire western world. Oliver Cromwell said it best when he spoke of the Long Parliament . "... Ye are grown intolerably odious to the whole nation; you were deputed here by the people to get grievances redress'd, are yourselves gone! So! Take away that shining bauble there, and lock up the doors. In the name of God, go!
16
Please don't quote Puritans now. It might encourage Pence.
9
Steve, I've read your marvelous comments over years. I am a born Indianapolis Hoosier. I may not agree with Pence, but he is honest and above board. Good night, unmet friend, I am with you! Do not give up the fight! God's speed!
1
If Mr. Trump really wanted to make sure he wasn't violating ethics rules or giving the appearance of a conflict, he would have thought through the ramifications of winning on his businesses at the time he declared his candidacy, and he would have had a plan in place. Clearly this didn't happen. Mr. Trump continues to refuse to share his tax returns, and his protestations that he had no ties with Russian has not been proven. Given Kushner's statements earlier, and the bombshell dropped yesterday, one would think that Mr. Trump would throw open every shred of financial documentation he has, including his taxes. Family members still stand to benefit, and I perceived that after his Presidency, Trump retains the right to take control of his business back from his sons. Therefore, it is difficult to see that one could say he is avoiding any possible conflicts or potential to benefit financially from his political decisions.
By the way, it was mind blowing to see Trump come unglued about fake news after he perpetuated the birther lie and made all kinds of fake claims, or forwarded stories that were clearly fake during the campaign. Trashing the intelligence community also isn't going to do him any favors. One hardly knows what to think at this point - but I do know Trump isn't doing anything to help clear things up.
By the way, it was mind blowing to see Trump come unglued about fake news after he perpetuated the birther lie and made all kinds of fake claims, or forwarded stories that were clearly fake during the campaign. Trashing the intelligence community also isn't going to do him any favors. One hardly knows what to think at this point - but I do know Trump isn't doing anything to help clear things up.
225
I'm still trying to hear from his rants , does he intend to be President or Trump CEO ? Kinda like a public defender in court also prosecuting the same defendant.
"If Mr. Trump really wanted to make sure he wasn't violating ethics rules or giving the appearance of a conflict, he would have thought through the ramifications of winning on his businesses at the time he declared his candidacy, and he would have had a plan in place."
That's exactly the point, and it has been lost on all reporting from day 1 of his announcement. It was the elephant in the room that the press steered mysteriously clear of. I mean, well duh.
That's exactly the point, and it has been lost on all reporting from day 1 of his announcement. It was the elephant in the room that the press steered mysteriously clear of. I mean, well duh.
1
When I read articles like this, I keep thinking that the inner circle of the Trump administration is going to look like a slightly more public version of the inner circle of the Corleone "administration."
11
Insufficiant. This will haunt him throughout his Presidency, which has already turned out to be the most ethically challenged administration of my lifetime. Before he is even sworn in!!!
8
This is a sickening spectacle. He cannot be allowed to take office, or he must be expelled as quickly as possible, like an infection, before he destroys the country.
22
"But to try to avoid possible controversy, his advisers said Mr. Trump would donate all profit from foreign sources — but not all revenue — to the United States government at the end of each year." - So maybe next tax filing year, we'll get to see the Trump Organization's (hence Trump's) real earnings and taxes afterall!!???
2
The offer to donate profits rather than all revenue from visits to Trump Hotels by foreign government personnel is a political and meaningless gesture.
The majority of the revenue from operating a business is tied up in costs and overhead and only a small fraction is actual "profit". If any significant fraction of the business involves "profitless" customers, that revenue still contributes to such items as executive salaries, upgrades, advertising, etc. Moreover, if the phenomenally untrustworthy Trump organization provides no accounting of how the "profit" contributions are calculated, it is likely that there will have been juggling of the books to move all revenue from foreign sources into the "cost" column.
The American people elected Mr. Trump in spite of his lack of transparency including unpublished tax returns. As a country we'll welcome this gesture with open arms. Republicans tried to gut the Congressional Ethics office; they'll ignore this transgression and many more.
The majority of the revenue from operating a business is tied up in costs and overhead and only a small fraction is actual "profit". If any significant fraction of the business involves "profitless" customers, that revenue still contributes to such items as executive salaries, upgrades, advertising, etc. Moreover, if the phenomenally untrustworthy Trump organization provides no accounting of how the "profit" contributions are calculated, it is likely that there will have been juggling of the books to move all revenue from foreign sources into the "cost" column.
The American people elected Mr. Trump in spite of his lack of transparency including unpublished tax returns. As a country we'll welcome this gesture with open arms. Republicans tried to gut the Congressional Ethics office; they'll ignore this transgression and many more.
8
Everywhere Trump turns there is Putin.....
If Trump divests himself of businesses, the financial records of those businesses become known to the buyer and probably public. The records might well show Russian mobsters invested as Putin's stand-ins.
Any wonder he does not want to sell?
If Trump divests himself of businesses, the financial records of those businesses become known to the buyer and probably public. The records might well show Russian mobsters invested as Putin's stand-ins.
Any wonder he does not want to sell?
9
Rubio and Menendez, 2 nobodies with zero accomplishment unless one considers being in the pocket of people who lobby for a foreign government is considered an accomplishment, made a fool of themselves today with their silly posturing. The only reason these 2 are elected and reelected is due to the corrupt party establishments refusal to run decent candidates.
6
Totally inadequate. Will the press -- including this paper -- continue to look into his unresolved conflicts of interest? Will this blatant violation of the Emoluments Clause go unchallenged?
Inquiring subscribers want to know.
Inquiring subscribers want to know.
8
If Trump wanted to enrich himself, he would never have run because (1) it was always a long-shot (remember those predictions?) and (2) it caused attitudes towards him to sour among half the population.
2
I knew he was a complete loser long before he ran for President.
And he was a long shot. Long shots win sometimes, too.
And he was a long shot. Long shots win sometimes, too.
1
Whether the allegations about Trump's shenanigans in Russia are true or not, I find it laughable that he is going on and on about "fake news" and how despicable it is. THIs is the same man who who lied over and over again about Obama and his place of birth. Trump even refused to believe that Obama was born in Hawaii even after Obama showed the world his long form birth certificate, something no other president ever was even asked to do.
While I tend to think the latest allegations are triumph and will take great pleasure in seeing the downfall of this lying bully, I also don't care if some of the news is not all is truthful as it can be as long as it gets under Trump's ever so thin skin. If anyone deserves it, it is him.
While I tend to think the latest allegations are triumph and will take great pleasure in seeing the downfall of this lying bully, I also don't care if some of the news is not all is truthful as it can be as long as it gets under Trump's ever so thin skin. If anyone deserves it, it is him.
17
Can ANYONE really say with a straight face, "yup. This will work?"
With every passing day, every single day, our national nightmare and shame, just continue to grow...
With every passing day, every single day, our national nightmare and shame, just continue to grow...
20
Poor fellows americans you had an example ride in the south of what happens when a greedy, ignorant and shameless person takes charge as president. Good luck for the next 4 years. He won't make America great again.
14
Trump Is like Lucy pretending to hold the football for Charlie Brown to kick it.
It's funny to pull the football away in a cartoon. But there is nothing funny about it when the President elect keeps pulling away on his promises.
Is it just me who wonders if Trump is looking very run down and tired in photos taken in the last few days? Maybe he's overwhelmed with the fact that he's realizing that he has a very tough job that starts very soon.
He could do himself, his family and the people of the world a big favor if he backed out of accepting the job.
It's funny to pull the football away in a cartoon. But there is nothing funny about it when the President elect keeps pulling away on his promises.
Is it just me who wonders if Trump is looking very run down and tired in photos taken in the last few days? Maybe he's overwhelmed with the fact that he's realizing that he has a very tough job that starts very soon.
He could do himself, his family and the people of the world a big favor if he backed out of accepting the job.
13
This is a man whose idiotic tweets have effected stock prices. Doesn't anyone see the potential for conflict.
15
The conflict of interest guide lines are mainly to thwart greedy and needy
Politicians from unfairly enriching themselves at the publics expese.A perfect
Example are the Clintons who entered politics almost penniless and emerged
As MEGA millionaires.Donald Trump has already made his fortune and is beholden to no one . As difficult as it may seem it is time for liberals and
Elitists to stop whining and accept the fact that that Donald Trump will be
Our president for at least the next four years.
Politicians from unfairly enriching themselves at the publics expese.A perfect
Example are the Clintons who entered politics almost penniless and emerged
As MEGA millionaires.Donald Trump has already made his fortune and is beholden to no one . As difficult as it may seem it is time for liberals and
Elitists to stop whining and accept the fact that that Donald Trump will be
Our president for at least the next four years.
3
I'm amazed at how often I've heard so many conservatives such as yourself seem to imply that they have no problems having a president-elect who admires a foreign adversary and former KGB official who has espoused anti-American rhetoric and believe that someone wealthy is "beholden to no one," and that that's a good thing. (By the way, Trump inherited his fortune from his father.) How will all that "Make America Great Again"?
11
Murray - at the rate he is going on an ethics level, I give him four days. And that will be four days too long. He is not a lovable character who is going to help you, and he isn’t going to stick it to any of the liberals that yo so disdain. He’s just going to make sure that the Trump family continues to gouge any dragon’s liar they can get their greedy hands on. It is beyond me how you can defend him when his behavior is nothing but despicable. And for the record, he’s not even a Republican; he’s a reptilian.
3
Trump won't last the year ... get ready for President Pence.
5
Oh yeah, and Hillary Clinton is going to win by a landslide.
Ooops.
Ooops.
OMG
1
Given how wealthy Putin is using the Russian economy to enrich himself, Trump may plan on becoming the richest man on the planet by exploiting the U.S. economy.
7
Trump's lawyer described his plan to distance himself from his businesses to avoid any conflict of interest. But then she went on to talk about how he will make America great again. Is she providing legal advice or acting as a cheerleader? I have never heard a lawyer talk about a legal issue in this way - why would any believe her to be impartial. She is truly a disgrace to the profession and is selling out the American public for money.
11
Trump has never been vetted anymore than any of his extreme right wing racist Cabinet choices. We have never seen a complete report of his health (physical and mental) and we have never seen a complete disclosure of his financial quagmire including ties to the Russians who his son Eric said were pouring money into his "empire".
Trump's word on any subject is revealed by his behavior: Trump is on video talking about how he gropes women, on video about mocking a disabled reporter and he denies it all.
Trump lives in a world where the truth is ephemeral and designed to suit his needs of the moment. When he takes the oath of office to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States, will he be committing perjury?
Trump's word on any subject is revealed by his behavior: Trump is on video talking about how he gropes women, on video about mocking a disabled reporter and he denies it all.
Trump lives in a world where the truth is ephemeral and designed to suit his needs of the moment. When he takes the oath of office to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States, will he be committing perjury?
13
The Democratic Party will not hold President Swamp accountable. It does not know how.
Only feet on the ground can stop Ryan, McConnell, Schumer, and Trump from stealing everything for global billionaires.
What will you tell people you did in 2017?
Only feet on the ground can stop Ryan, McConnell, Schumer, and Trump from stealing everything for global billionaires.
What will you tell people you did in 2017?
3
I voted the right way - the system is rigged and my vote really did not count - now its every man for himself.
3
Let's do move on from this one. Measure him by his official actions as president, regardless of whether his motives are self-serving of his business interests or not. Measure him by how well he serves the best interests of all the people of our country. Hold him accountable for his policies. There is plenty to fear and loathe about those.
2
Ok, its what a few days before Inauguration, and I would not surprise me if Mr. Trump calls it quits a few hours before the event. I mean, as in maybe an elected Republican will inform him of his various constitutional issues that will change to "high crimes and misdemeanors" immediately after he takes the oath. Yes its a pipe dream at this point, but he will be in that position after the oath, and someone will have the responsibility to do something.
This is serious stuff people!
This is serious stuff people!
11
I am just trying to make sense of this all. Will a kind of Berlin wall be built?
After all these silly announcements of what is going to happen, or what might be happen, I sometimes am looking forward to the end of all this speculation. Let the rule of Trump start.
But then again I become worried, and start to fear that something seriously awful will happen. Well, there is not much I can do. How crazy must Trump act so that psychiatrists are called in, or that impeachment starts?
After all these silly announcements of what is going to happen, or what might be happen, I sometimes am looking forward to the end of all this speculation. Let the rule of Trump start.
But then again I become worried, and start to fear that something seriously awful will happen. Well, there is not much I can do. How crazy must Trump act so that psychiatrists are called in, or that impeachment starts?
10
Trump is reneging on his promises before even taking office. Today's "press conference" was a mini-rally (complete with planted applause) and very little in the way of actual questions. The arrangement for his companies is jaw-droppingly insufficient. Are we to believe that he will not discuss his companies with his own two sons? He and his supporters were all over the Clintons for having a family-linked charitable foundation, and none of them were a sitting president. His further antagonism of the press calls to mind an old adage: never pick a fight with someone who buys ink by the barrel.
4
He should not divest himself of one farthing, that he serves is far more than we should expect or deserve.
So...Trump is going to put his businesses in a trust and have his two sons run the trust...and wants the American people to believe that he will not ever have any discussions with his sons about how the business is going for the next four (4) years. Is this some type of a joke?
I'll go with what Ronald Reagan said "trust but verify"; how exactly, is anyone going to verify that Trump never discusses his businesses with his sons over the course of the next four (4) years? THIS IS LUDICROUS...this makes me ask the question "just how stupid does Trump think the people that voted for him are?".
These next four (4) years are shaping-up to be the most excessive assault on our democracy, culture and constitution in recorded history. Republicans must be held fully accountable for every outcome that occurs over the course of the next four (4) years...starting January 20, 2017.
I'll go with what Ronald Reagan said "trust but verify"; how exactly, is anyone going to verify that Trump never discusses his businesses with his sons over the course of the next four (4) years? THIS IS LUDICROUS...this makes me ask the question "just how stupid does Trump think the people that voted for him are?".
These next four (4) years are shaping-up to be the most excessive assault on our democracy, culture and constitution in recorded history. Republicans must be held fully accountable for every outcome that occurs over the course of the next four (4) years...starting January 20, 2017.
6
The welfare if the citizens of the United States of Amarica or Trump? Appears he has made his decision.
4
If you could watch Trump's news conference this morning and not think we're entering a brave new world, you're made of sterner stuff than I. When's the last time you heard a President of the United States use the word "crap" in a public forum or infer that his treatment by our own intelligence community is akin to Nazism? As Bette Davis famously said in her 1950 film, "All About Eve", "Fasten your seat belts, we're in for a bumpy night."
22
Impeachment seems more and more likely.
Too bad he's unable to accept rational legal advice, or to use sound judgement.
We deserve better.
Too bad he's unable to accept rational legal advice, or to use sound judgement.
We deserve better.
7
I'm trying to imagine Congress's response if our black president had decided not to follow any of the rules and traditions.
26
As a Revenue Manager in the hotel world, it is my opinion along with many of my colleagues that there is a large area of opportunity for possible dilution of stated profit and revenue received from foreign entities when it comes to hotel stays. Decisions on what calculation to use (average or minute detail per transaction) and what transactions to review will need to be decided and should be made public if this is truly to be considered a critical part of the divestment plan.
For illustration, areas of opportunity for calculation on profit vs. revenue in hotel transactions would include: should the hotel consider revenue or profit received as from a foreign entity if a reservation is made by a Dubai resident through a US-based travel agent? Should a hotel calculate profit received from a Kazakh military officer individual stay at Trump Hotel NY on the average actualized in prior month or on the dialed down individual basis (i.e. how much time did the housekeeper spend cleaning this exact room, how much water or energy was consumed, how many cups of coffee were ordered)? Let me state, there is no industry IT infrastructure in place that would allow for hotels to determine the latter dialed down profit calculation.
For illustration, areas of opportunity for calculation on profit vs. revenue in hotel transactions would include: should the hotel consider revenue or profit received as from a foreign entity if a reservation is made by a Dubai resident through a US-based travel agent? Should a hotel calculate profit received from a Kazakh military officer individual stay at Trump Hotel NY on the average actualized in prior month or on the dialed down individual basis (i.e. how much time did the housekeeper spend cleaning this exact room, how much water or energy was consumed, how many cups of coffee were ordered)? Let me state, there is no industry IT infrastructure in place that would allow for hotels to determine the latter dialed down profit calculation.
7
Why did the press not hold Q&A until Trump addressed the CNN correspodent's question? When a colleague is attacked for doing his/her job, why is it that the press is unable to stand united? The press corp has a platform to stand up to harassment and the erosion of journalism. They simply choose not to do it, for the sake of an opportunity to ask a question.
9
Regarding handing over the business to his sons, if Trump says "you know, I don't HAVE to do this" one more time I'm going to be sick.
WHO is going to stand up to this criminal?
WHO is going to stand up to this criminal?
15
Trump is going above and beyond what any rational person would ask of him. Are we to exclude business owners from public office because of an extremist interpretation of conflict of interest? Is he supposed to fire his own children and somehow sell all his buildings before 1/20? The Left would never be satisfied be anything he would do.
3
It's not the Left's fault that Trump is unprepared for the presidency. He should have had a plan to divest before he announced his candidacy. But that would assume that he had an intentional to be ethical from the beginning, or at least try to appear ethical, like every other president.
11
Really, what more do you want him to do? In order to completely divest, he'd have to sell everything and fire his own children. That's both impossible and unfair.
Trump's main interests are himself and his businesses. He could save himself a lot of grief and preserve his vast empire by simply declining the office of the Presidency and go back to his gold plated Tower.
8
Why should he do that when he can have both? Trump will not get any grief. With the Republicans in control of Congress and, soon, the Supreme Court, nobody can stop him.
1
There must be some in Congress who still believe in doing the right thing. What is happening to our moral backbone?
3
hes the president of the united states. he already has a billion dollars. whats another billion going to get him? He's already the most powerful man in america.
2
First, how do you know he actually has a billion dollars? He has so far refused to release his tax return.
Second, following your logic, rich people would never bother to try to enrich themselves. Why was Trump still in business? Are his golf courses and hotels non-profit? Evidence suggests the contrary.
Third, even if Trump is not interested in money in of itself, he has shown that he is interested in building a family business empire. Yet, what if the interests of the American people and the interests of the Trump empire come into conflict?
Second, following your logic, rich people would never bother to try to enrich themselves. Why was Trump still in business? Are his golf courses and hotels non-profit? Evidence suggests the contrary.
Third, even if Trump is not interested in money in of itself, he has shown that he is interested in building a family business empire. Yet, what if the interests of the American people and the interests of the Trump empire come into conflict?
8
No offense. But he's STILL the "president-(s)elect".
And if you don't see the myriad of conflicts surrounding his wealth (and how he got it) and his office in government, you're missing the point.
Oh. And there's no proof he has a "billion" dollars -- because he hasn't made his income taxes public.
And if you don't see the myriad of conflicts surrounding his wealth (and how he got it) and his office in government, you're missing the point.
Oh. And there's no proof he has a "billion" dollars -- because he hasn't made his income taxes public.
7
billion is arbitrary... "more than enough" is what im getting at. yes you're following my logic correctly. when sustainence is no longer the goal, the wealthy try to out-compete eachother, the wealthy have pride in ownership, the wealthy seek to carry on a legacy. what im saying is that real estate, entertainment, etc is small potatoes compared to what he's got his hands on. I'd bet that growing his business is the last thing on his mind now.
1
Oh, I get it. The sons will manage the billions. Therefore, the soon-to-be president will have nothing to do with it. Can we come any closer to a shell game?
17
I have no problem with Trump deciding to fast-track his own impeachment.
55
Trump says that he will donate to the Treasury the money he makes out of his hotels. To begin, this does not satisfy the requirement that prevents him from renting the US owned Washington Hotel to himself. I think that he refers only to foreign nationals using his hotels. Finally, I am quite sure that the money that he would return to theTreasury will be a token amount. What he is going to do is use this money to make all sorts of repairs, improvements, etc. to the hotels which will be deducted (business expenses, you know) from the profits. He will thus save himself money that he would have had to spent. What is left will go to the Treasury. All of a thousand dollars, I suspect.
11
He wasn't the President-elect or a candidate when the transaction was done.
Congress is full of elected officials who have enriched themselves on the job, many with insider information on companies whose business is in their committees. This selective morality does nothing more than make Democrats look foolish. Where were you when many of us were questioning Clinton corruption on the job.
Congress is full of elected officials who have enriched themselves on the job, many with insider information on companies whose business is in their committees. This selective morality does nothing more than make Democrats look foolish. Where were you when many of us were questioning Clinton corruption on the job.
2
And the US treasury does not work in this simple-minded fashion. This of us who worked for real companies know you can't do this slight of hand and be accountable.
3
If Trump made anything clear today it is that he is in this for himself and not the American people. Weep, Trump supporters as you suffer the consquences.
26
I'm no fan of Trump, but... before the election everyone knew that he owned a family business that was tightly coupled with his name. A blind trust would not be practical. I do believe that a man need not be stripped of his family business to be president. Having his children run it and selling specific assets that cause conflict is a reasonable compromise. There are more important issues. Let's not waste time with this one.
4
"I'm no fan of Trump, but..." seems to be the new "I'm not a racist, but..."
9
There's an old joke apropos of Mr. Trump.
A man of incredible wealth dies and when St. Peter opens the pearly gates, he encounters the gentleman and a convoy of semi-trucks, their trailers laden high with golden metal bars.
"What," says St. Peter, "may is ask, is all this?"
The man laughs and replies, "They said you can't take it with you, but I proved them wrong. This is my earthly fortune. I figured out how to get it here."
A moment passes and St. Peter looks straight into the gentleman's eyes and says, "Let me get this straight. You have managed to bring anything you wanted with you to Heaven, and you chose paving materials?"
A man of incredible wealth dies and when St. Peter opens the pearly gates, he encounters the gentleman and a convoy of semi-trucks, their trailers laden high with golden metal bars.
"What," says St. Peter, "may is ask, is all this?"
The man laughs and replies, "They said you can't take it with you, but I proved them wrong. This is my earthly fortune. I figured out how to get it here."
A moment passes and St. Peter looks straight into the gentleman's eyes and says, "Let me get this straight. You have managed to bring anything you wanted with you to Heaven, and you chose paving materials?"
20
Father and son with the same vacant and entitled stares, aren't we lucky.
The real winners in all this are McConnell and Ryan who will be working overtime to undermine any threat to their power while the rest of us stay transfixed on the orange clown.
While DT may be perversely entertaining, the real show is happening in Congress. You can bet they will do everything they can to keep attention on DT even if it means feigning outrage from time to time because of the things he says or does (which are a reflection of his heart Ms. Conway).
The real winners in all this are McConnell and Ryan who will be working overtime to undermine any threat to their power while the rest of us stay transfixed on the orange clown.
While DT may be perversely entertaining, the real show is happening in Congress. You can bet they will do everything they can to keep attention on DT even if it means feigning outrage from time to time because of the things he says or does (which are a reflection of his heart Ms. Conway).
24
If Donald Trumps wants to be President he needs to divest his business interests and put it in a blind trust. Majority of the American people did not vote for him so let the protests begin and the hearings start to remove him if he doesn't comply.
24
Mr Trump seems to perceive that turning over the Trump business to his sons is a favor to us. A favor he's doing for ethical reasons (Trump worried about ethics???) to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest even though he believes that a president isn't bound by any such expectation.
During his news conference (which I personally couldn't bear to watch in it's entirety) he kept reminding us of that fact. that he's not bound, over and over again. Maybe done as a precaution so when he slips up and gets involved in his business affairs, which run through his blood stream, he won't be challenged.
It's uncanny that this guy is so completely unaware of his well deserved reputation as a pathological liar that he believes all he has to do is the minimal regarding our concerns about a conflict of interest and we will just roll over and blindly trust him.
Then again Trump so far has gotten away with stuff that no one else could and reach his present position as our next president (ekkkk) so why should he think he has to do more. And regarding trust, he doesn't even realize that his refusal to release his tax returns feeds into doubts about him.
Thus it's not a huge leap to conclude that this president elect is undoubtedly one of the most unconscious un self aware ill prepared people ever to reach the Oval Office. And we undoubtedly are in for a bumpy ride.
During his news conference (which I personally couldn't bear to watch in it's entirety) he kept reminding us of that fact. that he's not bound, over and over again. Maybe done as a precaution so when he slips up and gets involved in his business affairs, which run through his blood stream, he won't be challenged.
It's uncanny that this guy is so completely unaware of his well deserved reputation as a pathological liar that he believes all he has to do is the minimal regarding our concerns about a conflict of interest and we will just roll over and blindly trust him.
Then again Trump so far has gotten away with stuff that no one else could and reach his present position as our next president (ekkkk) so why should he think he has to do more. And regarding trust, he doesn't even realize that his refusal to release his tax returns feeds into doubts about him.
Thus it's not a huge leap to conclude that this president elect is undoubtedly one of the most unconscious un self aware ill prepared people ever to reach the Oval Office. And we undoubtedly are in for a bumpy ride.
20
Trump refuses to show his tax returns because he's an awful and corrupt business man, who wanted to hide that from potential voters.
Trump lied to the American people that he would show his tax returns or put his business in a blind trust. That kind of blatant lying and fraudulent presentation of himself, should be enough to pull his title as president-elect.
It's astounding that we are stuck with this awful person as our next President. His kids should be ashamed of themselves for supporting him. Most people do not support their parents the minute they find out they've been unethical to that level. If I found out my father was not paying his workers or bragging about groping women and saw a stream of courageous women coming forward, that would be the day I would despise my father and stop talking to him.
Hillary Clinton was wrong about Trump's kids. They are shameless and unusally cowardly individuals, who are too afraid or greedy to distance themselves from their father, like any other normal American would do if their family member was a sexual predator, thief and fraud.
Trump lied to the American people that he would show his tax returns or put his business in a blind trust. That kind of blatant lying and fraudulent presentation of himself, should be enough to pull his title as president-elect.
It's astounding that we are stuck with this awful person as our next President. His kids should be ashamed of themselves for supporting him. Most people do not support their parents the minute they find out they've been unethical to that level. If I found out my father was not paying his workers or bragging about groping women and saw a stream of courageous women coming forward, that would be the day I would despise my father and stop talking to him.
Hillary Clinton was wrong about Trump's kids. They are shameless and unusally cowardly individuals, who are too afraid or greedy to distance themselves from their father, like any other normal American would do if their family member was a sexual predator, thief and fraud.
59
Chelsea didn't elope with a working class hero either.
1
Hm, the liberals still nipping at the bottom of his pants. First the locker room tape, then the vote recount, then the Russians electing him, now the conflict of interest. Have we ever had an altar boy for President. Maybe Hillary is the "puritan" that the Lefties and the Dems.have in mind. Pretty pathetic. If they (Dems. and Lefties) were a little smarter they would be able to see that the message they'r sending out there is detrimental to them. By continuing with these aberrant actions, it makes clear that their concern is not dealing with the crisis our country is facing, but their interest in power grabbing.
7
Jimmy Carter was clean as a whistle, and true even to his oath to keep his religion out of public policy.
5
Dems and lefties...great argument. A true American hero here.
3
Trump is an expert at making excuses for himself. He doesn't need any help.
8
FDR gave America the New Deal. DJT will give it Self-Dealing. But if he removes sanctions on Russia and the Kara Sea oil reserves are developed, he'll deal Putin in as well. That will give a whole new meaning to the Art of the Deal, which could also be called the Art of the Steal, perhaps the definition of this new presidency - starting with the election (hacks, Comey).
9
Totally a violation of ethis, meet high crimes and misdemeanors bar in Constitution, he's been looking to push the office to Pence but forgets all of the family will be subject to felony charges.
This is getting sweeter and sweeter.
Buy Orville Redenbacker stock.
This is getting sweeter and sweeter.
Buy Orville Redenbacker stock.
7
Start the impeachment procedure on January 21.
25
There are so many things wrong with this man as president it's hard to know where to begin:
He is keeping his businesses and all of this hand waving is just a distraction from the fact that it's still a ginormous conflict of interest domestically and internationally. Even if he doesn't make a single deal, he still has business holdings in other countries and who is to know if he signs a bill or treaty that might benefit one of his businesses domestically and internationally?
Complete lack of transparency: still don't know his tax returns to get an idea of his assets and holdings and debts. He barely held a news conference today; and cherry picking news agencies he doesn't like is reprehensible. Twitter is not what I would call transparency or true communication.
Russian involvement: see above. Whether or not the Russians have anything on him, it will be fatally easy for Putin to manipulate him and he would sell this country out in a heartbeat for his own interest. Moreover, as we told our son last night: if his high school principal was accused of those things he'd be out of a job. Why is the PEOTUS less accountable?
Appointments: improperly vetted, chosen almost as though to spite each agency they are to head.
Foreign policy: Even if he's innocent in the Russian deal (don't hold your breath) his games with Russia and China and N. Korea and NATO are scary, dangerous and could easily lead to WW3.
And Congress is just rolling over like a good dog to be petted.
He is keeping his businesses and all of this hand waving is just a distraction from the fact that it's still a ginormous conflict of interest domestically and internationally. Even if he doesn't make a single deal, he still has business holdings in other countries and who is to know if he signs a bill or treaty that might benefit one of his businesses domestically and internationally?
Complete lack of transparency: still don't know his tax returns to get an idea of his assets and holdings and debts. He barely held a news conference today; and cherry picking news agencies he doesn't like is reprehensible. Twitter is not what I would call transparency or true communication.
Russian involvement: see above. Whether or not the Russians have anything on him, it will be fatally easy for Putin to manipulate him and he would sell this country out in a heartbeat for his own interest. Moreover, as we told our son last night: if his high school principal was accused of those things he'd be out of a job. Why is the PEOTUS less accountable?
Appointments: improperly vetted, chosen almost as though to spite each agency they are to head.
Foreign policy: Even if he's innocent in the Russian deal (don't hold your breath) his games with Russia and China and N. Korea and NATO are scary, dangerous and could easily lead to WW3.
And Congress is just rolling over like a good dog to be petted.
17
The people who voted for Trump don't care about this stuff. I doubt most of the people who sat out the election care, either. Conflict of interest? They will say (1) "but Hillary would have been even more crooked...emails, Clinton Foundation, Bengahzi!!!" or (2) "at least Trump is going to stop immigration/bring back manufacturing jobs/outlaw abortion/stop transsexuals from using women's bathrooms."
3
You forgot to mention that Trump will appoint the next Scalia to the Supreme Court. That's the excuse I see the most from Trump voters.
5
Some people only learn the hard way. Those of us that know better must fight back.
4
Nobody wants to see Donald Trump's tax returns. It's just a Democratic talking point. I have never met anybody with the slightest interest in knowing another person's tax status. This is grasping at straws for Democrats who lost the presidency, Congress, the Supreme Court, the governorships and the state houses. Now the Democrats are engaged in boorish behavior that will insure they are never allowed back in power. Most Americans want the parties to work together for the betterment of the country. If Democrats are incapable of moving on after their defeats, they have no future.
1
I have no interest in seeing almost anyone's tax returns. But the President is a different story. I definitely want to see his.
If it's not a big deal, why can't he just release them like every other presidential candidate for the last 50 years did? After all, Trump called for Romney to release his taxes in 2012. 2012 Trump thought it was important.
And if you really thought the Democratic opposition to Trump was only making him more popular, why would you have a problem with it? Trying to stop Trump from rising in popularity and destroying the Democrats seems counterproductive.
Sigh. I probably shouldn't have bothered.
If it's not a big deal, why can't he just release them like every other presidential candidate for the last 50 years did? After all, Trump called for Romney to release his taxes in 2012. 2012 Trump thought it was important.
And if you really thought the Democratic opposition to Trump was only making him more popular, why would you have a problem with it? Trying to stop Trump from rising in popularity and destroying the Democrats seems counterproductive.
Sigh. I probably shouldn't have bothered.
3
Everyone I know wants to see his tax returns. We want information to know whether we can proceed to demand impeachment proceedings. You see, in the world of science, putting your head in the sand would not yield any truth or valuable information. Yet, you and your family have relied heavily on the rest of us who seek truth and decency, which results in medical cures, civil rights, job safety regulations, the weekend, overtime and vacation pay and basically any benefits you incur.
5
Quite interesting to learn that most Americans want both parties to work together. What about prior 8 years , when republicans killed anything proposed by democrats. Why do you insist that nobody wanted to see trump's tax return. It was done by all presidents in modern history and if there is nothing to hide, why he did not dosclose it.
4
Nothing new here in history. The Borgias or the Medici have done it all before.
3
The human mind is where the rubber meets the road.
1
Is this your attempt at normalization???
It's not working.
Besides that was then -- when they didn't have nuclear armaments.
BIG difference.
It's not working.
Besides that was then -- when they didn't have nuclear armaments.
BIG difference.
2
At least every American can now take pride in the fact he/she is a better person than the president of the USA.
The power is with the people.
The power is with the people.
26
We are know by whom we choose to speak for us. I see Trump through Kellyanne Conway.
2
Is the president-elect sane?
19
@Henry
You're just asking that NOW????
You're just asking that NOW????
9
@N. Smith. Purely a rhetorical statement.
1
Today, businesses are urged to go beyond just obeying laws. They are told to voluntarily assume and demonstrate the highest levels of rectitude and ethical conduct. Contrast this to what we are getting from the next President of the U.S. He claims that Constitutional and statutory provisions pertaining to conflict of interest do not apply to him. He insists that he is not legally bound to dispose of his businesses but he is transferring ownership to his family anyway, and that is more than sufficient. In essence, he would do the bare minimum, if at all, and that too grudgingly!
Societies cannot legislate and pass laws for every egregious act. Democracies succeed only when individuals especially those in leadership positions demonstrate integrity and principled behavior that compensates for what is lacking in law. Trump is a very poor exemplar of probity and moral conduct. He is not an enlightened leader - and he will never be, if the enduring traits in his personality (e.g., narcissism, chicanery) are any guide.
Societies cannot legislate and pass laws for every egregious act. Democracies succeed only when individuals especially those in leadership positions demonstrate integrity and principled behavior that compensates for what is lacking in law. Trump is a very poor exemplar of probity and moral conduct. He is not an enlightened leader - and he will never be, if the enduring traits in his personality (e.g., narcissism, chicanery) are any guide.
7
What was not said by President Elect trump:
1- can he hang up a sign and specify "family time" when having dinner with Don & Eric during which he can talk 'father to son' when any of the limitations do not hold?
2- Will Don & Eric be fully EXcluded from any government advisory capacities, official or unofficial, to protect them from conflict of interest? As non-employees of the US Government, my understanding is they can be sued for breaking the law.
1- can he hang up a sign and specify "family time" when having dinner with Don & Eric during which he can talk 'father to son' when any of the limitations do not hold?
2- Will Don & Eric be fully EXcluded from any government advisory capacities, official or unofficial, to protect them from conflict of interest? As non-employees of the US Government, my understanding is they can be sued for breaking the law.
5
Has anyone commented on Trump's appearance today? He looks like a tired old man and obviously hasn't had time to get his hair re-weaved or his makeup put on properly. He looks as though he has aged 20 years. And he hasn't even started the real work of being president. Is anyone questioning the state of his health?
15
His MENTAL health??? -- Yes. We started questioning that a long time ago....
9
No, but they certainly grilled Mrs. Clinton when she had a touch of the flu.
Donald is going to hire an ethics advisor. One thing is certain, he doesn't know any.
12
What is that strange word "ETHICS" and where did it come from?
2
I remember in the 90's when the NY media called John Gotti - "Teflon Don" when he kept getting acquitted on criminal charges. What we witnessed today is the REAL "Teflon Don" but now on steroids. America you ain't seen nothing yet from your 45th POTUS Donald J . Trump.
Fact is fiction, and reality is TV is coming true. God help us all.
Fact is fiction, and reality is TV is coming true. God help us all.
16
Not steroids. Truck-stop speed.
2
The contrast:
I set my alarm to make sure I caught today's press conference, and I was not disappointed. This was akin to pay per view wrestling press events: boasting, fabrications, incoherence and chest thumping. Are republicans really revelling in this kind of comportment?? Contrast that with the eloquence of Obama's speech last night - whether you support him or not, *that* was an address from someone worthy of a high office.
now, the conflict:
Trump has press conference to expose a full table's worth of legal documents outlining his so called divestiture or personal disconnection to his commercial enterprises, BUT will not provide any semblance of recent tax filing exposing his business interests. Now you have the MI6 involved, secret agents, dossiers. If this wasn't so serious, I would consider the USA the new banana republic, and the GOP are letting this happen. Wow. Welcome to the new dip-low-macy.
I set my alarm to make sure I caught today's press conference, and I was not disappointed. This was akin to pay per view wrestling press events: boasting, fabrications, incoherence and chest thumping. Are republicans really revelling in this kind of comportment?? Contrast that with the eloquence of Obama's speech last night - whether you support him or not, *that* was an address from someone worthy of a high office.
now, the conflict:
Trump has press conference to expose a full table's worth of legal documents outlining his so called divestiture or personal disconnection to his commercial enterprises, BUT will not provide any semblance of recent tax filing exposing his business interests. Now you have the MI6 involved, secret agents, dossiers. If this wasn't so serious, I would consider the USA the new banana republic, and the GOP are letting this happen. Wow. Welcome to the new dip-low-macy.
6
Paul Ryan's move...
Articles of Impeachment???
Trump cannot continue to thumb his nose at the law and he has MAJOR conflicts of interest here even if his family is running these businesses...
Bob
Articles of Impeachment???
Trump cannot continue to thumb his nose at the law and he has MAJOR conflicts of interest here even if his family is running these businesses...
Bob
6
Paul Ryan and the rest of the Republicans are afraid of being called out by Trump. The silence and the calls for accountability will only grow louder.
4
The "President-Elect" does not want the job. He wanted to campaign for the job so he could stand in front of adoring crowds and spout nonsense. Unfortunately, what made him a good campaigner will not serve him well in his next role. One only has to look at how he led his companies into SIX bankruptcies. You would have thought after the first couple, he would have learned a thing or two.
On an optimistic note, perhaps he does not want to go to the trouble of putting his business into a blind trust because he doesn't expect to be "President" for very long. If only......
On an optimistic note, perhaps he does not want to go to the trouble of putting his business into a blind trust because he doesn't expect to be "President" for very long. If only......
5
Dear New York Times, you are enabling and normalizing this unfit president-elect. Either bring forth real power to knock him back on his heels or walk away. Again, what I'm seeing from you, and the rest of the U.S. media, is a normalization effort. Shameful and selfish.
6
They are reporting facts. For once. It's called journalism.
1
All this is very hopeful to opponents of Donald Trump. There's more than enough ethics problems and conflicts of interest to bring a premature end to the administration. It's also exceedingly hard for successors of disgraced administrations to win reelection. (Gerald Ford)
If only Democrats can somehow improve their embarrassing ground game for 2018.
If only Democrats can somehow improve their embarrassing ground game for 2018.
3
Hilarious - but this is what the hillbilly states voted for and so so much more benefiting the 1% and so much less for themselves -
11
I bet the high priestess of political spin and propaganda, Kellyanne Conway-Goebbels, will be all over the networks today to explain that the conflict of interest is only in our heads and it is what's in Trump's heart that matters.
13
Donald, as we know, is all heart of course.
2
He doesn't want to divest? No problem, his brand name will be worth nothing when people stop using his ugly hotels & mediocre products. He can then divest his holdings for pennies on the dollar!
6
Trump may believe that there are no conflicts of interest laws that apply to him, and that he has fixed his foreign emoluments problem. Therefor he and his family are free to be as corrupt as they want to be, using the American taxpayer as their own private piggy bank.
But privately-held companies are subject to insider trading laws, too. The Supreme Court just made such cases easier to prosecute, in December's unanimous "Salman v. United States: decision This administration is going to be the largest insider trading scandal in American history.
SEC, will you be ready and willing to go up against President Trump? Eric Schneiderman, are you ready for your close-up? Preet Bharara, this is the case you were born to prosecute.
Go get this monumental grifter.
But privately-held companies are subject to insider trading laws, too. The Supreme Court just made such cases easier to prosecute, in December's unanimous "Salman v. United States: decision This administration is going to be the largest insider trading scandal in American history.
SEC, will you be ready and willing to go up against President Trump? Eric Schneiderman, are you ready for your close-up? Preet Bharara, this is the case you were born to prosecute.
Go get this monumental grifter.
8
This was the scrared and cosseted Donald Trump. There was external sturm and drang for everyone, but where was the big boy grownup press conference? Where was Trump facing the heat from interlocutors without VP introduction, hand holders, paid legal opinions, and a phalanx of family all running a protective shield ? Where was Trump facing the heat to answer questions without fear or preplanned applause.
I know he hides behind distortions, outright fibs and theatrical diversion -while accusing all critics of the same sins, but I was surprised by the fear and unease he had with with those who question him.
I think this Mr. Trump is often scared and has built up so many defences - they say that underneath every bully is a scared little boy- our hope is that his term as President requires only slick deals and not great leadership . That is a step too far . And I think he -being natively intelligent- guards this weak flank.
I know he hides behind distortions, outright fibs and theatrical diversion -while accusing all critics of the same sins, but I was surprised by the fear and unease he had with with those who question him.
I think this Mr. Trump is often scared and has built up so many defences - they say that underneath every bully is a scared little boy- our hope is that his term as President requires only slick deals and not great leadership . That is a step too far . And I think he -being natively intelligent- guards this weak flank.
5
Committing to donating the profits is a smart move, given how little profit most of Trump's business ventures generate. In the same vein, handing his businesses over to anyone else to operate could be one of the smartest moves he has made in a long time. His businesses might be in a position to pay taxes by the time he is done playing at President.
3
All this folderol.
1. The Conflict of Interest laws do not apply to the President and Vice President.
2. Trump doesn't have to do anything. If he wanted to, he could serve as President and still run his businesses.
3. There is no law requiring Trump to show his tax returns to anyone except the IRS.
4. The Constitution prohibits Emoluments. Emoluments could only have meant bestowing of favors by foreign governments.
5. A foreign government renting a hotel banquet for the going rate is not bestowing a favor.
1. The Conflict of Interest laws do not apply to the President and Vice President.
2. Trump doesn't have to do anything. If he wanted to, he could serve as President and still run his businesses.
3. There is no law requiring Trump to show his tax returns to anyone except the IRS.
4. The Constitution prohibits Emoluments. Emoluments could only have meant bestowing of favors by foreign governments.
5. A foreign government renting a hotel banquet for the going rate is not bestowing a favor.
4
Here's a suggestion to all: DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH.
It was true observers that put Trump into office to begin with.
It was true observers that put Trump into office to begin with.
5
Trump knew (should have) the law, constitution and legal expectations of the office before he ran. The United States should not have to make accommodations to preserve his wealth, he had that opportunity for years before hand. He can divest and put his wealth in a blind trust or resign.
10
People like Judge Merrick Garland begin their public careers in nursery school.
1
Two Republicans.
Abraham Lincoln, March 4, 1861: "...The mystic chords of memory will swell when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature."
Donald J. Trump, Jan 11, 2017: "...It was a group of opponents that got together -- sick people -- and they put that crap together."
Abraham Lincoln, March 4, 1861: "...The mystic chords of memory will swell when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature."
Donald J. Trump, Jan 11, 2017: "...It was a group of opponents that got together -- sick people -- and they put that crap together."
41
I guess the long nightmare of Trumpism is upon us. Trump is a national obscenity and disgrace! It is truly frightening!
35
We have to come to terms with the fact that the unintelligent and uneducated out number the rest of us in certain strategic places. They're going to love Trump, his plans, can't comprehend conflicts of interests or the other threats he poses. That's just how it is.
41
Danny it was the intelligent and VERY informed that led to the Hillary loss. She won the liberal elite coasts...who think they know more than others, and the answer is well No.
1
They do threaten to over-run the people who have made the demographic and cultural transition to a technological economy.
3
Yup. I came to terms with it in 2004 when George W. beat John Kerry with the swift boat propaganda. And I remember when Karl Rove used dirty tricks to slander John McCain in the 2000 primaries by calling registered Republicans and asking the hypothetical question, "Would you still vote for John McCain if you knew he had an illegitimate child with a black woman?"
That's why I was not at all surprised that Trump won the election. And the scary, sad truth of it may be that Trump is the president America deserves.
Trump is just the latest and most extreme example. Some people just eat up nonsense like it's manna from heaven.
That's why I was not at all surprised that Trump won the election. And the scary, sad truth of it may be that Trump is the president America deserves.
Trump is just the latest and most extreme example. Some people just eat up nonsense like it's manna from heaven.
10
There are things we can't change.
But perhaps no more photographs?
Tired of looking at this family and their
cyber-aristocratic faces already.
But perhaps no more photographs?
Tired of looking at this family and their
cyber-aristocratic faces already.
12
How is this different from a major stockholder saying "I'll turn over all dividends while I'm in office", but continue to benefit from appreciation in the stock? It's absurd. It is a gesture that doesn't resolve the conflict.
7
He wouldn't begin to understand the concept of a public servant.
17
Stunningly deficient circus of a long delayed press conference by the Apprentice President-Elect...we are yet again reminded of the cover of Time Magazine's characterization of the "Trump Meltdown."
In strong, ironic contrast to the moving words of President Obama last night, America today meets itd new president....
...who despises + ridicules the US press and US intelligence agencies, who simply loves Russia, and not long ago praised Saddam Hussein's rough tactics....who seems to forget we recall he named Carter Page as a foreign policy adviser. And that transcript exists at the Post.
All while constantly denying provable facts, and--instead of discussing divestiture--The Authoritarian presents his lawyer--whose firm was awarded Russia's law firm of the year in 2016.
https://www.morganlewis.com/news/chambers-partners-names-morgan-lewis-as...
In strong, ironic contrast to the moving words of President Obama last night, America today meets itd new president....
...who despises + ridicules the US press and US intelligence agencies, who simply loves Russia, and not long ago praised Saddam Hussein's rough tactics....who seems to forget we recall he named Carter Page as a foreign policy adviser. And that transcript exists at the Post.
All while constantly denying provable facts, and--instead of discussing divestiture--The Authoritarian presents his lawyer--whose firm was awarded Russia's law firm of the year in 2016.
https://www.morganlewis.com/news/chambers-partners-names-morgan-lewis-as...
10
How stupid does he actually think we are?
26
Stupid enough to vote for him, apparently.
6
Pretty stupid. He got the job didn't he? And this is barely the beginning.
We are probably the stupidest country on earth. But that was the plan for the past few decades. Defund education and then have a massive takeover.
Here we go!
We are probably the stupidest country on earth. But that was the plan for the past few decades. Defund education and then have a massive takeover.
Here we go!
3
Just as he refuses to release his tax returns, he refuses to trust his business operation to anyone outside the family. He tweets that he has no business investments in Russia; meanwhile, in 2008, Trump Jr. said they were heavily invested there. Has he sold all of his Russian assets and paid off his debts to Russian and Chinese banks? We do't know. Eventually, these secrets and lies will blow up in his face. The GOP won't care. I'm sure they much prefer the sane, stable and down-the-line party man, Mike Pence.
9
He seemed quite certain of his claim today. And the reason, I think, is because he transferred his company to his sons so when he made that claim he was actually telling the truth.
1
That press conference was slow moving train wreck....what a disaster.
My God, Vladimir Putin must be laughing his Russian butt off........ That this educated, inarticulate, STUPID STUPID and corrupt man is our President is beyond the pale. Every word out of his mouth was cringeworthy.
I really am at a loss as to where we go from here. Those allegations, I hate to say, have legs. The optics really do appear to show that our new President was brought and paid for by Vladimir Putin.
........how else to explain his cabinet choices?
It may turn out to be that the only patriot of the bunch is Melania Trump who has been noticeably absent to the point of not existing. She must be too ashamed to partake. I can't say I blame her.
What a disgrace,
......and Mr. NOT MY PRESIDENT TRUMP, I do care about your tax records. Just in case you care.
My God, Vladimir Putin must be laughing his Russian butt off........ That this educated, inarticulate, STUPID STUPID and corrupt man is our President is beyond the pale. Every word out of his mouth was cringeworthy.
I really am at a loss as to where we go from here. Those allegations, I hate to say, have legs. The optics really do appear to show that our new President was brought and paid for by Vladimir Putin.
........how else to explain his cabinet choices?
It may turn out to be that the only patriot of the bunch is Melania Trump who has been noticeably absent to the point of not existing. She must be too ashamed to partake. I can't say I blame her.
What a disgrace,
......and Mr. NOT MY PRESIDENT TRUMP, I do care about your tax records. Just in case you care.
49
Ordinary politicians are inherently conflicted, serving special interests at the expense of the common good. They are on the road constantly soliciting campaign contributions. Obama came to NYC dozens of times for this purpose.
The contrast between Trump, an independently wealthy businessman, and Clinton, a seasoned politician, was laid out starkly in front of the American voters. And Trump prevailed. If we want to have businesspeople in public service, perhaps we shouldn't require them to liquidate all illiquid assets in a fire sale but accommodate some kind of reasonable trust arrangement like this.
For instance, I personally think NYC was much better off for having Michael Bloomberg as mayor. Sure, he retained ownership of his business that services Wall Street as its biggest customer. But those who supported him at least believed that he was already so secure in his wealth that he would not seek to use his office for incremental private profit. Did Bloomberg's business interests sway his policy efforts?--he undoubtedly supported business interests in the City, but I personally I believe Bloomberg acted out of principle not for private gain. I would hope Trump would do the same.
Nothing above means that any new policy should not be scrutinized for conflicts--perhaps they need to be more heavily scrutinized now that Trump won't divest. But I'd argue the same scrutiny should apply when a politician promotes a policy that benefits a major donor.
The contrast between Trump, an independently wealthy businessman, and Clinton, a seasoned politician, was laid out starkly in front of the American voters. And Trump prevailed. If we want to have businesspeople in public service, perhaps we shouldn't require them to liquidate all illiquid assets in a fire sale but accommodate some kind of reasonable trust arrangement like this.
For instance, I personally think NYC was much better off for having Michael Bloomberg as mayor. Sure, he retained ownership of his business that services Wall Street as its biggest customer. But those who supported him at least believed that he was already so secure in his wealth that he would not seek to use his office for incremental private profit. Did Bloomberg's business interests sway his policy efforts?--he undoubtedly supported business interests in the City, but I personally I believe Bloomberg acted out of principle not for private gain. I would hope Trump would do the same.
Nothing above means that any new policy should not be scrutinized for conflicts--perhaps they need to be more heavily scrutinized now that Trump won't divest. But I'd argue the same scrutiny should apply when a politician promotes a policy that benefits a major donor.
4
Get real. Bloomberg got filthy rich by reading the traffic over his quote terminals only the chosen could afford on Wall Street.
Sheesh. Was everybody in the US born yesterday?
Sheesh. Was everybody in the US born yesterday?
The American people did not and still do not know the nature and extent of Trump's business and financial entanglements. Because he won't tell us.
If many people are fine with a President who makes decisions for his own good and not the country's and who drains the Treasury to benefit himself and his family, then ok. But I'm not.
If many people are fine with a President who makes decisions for his own good and not the country's and who drains the Treasury to benefit himself and his family, then ok. But I'm not.
6
Nah, not everybody. Only about 62,979,879 of them.
2
In the past, Trump caused so much trouble and destruction in school that his father Fred Trump shipped him off to military school. The citizens of the U.S. might take their lead from Fred Trump.
9
Ryan, hubris is Trump saying he will donate any profits to the U.S. Let's see a tax return before we even consider this. Most likely he will claim a loss on this and put the taxpayers on the hook for millions more.
This man is grabbing American by the pu??y and getting away with it.
This man is grabbing American by the pu??y and getting away with it.
13
Really? He won't talk to his family about 'the business'? He can't keep his mouth shut about anything except when it's beneficial for himself (i.e. tax returns). This whole mess has always reminded me of a dark Batman chapter. Now I'm thinking 'Borgias'.
10
"Instead, the Trump enterprise will have to clear any new transactions with an ethics adviser to be chosen by the president-elect in coming days."
ALERT: Fox in the hen house, fox in the hen house!
ALERT: Fox in the hen house, fox in the hen house!
12
Literally. Sean Hannity broadcasting directly from Michelle
Obama's free range chicken coop.
Obama's free range chicken coop.
1
Roger Ailes is looking for work, I hear.
2
Maybe trump can make Ailes the official Czar of Hot Chicks.
1
Hey! Why doesn't the Trump conglomerate just finance the wall?
After all, it's such a great investment opportunity. With a sure payback.
After all, it's such a great investment opportunity. With a sure payback.
14
These conflicts of interest are a priori disqualifying. If he doesn't expect to give up his family's interests for the office, he should not have run. Same goes for his wacky billionaire cabinet appointees. Letting privileged individuals get away with things each of us has to comply with creates the worst kind of precedent by destroying what's left of our liberal democracy.
10
A new American nightmare is born.
Chaos and malice.
Chaos and malice.
11
Just because some lawyer with a large firm says something is so, it ISN'T. Trump and common notions of right and wrong, history, and ethics, are complete strangers.
10
The law firm - Morgan Lewls and Bocklus - that Trump is using won the Russian firm of the year. Why is it that the more we learn, the worse it gets?
7
To these folks who seem so shocked and outraged that Trump will not divest from his businesses while POTUS, really? You really expected him to separate himself from his money? Do you really expect the people who voted for him to feel the same as you? Do you really think the Republican leaders in Congress are going to do anything about it? This is the New World Order, folks, including a complicit corporate media.
Nearly 3 million registered voters had their ballots tossed in the trash can on November 8, 2016.
Now that's something to get outraged over.
Really.
Nearly 3 million registered voters had their ballots tossed in the trash can on November 8, 2016.
Now that's something to get outraged over.
Really.
8
I liked what The Guardian said - it was a trainwreck of a press conference.
Maybe we're in trouble.
Maybe we're in trouble.
12
I understand Ivanka will step away from the family business. Is her clothing brand the family business or hers alone? Her brand remains on all major retail sites. Jared is barely removing himself from his business. I know how all of the little guys who Trump stiffed must feel. Horizontal helix turning into.....
7
Given the 1,000's of law suits the Trump organization, as plaintiff and defendant,has been involved in over the years. there are obvious grounds for concern here. Law suits don't "just happen". They come about because one party or both parties believe a contact, explicit or implied has been breached.
The basis of Trump's business has a dubious record. It is unlikely to be any less troubled in the future, with additional ethical issues on top of ethics that are already demonstrably in question (in the civil courts).
The basis of Trump's business has a dubious record. It is unlikely to be any less troubled in the future, with additional ethical issues on top of ethics that are already demonstrably in question (in the civil courts).
6
He is in debt. To divest from debt means bankruptcy. If he has done this before so successfully why not do it now?
2
Are there any Trump voters who can defend your choice of this wildly unfit person to be leading our government?
Anyone?
The only rules are that you can't say "to make America great again!" or that Clinton is a criminal and we should "lock her up!" or that timeless classic, to "drain the swamp." Other than that, what made you choose so unbelievably poorly?
Just curious.
Anyone?
The only rules are that you can't say "to make America great again!" or that Clinton is a criminal and we should "lock her up!" or that timeless classic, to "drain the swamp." Other than that, what made you choose so unbelievably poorly?
Just curious.
9
Trump saying that the is exempt from “conflicts of interest” is true only insofar as federal ethics rules that apply to all other federal employees do not apply to the President and Vice President. That does not mean Trump is immune from any criminal charge that may arise from acts of public corruption he may commit. If he engages in a quid pro quo wherein he uses his office to enrich himself and his children that is a crime.
Based on observations of Trump thus far, I do not doubt he will cross that line. He is going to commit crimes in office and basically dare anyone to do something about it. If that’s how he wants to play it, so be it. If I were President that’s not something I would stake my office, finances, or personal freedom on.
Based on observations of Trump thus far, I do not doubt he will cross that line. He is going to commit crimes in office and basically dare anyone to do something about it. If that’s how he wants to play it, so be it. If I were President that’s not something I would stake my office, finances, or personal freedom on.
4
So the President-Elect and his "team" will be choosing his own ethics adviser to steer him clear of potential conflicts? Gee, wonder how that will turn out? I'm sure there are former Enron or Arthur Andersen executives looking for work.
9
Just another instance of Trump greasing the rails so that America can win the race to the bottom. In case you didn't already know this: he's going privatize everything, and in doing so he and his billionaire cabinet, Republican and Russian friends are going to make container ship sized loads of money. Welcome to the new American nightmare!!
11
I understand that PEOTUS Trump is (apparently) worth a lot of money on paper, with most of it is tied up in real estate. As a consequence he is reluctant to divest for precisely the reasons that many have stated (it would take too long unless he held a fire sale, he would lose too much money, there is no way for Donald to un-know which properties he owns, his kids shouldn't need a career change because he had one, etc.).
There is not necessarily a problem with this line of thinking on a surface level--Donald Trump's is a one-off presidency, the situation is unique to him--but it strikes me as troubling that Trump's argument essentially boils down to
i.) because he his rich the rules don't apply,
ii.) he is too big to fail.
Isn't this precisely the type of thinking that he campaigned against? Isn't this precisely the type of thing that his supporters railed against? ("If X did a quarter of what Hillary did, then they would be in jail. Just another example of someone with money and power getting away with the something that we would be held accountable for.")
He didn't have to run for office, after all; no one in the States was making him do it.
There is not necessarily a problem with this line of thinking on a surface level--Donald Trump's is a one-off presidency, the situation is unique to him--but it strikes me as troubling that Trump's argument essentially boils down to
i.) because he his rich the rules don't apply,
ii.) he is too big to fail.
Isn't this precisely the type of thinking that he campaigned against? Isn't this precisely the type of thing that his supporters railed against? ("If X did a quarter of what Hillary did, then they would be in jail. Just another example of someone with money and power getting away with the something that we would be held accountable for.")
He didn't have to run for office, after all; no one in the States was making him do it.
11
A drug addict will say anything or do anything for drugs. DTrumpf is doing the same thing here.
This man is a pathological liar and he is not going change a bit.
This man is a pathological liar and he is not going change a bit.
7
God help us all. I am beginning to wonder whether I am stuck in a dream where no one seems to care that our democracy is in serious jeopardy because of this nutcase of a man. When will the final straw come to make all of us say, enough, this can no longer go on?
7
Remember Donald worked for a year to get this job. If he is not ready to divest himself from all other business activities then he should be fired. If he did not know what the job required, he should be fired.
Donald Trump as president will be in the employ of the American people.
As an employee he should not hold any financial interests that conflict with the conscientious performance of his duty.
As an employee Donald should not engage in financial transactions or use his government information to affect his private gain.
Donald Trump as an employee should not use his "public office" for private gain.
There is so much more Donald should do before he will be able to work for the American people without ethical conflicts.
Donald Trump as president will be in the employ of the American people.
As an employee he should not hold any financial interests that conflict with the conscientious performance of his duty.
As an employee Donald should not engage in financial transactions or use his government information to affect his private gain.
Donald Trump as an employee should not use his "public office" for private gain.
There is so much more Donald should do before he will be able to work for the American people without ethical conflicts.
6
Unacceptable.
8
In the national interest, President Obama can and should order the stop of any IRS audit of Trump taxes. He can then make the announcement that he is pardoning Trump for any possible violation of tax law pursuant to the audit.
I, and many others, are still waiting for President Obama to take some affirmative step to protect our nation from what he himself declared was an individual unfit to be President.
It is high time that he take a trully courageous action to protect our nation. Enough worrying about a legacy.
I, and many others, are still waiting for President Obama to take some affirmative step to protect our nation from what he himself declared was an individual unfit to be President.
It is high time that he take a trully courageous action to protect our nation. Enough worrying about a legacy.
3
This situation would be beyond belief if Mr. Trump had not already defined himself in word and deed as a buffoon. He believes he "cannot have a conflict of interest" because the law allows him to hold onto his businesses. He clearly does not understand what "conflict of interest" actually means. He seems to think that if he does something, of course he's not conflicted about it, so that's o.k. "If I do it, it is right and good." The mark of a true narcissist. Clearly he had to be hauled kicking and screaming into doing the little he has done to paper over the problem. His sons "won't talk to him" about the business while he's president. And we should take this man at his word? Spare us. Today's press conference was a joke.
8
The press conference today did not shed any new light on the upcoming Presidency of Trump. Business as usual - just rearranged to look prettier. It could be the Russians but maybe others too. I don't like it when people say or suggest mean things about me. Aren't I wonderful?
Speaking of which, by that I am referring to his narcissism, to day we did learn that Trump is sooo great because GOD intended it should be so. The greatest ever jobs creator, healthcare provider, fill in the blank.
And of course, the never ending refrain that everything is the fault of the Democrats, Hillary or Bill. Obama, Schemer etc. Take your pick as long as it's blue.
With God on his side now, How could anything he does be wrong or unethical?
Great now we have the entire government, Supreme Court and God spreading fake news.
Speaking of which, by that I am referring to his narcissism, to day we did learn that Trump is sooo great because GOD intended it should be so. The greatest ever jobs creator, healthcare provider, fill in the blank.
And of course, the never ending refrain that everything is the fault of the Democrats, Hillary or Bill. Obama, Schemer etc. Take your pick as long as it's blue.
With God on his side now, How could anything he does be wrong or unethical?
Great now we have the entire government, Supreme Court and God spreading fake news.
5
"where there's smoke, there's fire"! This egomaniac as POTUS will make America Small. He can clear some of concerns of American people by disclosing is TAX RETURNS. He doesn't want our media to follow the money. It may be going through Russia via Putin.
6
I am really shaken after watching that press conference because this person is unqualified and incapable to do this job. He is uneducated and common. I don't think this blatant and gross mistake can be sustained over a four-year term. I predict an implosion of massive proportions.
18
Mr. Trump, I care. Please release your tax returns!
8
Trump is living in a bubble of narcissism. He really doesn't seem to understand why any rules or laws must apply to him. He has a childish understanding of what a "blind trust" is. Can't seem to understand that his family taking over his business won't cut it. (never mind the hired "ethics" lawyer who is telling him it's all OK) He's still throwing out the old, " I can't release my tax returns because I'm being audited." trope. Why is he allowed to stonewall and get his way on these and other serious issues?
10
Trump's failure to establish a blind trust is a problem. He made a very reassuring demonstration that he wants Americans to have confidence in his sincerity about diminishing conflicts-of-interest, but he didn't create a basis for that.
Changing the subject from this bizarre, possibly fictional memo, was also brilliant. Still, Tillerson's hearings gave new fuel to the suggestion that TIllerson was Russia's choice for this job, and that makes Trump look compromised.
Trump has suffered some serious political damage from the last day's events. Pressure for hearings to investigate these eye-popping claims will probably not diminish, nor will pressure for Trump to distance himself from his business interests.
It is probably the worst beginning to a new administration since Lincoln in 1860.
Changing the subject from this bizarre, possibly fictional memo, was also brilliant. Still, Tillerson's hearings gave new fuel to the suggestion that TIllerson was Russia's choice for this job, and that makes Trump look compromised.
Trump has suffered some serious political damage from the last day's events. Pressure for hearings to investigate these eye-popping claims will probably not diminish, nor will pressure for Trump to distance himself from his business interests.
It is probably the worst beginning to a new administration since Lincoln in 1860.
7
Agreed. Trump has a relatively small hardcore base that would defend him if he were caught murdering someone in the Oval Office, but he was also voted in by large numbers of reluctant voters who expressed reservations about his fitness for the job. Once the latter group is sufficiently disgusted and/or appalled, Congress will trim their sails accordingly. And with Pence lined up to take over, nothing will save Trump.
2
Drain the Swamp?
He is the Swamp!
He is the Swamp!
17
He will do what he wants and get away with it. He's playing the system and mocking government. And there is no one, no one to stop him.
11
I think that it will be incumbent on the press to assign dedicated reporters to continuously study, assess and report on the impact of executive, legislative and judicial decisions on Trump businesses.
10
Trump and his crew used the stolen DNC emails as campaign fodder for months on end. Fox probably broadcast hundreds of hours and thousands of comments about the hacked email. Those emails might have occupied more space in the Trump propaganda machine than any other single topic.
Trump's business will materially be run from the White House. The personal profit motive will often be a factor in the Trump White House decision making process.
Trump is reshaping matters into his own image. A cult of personality is upon us.
Trump is going to get away with the course of action except where is is stopped or hemmed in by other actors, foreign and domestic.
Forget thinking things through or mulling matters over before speaking or tweeting. Welcome to the year of False Alarms.
Trump's business will materially be run from the White House. The personal profit motive will often be a factor in the Trump White House decision making process.
Trump is reshaping matters into his own image. A cult of personality is upon us.
Trump is going to get away with the course of action except where is is stopped or hemmed in by other actors, foreign and domestic.
Forget thinking things through or mulling matters over before speaking or tweeting. Welcome to the year of False Alarms.
6
He'll cook the books so that the foreign "profits" that he promised would go to the U.S. Government are not realized until after he is out office.
Letting his children run his businesses is ludicrous. Are we to believe that they would never speak to him regarding business matters. And his son-in-law as adviser is a completely uncalled-for conflict.
Add in the Russian election assistance, and we have a very murky "Swamp to Drain".
Letting his children run his businesses is ludicrous. Are we to believe that they would never speak to him regarding business matters. And his son-in-law as adviser is a completely uncalled-for conflict.
Add in the Russian election assistance, and we have a very murky "Swamp to Drain".
11
It's hard to imagine, if Congress is upholding their oath
to support and defend the Constitution, that he will survive
four years without impeachment. The press conference again shows
how he is so unfit for the office and lacking in character.
to support and defend the Constitution, that he will survive
four years without impeachment. The press conference again shows
how he is so unfit for the office and lacking in character.
20
Do you think Obama would need his lawyer tor explain his plans? He would present his options in a thoughtful and articulate manner, defending his actions with clear, concise language.
Obviously, Donald realized that his usual word-salad wasn't sufficient to answer any questions. I suspect we'll see much more of this news conference
by proxy when he's presented with subjects he doesn't understand.
Obviously, Donald realized that his usual word-salad wasn't sufficient to answer any questions. I suspect we'll see much more of this news conference
by proxy when he's presented with subjects he doesn't understand.
15
As I recall, he said something about the Trump brand being undervalued. And didn't he also say that he was the only person to make money while running for president?
What a windfall for the Trump Organization.
May I suggest that regarding conflict of interest, the simplest way to avoid it would be for this spit-spraying bully to resign from the office that he never expected to win and didn't prepare at all to actually do.