The fact that Trump got this far while flouting normal conventions for candidates is astounding. Dodging the release of his tax returns is just one of them (dodging the draft is another story entirely).
My main concern is the degradation in critical analysis and presentation of news coverage. Throughout the campaign, newspapers would report "Trump claims X" in the headline, but some readers never got past the headline. But, the headline should have read "Trump repeats lie, claiming X." Only now are news outlets wising up. (To its credit, the NY Times is better than most.)
Trump & Crew will push the system to its breaking point. Sad!
My main concern is the degradation in critical analysis and presentation of news coverage. Throughout the campaign, newspapers would report "Trump claims X" in the headline, but some readers never got past the headline. But, the headline should have read "Trump repeats lie, claiming X." Only now are news outlets wising up. (To its credit, the NY Times is better than most.)
Trump & Crew will push the system to its breaking point. Sad!
83
It is presumptuous of the Times editorial board to purport to speak for "we the people." The people spoke on Nov. 8 and -- like it or not -- they said they were fine with Trump exercising his right not to release his tax returns.
Let's move on.
Let's move on.
18
Face it, he's not releasing his returns ever. The only way we'll see them is if someone leaks it. There is obviously serious, possibly criminal misdeeds in those returns that he is terrified of revealing. There is no other reason he refuses to release them and has lied about releasing them. Even after the audit he will not release them. Even if 100 million people sign the petition, he will not disclose them. No one should ever have believe he would. Trump = Liar. And that is not an alternative fact.
82
Donald Trump,
What are you hiding? Release your tax returns!
What are you hiding? Release your tax returns!
61
Trump deals in fantasy figures - ratings, floor counts in high rises, broadcast views, crowd sizes. There is a reality there but he's been able to make up his own figures and few have challenged him (until now). The claim of fraudulent voters is more of the same but more dangerous to assert because to disregard the tallies is to cast doubt on the election's legitimacy.
A tax return is the opposite of fantasy figures. People can find loopholes but, if the return itself is found to be not grounded in fact, there are penalties.
That is another solid reason why we need to see his tax returns. Whatever you think of the IRS, a tax return is one document in which hyperbole carries no weight. We might at last see some truth from Trump.
A tax return is the opposite of fantasy figures. People can find loopholes but, if the return itself is found to be not grounded in fact, there are penalties.
That is another solid reason why we need to see his tax returns. Whatever you think of the IRS, a tax return is one document in which hyperbole carries no weight. We might at last see some truth from Trump.
37
I really want to know how much money Don Trump owes Vladimir Putin.
I think it is relevant.
I think it is relevant.
73
Donald Trump must release his tax returns. It may be one of the greatest insights we will have on him. He promised to do so throughout his campaign and now we are being told that nobody cares to see them and they will not be released.
Every American should go to the White House petitions page (link below) and sign the existing petition demanding the release of Trump's tax returns. The number of petitioners is growing daily and we need to show these kinds of numbers (300k and growing) to be heard!
https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/immediately-release-donald-tru...
Every American should go to the White House petitions page (link below) and sign the existing petition demanding the release of Trump's tax returns. The number of petitioners is growing daily and we need to show these kinds of numbers (300k and growing) to be heard!
https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/immediately-release-donald-tru...
30
"Presidential candidates have voluntarily disclosed their tax returns since the Watergate scandal"
The problem is "voluntarily". Why did nobody volunteer to suggest that this and similar steps should be mandated by law?
Good will and good faith are nice concepts, and actually common in certain quarters of the business world, but God created lawyers and legislators because one cannot depend on "voluntarily". Doubtful though that this will happen now.
The problem is "voluntarily". Why did nobody volunteer to suggest that this and similar steps should be mandated by law?
Good will and good faith are nice concepts, and actually common in certain quarters of the business world, but God created lawyers and legislators because one cannot depend on "voluntarily". Doubtful though that this will happen now.
11
Trump wants nothing more than a complete dismantling of ethical government...
... and a replacement of them with absolutely no moral compass!
... and a replacement of them with absolutely no moral compass!
26
Agree--keep up the pressure and sign the petitions.
However--his rule of law is set down--will never release tax returns. Documented and recorded a million times.
Awaiting a hero--a patriot federal IRS staff member or trump executive (though they may be in fear of liability due to way in which trump's business is managed).
Somewhere out there is a copy ready for our--perusal.
No more Mr. Nice Citizenry for pres. trump.
However--his rule of law is set down--will never release tax returns. Documented and recorded a million times.
Awaiting a hero--a patriot federal IRS staff member or trump executive (though they may be in fear of liability due to way in which trump's business is managed).
Somewhere out there is a copy ready for our--perusal.
No more Mr. Nice Citizenry for pres. trump.
21
President Trump definitely has something to hide or he would have released his tax returns a long time ago. Releasing them would expose more lies and exaggerations of “facts” that we have heard from him about how he is such a brilliant business man.
It’s amazing how many lies have come from President Trump’s own mouth in the few days since he has been sworn in as President. Saturday’s “performance” at the CIA was pretty sad.
The administration’s assault on the free press cannot be tolerated. Kellyanne Conway’s “alternate facts” remind me of something we see in China or another communist country but not in America.
I agree that the press should keep asking the question (and others).
It’s amazing how many lies have come from President Trump’s own mouth in the few days since he has been sworn in as President. Saturday’s “performance” at the CIA was pretty sad.
The administration’s assault on the free press cannot be tolerated. Kellyanne Conway’s “alternate facts” remind me of something we see in China or another communist country but not in America.
I agree that the press should keep asking the question (and others).
28
Yes we do, want to see Trump's tax returns, going back as far as the eye can see.
We who have witnessed this con artist ply his trade over the decades know this guy has wrapped himself in delusion. One of those deceptions put forth is that Trump is a rich and successful businessman. Both of those suppositions couldn't be farther from the truth. We Never Trumpers want the rest of the nation to see all of this idiot's terrible business deals, and the reasons for his numerous bankruptcies. We want the nation and the world to see how his numerous defaults in NYC have made him persona non grata to New York banks. None will lend him any money. He owes them a fortune, and that is why they keep him afloat, to pay off pennies on the dollar the vast debt Trump has accumulated. Trump is now beholden to foreign banks which hold his liens, which is why his deals overseas and the influence those countries have on this American president and our foreign policy make it all the more important for the American people to see what they've got themselves into.
DD
Manhattan
We who have witnessed this con artist ply his trade over the decades know this guy has wrapped himself in delusion. One of those deceptions put forth is that Trump is a rich and successful businessman. Both of those suppositions couldn't be farther from the truth. We Never Trumpers want the rest of the nation to see all of this idiot's terrible business deals, and the reasons for his numerous bankruptcies. We want the nation and the world to see how his numerous defaults in NYC have made him persona non grata to New York banks. None will lend him any money. He owes them a fortune, and that is why they keep him afloat, to pay off pennies on the dollar the vast debt Trump has accumulated. Trump is now beholden to foreign banks which hold his liens, which is why his deals overseas and the influence those countries have on this American president and our foreign policy make it all the more important for the American people to see what they've got themselves into.
DD
Manhattan
37
From a lay perspective, Trump is mentally ill. He can't be trusted; he lies -incessantly on matters large & small.
His staff (and kids) are unable/unwilling to stand up to him for the benefit of our citizenry. We can't trust Trump/his staff or family to self-police.
ACT NOW --We the people need to be heard and take control.
Indeed, Friday Trump proclaimed: “what truly matters is…this government is controlled by the people” – “the people [are] the rulers of this nation again” – “[this] nation exists to serve its citizens”.
So instead of just our comments here, let’s take him up on his declarations – or call his bluff.
Luckily, Trump has not (yet) removed the Petitions page Obama put on the official WH.gov website, and now the Petitions page has 2 petitions to ensure Trump is working for us not himself/family.
The First Amendment enshrines our right to petition the government.
Scroll down at https://petitions.whitehouse.gov for 2 petition demanding divestment and tax disclosure, respectively.
If Trump is correct that "You learn very little from a tax return", then he needn't fret over tax disclosure. But methinks he doth protest too much.
The urgency of divestment is illustrated in this 1/19/17 article http://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2017/01/donald-trump-conflic...
We the people can not only comment and march, we may petition (and vote)!
His staff (and kids) are unable/unwilling to stand up to him for the benefit of our citizenry. We can't trust Trump/his staff or family to self-police.
ACT NOW --We the people need to be heard and take control.
Indeed, Friday Trump proclaimed: “what truly matters is…this government is controlled by the people” – “the people [are] the rulers of this nation again” – “[this] nation exists to serve its citizens”.
So instead of just our comments here, let’s take him up on his declarations – or call his bluff.
Luckily, Trump has not (yet) removed the Petitions page Obama put on the official WH.gov website, and now the Petitions page has 2 petitions to ensure Trump is working for us not himself/family.
The First Amendment enshrines our right to petition the government.
Scroll down at https://petitions.whitehouse.gov for 2 petition demanding divestment and tax disclosure, respectively.
If Trump is correct that "You learn very little from a tax return", then he needn't fret over tax disclosure. But methinks he doth protest too much.
The urgency of divestment is illustrated in this 1/19/17 article http://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2017/01/donald-trump-conflic...
We the people can not only comment and march, we may petition (and vote)!
18
Really?
Who really cares? Only the moral liberals who want to rip President Trump.
Let's see more actions and forget the talk. Tâke the high ground and see what it gets you. Go Trump
Who really cares? Only the moral liberals who want to rip President Trump.
Let's see more actions and forget the talk. Tâke the high ground and see what it gets you. Go Trump
10
This is on its way to becoming the most signed "We the People" petition since they were begun by the Obama Administration according to the Pew Research Center. http://www.pewinternet.org/2016/12/28/most-common-petition-subjects/
So far, my worst fears about his presidency are being realized. He is a nightmare for the environment, for healthcare, for immigrant rights, for freedom of speech. He needs to start acting like a leader. He'll be revealing his supreme court pick next week. I'm terrified to find out who that will be.
Someone needs to leak his tax returns so we can get this guy out of office fast.
So far, my worst fears about his presidency are being realized. He is a nightmare for the environment, for healthcare, for immigrant rights, for freedom of speech. He needs to start acting like a leader. He'll be revealing his supreme court pick next week. I'm terrified to find out who that will be.
Someone needs to leak his tax returns so we can get this guy out of office fast.
27
Clifford Irving up.
You may recall that Irving doctored a bio of Howard Hughes a million years ago in the early 1970s. Someone for whom money is no object should consider commissioning Clifford Irving ... or anyone else who could do a proper job ... to gin up DJT returns for tax years 2013-2015, including all the various schedules, worksheets, and forms. The work would reveal DJT to be a man of comparatively modest means ... to have "a short one," so to speak. It could be done.
And like a trout rising for a mayfly, DJT would feel compelled to disclose his actual returns. He couldn't resist.
You may recall that Irving doctored a bio of Howard Hughes a million years ago in the early 1970s. Someone for whom money is no object should consider commissioning Clifford Irving ... or anyone else who could do a proper job ... to gin up DJT returns for tax years 2013-2015, including all the various schedules, worksheets, and forms. The work would reveal DJT to be a man of comparatively modest means ... to have "a short one," so to speak. It could be done.
And like a trout rising for a mayfly, DJT would feel compelled to disclose his actual returns. He couldn't resist.
7
Mr. Trump is (frighteningly) the President of our country, despite a minority popular vote. The majority of the public believe him to be a prevaricator and suspiciously compromised. If he had any interest in governing a united republic, he'd reveal his tax records. He doesn't, and has begun the unfolding of his fascist rule.
17
Trump is out of his mind, but please do keep pointing out the daily lies he dishes out, and pay no attention to the dishonest and disingenuous blather emanating from Minister of Propaganda Kellyanne Conway.
Release Tyrant Trump's taxes and there's a 95% probability that everything will make sense, and there will be evidence to impeach.
Really hope Congress figures out what to do in a hurry, because irreparable damage is likely just around the corner.
Release Tyrant Trump's taxes and there's a 95% probability that everything will make sense, and there will be evidence to impeach.
Really hope Congress figures out what to do in a hurry, because irreparable damage is likely just around the corner.
22
Trump said in his inaugural speech, "We will no longer accept politicians who are all talk and no action -- The time for empty talk is over. Now arrives the hour of action."
Ok Mr. Trump, you said you would release your taxes - now is the time for no more talk and some action on your part - let's see your tax returns! Or must we assume you are hiding something horrible from the citizens of the U.S.?
Ok Mr. Trump, you said you would release your taxes - now is the time for no more talk and some action on your part - let's see your tax returns! Or must we assume you are hiding something horrible from the citizens of the U.S.?
30
We must fill the airwaves with, "What is he hiding?" So far all he has done is obstruct progress. He is losing support worldwide. Why is he taking away basics from people? Ask why and demand honest answers. He works for us. We must stop him from destroying our democracy.
A. Lee Zulman
Palo Alto, CA
A. Lee Zulman
Palo Alto, CA
20
Donald, how do you not realize what you are doing here? You've continued to promise that you'll release them at the next level, from before you decided to run until you won the presidency with the electoral college. As the republican nominee, you contradicted the IRS, which stated there is nothing preventing you from releasing your under-audit returns. And now, despite 3/4 of Americans and more than half of republicans wanting to see your returns, you and your administration have the gall to say no one but the media cares??
I used to think the returns would simply show you don't have the wealth you claim to have. But it is now plainly obvious, especially when viewed under the lens of your constant praise of Vladimir Putin, you are hiding deep connections to Russia. With every day that passes and you continue to pretend no one cares, we all grow more suspicious of what you're hiding, and trust you less (at this point I trust nothing you say, nothing). This will never go away, Donald.
And Donald, wouldn't you prefer to be on top of this, release them yourself and address questions? Do you remember when you asked Russia to hack HRC? A day will come when Putin is done with you and wants to embarrass you, and your returns will be made public. We will soon enough see that you are not worth billions, you never donated to charity, and you are deeply in debt to Russia. Make no mistake, you will have to answer to the American public.
I used to think the returns would simply show you don't have the wealth you claim to have. But it is now plainly obvious, especially when viewed under the lens of your constant praise of Vladimir Putin, you are hiding deep connections to Russia. With every day that passes and you continue to pretend no one cares, we all grow more suspicious of what you're hiding, and trust you less (at this point I trust nothing you say, nothing). This will never go away, Donald.
And Donald, wouldn't you prefer to be on top of this, release them yourself and address questions? Do you remember when you asked Russia to hack HRC? A day will come when Putin is done with you and wants to embarrass you, and your returns will be made public. We will soon enough see that you are not worth billions, you never donated to charity, and you are deeply in debt to Russia. Make no mistake, you will have to answer to the American public.
16
He won't release his tax returns because it may likely show:
1. It will expose that he actually not a billionaire
2. He has extensive ties with Russia
3. He is a cheapskate who does not contribute to charities
1. It will expose that he actually not a billionaire
2. He has extensive ties with Russia
3. He is a cheapskate who does not contribute to charities
37
Call 202-225-3121 and ask for the office of each of your legislators, Dem or Repub. Tell them that you strongly support the bill that's being sponsored by Senators Weyden and Murphy and that you'd like to know if the legislator supports the bill, too. Call them back until you get a response. If you get the wrong response (or no response), write a letter to a paper in the legislator's district or hometown.
Trump reportedly owes over half a billion dollars to Blackstone/Bayrock, which is owned by Russian oligarchs. We have a right, an absolute right, as Trump's employers, to know if this report is true.
Trump reportedly owes over half a billion dollars to Blackstone/Bayrock, which is owned by Russian oligarchs. We have a right, an absolute right, as Trump's employers, to know if this report is true.
28
We will need to go back to the situation in the 60s, with people in the street. That is the only way. Trump is a maniac and the Republican Party does not have the guts to stop him. He is dangerous, ugly and cruel. I hope someday he finds himself working as a busboy in a restaurant, an immigrant in a strange place, with barely enough to live. That would be justice.
Taxes?? Yes, Right now, ten years worth. He won't but we need to keep demanding.
Taxes?? Yes, Right now, ten years worth. He won't but we need to keep demanding.
22
Really, why is Trump's tax return anybody's business?
Would you release your tax return upon demand?
Just because a person becomes an elected official doesn't mean every thing about that person's life is fair game to be drudged up and scrutinized.
Would you be able to pass this intense scrutiny? What relevance do past sins, even if they are found, have to do with the present moment? Have we not all sinned?
"He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone"
John 8:7
Would you release your tax return upon demand?
Just because a person becomes an elected official doesn't mean every thing about that person's life is fair game to be drudged up and scrutinized.
Would you be able to pass this intense scrutiny? What relevance do past sins, even if they are found, have to do with the present moment? Have we not all sinned?
"He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone"
John 8:7
7
Little by little, a single strand of tape reeled Richard Nixon in by the scruff of his neck, forcing his resignation in disgrace in August 1974.
Little by little, the demand to release his tax returns, the demand for full divestment - will be the rope to catch this lying crook and imbecile, who insults all of us every day by his tweeted nonsense, his fake news, alternate facts and his dangerous psychopathy.
Little by little, the demand to release his tax returns, the demand for full divestment - will be the rope to catch this lying crook and imbecile, who insults all of us every day by his tweeted nonsense, his fake news, alternate facts and his dangerous psychopathy.
22
The absolute FIRST priority of the slimmed-down Democratic Party, the world socialist movement, and all the bloggers answering to Mr. Soros, Mr. Slim, and Mr. Steyer must be the personal destruction of the President.
Liberalism has always been the best at personal destruction and this will be the Final Four Championship of hatred and fear. If this man succeeds in carrying out a worker-friendly program, the unions will be lost to collectivism for a generation. Saul Alinsky will turn over in his grave.
It was Cool when the Dems abandoned the workers because the Earth was on the verge of dying, so we were told. Now the GOP is THE advocate for the poor and the workers, women included.
This can NOT be allowed to work out for the Americans, who still need to be punished for sins from centuries ago.
Liberalism has always been the best at personal destruction and this will be the Final Four Championship of hatred and fear. If this man succeeds in carrying out a worker-friendly program, the unions will be lost to collectivism for a generation. Saul Alinsky will turn over in his grave.
It was Cool when the Dems abandoned the workers because the Earth was on the verge of dying, so we were told. Now the GOP is THE advocate for the poor and the workers, women included.
This can NOT be allowed to work out for the Americans, who still need to be punished for sins from centuries ago.
3
No matter what, Donald will never, ever release his tax returns.
He can't because he has too much to hide. It would reveal his actual income and the sources, who he owes and how much, and the amount of his charitable giving. The facts the return would reveal won't mesh with the illusion that Donald has sold to the public and would undo the image of the Trump brand. No amount of hyperbole could effectively repair the name and the resulting ridicule would be more than he could bear.
He can't because he has too much to hide. It would reveal his actual income and the sources, who he owes and how much, and the amount of his charitable giving. The facts the return would reveal won't mesh with the illusion that Donald has sold to the public and would undo the image of the Trump brand. No amount of hyperbole could effectively repair the name and the resulting ridicule would be more than he could bear.
13
Went to this web site and found lots of petitions I want to sign. Seeing those taxes is first priority. However, the web seems to be a good way to rack up numbers on issues that are important.
Thanks for this info.
Thanks for this info.
7
Mr. Trump stated numerous times during his campaign that he would release his taxes. This wasn't some minor campaign aside or blanket slogan - it was a specific promise that was reiterated a number of times.
This, above all else, is the reason that Americans should now be provided with a copy of now-President Trump's returns. This isn't a complex policy deliverable - it was a stark promise made to voters that can be easily executed. I'm a conservative voter, and I don't see how supporters can accept anything short of the full disclosure.
This, above all else, is the reason that Americans should now be provided with a copy of now-President Trump's returns. This isn't a complex policy deliverable - it was a stark promise made to voters that can be easily executed. I'm a conservative voter, and I don't see how supporters can accept anything short of the full disclosure.
8
Trump already offered to release his tax returns.
When Hillary turns over the 30,000 subpoenaed emails she deleted.
I think the emails would make better reading.
When Hillary turns over the 30,000 subpoenaed emails she deleted.
I think the emails would make better reading.
9
The late, great William Safire, in his first Op-Ed in the NYTimes, told Richard Nixon to take the White House tapes and burn them. At the time the law did not make them part of the public record, they were considered his private property. (Aside: That law changed, which is why Hillary Clinton created a private email server...and we know the rest.)
Mr. Trump should take a copy of the returns, put them in a trash can on the South Lawn, burn them to a fine ash, then box up the refuse and send it to the NYTimes Editorial Board. It will give the editors a chance to complain about the Trump Administration damaging the climate.
Congress isn't going to pass anything attacking Trump until at least 2019. Its all theater to please the Bitteristas. Which is also why a petition doesn't mean diddly. There could be 65 million signatures and he won't care as he'll assume it was everyone who voted against him.
So Mr. President, if you don't want to burn them, just tell them no. Remind them that nobody at the Times said boo about the Emoluments Clause when the Clinton Foundation and Mr. Clinton were raking in hundreds of millions of dollars from foreign entities and individuals when Mrs. Clinton was a Senator and Secretary of State.
Come to think of it, this may just be Donald Trump's plan. Make editorial boards spend so much time focusing on silly, litigated issues that it takes away from editorials attacking actions that might actually mean something to Americans.
Mr. Trump should take a copy of the returns, put them in a trash can on the South Lawn, burn them to a fine ash, then box up the refuse and send it to the NYTimes Editorial Board. It will give the editors a chance to complain about the Trump Administration damaging the climate.
Congress isn't going to pass anything attacking Trump until at least 2019. Its all theater to please the Bitteristas. Which is also why a petition doesn't mean diddly. There could be 65 million signatures and he won't care as he'll assume it was everyone who voted against him.
So Mr. President, if you don't want to burn them, just tell them no. Remind them that nobody at the Times said boo about the Emoluments Clause when the Clinton Foundation and Mr. Clinton were raking in hundreds of millions of dollars from foreign entities and individuals when Mrs. Clinton was a Senator and Secretary of State.
Come to think of it, this may just be Donald Trump's plan. Make editorial boards spend so much time focusing on silly, litigated issues that it takes away from editorials attacking actions that might actually mean something to Americans.
8
Doesn't this sound like wanting (demanding) to see transcripts of Hillary Clinton's wildly paid speeches to Wall Street, which directly impinged on her campaign against Bernie Sanders and what she was saying she stood for? [She refused to release them.]
Everyone knows the gist of Mr. Trump's taxes (like those years Mitt Romney refused to release)—essentially no tax paid by maneuvering and loophole-ing. We'd all be surprised if he paid any tax and we all know he has far-flung interests worldwide—that's part of the package that was elected.
Everyone knows the gist of Mr. Trump's taxes (like those years Mitt Romney refused to release)—essentially no tax paid by maneuvering and loophole-ing. We'd all be surprised if he paid any tax and we all know he has far-flung interests worldwide—that's part of the package that was elected.
4
"... this trend, perhaps because he has something to hide." Let me fix this for you, editorial board:
"...this trend, because he has something to hide."
Much more accurate.
"...this trend, because he has something to hide."
Much more accurate.
3
Trump is right. No-one cares about how much money he made or how many deductions he has taken.
The IRS (8 years under Obama) has and is auditing him, to make sure he pays what he owes. End of story.
If the NYT wants to know so much about Mr. Trump's personal finances, it can do it the old fashion way - through investigative reporting.
Was FDR a bad president because he did not release his tax returns? Was JFK? Was Lincoln?
The NYT and Democrats are falling for the trap. While they obsess about Trumps tax returns, Trump is getting his agenda through.
If voters cared, they would not have elected him.
The IRS (8 years under Obama) has and is auditing him, to make sure he pays what he owes. End of story.
If the NYT wants to know so much about Mr. Trump's personal finances, it can do it the old fashion way - through investigative reporting.
Was FDR a bad president because he did not release his tax returns? Was JFK? Was Lincoln?
The NYT and Democrats are falling for the trap. While they obsess about Trumps tax returns, Trump is getting his agenda through.
If voters cared, they would not have elected him.
7
They live among us - hiding their Trump passion under a veneer of looking comfortably settled - educated, cute dog, kids graduated college, recently retired from an upper-ish middle class job. It's not just the factory worker who was left behind by automation. It's the suburban mom down the street you never met before but seemed friendly.
Within 5 minutes of meeting, the lies, or staunch belief in lies, started to spew: they've found millions of fake votes, we need to build the wall to keep them out, global warming is naturally happening, Trump's the only one who wants to put America back to work - thank gxd, because she's so sick of those people always looking for a handout.
There could be 100,000 signatures on that petition or a million. She won't believe it.
The only thing we did agree on in our quick chat: every person who marched this weekend who didn't vote, or voted Green, elected Trump (she said it with much greater cheer than I did!)
A Trump can run any day of the week, he only threatens our democracy now because not enough people voted to stop him. So keep marching, and keep signing petitions - but if you didn't vote, or made a statement vote, please learn from this election.
Within 5 minutes of meeting, the lies, or staunch belief in lies, started to spew: they've found millions of fake votes, we need to build the wall to keep them out, global warming is naturally happening, Trump's the only one who wants to put America back to work - thank gxd, because she's so sick of those people always looking for a handout.
There could be 100,000 signatures on that petition or a million. She won't believe it.
The only thing we did agree on in our quick chat: every person who marched this weekend who didn't vote, or voted Green, elected Trump (she said it with much greater cheer than I did!)
A Trump can run any day of the week, he only threatens our democracy now because not enough people voted to stop him. So keep marching, and keep signing petitions - but if you didn't vote, or made a statement vote, please learn from this election.
8
Trump will wear out Americans with the lack of trust he has engendered by his daily existence as an untrustworthy disassembler.
He is creating un-parrelleled historical disorder.
His principled advisors must honestly inform him of this lack of trust for the well-being of America.
He continues to create huge fissures in our country--worse than the worse earthquake, worse than a Yellowstone caldera that will sweep eastward.
He can start to rebuild the American psyche by releasing his taxes to rebuild all the trust he continues to lose daily.
We the People do not enjoy being beaten up and demeaned.
He is creating un-parrelleled historical disorder.
His principled advisors must honestly inform him of this lack of trust for the well-being of America.
He continues to create huge fissures in our country--worse than the worse earthquake, worse than a Yellowstone caldera that will sweep eastward.
He can start to rebuild the American psyche by releasing his taxes to rebuild all the trust he continues to lose daily.
We the People do not enjoy being beaten up and demeaned.
8
The other logical reason why he may not want to release his tax returns, incredible as it may seem, is because of his stupendous vanity. The returns may show he's not as wealthy or successful as he claims to be. In fact, given what we've witnessed of him, a vanity reason adds up, as stupid as it sounds.
For any normal person, evading the tax return release points to some hidden bombshell; the bombshell in Trump's head is probably something no-one else would care about.
Bottom line, I hope no stone is left unturned to get them.
For any normal person, evading the tax return release points to some hidden bombshell; the bombshell in Trump's head is probably something no-one else would care about.
Bottom line, I hope no stone is left unturned to get them.
7
I'd like to see 73% of the voters sign the White House petition -- then we can watch him deflate rather than inflate the numbers for once. Although that will surely blow a gasket of some sort.
...then again, he'd likely announce that those very stupid signers were really all those illegals who committed voter fraud. Plus all the very bad, stupendously bad, journalists.
...then again, he'd likely announce that those very stupid signers were really all those illegals who committed voter fraud. Plus all the very bad, stupendously bad, journalists.
9
One of the events that gave rise to the practice of presidential candidates releasing their tax returns was the tax scandals of the Nixon presidency, both his own and that of his first vice president, Spiro Agnew. Nixon was ultimately found to owe $477,000 in underpaid taxes and interest, a sum that, adjusted for inflation, would equal $2,578,000 today. Civil penalties, e.g., 20%, could also have been applied, but weren't. Agnew resigned after being investigated while Vice President for tax evasion, bribery, extortion, and conspiracy. Agnew resigned from office in a plea deal in which he pled guilty to tax evasion. (See Wikipedia for info on Spiro Agnew.)
People can read about Nixon's tax troubles, and the ultimate determination by the IRS, after prodding by outside groups that the IRS audit Nixon, that Nixon substantially underpaid his taxes over several years during his presidency.
Search the internet using the following search query:
"JCT INVESTIGATION OF NIXON'S TAX RETURNS" Or, see article on the subject by copying the following link into browser addess bar:
http://www.taxhistory.org/thp/readings.nsf/ArtWeb/F1F9BC7589F6ECD1852580...
People can read about Nixon's tax troubles, and the ultimate determination by the IRS, after prodding by outside groups that the IRS audit Nixon, that Nixon substantially underpaid his taxes over several years during his presidency.
Search the internet using the following search query:
"JCT INVESTIGATION OF NIXON'S TAX RETURNS" Or, see article on the subject by copying the following link into browser addess bar:
http://www.taxhistory.org/thp/readings.nsf/ArtWeb/F1F9BC7589F6ECD1852580...
4
He continues to duck this "because" of the audit, which may or may not even be occurring. Why are we (and the press) not calling on his releasing the returns that are no longer under audit?
Which years are being audited? Is his 2010 return still being audited too? 2008? I'm sure that even older returns not under audit would be very revealing (and releasing them has been standard practice). He should have released those already. There's no excuse. Ask. Loudly.
Which years are being audited? Is his 2010 return still being audited too? 2008? I'm sure that even older returns not under audit would be very revealing (and releasing them has been standard practice). He should have released those already. There's no excuse. Ask. Loudly.
5
Some citizens give in treasure. Some give in blood. Some give their lives
And some go shopping.
And some go shopping.
4
“POTUS is under audit and will not release until that is completed.”
-- Kellyanne Conway, Devil's Advocate, 1/23/17
"As far as my return, I want to file it, except for many years, I've been audited every year. Twelve years, or something like that. Every year they audit me, audit me, audit me."
"Nobody gets audited -- I have friends that are very wealthy people. They never get audited. I get audited every year. I will absolutely give my return, but I'm being audited now for two or three years, so I can't do it until the audit is finished, obviously. And I think people would understand that."
-- You Know Who, 2/25/16
I don't think we the people are quite that stupid but I've been wrong before (and how!)
-- Kellyanne Conway, Devil's Advocate, 1/23/17
"As far as my return, I want to file it, except for many years, I've been audited every year. Twelve years, or something like that. Every year they audit me, audit me, audit me."
"Nobody gets audited -- I have friends that are very wealthy people. They never get audited. I get audited every year. I will absolutely give my return, but I'm being audited now for two or three years, so I can't do it until the audit is finished, obviously. And I think people would understand that."
-- You Know Who, 2/25/16
I don't think we the people are quite that stupid but I've been wrong before (and how!)
10
Rather than making a law that candidates release their tax returns, the law should be that their tax returns are released.
Anybody has a constitutional right to stand for president if the fill certain conditions. Adding extra conditions is dangerous, open to abuse amd would probably involve a constitutional amendment.
Better to have a system where the IRS release tax returns at some point in the election campaign, with or without the candidates agreement.
Anybody has a constitutional right to stand for president if the fill certain conditions. Adding extra conditions is dangerous, open to abuse amd would probably involve a constitutional amendment.
Better to have a system where the IRS release tax returns at some point in the election campaign, with or without the candidates agreement.
7
Your final paragraph says it all.
I assume that President Trump wants to set a new standard for Washington and his appointees by keeping no secrets. My counsel to him is to release his returns for the mandatory holding period, I think 7 years, and then let the analysts have at it. If he is corrupt and dishonest, he can apologize and say that he has learned his lesson. If it turns out that he is honest and only is trying to keep his low earnings confidential because it is embarrassing in his social circle, so be it. They will get over it and respect him more for his honesty.
Clearly, it will benefit his presidency if he releases the returns and then give a face to face interview to the media networks. I am almost certain that he will come out ahead because suspicion is rising and it will only get worse.
There are a lot more important things to do, if he really plans to make the country greater than it is. If he can't handle his tax reporting issue think about how he would handle a real crisis.
I assume that President Trump wants to set a new standard for Washington and his appointees by keeping no secrets. My counsel to him is to release his returns for the mandatory holding period, I think 7 years, and then let the analysts have at it. If he is corrupt and dishonest, he can apologize and say that he has learned his lesson. If it turns out that he is honest and only is trying to keep his low earnings confidential because it is embarrassing in his social circle, so be it. They will get over it and respect him more for his honesty.
Clearly, it will benefit his presidency if he releases the returns and then give a face to face interview to the media networks. I am almost certain that he will come out ahead because suspicion is rising and it will only get worse.
There are a lot more important things to do, if he really plans to make the country greater than it is. If he can't handle his tax reporting issue think about how he would handle a real crisis.
4
We can demand all we want, but this administration thinks that it has an all encompassing and sweeping mandate to do whatever it wants, via the result of being voted in.
They are mistaken
The past few days have been a constant diatribe that the popular vote does not matter, and that in actual fact does not exist. That almost 3,000,000 people were actually all illegal aliens committing voter fraud.
Now the pivot seems to be an all out flurry of executive orders of sweeping policy changes with all the details to be worked out later. Promises that were made may not be kept, but as mentioned above; the administration believes it is untouchable.
As for the details of conflicts of interest or tax returns, the only recourse seems to be the courts. Don't count your chickens just yet, because the administration is gearing up to ram through as many judges as it can.
Editorials aside, the only recourse will be in 2 years. Maybe.
If we are all standing by then.
They are mistaken
The past few days have been a constant diatribe that the popular vote does not matter, and that in actual fact does not exist. That almost 3,000,000 people were actually all illegal aliens committing voter fraud.
Now the pivot seems to be an all out flurry of executive orders of sweeping policy changes with all the details to be worked out later. Promises that were made may not be kept, but as mentioned above; the administration believes it is untouchable.
As for the details of conflicts of interest or tax returns, the only recourse seems to be the courts. Don't count your chickens just yet, because the administration is gearing up to ram through as many judges as it can.
Editorials aside, the only recourse will be in 2 years. Maybe.
If we are all standing by then.
3
Taxes are a funny thing, the GOP is against them, and yet our country and it's infrastructure wouldn't exist without them.
Likewise tax returns can be very illuminating. There are rules that can be used to avoid taxes that while they are legitimate are hardly what would considered an indication of an upstanding citizen of this great country.
Civilization is basically human being who have chosen to live and work together for the betterment of all. Without civilization there would be no laws, no interest in the common good of all citizens.
You can complain all you want about them but without taxes the common good we try to share wouldn't exist. So did the Donald pay taxes? If he didn't how did he avoid them? In the good old days, Donald likes to talk about those, there were "barn raisings" when all the neighbors would help raise a barn, it is also called "community".
I doubt Donald knows about that.
Likewise tax returns can be very illuminating. There are rules that can be used to avoid taxes that while they are legitimate are hardly what would considered an indication of an upstanding citizen of this great country.
Civilization is basically human being who have chosen to live and work together for the betterment of all. Without civilization there would be no laws, no interest in the common good of all citizens.
You can complain all you want about them but without taxes the common good we try to share wouldn't exist. So did the Donald pay taxes? If he didn't how did he avoid them? In the good old days, Donald likes to talk about those, there were "barn raisings" when all the neighbors would help raise a barn, it is also called "community".
I doubt Donald knows about that.
4
please!
1. he's not a billionaire
2. he owes $ to german/russian / other banks
3. he hasn't paid taxes in 15 years
4. he has some some sketchy international dealings.
please.
1. he's not a billionaire
2. he owes $ to german/russian / other banks
3. he hasn't paid taxes in 15 years
4. he has some some sketchy international dealings.
please.
15
Conway is correct, nobody cares. The train has left the station. Issues, issues, and issues only. Tax filings, self-congratulatory books, frequent flyer miles, and puffed-up resumes full of job titles are no longer relevant to the American voter. Just ask Sanders. Fat good his filings did for him. A chuckle, a snooze, now struggling to stay relevant. Next.
5
Let me be the lone voice that says Mr. Trump should not release his tax returns.
Why? Because they will be unfathomable. I’ve had the misfortune of taking year-long tax courses in law school. I’ve seen brilliant tax lawyers create and debate subjects that are incredibly complex. I’ve seen these lawyers intertwine, and give new interpretations to, laws, regulations, revenue rulings, and creative journal articles.
And through all this, I barely understand my own rather basic tax return.
There is absolutely no upside to Mr. Trump releasing his tax returns. Were he to do so, hundreds of biased persons from the media, and academia, would declare themselves experts on this or that, and call into question one tax theory or another, as to this number or that number, and it would all be appalling.
You may know what a debenture is, or maybe you don’t. You may know what an incorporeal hereditament is, or maybe you don’t. You may know what a topological invariant is, or maybe you don’t. You will not benefit from knowing. And you will not benefit from knowing what is on Mr. Trump's multi-thousand-page tax returns either.
I hope Mr. Trump’s tax returns are never made public. If they are someday made public, look out, because he may release them to distract the news media from something that is much more important.
Why? Because they will be unfathomable. I’ve had the misfortune of taking year-long tax courses in law school. I’ve seen brilliant tax lawyers create and debate subjects that are incredibly complex. I’ve seen these lawyers intertwine, and give new interpretations to, laws, regulations, revenue rulings, and creative journal articles.
And through all this, I barely understand my own rather basic tax return.
There is absolutely no upside to Mr. Trump releasing his tax returns. Were he to do so, hundreds of biased persons from the media, and academia, would declare themselves experts on this or that, and call into question one tax theory or another, as to this number or that number, and it would all be appalling.
You may know what a debenture is, or maybe you don’t. You may know what an incorporeal hereditament is, or maybe you don’t. You may know what a topological invariant is, or maybe you don’t. You will not benefit from knowing. And you will not benefit from knowing what is on Mr. Trump's multi-thousand-page tax returns either.
I hope Mr. Trump’s tax returns are never made public. If they are someday made public, look out, because he may release them to distract the news media from something that is much more important.
7
Of course, Trump will not under any circumstances, no matter the force of editorials, public statements, protests and legal threats allow the public to see his tax returns and unmask him.
No, the only way we see the returns is if someone who has them posts them online. If someone pays enough money to someone who has them and gives them to Wikileaks the world will see them, for better or worse.
No, the only way we see the returns is if someone who has them posts them online. If someone pays enough money to someone who has them and gives them to Wikileaks the world will see them, for better or worse.
4
If Mr Trump possessed even a modicum of duty, compassion, empathy or fairness, maybe there'd be reason for hope but over the past 5 days, demonstrated that he IS the swamp. In fact, he and his syncopates may actually be the sewer.
Speculating about the various pathologies of Trump and his henchman Is a waste of time. It's plain as day to anyone with ears, eyes and a brain that they are up to no good. They seem spit out lies at every time they speak. Trump showed his little hand years ago. He's gathered conspiracy theory fanatics to surround, advise and defend him and all of them have the thing they have been wanting; power. It's not too soon, impolite, unfair to even overly dramatic to say this.
This band of demented, determined people, assembled by agenuine sociopath, are using their newly acquired power to launch an assault upon all the principles clearly spelled out in the Constitution and Bill of Rights. They should be ashamed of themselves, but they have no shame.
Trump, with all the makings of a wannabe dictator is a dangerous threat to real patriots. Congress is supposed to provide the checks and balances. Now is exactly when they should show actual courage and do the job we elected them to do. Chasing every stupid little tweet is getting the press into a morass. We need great reporting. And we the people must wake up and show just how much we care about democracy and that includes tax returns.
Speculating about the various pathologies of Trump and his henchman Is a waste of time. It's plain as day to anyone with ears, eyes and a brain that they are up to no good. They seem spit out lies at every time they speak. Trump showed his little hand years ago. He's gathered conspiracy theory fanatics to surround, advise and defend him and all of them have the thing they have been wanting; power. It's not too soon, impolite, unfair to even overly dramatic to say this.
This band of demented, determined people, assembled by agenuine sociopath, are using their newly acquired power to launch an assault upon all the principles clearly spelled out in the Constitution and Bill of Rights. They should be ashamed of themselves, but they have no shame.
Trump, with all the makings of a wannabe dictator is a dangerous threat to real patriots. Congress is supposed to provide the checks and balances. Now is exactly when they should show actual courage and do the job we elected them to do. Chasing every stupid little tweet is getting the press into a morass. We need great reporting. And we the people must wake up and show just how much we care about democracy and that includes tax returns.
5
Trump "alleged that as many as 5 million illegal votes were cast in the 2016 election, denying him a popular-vote majority."
"Sean Spicer, whose own credibility has been undercut during his first week on the job, offered no evidence Tuesday to back up the president’s claim.
“The president does believe that,” Spicer said. “He has stated that before. I think he’s stated his concerns of voter fraud and people voting illegally during the campaign, and he continues to maintain that belief based on studies and evidence that people have presented to him.”
I say that Donald Trump is actually a transgender man based on evidence that people have presented to me.
"Sean Spicer, whose own credibility has been undercut during his first week on the job, offered no evidence Tuesday to back up the president’s claim.
“The president does believe that,” Spicer said. “He has stated that before. I think he’s stated his concerns of voter fraud and people voting illegally during the campaign, and he continues to maintain that belief based on studies and evidence that people have presented to him.”
I say that Donald Trump is actually a transgender man based on evidence that people have presented to me.
9
Where there are lies, their is something hidden.
-Lie: An audit does *not* prevent him from releasing his returns.
-Lie: Americans aren't interested in seeing his returns (seventy-four percent of
Americans say they want to see them).
-Lie: Reporters are hounding trump to write a story about something no one cares about.
-Lie: It's logical that since he won he election without releasing his returns the public doesn't care about his returns.
What is trump hiding? If the FBI won't demand to see the, what options do we have.
-Lie: An audit does *not* prevent him from releasing his returns.
-Lie: Americans aren't interested in seeing his returns (seventy-four percent of
Americans say they want to see them).
-Lie: Reporters are hounding trump to write a story about something no one cares about.
-Lie: It's logical that since he won he election without releasing his returns the public doesn't care about his returns.
What is trump hiding? If the FBI won't demand to see the, what options do we have.
9
Well here we are for once we have a man in the White House who is reflecting our values, think about it. I am not suggesting that those values are of high moral grounds, just that the leaders come from "We the People" and Donald Trump is a case in point - he would do what ever he can get away with; That has been his life. Why is it that the so called intelligentsia expect anything different.
The more you watch cable TV the more you would understand President Trump. It is filled with the kind of art and entertainment that some may call filth, bu its there for all to watch/listen. President Trump is a product of our entertainment set up with lots of money.
I do not for a minute think that any type of pressure would make him release his tax returns. Even the US Congress may not be able to have him release a single tax document. He is not your every day politician, they all lost remember.
Let us hope that he still can get some things done re bringing jobs back from China, India, Britain, Ireland etc. for the betterment of the majority of Americans.
The more you watch cable TV the more you would understand President Trump. It is filled with the kind of art and entertainment that some may call filth, bu its there for all to watch/listen. President Trump is a product of our entertainment set up with lots of money.
I do not for a minute think that any type of pressure would make him release his tax returns. Even the US Congress may not be able to have him release a single tax document. He is not your every day politician, they all lost remember.
Let us hope that he still can get some things done re bringing jobs back from China, India, Britain, Ireland etc. for the betterment of the majority of Americans.
3
In order for a leader to be effective they must garner trust. Trump has demonstrated with his past business dealings, the 3,500 lawsuits in the last 30 years, and his choice of cabinet picks have demonstrated that he's not trustworthy. He'll put on a show with regards to jobs to try to fool his base and his team will continue with the "alternative facts" nonsense to cover his lies but the damage is done. The American people don't trust him and never will.
Trump is never going to release his taxes. They might be leaked but they won't come out voluntarily. He has nothing to gain, he's already president. Nauseating I know.
Since Watergate we've relied on the honor system and our politicians have complied. Trump has demonstrated the flaw in this system as he has no honor.
We can't change the past. The Republicans need to decide if they want to be on the right side of history or if they want to go down with the ship. Either they will pass the bill requiring future candidates to release their taxes or they will continue to stonewall.
Right now they are running the risk that their party will be defined by Trump for an entire generation. They think they can control him which will be entertaining to watch. Is it 2016 yet.
Trump is never going to release his taxes. They might be leaked but they won't come out voluntarily. He has nothing to gain, he's already president. Nauseating I know.
Since Watergate we've relied on the honor system and our politicians have complied. Trump has demonstrated the flaw in this system as he has no honor.
We can't change the past. The Republicans need to decide if they want to be on the right side of history or if they want to go down with the ship. Either they will pass the bill requiring future candidates to release their taxes or they will continue to stonewall.
Right now they are running the risk that their party will be defined by Trump for an entire generation. They think they can control him which will be entertaining to watch. Is it 2016 yet.
1
EXCUSE ME! 'WE the People' just elected Donald Trump!
'WE' could have demanded his tax returns during the primaries—'WE' didn't.
When candidate Trump was shown on air shock-crotching, 'WE' didn't care:
She said, "Our boyfriends and husbands have done worse than that!"
Her girlfriend said, "And with more tools at their disposal." (As they knowingly smiled at each other).
Sorry, in 2017, Donald Trump is the face of America. Americans voted by legal ballot that: We do not care about the President's tax returns. We voted: We do not care about conflicts of interests that stem from the President's ownership or investments.
Across the board, fear is found sufficient justification for hate. The feckless Left lost; the erect Right won. A new chapter has just begun.
Donald Trump has not hidden one thing he wants or intends to do. The voting majority of Americans believe Donald Trump.
Who wants to "see" Trump's taxes? Ah, the losers. It makes sense: Within the timeframe when it counted—they didn't bother to be counted
I didn't vote for Trump; indeed, I think it fair to say—I hate Trump. Nonetheless; Trump won.
Bernie supporters refused to share "The Burn." Hillary was pilloried. "Women," it turns out, were used to a Trump in their life; it didn't make a difference.
Taxes hold no meaning to people who don't pay them.
Who demands? The people who didn't vote?
Democracy is an octopus in a fistfight with itself: No one tentacle can win.
'WE' could have demanded his tax returns during the primaries—'WE' didn't.
When candidate Trump was shown on air shock-crotching, 'WE' didn't care:
She said, "Our boyfriends and husbands have done worse than that!"
Her girlfriend said, "And with more tools at their disposal." (As they knowingly smiled at each other).
Sorry, in 2017, Donald Trump is the face of America. Americans voted by legal ballot that: We do not care about the President's tax returns. We voted: We do not care about conflicts of interests that stem from the President's ownership or investments.
Across the board, fear is found sufficient justification for hate. The feckless Left lost; the erect Right won. A new chapter has just begun.
Donald Trump has not hidden one thing he wants or intends to do. The voting majority of Americans believe Donald Trump.
Who wants to "see" Trump's taxes? Ah, the losers. It makes sense: Within the timeframe when it counted—they didn't bother to be counted
I didn't vote for Trump; indeed, I think it fair to say—I hate Trump. Nonetheless; Trump won.
Bernie supporters refused to share "The Burn." Hillary was pilloried. "Women," it turns out, were used to a Trump in their life; it didn't make a difference.
Taxes hold no meaning to people who don't pay them.
Who demands? The people who didn't vote?
Democracy is an octopus in a fistfight with itself: No one tentacle can win.
3
Mr. Trump and his businesses (which he will not separate himself from) are probably undergoing several audits, at least. As some are concluded, others will be initiated. The subject of an audit can take actions that drag the process out. And, if worse comes to worst, he can order the IRS to initiate a new audit (a variant not even Richard Nixon thought of when having his enemies audited).
So, Trump’s audits will go on forever and the one precondition he has set for releasing his returns will never be satisfied. Or…?
Let’s raise money and then go to the IRS with an offer to settle each and every Trump-related audit by paying all amounts in dispute. We would not require the IRS to tell us anything other than the bottom line.
Please, someone with the ability to handle large sums and the credibility to satisfy donors step forward. I pledge $1,000.
So, Trump’s audits will go on forever and the one precondition he has set for releasing his returns will never be satisfied. Or…?
Let’s raise money and then go to the IRS with an offer to settle each and every Trump-related audit by paying all amounts in dispute. We would not require the IRS to tell us anything other than the bottom line.
Please, someone with the ability to handle large sums and the credibility to satisfy donors step forward. I pledge $1,000.
1
I *want* to sign that WhiteHouse petition, but so far, I haven't plucked up the courage to stick my head above the parapet and do so.
With the prior administration, I would have - and did, without a second thought about any fears of retribution.
With the prior administration, I would have - and did, without a second thought about any fears of retribution.
4
Of all the presidents we've had, Trump has an atypically large number of potential conflicts of interest. He has refused to blind himself to the business conducted by his company, which has operations throughout the world. He has shown little regard for truth. The string of successful lawsuits raises questions about his willingness to follow the rules. His bizarre embrace of Putin and Russia is suspect. Americans deserve to know what might be going on or not going on there.
I worked at the IRS years ago. Very large corporations were always being audited, particularly if audits turned up problems. It is quite possible that Trump can always say he is being audited. The IRS says that's no reason why he can't release them, and surely, there are some tax years where the audit was completed.
Yes, he needs to release his tax returns.
I worked at the IRS years ago. Very large corporations were always being audited, particularly if audits turned up problems. It is quite possible that Trump can always say he is being audited. The IRS says that's no reason why he can't release them, and surely, there are some tax years where the audit was completed.
Yes, he needs to release his tax returns.
2
Are there no government agencies that can petition a court for, or otherwise require the returns' disclosure on grounds of national security?
And why is the IRS even pursuing this audit when they could easily offer Trump a "pass" and force the overdue public disclosure of their contents? Even if this is Trump's personal goal in using the bogus excuse of the audit as a reason for non-disclosure, why not give it to him?
However much the IRS audit reveals that Trump owes the IRS/United States, the significance to Americans of his paying it should be dwarfed by the importance to them of the facts and details about those of Trump's interests which conflict directly with his responsibilities as president.
Why would he care about a petition of "We the People"? If he cared about us, he would stop lying about the state of affairs in our country, stop claiming that he's in office because "the people have spoken," and actually behave as if he cares about each and every one of us. He doesn't feel he owes anyone anything, and certainly would laugh at the idea that a petition should govern his behavior as supreme leader.
And why is the IRS even pursuing this audit when they could easily offer Trump a "pass" and force the overdue public disclosure of their contents? Even if this is Trump's personal goal in using the bogus excuse of the audit as a reason for non-disclosure, why not give it to him?
However much the IRS audit reveals that Trump owes the IRS/United States, the significance to Americans of his paying it should be dwarfed by the importance to them of the facts and details about those of Trump's interests which conflict directly with his responsibilities as president.
Why would he care about a petition of "We the People"? If he cared about us, he would stop lying about the state of affairs in our country, stop claiming that he's in office because "the people have spoken," and actually behave as if he cares about each and every one of us. He doesn't feel he owes anyone anything, and certainly would laugh at the idea that a petition should govern his behavior as supreme leader.
2
The office of the president continues to be revered, but the saddest
sack of human existence demeans it every day in the person of the Great Orange Haired Donald Trump.
Tax returns? Did I say that? "Guess I did but customs of conduct for me say YOU the voter should have known better. It's the fault of everyone but me Mr. me me me me me me me me me me me me etc. because this is bout what you the inferior people are supposed to make me happen.
Tax returns? There's not a law so it's none of your business. Besides most of my supporters were convinced I, Trumpus PPPP, would lose the election if I told the truth about anything. So I lied and lied and still to.
Trump is acting as though he is the Emperor God Head of this country. You have to wonder when his followers begin to emulate the praetorian guards who with some regularity took care of emperors who didn't provide them with goods and graft.
Pretty soon Trump will be needing food testers and he will regularly announce another failed attempt. He misses the potential succesor in Mike Pence who is too far right wing cuckoo to get elected, but he could replace an impeached Trump - and that would open the door to the ohhhh so ambitious Paul Ryan.
Acme cayotes and explosives vendors (of the figurative sort) keep hatching plans to kill or injure the roadrunners of either - but only if they can insure their own sucsess without risk. So we plow along with the no government, with rules that are positive only to the GOP.
sack of human existence demeans it every day in the person of the Great Orange Haired Donald Trump.
Tax returns? Did I say that? "Guess I did but customs of conduct for me say YOU the voter should have known better. It's the fault of everyone but me Mr. me me me me me me me me me me me me etc. because this is bout what you the inferior people are supposed to make me happen.
Tax returns? There's not a law so it's none of your business. Besides most of my supporters were convinced I, Trumpus PPPP, would lose the election if I told the truth about anything. So I lied and lied and still to.
Trump is acting as though he is the Emperor God Head of this country. You have to wonder when his followers begin to emulate the praetorian guards who with some regularity took care of emperors who didn't provide them with goods and graft.
Pretty soon Trump will be needing food testers and he will regularly announce another failed attempt. He misses the potential succesor in Mike Pence who is too far right wing cuckoo to get elected, but he could replace an impeached Trump - and that would open the door to the ohhhh so ambitious Paul Ryan.
Acme cayotes and explosives vendors (of the figurative sort) keep hatching plans to kill or injure the roadrunners of either - but only if they can insure their own sucsess without risk. So we plow along with the no government, with rules that are positive only to the GOP.
4
In a typical non medicaid expansion state if you're sick, might have cancer, make over $12,000 you can get subsidized health care. If you make less (maybe 30 hr/wk job or very low pay) you can go to the ER (at our expense.) You can get a referral to a specialist you can't afford and die.
And you really care about Trump's income tax return? Do you not care about people? Have you no priorities?
And you really care about Trump's income tax return? Do you not care about people? Have you no priorities?
3
The tax returns! The great white whale that liberals will pursuit until they are dragged under by the weight of their obsession. The cornucopia of secret dealings that will reveal Trump's treasonous transactions with Putin and with Satan himself. The ultimate accounting of Trump's nefarious acts and crimes against humanity. It's amazing that the IRS hasn't put him in jail already!
I thought that Trump's obsession with Obama's birth certificate was bad, but this raises the bar and sets a new standard for how obsess people can truly become.
I thought that Trump's obsession with Obama's birth certificate was bad, but this raises the bar and sets a new standard for how obsess people can truly become.
3
Congress should pass a law that mandates candidates running for public office to release their tax returns. It's difficult to understand why it's optional for the president but mandatory for his cabinet members and most other officials to do so. As well, states should enact legislation that mandates politicians to release their tax returns to be on the ballot. Mr. Trump is setting a dangerous precedent that only a binding law could have prevented.
5
Sooner or later Trump will be forced to release his Federal tax returns. Most likely it will be the result of a Federal court order.
Until that day arrives all American citizens must be suspect of every word he speaks and every action he takes as it has been clearly demonstrated he is a perpetual liar.
Until that day arrives all American citizens must be suspect of every word he speaks and every action he takes as it has been clearly demonstrated he is a perpetual liar.
5
Let us suppose that the President's tax returns are somehow brought to light and show him to be, not to put too fine a point on it, compromised.
Will the Republicans in Congress then consider a bill for impeachment? Would Ebenezer Scrooge pay for turkeys at Christmas?
Will the Republicans in Congress then consider a bill for impeachment? Would Ebenezer Scrooge pay for turkeys at Christmas?
2
I, no journalist, want to see Trump's tax returns.
Trump has supplied no evidence that he is under IRS audit. One is free to release his tax returns while under audit.
Crooked Trump.
Trump has supplied no evidence that he is under IRS audit. One is free to release his tax returns while under audit.
Crooked Trump.
7
Trump isn't even in office one week, yet he's created more turmoil and anger with his absurd, vindictive, selfish and childish behavior -- both nationally, and internationally then almost all our past presidents (with the exception of Nixon) in our countries history.
If the GOP doesn't want to risk becoming doomed to irrelevance and failure in future elections, they better work harder to keep him in line, and do the job he was elected to do. The ball is in their court.
If the GOP doesn't want to risk becoming doomed to irrelevance and failure in future elections, they better work harder to keep him in line, and do the job he was elected to do. The ball is in their court.
4
Mr. President, release your tax returns.
Congress, enforce the emoluments clause.
White House staff, quit lying.
Congress, enforce the emoluments clause.
White House staff, quit lying.
8
"perhaps because he has something to hide"?
Of course he is hiding "something." It could be that he is so heavily in debt that he might effectively be bankrupt. It could be that he owes YUUUGE sums to the Russians, the Chinese, and others. We know from news reports that he owes big money on many of his properties, in excess of $300 million. We do not know the specifics.
He could also be hiding proof that he is in violation of the Emoluments Clause.
He could be hiding evidence that he is beholden to many foreigners for all sorts of business deals.
Emperor Donnie has a serious problem, because we Americans are not going away, and neither is this issue.
President Nixon made his tax returns public while POTUS and while under IRS audit, which audit found he had underpaid his taxes by about $500,000.
Of course he is hiding "something." It could be that he is so heavily in debt that he might effectively be bankrupt. It could be that he owes YUUUGE sums to the Russians, the Chinese, and others. We know from news reports that he owes big money on many of his properties, in excess of $300 million. We do not know the specifics.
He could also be hiding proof that he is in violation of the Emoluments Clause.
He could be hiding evidence that he is beholden to many foreigners for all sorts of business deals.
Emperor Donnie has a serious problem, because we Americans are not going away, and neither is this issue.
President Nixon made his tax returns public while POTUS and while under IRS audit, which audit found he had underpaid his taxes by about $500,000.
7
Of course we NEED to see his tax returns. If we are expected to accept his leadership, we must be sure he is worthy to lead by example.
Is he free of serious conflicts of interest?
Who does he owe money to, and in what measure?
Does he have foreign or other entanglements that might cloud his judgement when acting on our behalf?
No LEADER is afraid to answer these questions.
LEADERS are honored to show their bona fides.
Of course, one can attempt "leadership" by misdirection and obfuscation, but it's rather clear that will end badly in today's social media age.
Is he free of serious conflicts of interest?
Who does he owe money to, and in what measure?
Does he have foreign or other entanglements that might cloud his judgement when acting on our behalf?
No LEADER is afraid to answer these questions.
LEADERS are honored to show their bona fides.
Of course, one can attempt "leadership" by misdirection and obfuscation, but it's rather clear that will end badly in today's social media age.
3
This ridiculous melodrama is only going to be resolved by an
inside leak conducted either by skilled hackers, IRS
employees fed up with the sham and willing to go rogue, or intelligence operatives of some country that extract it from an IRS or his accountant's database and dumps it on wiki - leaks or given to a network
of journalists who would then do
the spadework needed to convey to Americans just what
is being hidden. What the negotiated price of this material is
surely an ongoing backstory.
But an equally attractive alternative would be for the IRS Commissioner either to call off the audit or announce publicly that it is finished. Surely that can be justified as being of much greater national interest than procuring the mere sum of money he might owe the Treasury.
Perhaps il duce is waiting for the tax cut that is in the works, insuring
he would have to fork over a smaller amount...that would be very consistent with earlier behavior.
inside leak conducted either by skilled hackers, IRS
employees fed up with the sham and willing to go rogue, or intelligence operatives of some country that extract it from an IRS or his accountant's database and dumps it on wiki - leaks or given to a network
of journalists who would then do
the spadework needed to convey to Americans just what
is being hidden. What the negotiated price of this material is
surely an ongoing backstory.
But an equally attractive alternative would be for the IRS Commissioner either to call off the audit or announce publicly that it is finished. Surely that can be justified as being of much greater national interest than procuring the mere sum of money he might owe the Treasury.
Perhaps il duce is waiting for the tax cut that is in the works, insuring
he would have to fork over a smaller amount...that would be very consistent with earlier behavior.
2
The possible reasons that Donald John Trump is not going to release his tax returns are:
1. There is compromising information in them (i.e. he claimed exemptions that he was not allowed).
2. He does not know what is in them, and is frightened of what they might reveal (supported by his tax attorney Mitnick, who NYTimes reported as saying that DJT barely looked at the returns).
I don't know which of those you might prefer, but they are both scary.
Right?
1. There is compromising information in them (i.e. he claimed exemptions that he was not allowed).
2. He does not know what is in them, and is frightened of what they might reveal (supported by his tax attorney Mitnick, who NYTimes reported as saying that DJT barely looked at the returns).
I don't know which of those you might prefer, but they are both scary.
Right?
5
By all means, have President Trump release his tax returns.
There will surely be enough there to give the New York Times and its comrades in arms enough to relentlessly keep up the drumbeat to delegitimize the Trump presidency for the next four years.
Not to mention adding the tax return disclosures as a “had we only known” to the Russian DNC and Podesta hacks, the Comey October letter, and other excuses for the reason the Democrat candidate lost the election.
Glad to see the Times editorial board hasn’t lost its sense of humor. “[E]thics in the nation’s highest office.” Right. Like the “ethics” that would have been brought to the nation’s highest office by the candidate, favored by the New York Times, with the private email server that she scrubbed and about which she repeatedly lied, the pay to play of the Clinton Foundation, the Wall Street speeches for huge fees she wouldn’t release, and all the rest of the Clinton scandals too numerous to mention.
There will surely be enough there to give the New York Times and its comrades in arms enough to relentlessly keep up the drumbeat to delegitimize the Trump presidency for the next four years.
Not to mention adding the tax return disclosures as a “had we only known” to the Russian DNC and Podesta hacks, the Comey October letter, and other excuses for the reason the Democrat candidate lost the election.
Glad to see the Times editorial board hasn’t lost its sense of humor. “[E]thics in the nation’s highest office.” Right. Like the “ethics” that would have been brought to the nation’s highest office by the candidate, favored by the New York Times, with the private email server that she scrubbed and about which she repeatedly lied, the pay to play of the Clinton Foundation, the Wall Street speeches for huge fees she wouldn’t release, and all the rest of the Clinton scandals too numerous to mention.
3
The fact that there is no reason for the American people to trust this Republican President is, by itself, profoundly troubling. But it also has national security implications. Between the Russian Connection documents that suggest a number of ways in which this President could be compromised, the statement from Eric Trump that they had a large number of Russian investors, and the Republican President's own very, *very* peculiar affinity for Russia and his bromance with Putin why should our allies trust our him? Would they be willing to share intelligence secrets, or even their strategic plans with the US if they were unable to trust that he won't blab it straight to Putin?
Then of course, when our allies don't tell us things, and something happens that the CIA "should have" foreseen, the blame would immediately be placed on our intelligence agencies when the problem is squarely in the White House.
It just gets worse and worse...
Then of course, when our allies don't tell us things, and something happens that the CIA "should have" foreseen, the blame would immediately be placed on our intelligence agencies when the problem is squarely in the White House.
It just gets worse and worse...
7
Fortune Magazine (January 23, 2017) published an article in which WikiLeaks asked than anyone who has access to Trump's tax returns send them to WikiLeaks, which promised to publish them.
Maybe WikiLeaks should set up a GoFundMe page to raise $10 million to be paid to the first person to turn over a copy of the tax returns. You never know who might go for a big payday. It could be someone who works for the IRS. It could be someone who works for the accountant who prepares his tax return. It could be somebody in the Trump Organization. Make the payday big enough, and somebody will "volunteer."
Maybe WikiLeaks should set up a GoFundMe page to raise $10 million to be paid to the first person to turn over a copy of the tax returns. You never know who might go for a big payday. It could be someone who works for the IRS. It could be someone who works for the accountant who prepares his tax return. It could be somebody in the Trump Organization. Make the payday big enough, and somebody will "volunteer."
15
Audit, schmaudit. I know, you know, and Himself knows that the release of the tax forms will be his downfall. That is why we all must sign the petition, and why we must never let up the call to see those forms.
The truth shall set us free!
The truth shall set us free!
12
Somebody told me today that there is talk of Marching on April 15 to demand that Trump show We the People, who do pay taxes, what taxes he has been paying. Sounded like a great idea!
Many thanks for this Editorial. And I love the title. And by the way, "We the People" have more demands to make of the "resident". Like, no more lies! (Thanks to Times for using the the word "lie" again in another article tonight.)
Our Free Press is one of our greatest treasures, now especially. The Free Press, not the Chief Narcissist gives "We the People" a Voice. Especially in these comment threads.
I hope the Times will soon be writing an Editorial on "Freedom of Information" - specifically the need for citizens to have access to data being gathered by OUR government agencies and scientists. Also, there should be an Editorial on the fact that the government belongs to We the People, not to to the White House or its "resident".
Release the Taxes. YES WE CARE!!!
Many thanks for this Editorial. And I love the title. And by the way, "We the People" have more demands to make of the "resident". Like, no more lies! (Thanks to Times for using the the word "lie" again in another article tonight.)
Our Free Press is one of our greatest treasures, now especially. The Free Press, not the Chief Narcissist gives "We the People" a Voice. Especially in these comment threads.
I hope the Times will soon be writing an Editorial on "Freedom of Information" - specifically the need for citizens to have access to data being gathered by OUR government agencies and scientists. Also, there should be an Editorial on the fact that the government belongs to We the People, not to to the White House or its "resident".
Release the Taxes. YES WE CARE!!!
15
Let's assume, if/when his returns were released that our (worst) fears were true...
What difference would it make?
Move on, and get a grip. He's the President now. Stop wishing him the worst at his new job.
What difference would it make?
Move on, and get a grip. He's the President now. Stop wishing him the worst at his new job.
4
This editorial concludes, and rightly so, with the following sentence:
" The only logical conclusion is that the candidate who pledged to clean up Washington is hiding damaging information about his past."
Obviously this conclusion is very valid and as we have already come to find out, Trump has indeed had much to hide - in many venues.
You can bet your booties, as well as your pink hat, on it.
Let us take a page from Trump's own play book.
Let us exercise our right to hammer away on an ongoing basis on this subject
of his tax returns until he finally folds and reveals all.
Or someone else reveals, by way of hacking or leaking, what we all have the right to know.
Keep the issue in the public eye and eventually someone will bring the data out into the open.
This is what attention grabbing Trump did with the issue of President Obama's birth certificate.
Keep the issue in the public eye and draw attention to it without letup.
It worked for Trump. Let it work for us.
Here's the button to push (O) and the skin ( l ) to annoy as a result.
The resulting distraction could well save us a great deal of trouble in other vital areas as well.
" The only logical conclusion is that the candidate who pledged to clean up Washington is hiding damaging information about his past."
Obviously this conclusion is very valid and as we have already come to find out, Trump has indeed had much to hide - in many venues.
You can bet your booties, as well as your pink hat, on it.
Let us take a page from Trump's own play book.
Let us exercise our right to hammer away on an ongoing basis on this subject
of his tax returns until he finally folds and reveals all.
Or someone else reveals, by way of hacking or leaking, what we all have the right to know.
Keep the issue in the public eye and eventually someone will bring the data out into the open.
This is what attention grabbing Trump did with the issue of President Obama's birth certificate.
Keep the issue in the public eye and draw attention to it without letup.
It worked for Trump. Let it work for us.
Here's the button to push (O) and the skin ( l ) to annoy as a result.
The resulting distraction could well save us a great deal of trouble in other vital areas as well.
3
When Donald isn’t lying, he’s concealing. And he has surrounded himself with several people – esp. Pence, Conway, and Spicer – who all too willingly participate in all this obvious deception. It's a very old story: selling their souls for money and power.
I can almost understand people voting for a skillful deceiver. That, after all, is what most politicians used to be. But these guys – they have no skill whatsoever. They tell us every day that the crotch-grabbing emperor is fully clothed when we have seen him streaking since June 2015. And yet a cultish 30-40% of the electorate inexplicably agrees with them.
Now that Pres. Obama has departed the White House, you will no longer find truth, intellect, or integrity there. You will find only a nest of snakes who have risen to power through a combination of bigotry, fake news, false promises, voter suppression, bullying, and corruption.
This kind of malevolence cannot sustain itself; sooner or later, Donald's conspiracy will self-destruct. But until that glorious day, it's gonna hurt a lot of people.
I can almost understand people voting for a skillful deceiver. That, after all, is what most politicians used to be. But these guys – they have no skill whatsoever. They tell us every day that the crotch-grabbing emperor is fully clothed when we have seen him streaking since June 2015. And yet a cultish 30-40% of the electorate inexplicably agrees with them.
Now that Pres. Obama has departed the White House, you will no longer find truth, intellect, or integrity there. You will find only a nest of snakes who have risen to power through a combination of bigotry, fake news, false promises, voter suppression, bullying, and corruption.
This kind of malevolence cannot sustain itself; sooner or later, Donald's conspiracy will self-destruct. But until that glorious day, it's gonna hurt a lot of people.
8
It was a mistake for Romney to release his taxes and it would be a mistake for Trump to release his taxes. If he does, we will be treated to four to eight years of complaints from the anti-Trump partisans. It will turn out that he donated to the Boy Scouts while they were refusing to allow gay troop leaders, clearly demonstrating that he is anti-gay. It will turn out that he did not donate to the Girl Scouts making it obvious that he is misogynistic. It will turn out that he contributed to Planned Parenthood and the March of Dimes, establishing that he is pro-abortion.
And then there would be the comparisons with what his effective or marginal tax is relative to various other characters. There would be complaints about deductions, depreciation.
It would be like throwing raw meat to dogs.
Admit it. The NYT editorial board is salivating at the potential click bait. You got one page each from three state income tax returns decades old and speculated, in your headline, that it was possible that he didn't pay taxes for almost twenty years. Yeah, and maybe he harvested the NOLs within a couple of years, a possibility the NYT did not even mention.
And then there would be the comparisons with what his effective or marginal tax is relative to various other characters. There would be complaints about deductions, depreciation.
It would be like throwing raw meat to dogs.
Admit it. The NYT editorial board is salivating at the potential click bait. You got one page each from three state income tax returns decades old and speculated, in your headline, that it was possible that he didn't pay taxes for almost twenty years. Yeah, and maybe he harvested the NOLs within a couple of years, a possibility the NYT did not even mention.
4
Yeah right. A dedicated liar, obfuscatory, narcissistic manipulator, con man will never show his hand. Trump is dirty, we already know that, just ask Putin.
3
The claim that he is under audit may itself may be a giant lie. He has never said which years are being audited nor has he produced returns for years that are not under audit. Presumably, he doesn't have the last 20 years of returns under audit. Nor has he produced state returns, which would provide a peek into things and would be independent of a federal audit. He hasn't even produced a letter from the IRS showing he's under audit.
Given all his other lies, why should anyone believe there really is an audit?
Given all his other lies, why should anyone believe there really is an audit?
4
I signed this, but trump and his team could care less. They will spin it and say "only 400,000 K people in this country of over 300 million want us to release his taxes - nobody wants him to release his taxes - nobody cares"
He is hiding something - or multiple somethings in those returns. It will come to light with time, along with a lot of other damaging information - It is just a question of when, and how much damage he will do between now and then.
He is hiding something - or multiple somethings in those returns. It will come to light with time, along with a lot of other damaging information - It is just a question of when, and how much damage he will do between now and then.
3
Too bad the oath to becoming president does not include an oath to tell America the truth.
Don John believes that as POTUS he is the boss. 'We The People' must remind him who is his first boss and only boss and ultimately has the power to fire him.
He is a chicken because he knows he did not pay a dime into the system he now controls and will put us $9 trillion further in debt over ten years while the elite few will reap $9 trillion in added wealth in that time. Indeed, Trump may become the world's first trillionaire.
True citizens pay their taxes. Only true citizens that have paid their taxes should be allowed to become POTUS.
Don John believes that as POTUS he is the boss. 'We The People' must remind him who is his first boss and only boss and ultimately has the power to fire him.
He is a chicken because he knows he did not pay a dime into the system he now controls and will put us $9 trillion further in debt over ten years while the elite few will reap $9 trillion in added wealth in that time. Indeed, Trump may become the world's first trillionaire.
True citizens pay their taxes. Only true citizens that have paid their taxes should be allowed to become POTUS.
2
Trump must release his Tax Returns for a minimum of the last 5 years to have any Credibility to govern our country. Why is he so afraid to show his returns.. I believe his returns will reveal many of his claims to be false and will be the beginning of his end as President. If he is not a fraudulent man then there is no reason why he would not release his taxes!! So.....
2
Trump will not release his returns. Never. Too much to hide. Way too much that must never be published.
1
Trump has a long history of outright lying, from embroidering to exaggerating wildly. When he ran the inherited business, very few challenged him; the ones that did faced a barrage of expensive legal hurdles.
Now, as a public servant, his words and behavior have consequences for our entire nation, and for the world. We cannot afford to tolerate his lies and distractions. Trump must release his taxes, lawmakers MUST demand it.
Now, as a public servant, his words and behavior have consequences for our entire nation, and for the world. We cannot afford to tolerate his lies and distractions. Trump must release his taxes, lawmakers MUST demand it.
4
Trump promised at first to release his tax returns. All we are asking is that he keeps his promise and even if he claims he didn't say he would release his taxes, he should follow recent tradition of total openness and candor.
I doubt that will happen as candor and truthfulness is not part of his bully vocabulary.
The bottom line to his presidency is simple: We are doomed.
I doubt that will happen as candor and truthfulness is not part of his bully vocabulary.
The bottom line to his presidency is simple: We are doomed.
3
To every question asked , Mr Spicer deflects by Saying :
Trump wants BEST DEAL FOR American TAX Payor
Ok !
Let's start with Trump's tax returns and see if American Tax Payor
is getting the best deal from Trump.
Fair ?
Trump wants BEST DEAL FOR American TAX Payor
Ok !
Let's start with Trump's tax returns and see if American Tax Payor
is getting the best deal from Trump.
Fair ?
4
The President of the United States is a public servant and only the commander-in-chief to the military. He is not our boss, we the people are the ones who he has to answer to.
We the people have a right to see his tax returns and we have right to see what he is hiding. By now even the most naive of his supporters knows that he isn't what he wants us to believe. His tax returns would reveal the truth about his fortune and they would reveal the truth about his relations. Mr. President, if you want our respect, you have to earn it, just like any other employee.
We, the people have right to know the truth, after all, you work for us -it's not the other way around.
We the people have a right to see his tax returns and we have right to see what he is hiding. By now even the most naive of his supporters knows that he isn't what he wants us to believe. His tax returns would reveal the truth about his fortune and they would reveal the truth about his relations. Mr. President, if you want our respect, you have to earn it, just like any other employee.
We, the people have right to know the truth, after all, you work for us -it's not the other way around.
5
it should be obvious to more than me that this guy is gonna yell all kinds of shiny objects. do not be drawn to those. they will come each day and even every hour. he just spouts to keep all eyes away from the truly nefarious dealings going on. newspersons, americans, patriots all watch his every step. it is the only way to keep him somewhat on the right side. he needs to be oval office trained but that is a hard call. i believe a couple on his inner sanctum will spew secrets soon enough. any right thinking person near this modern day Vesuvius will let the world know when lava is about to spew. he shows no loyalty to anyone, or anything except avarice. in time he will find no one being loyal to him. hubris writ large. #45
5
The tax return issue is but one of many gateways to the early end of the Trump presidency. This is not a hope but a prediction, based on the number of paths to indictment, impeachment, impoverishment, or just plain indolence that could end his regime. If this prediction holds up, then it would be helpful now for Democrats and others to game out the consequences of a Pence presidency. His move to the White House is likelier than that of the present occupant. Planning would help, on all sides.
Is there a Ford in our future?
Is there a Ford in our future?
4
In one single week, we already eclipsed entire Obama term breaking news cycle.
with a caveat, everything is negative.
4 long, arduos years with this president.
God help us.
with a caveat, everything is negative.
4 long, arduos years with this president.
God help us.
6
Attempting to normalize this man has been a catastrophic mistake. His reality show entertainment quality was used by much of the media to earn clicks and dollars. They jumped on the gravy train and are still riding the rails.
It's well past time we Americans publicly acknowledged that there is a madman in the oval office. Congress and the media must admit what we all know as fact and pursue a 25th Amendment solution, or impeach on grounds that he has lied about his financial holdings and involvement with the Russians.
Before it's too late.
It's well past time we Americans publicly acknowledged that there is a madman in the oval office. Congress and the media must admit what we all know as fact and pursue a 25th Amendment solution, or impeach on grounds that he has lied about his financial holdings and involvement with the Russians.
Before it's too late.
6
After the abolition of the electoral college and election day made a mandatory work-holiday, a full and public disclosure of all presidential candidates' tax and other financial records should be the next constitutional amendment. To keep partisan hacks in the courts from interfering with enacting these proposals it will be necessary to make them constitutional amendments.
It would be nice if Mr. Trump would be kind enough to release his tax records but without legal compulsion he never will. He is not interested in governing fairly and openly.
It would be nice if Mr. Trump would be kind enough to release his tax records but without legal compulsion he never will. He is not interested in governing fairly and openly.
3
News flash: Elvis & Prince are dead, Obama's SCOTUS pick was successfully ignored, and US citizens will never, ever see DT's tax returns.
Hate to say it, but DT has a point: if the American people were the least bit concerned about his tax returns, his overt misogyny, his blatant dishonesty, his hypocrisy, his threats to violate the Constitution, etc., etc., etc., they wouldn't have voted for him.
That's both the blessing and the curse of democracy: we get the person we pick.
Hate to say it, but DT has a point: if the American people were the least bit concerned about his tax returns, his overt misogyny, his blatant dishonesty, his hypocrisy, his threats to violate the Constitution, etc., etc., etc., they wouldn't have voted for him.
That's both the blessing and the curse of democracy: we get the person we pick.
3
Speak for yourself.
I don't care a bit about seeing his tax returns. He's been hired to do a job, let him get to work on that first.
The libs are still stuck in old news stories.
What would seeing them accomplish in any case????
I don't care a bit about seeing his tax returns. He's been hired to do a job, let him get to work on that first.
The libs are still stuck in old news stories.
What would seeing them accomplish in any case????
3
Darth Don speaks:
You don't undestand a great many things, my young padawan. I grow stronger with every tweet.
The more hatred towards me, the more pointing out my lies, the more you call for my tax returns, the more my followers grow in their belief of YOUR hatred and that YOUR words are lies.
This is the power the Darkside.
You don't undestand a great many things, my young padawan. I grow stronger with every tweet.
The more hatred towards me, the more pointing out my lies, the more you call for my tax returns, the more my followers grow in their belief of YOUR hatred and that YOUR words are lies.
This is the power the Darkside.
3
I trust Trump about as far as I can throw a large boulder. Let's hope the "We the People" stays up on the White House page.
Yes, forcing presidential candidates to release their tax forms should be mandatory. A few gems were released with the 1995 joint tax form that ex-wife Marla Maples admitted leaking to the Times -- his loss of some $916 million dollars, which meant he wouldn't have to pay Federal income tax for the next 18 years, which ended in 2013. (New York Times, October 1, 2016).
We do need to determine if any conflicts of interest exist that violate the Emoluments clause. We the people, the actual people of the United States, do NOT listen to "Trump's chief obfuscator Kellyanne Conway" [great line, NYT!]. We avoid her assiduously, because everything emanating from her lips is a honey-coated lie as dangerous as a poison pen.
Already numerous warning bells are sounding globally about the Trump presidency. At the end of the Trump era, let's hope we still have a democracy, and a viable earth on which to live.
Yes, forcing presidential candidates to release their tax forms should be mandatory. A few gems were released with the 1995 joint tax form that ex-wife Marla Maples admitted leaking to the Times -- his loss of some $916 million dollars, which meant he wouldn't have to pay Federal income tax for the next 18 years, which ended in 2013. (New York Times, October 1, 2016).
We do need to determine if any conflicts of interest exist that violate the Emoluments clause. We the people, the actual people of the United States, do NOT listen to "Trump's chief obfuscator Kellyanne Conway" [great line, NYT!]. We avoid her assiduously, because everything emanating from her lips is a honey-coated lie as dangerous as a poison pen.
Already numerous warning bells are sounding globally about the Trump presidency. At the end of the Trump era, let's hope we still have a democracy, and a viable earth on which to live.
1
Trump won't release his taxes unless he's forced to, by lawsuit or by Congress or by his billionaire allies-of-convenience.
He doesn't care what 'We the People' think. As you note, without knowing his global entanglements and obligations, we'll never know if his priority is our Nation, or whether its his personal wealth, power and influences, and where his many conflicts of interest lie.
I believe that by calling your Senator or Representative and letting them know firmly (but politely) how serious this is, you will put pressure on the people who can force the tax disclosures. They are much more sensitive to public opinion and voters.
The US Congressional switchboard is (202) 224-3121. They'll route you to the right office. If your Senator or Congress person is already agreeing with you, give the switchboard your State and ZIP code for where you grew up or went to school or have a second home or have a favorite aunt... Let them know, NOW!
Your country will thank you.
He doesn't care what 'We the People' think. As you note, without knowing his global entanglements and obligations, we'll never know if his priority is our Nation, or whether its his personal wealth, power and influences, and where his many conflicts of interest lie.
I believe that by calling your Senator or Representative and letting them know firmly (but politely) how serious this is, you will put pressure on the people who can force the tax disclosures. They are much more sensitive to public opinion and voters.
The US Congressional switchboard is (202) 224-3121. They'll route you to the right office. If your Senator or Congress person is already agreeing with you, give the switchboard your State and ZIP code for where you grew up or went to school or have a second home or have a favorite aunt... Let them know, NOW!
Your country will thank you.
Trumps Tax Returns belong "to the people", certainly now he is in office.
Trump is, if not by unwritten law then by ethical standards, obliged to make his Tax returns public.
So why not just ask the IRS, or sue the IRS in behalf of "the people", to make Trumps Tax Returns public.
I suggest the NYT to remind Trump and the GOP on every NYT-frontpage to come on these "Trump Tax Returns".
Trump is, if not by unwritten law then by ethical standards, obliged to make his Tax returns public.
So why not just ask the IRS, or sue the IRS in behalf of "the people", to make Trumps Tax Returns public.
I suggest the NYT to remind Trump and the GOP on every NYT-frontpage to come on these "Trump Tax Returns".
A march on April 15 would too late. His thin skin would probably steer him more towards hoarding his returns.
We need to push the legislative body needs to slam on the breaks on the executive orders until he releases his returns, fully divests, and gets out of individual stocks completely.
But then again, the Republicans could care less about any damage done to our country in the next 4 years. They've already mastered the art of spinning the blame and anger onto anyone even slightly left of the lowercase kkk.
We need to push the legislative body needs to slam on the breaks on the executive orders until he releases his returns, fully divests, and gets out of individual stocks completely.
But then again, the Republicans could care less about any damage done to our country in the next 4 years. They've already mastered the art of spinning the blame and anger onto anyone even slightly left of the lowercase kkk.
Please sign the petition (won't put link but just search 'Trump White House Tax Return Petition'). The 100,000 threshold is irrelevant (as is any official response short of publishing th returns); this is about rebutting the BOGUS POTUS argument that the public doesnt care and obligating Trump to keep his promises to disclose.
100,000 will be viewed as a puny number (just a few illegals and multi-voting activists mucking around), we need a HUUGE number and pressure on every front.
Add "Trump, show us your tax returns!!" to each forum posting, as PS's to your e-mails, etc. Get the bumper sticker, call your congressman; if we let him off the hook here, he will simply run roughshod over every established principle he does not like. We must retrain our President (and fast) that aggressive lying, bullying and abuse of relative bargaining power (his MO in business) cannot be applied to his new role.
"Trump, show us your tax returns!!!"
100,000 will be viewed as a puny number (just a few illegals and multi-voting activists mucking around), we need a HUUGE number and pressure on every front.
Add "Trump, show us your tax returns!!" to each forum posting, as PS's to your e-mails, etc. Get the bumper sticker, call your congressman; if we let him off the hook here, he will simply run roughshod over every established principle he does not like. We must retrain our President (and fast) that aggressive lying, bullying and abuse of relative bargaining power (his MO in business) cannot be applied to his new role.
"Trump, show us your tax returns!!!"
3
Every day now reminds us of the words of Abraham Lincoln which are paraphrased here:
....Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether this nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. ...The world will not long remember what we say, but it will never forget what we do ..
..We must highly resolve that that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.....
With the likes of Donald Trump in the White House, we the American people now face a struggle of unprecedented proportion. Every person who cares about the fate of our nation must find a way to join this struggle. If we do not learn from the history of the past century, we will be condemned to repeat it,
....Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether this nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. ...The world will not long remember what we say, but it will never forget what we do ..
..We must highly resolve that that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.....
With the likes of Donald Trump in the White House, we the American people now face a struggle of unprecedented proportion. Every person who cares about the fate of our nation must find a way to join this struggle. If we do not learn from the history of the past century, we will be condemned to repeat it,
2
Of course Donald Trump should have released his taxes when he decided to run for President. Kellyanne Conway is wrong when she says Americans don't care. She is right, though, in inferring that a lot of Donald Trump supporters don't care. They voted for him despite not releasing his taxes, despite declaring bankruptcy multiple times, despite sexually assaulting women & bragging about it, despite manufacturing his products overseas, despite his encouraging the Russians to hack Clinton's emails and admiring Putin, etc.
But a lot of Americans who do care showed up at Women's Marches on Saturday: over 4 million Americans in over 400 marches. (32 states had six or more cities participating. D.C. & the top 9 states totaled 3.2 million marchers, so there are a lot of Americans who do care about Donald Trump's total unfitness to lead our country, as well as his major conflicts of interests.)
But a lot of Americans who do care showed up at Women's Marches on Saturday: over 4 million Americans in over 400 marches. (32 states had six or more cities participating. D.C. & the top 9 states totaled 3.2 million marchers, so there are a lot of Americans who do care about Donald Trump's total unfitness to lead our country, as well as his major conflicts of interests.)
4
If a tree falls in the forest....
Let's suppose the returns are made public -congress, pressure, others. Presume he's full of it on his net worth. Even presume he's hiding stuff. Then what? Three years and 360 more days? How would knowing what everyone "knows" help facilitate an earlier transition? It wouldn't. All it would do is prove what we know and give us even less credibility around the world. Everyone should back off and give him some rope. 4 years... Do we really think Washington is going to get a lot done?
If he wants to run again, States should mandate it.
Let's suppose the returns are made public -congress, pressure, others. Presume he's full of it on his net worth. Even presume he's hiding stuff. Then what? Three years and 360 more days? How would knowing what everyone "knows" help facilitate an earlier transition? It wouldn't. All it would do is prove what we know and give us even less credibility around the world. Everyone should back off and give him some rope. 4 years... Do we really think Washington is going to get a lot done?
If he wants to run again, States should mandate it.
1
Trump is hiding something. It must be really bad. If his taxes don't show anything criminal, why won't he show them. He refuses to produce the returns. I want to know why? My entire family wants to know why he won't release the returns? He has to be afraid. So what's he so afraid of?
I'm Not a journalist. Nobody in my family is a journalist.
I'm Not a journalist. Nobody in my family is a journalist.
3
In retrospect, we could have avoided the quagmire that we find ourselves in had the media set a standard rule back during the primaries to not interview any candidate who had not made public the tax returns for the five year period.
It appears that long time public servant John Kasich has apparently paid more in the past decade in federal income taxes than has self-proclaimed tycoon Donald Trump.
It appears that long time public servant John Kasich has apparently paid more in the past decade in federal income taxes than has self-proclaimed tycoon Donald Trump.
1
He is a sexual predator and a greedy, heartless, lying criminal. He is going to get caught, one way or another, and he knows it. He is attacking the press and the CIA preemptively because they are likely to be the ones who ultimately bust him. The only way America can redeem itself from the embarrassment of electing him is to drive him from power in disgrace, and we will The only way he can survive is by continuing to follow Hitler's playbook and foment violence, both domestically and internationally. He is at 1932 now and ahead of schedule, so we need to get busy and stay busy.
3
He's hiding something he very much doesn't want America ~ and the world ~ to know. Probably several somethings. In calls and emails to both TX senators and my Congressman, I've said that I am among the majority of Americans who want Drumpf's tax returns made public.
I end every exchange with a question: Would your silence be so deafening if a Democrat behaved as he does? And then I answer it for them.
I end every exchange with a question: Would your silence be so deafening if a Democrat behaved as he does? And then I answer it for them.
3
By not releasing his taxes Mr. Trump tells everyone he has something to hide, and we have some good guesses as to what that may be:
* he's not anywhere near so wealthy as he claims to be
* extraordinary tax schemes that leave him paying very low (zero?) taxes; an affront to every ordinary wage-earning American who pays taxes.
* he's not anywhere near so wealthy as he claims to be
* extraordinary tax schemes that leave him paying very low (zero?) taxes; an affront to every ordinary wage-earning American who pays taxes.
2
He's been a big liar all his life.
Medicare as SSI promise to seniors- that too will become a lie.
His Taxes to be released, now a lie.
Lied about CIA.
Lied about inauguration crowd size
And the beat goes on.
Medicare as SSI promise to seniors- that too will become a lie.
His Taxes to be released, now a lie.
Lied about CIA.
Lied about inauguration crowd size
And the beat goes on.
4
Trump has the White House. Republicans have the Senate. Why in the world would Trump release them or the Senate demand them?
Yes, many want to see the returns. But the election is over and it will not happen. We decided, as a nation, that ethics are another norm we are not too concerned about.
We all know that Trump believes that rules don't apply to him; that ratings and vanity do. We have seen demonstrated over and over that Trump conflates facts with sound bites, and his voters either agreed or didn't care.
And the Senate? It will hold off on demanding anything from Trump as long as he is useful. Don't be looking for ethics or good governance from that quarter either.
So his returns might show that he is a crook, or has lied about his wealth, or that he has evaded even paying taxes for so long he leads the pack of Romney's famous 47%. What does any of that matter, as long as he has promised to Make America Great Again?
Yes, many want to see the returns. But the election is over and it will not happen. We decided, as a nation, that ethics are another norm we are not too concerned about.
We all know that Trump believes that rules don't apply to him; that ratings and vanity do. We have seen demonstrated over and over that Trump conflates facts with sound bites, and his voters either agreed or didn't care.
And the Senate? It will hold off on demanding anything from Trump as long as he is useful. Don't be looking for ethics or good governance from that quarter either.
So his returns might show that he is a crook, or has lied about his wealth, or that he has evaded even paying taxes for so long he leads the pack of Romney's famous 47%. What does any of that matter, as long as he has promised to Make America Great Again?
I I hope he never releases them.
There is no law that says he must. The Kabuki Theater of the pols tax release came from Daddy Romney. It's a gimmick. I could care less about Obama and Biden's returns, except when it came to the titalating nugget that leftists are cheap with their charitable donations.
There is no law that says he must. The Kabuki Theater of the pols tax release came from Daddy Romney. It's a gimmick. I could care less about Obama and Biden's returns, except when it came to the titalating nugget that leftists are cheap with their charitable donations.
4
This calls for another march. Millions should take to the streets and march up and down shouting, "Show us your tax return."
Or maybe leave it up to the IRS.
Or maybe leave it up to the IRS.
3
If Trump had released them, he would not have elected, and he knows it. Democrats need to start showing the same relentless discipline that the Republicans show.
If you haven't signed the petition, please do. Call your Senator and tell them that you want the Wyden/Murphy bill passed. (202)-224-3121 is the number for the Congressional switch board.
If you haven't signed the petition, please do. Call your Senator and tell them that you want the Wyden/Murphy bill passed. (202)-224-3121 is the number for the Congressional switch board.
2
According to http://www.taxhistory.org/www/website.nsf/web/presidentialtaxreturns
JFK never revealed his taxes. If JFK didn't why should DT?
Also there is no Federal Law requiring that a candidate for President or even the President himself make his tax returns public.
Let the "We the people" demand all they want. But note that the Law does not demand this.
JFK never revealed his taxes. If JFK didn't why should DT?
Also there is no Federal Law requiring that a candidate for President or even the President himself make his tax returns public.
Let the "We the people" demand all they want. But note that the Law does not demand this.
2
For a start, let us see the most recent IRS return that is not "under audit" and a few years previous to that.
Generally, there is a statute of limitations for the IRS to do audits, unless "fraud" is an issue, in which case there is no statute of limitation.
So, let's ask for the most recent year which is not under audit. And let's ask 24/7, until the folks learn the truth. There is a chance he is deeply in debt, survives by servicing the debt, with his interest payments deductible against income.
We the people, tuned into his campaign assuming he was a billionaire. A stand-up comedian with the exact same promises, and moral turpitude, would have been laughed off the stage.
Generally, there is a statute of limitations for the IRS to do audits, unless "fraud" is an issue, in which case there is no statute of limitation.
So, let's ask for the most recent year which is not under audit. And let's ask 24/7, until the folks learn the truth. There is a chance he is deeply in debt, survives by servicing the debt, with his interest payments deductible against income.
We the people, tuned into his campaign assuming he was a billionaire. A stand-up comedian with the exact same promises, and moral turpitude, would have been laughed off the stage.
2
While a petition signer, I must admit that I have scant hope the Tweetler in Chief will pay any attention to this page despite his pension for being liked. And given what he has already done to various EPA pages, do not be surprised if the page disappears as well.
Like the information he has on so many illegal voters, a plausible explanation for the 300,000 plus signatures will go something like - '... they and/or robots have populated the page.'
Like the information he has on so many illegal voters, a plausible explanation for the 300,000 plus signatures will go something like - '... they and/or robots have populated the page.'
1
I would urge those who support the petition but have not already signed it to do so at https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/. Based on a July 2016 analysis by the PEW Research Center (http://www.pewinternet.org/2016/12/28/we-the-people-five-years-of-online..., the petition calling on the president to release his tax returns currently ranks 3rd, with 327,000 signatures as of 5:40 EST. Pushing it to number one would set a historical reference point and make it ambiguously clear that the people do care.
It is entirely possible that the Trump administration will decide to shutdown the site to avoid such a spectacle. Sign it while you still can!
It is entirely possible that the Trump administration will decide to shutdown the site to avoid such a spectacle. Sign it while you still can!
4
Not sure which is the bigger lie:
"I will release my taxes when the audit is finished."
Or
"Americans don't care about his taxes."
"I will release my taxes when the audit is finished."
Or
"Americans don't care about his taxes."
5
The NYTimes stopped being "we the people" long ago.
Do you really imagine you aer speaking in the name of the millions who voted for Trump, or the millions who preferred Sanders to Hillary?
"We the people" is utter arrogance, not to mention a form of insanity.
Do you really imagine you aer speaking in the name of the millions who voted for Trump, or the millions who preferred Sanders to Hillary?
"We the people" is utter arrogance, not to mention a form of insanity.
3
Happy the country that has more than 350 000 journalists (according to presidential counsel)! The reality and fact based community is thriving, it seems!
Not so happy a country with elections that seem rigged by foreign powers, bringing a compulsive liar and egomaniac to the presidency who perjured himself when he vowed to uphold the constitution.
Not so happy a country with elections that seem rigged by foreign powers, bringing a compulsive liar and egomaniac to the presidency who perjured himself when he vowed to uphold the constitution.
1
Mr. Trump has a lot to hide beside his tax-returns.
I hope some reporters,like Carl Bernstein and Bob Woodward of 'Watergate' fame,keep on digging into extensive Russian hacking of Hillary's campaign computers and the computers kept in the Democratic party's HQ in DC, just like what those famous reporters from Washington Post, unearthed about Nixon campaign team's bugging of Democratic party's HQ in 1971 with Nixon's full knowledge and blessings.
There must be some F.B.I. agent who knows everything about Putin's role just like Mr. Felt, who was revealed as our country's famous "Deep Throat" in an issue of the Vanity Fair magazine in 2005 and confirmed by WP, as someone who passed on all that information about Nixon's direct involvement and subsequent cover-up of his crime that spread to not only in the Watergate hotel but by using C.I.A.,F.B.I. and I.R.S. employees to investigate activist groups and other political figures, he started a Constitutional crisis that ultimately doomed his administration for which he was forced to resign on Aug. 9th,1974.
So in that context, some of our very famous investigative journalists should take up the challenge and look for another F.B.I. Agent like Mr. Felt and find out all the details about Russia's direct involvement, in our country's election,by not only hacking into Hillary's computers but by spreading 'alternate facts'or 'fake news', Putin forced our down ballot Democrats loose their elections.
There was some cover up somewhere.
I hope some reporters,like Carl Bernstein and Bob Woodward of 'Watergate' fame,keep on digging into extensive Russian hacking of Hillary's campaign computers and the computers kept in the Democratic party's HQ in DC, just like what those famous reporters from Washington Post, unearthed about Nixon campaign team's bugging of Democratic party's HQ in 1971 with Nixon's full knowledge and blessings.
There must be some F.B.I. agent who knows everything about Putin's role just like Mr. Felt, who was revealed as our country's famous "Deep Throat" in an issue of the Vanity Fair magazine in 2005 and confirmed by WP, as someone who passed on all that information about Nixon's direct involvement and subsequent cover-up of his crime that spread to not only in the Watergate hotel but by using C.I.A.,F.B.I. and I.R.S. employees to investigate activist groups and other political figures, he started a Constitutional crisis that ultimately doomed his administration for which he was forced to resign on Aug. 9th,1974.
So in that context, some of our very famous investigative journalists should take up the challenge and look for another F.B.I. Agent like Mr. Felt and find out all the details about Russia's direct involvement, in our country's election,by not only hacking into Hillary's computers but by spreading 'alternate facts'or 'fake news', Putin forced our down ballot Democrats loose their elections.
There was some cover up somewhere.
3
It remains beyond my comprehension that a sufficient number of voters were naive enough to vote for Mr. Trump after lame excuses for not producing his tax returns or vague promises to do so at a later date. Well, those voters got played, like so many others who engage in transactions with Mr. Trump.
It is time for those who saw what was happening all along, as well as those who may have wised-up, to hold Mr. Trump's feet to the fire. President Trump represents all U.S. citizens now, and we demand some answers!
Let the question persist until it is answered: What are you hiding president Trump?
It is time for those who saw what was happening all along, as well as those who may have wised-up, to hold Mr. Trump's feet to the fire. President Trump represents all U.S. citizens now, and we demand some answers!
Let the question persist until it is answered: What are you hiding president Trump?
7
Windmills 2; Tax petitioners 0.
=
Don Trump meet Don Quixote, in the quixotic search for relevance.
=
Don Trump meet Don Quixote, in the quixotic search for relevance.
1
Women need to march again on April 15th demanding Trump's tax returns!
America deserves to know what Mr. Trump is trying to HIDE!
Mr. Trump, release your tax returns!
America deserves to know what Mr. Trump is trying to HIDE!
Mr. Trump, release your tax returns!
7
Give it up. Focus ALL efforts on 2018.
So what if his tax returns show something incriminating? Your president blows by all norms and decency expected of an elected official; do you really think that a dodgy tax return will shame him? Or get congress to act on articles of impeachment? No way.
Protest changes nothing. Organize and identify a path to a majority in either house and then work to win it.
So what if his tax returns show something incriminating? Your president blows by all norms and decency expected of an elected official; do you really think that a dodgy tax return will shame him? Or get congress to act on articles of impeachment? No way.
Protest changes nothing. Organize and identify a path to a majority in either house and then work to win it.
If Trump persists in refusing to release his Tax Return, he implies something wrong so we can assume he is a crook for not releasing it thus far.
He would have been better advised to release it to get the storm behind him and forgotten.
He would have been better advised to release it to get the storm behind him and forgotten.
2
This column will have little impact, as it seems that the White House has been turned the top administration into a supposed monarchy where the supreme leader spends his days dismantling our democracy with the power of the pen. Where is the outcry from the GOP about misuse of Executive Orders now? Oh, forgot...this pres. is White and Right. I almost choked when McConnell tried to spank Schumer because he hinted at blocking an extreme nominee. I don't think petitions will change his mind. He will simply, with another stroke of his pen, undo citizen petitions.
There IS a silver lining to this maelstrom...the ACLU, in its emoluments lawsuit is going after documentation through the Freedom of Information Act on all information regarding DJT's business dealings. We can assume, precluding a change in this law, that this will shed some light on his "great" business.
One thing DJT has been great at is his attack on America that includes a great misunderstanding of what the Presidency represents to its people and to the freedoms our nation fought for. Oh, by the way....the "wall", which apparently is not going to be built by OUR tax dollars, is "taxation without representation". Remember, he did not become president at the will of the majority of American voters.
There IS a silver lining to this maelstrom...the ACLU, in its emoluments lawsuit is going after documentation through the Freedom of Information Act on all information regarding DJT's business dealings. We can assume, precluding a change in this law, that this will shed some light on his "great" business.
One thing DJT has been great at is his attack on America that includes a great misunderstanding of what the Presidency represents to its people and to the freedoms our nation fought for. Oh, by the way....the "wall", which apparently is not going to be built by OUR tax dollars, is "taxation without representation". Remember, he did not become president at the will of the majority of American voters.
6
We Americans do care what is in those tax returns. President Trump Inc. is hiding behind the "alternative fact" (i.e, lie) as Con Way described that they can't be released while under audit.
We Americans are not stupid and will not tolerate lies by this administration.
We Americans are not stupid and will not tolerate lies by this administration.
2
You don't just get to demand to see people's tax returns and get to see them. It doesn't work that way.
Maybe you should demand to know about the Dem's corruption, revealed to your great distress by the Russians? Hmm?
Maybe you should demand to know about the Dem's corruption, revealed to your great distress by the Russians? Hmm?
3
I recently applied for a mortgage for a little white house. I'm 70 years old and had to provide a copy of my tax returns as documentation for mortgage approval. Why does Donald get the big White House without doing the same?
Doesn't seem fair to me.
Doesn't seem fair to me.
231
Thanks for putting this issue up again today. And tomorrow. And next week. Next year if need be.
If we had a patriotic House of Representatives that were true to their oath of office to Preserve & Protect the Constitution they would already be voting on impeachment counts. I urge everyone to read Article One, Section 9, the emoluments clause. It is as explicit as it is simple.
If we had a patriotic House of Representatives that were true to their oath of office to Preserve & Protect the Constitution they would already be voting on impeachment counts. I urge everyone to read Article One, Section 9, the emoluments clause. It is as explicit as it is simple.
3
The US is in debt by $10 000 000 000 000. If you want good financial management, that horse has already bolted, sir.
Maybe China will forgive the debt is you sell them, say, Alaska. Or Hawaii. Hawaii might be better.
Maybe China will forgive the debt is you sell them, say, Alaska. Or Hawaii. Hawaii might be better.
3
Oh how nice, the left has their own little derangement syndrome to match the "birther" nonsense from the right.
Here's the deal: outside of ultra progressive people, secretly hoping for a corner or seam to latch onto toward reversing the election results, nobody else cares. It's time to get on with governing.
I fully expect Trump has bent that truth regarding his taxes, but that is like concern #293 of hundreds of issues. Let's not forget that Pres Obama played loose with the facts when it suited him ( keep your health plan, I'm closing Guantanamo, they're just the JV team)
Enough silliness. Or perhaps the point of this is just payback for the intransigence of the Tea Party?
Here's the deal: outside of ultra progressive people, secretly hoping for a corner or seam to latch onto toward reversing the election results, nobody else cares. It's time to get on with governing.
I fully expect Trump has bent that truth regarding his taxes, but that is like concern #293 of hundreds of issues. Let's not forget that Pres Obama played loose with the facts when it suited him ( keep your health plan, I'm closing Guantanamo, they're just the JV team)
Enough silliness. Or perhaps the point of this is just payback for the intransigence of the Tea Party?
3
This is a good historical moment to remember "The Paradoxical Commandments" by Dr. Kent M. Keith.
http://www.paradoxicalcommandments.com/
It doesn't matter if we feel it is hopeless or that nothing we can say will get the POTUS to do the right thing, whether it's release his tax returns or divest his business conflicts or fire his family as advisors or seriously investigate the Russian interference or stop the ridiculous tweeting already. We need to keep calling for him to do the right thing anyway.
http://www.paradoxicalcommandments.com/
It doesn't matter if we feel it is hopeless or that nothing we can say will get the POTUS to do the right thing, whether it's release his tax returns or divest his business conflicts or fire his family as advisors or seriously investigate the Russian interference or stop the ridiculous tweeting already. We need to keep calling for him to do the right thing anyway.
2
An IRS audit, if one even exists, would not reveal "deeply suspicious" items if found. First, the IRS does not provide details about its audits except in the smallest number of cases involving tax court and imprisonment (see: Al Capone). The IRS is concerned about COLLECTIONS. While it is perfectly legal for Donald Trump to have a foreign loan from Vladimir Putin, passing IRS muster, it is absolutely unethical and inappropriate for the President of the United States to have such an entrapment. I am not interested in tax returns as titillation. I want to know if my country is in jeopardy.
5
NYT has really lost all credibility when "reporting" on the Trump administration.
"We the people" have ZERO interest in Trump's tax returns.
Trump won an election in the normal way i.e. both Democrats and Republicans used all the tricks they thought they could get away with, at least on foreign government tried to influence the result (as the USA has done, all over the world, for decades) and Trump won under the current rules.
Seeing Trump's tax returns won't change any of that. All the NYT is trying to do is stir up and divide (even more, if that's possible) a country that has more important things to do.
"We the people" have ZERO interest in Trump's tax returns.
Trump won an election in the normal way i.e. both Democrats and Republicans used all the tricks they thought they could get away with, at least on foreign government tried to influence the result (as the USA has done, all over the world, for decades) and Trump won under the current rules.
Seeing Trump's tax returns won't change any of that. All the NYT is trying to do is stir up and divide (even more, if that's possible) a country that has more important things to do.
5
While it is indeed most likely that Trump has something to hide regarding his taxes, it is not the "only" logical conclusion. The issue is bigger than seeing his returns.
He might have nothing to hide. But in refusing disclosure he exercises power and advances his ability to govern (and engage in corruption) without oversight.
We must not let this stand. Trump needs to understand that power comes from the people.
He might have nothing to hide. But in refusing disclosure he exercises power and advances his ability to govern (and engage in corruption) without oversight.
We must not let this stand. Trump needs to understand that power comes from the people.
3
As it is often not so much the crime as the cover-up, it has become not so much the returns as the refusal to release them that has become the object of concern.
After all, as my thinking, and that of millions of Americans go, if there's nothing damaging in them, why not release them and end all this speculation and fodder for his opponents?
There must be something big, something he wants kept hidden from the public eye "bigly", to have made all of these excuses for all this time, then just do a 360 and refute his own excuses and poke a big stick in the people's eye and say "Nyaa nyaa, I'm never gonna do it and never was and you were fools to believe I ever was."
This is pretty blatant, even for Trump, the master of unabashed blatant.
Yes, I agree that there out to be a law requiring future Presidents to reveal their returns, although I doubt we will ever have another President who would need it. I imagine by the time Trump is done, we will have to write a whole lot of laws defining and requiring what we all thought good sense and morality and tradition and societal norms should have made obvious.
But Trump is not driven by such things. If not a carrot, then a stick. As he has - so blatantly - put it, It's your fault, because if you wanted me to do it, you should have had a law.
After all, as my thinking, and that of millions of Americans go, if there's nothing damaging in them, why not release them and end all this speculation and fodder for his opponents?
There must be something big, something he wants kept hidden from the public eye "bigly", to have made all of these excuses for all this time, then just do a 360 and refute his own excuses and poke a big stick in the people's eye and say "Nyaa nyaa, I'm never gonna do it and never was and you were fools to believe I ever was."
This is pretty blatant, even for Trump, the master of unabashed blatant.
Yes, I agree that there out to be a law requiring future Presidents to reveal their returns, although I doubt we will ever have another President who would need it. I imagine by the time Trump is done, we will have to write a whole lot of laws defining and requiring what we all thought good sense and morality and tradition and societal norms should have made obvious.
But Trump is not driven by such things. If not a carrot, then a stick. As he has - so blatantly - put it, It's your fault, because if you wanted me to do it, you should have had a law.
4
Trump is the "law and order" President who obeys no rules and spends taxpayer money callously. The aggressive agenda he is chasing has no calculations as to where any of it will end or how it will be PAID for since he has also promised a BIG TAX CUT for corporations. He is actually a very SICK man. What will it take for Americans to understand that the foremost National Security threat to this country is now seated as POTUS? His projections are demonstrations of a mind that is tortured by insecurity and his hasty plans verify such. We cannot operate on letting the ships fall where they may.
The GOP majority in the House and Senate really need to think through what they are doing in kowtowing to Trump's agenda. It is not about him having "won" and him being "President." It is about the future of this country for our children and the ability of this nation, should it so choose to do so, to lead the world. Right now, the perception of the US is that we have turned our backs on being a free and open society. Just kick out anyone that hasn't paid, Trump has said or who is illegal. If our leadership denigrates and antagonizes someone or something everyday what promise of good does that represent? It matters where he is invested: he doesn't like to lose... will he protect those investments by writing executive orders? The info is in the taxes.
A failure to release his taxes, breaking his promise and scapegoating journalists as the reason why is just a discrediting abysmal excuse.
The GOP majority in the House and Senate really need to think through what they are doing in kowtowing to Trump's agenda. It is not about him having "won" and him being "President." It is about the future of this country for our children and the ability of this nation, should it so choose to do so, to lead the world. Right now, the perception of the US is that we have turned our backs on being a free and open society. Just kick out anyone that hasn't paid, Trump has said or who is illegal. If our leadership denigrates and antagonizes someone or something everyday what promise of good does that represent? It matters where he is invested: he doesn't like to lose... will he protect those investments by writing executive orders? The info is in the taxes.
A failure to release his taxes, breaking his promise and scapegoating journalists as the reason why is just a discrediting abysmal excuse.
5
Ah, the $6.00 on Sunday New York Times has weighed in on on the President's tax returns, which are currently being audited by the people's representatives in Washington, D.C.
Now where were you on the I.R.S. scandal during the Obama Administration?
Now where were you on the I.R.S. scandal during the Obama Administration?
3
Granted the IRS is understaffed.
But, perhaps the IRS cannot complete the audit because Mr. Trump is withholding information, stalling the process. And thus the audit will never be completed. Perhaps a small penalty is all that he risks undertaking this action?
Mr. President, release your tax returns.
But, perhaps the IRS cannot complete the audit because Mr. Trump is withholding information, stalling the process. And thus the audit will never be completed. Perhaps a small penalty is all that he risks undertaking this action?
Mr. President, release your tax returns.
We're not lacking in material for the Editorial board to focus on. Could we please move on. I think we've seen this over and over. The Clinton's have been and are so knee deep in truely nefarious activities, including financial gain from their foundation, Whitewater, Madison Guaranty, cattle stock investment, etc.
This is noise and low brow. NYT ple as early come back.
This is noise and low brow. NYT ple as early come back.
4
The current president of the United States, when asked why he doesn't pay his taxes BRAGS that it's because "I AM SMART".
He is also smarter than the Generals in the military too, and doesn't need presidential intelligence briefings because he is "also smart enough".
Millions of Americans are smart too. The president sets examples for all Americans.
Let all smart Americans follow in his roll modelling and simply NOT pay our taxes too. Leave tax paying for the stupid Americans.
Federal only of course.
He is also smarter than the Generals in the military too, and doesn't need presidential intelligence briefings because he is "also smart enough".
Millions of Americans are smart too. The president sets examples for all Americans.
Let all smart Americans follow in his roll modelling and simply NOT pay our taxes too. Leave tax paying for the stupid Americans.
Federal only of course.
4
No - I don't care about his taxes.
I care about:
jobs
security
a future for our children that is has more opportunity than ours
America, first
You at the NYT Editorial Board can go on and on about who you represent. But don't think for a minute you are representing the people.
I care about:
jobs
security
a future for our children that is has more opportunity than ours
America, first
You at the NYT Editorial Board can go on and on about who you represent. But don't think for a minute you are representing the people.
4
You stated reasons we should not let go. Trump must release his tax returns. This is not the Russian mafia, this is the Unites States government.
By the same standard, we should also keep an eye on the Putin-Trump investigations led by our intelligence agencies and hope that keeping Comey in his job was not meant as a reward.
Finally, I want to strongly agree with your term of chief obfuscator because there is no doubt in my mind we are quickly entering in an era of profound obscurantism which historically is the trademark of autocrats and dictatorships, including democratically elected regimes.
By the same standard, we should also keep an eye on the Putin-Trump investigations led by our intelligence agencies and hope that keeping Comey in his job was not meant as a reward.
Finally, I want to strongly agree with your term of chief obfuscator because there is no doubt in my mind we are quickly entering in an era of profound obscurantism which historically is the trademark of autocrats and dictatorships, including democratically elected regimes.
2
Trump is a master at creating so much confusion and misdirection in order to have his detractors chasing so many issues that they get bound up in their own distraction, its like one of those internet videos of a cat chasing its tail. Of course the tax issue is real and would be an eye opener for both his supporters and detractors so he creates a misdirection by saying that 3 million illegals voted in the election or any other issues he can stir up in a 24 hour period. He uses Ms Conway to spread more confusion until its time to throw her under the bus. He delights in spreading the very same fake news he growls about to create more havoc.
We will likely never see his taxes unless they get hacked in which case he will then claim it all to be false and that his enemies in the intelligence community or Hillary's or Bernie's people did it to delegitimize him then he becomes a victim. We are in for an endless series of punks from this slippery eel of a person. A good entertainer never fails to entertain and America is being mesmerized by him in less than a week. He is out to prove you can fool all the people all the time, after all he is the only who can do it ! The press is in jeopardy of being buried in dung by this man.
We will likely never see his taxes unless they get hacked in which case he will then claim it all to be false and that his enemies in the intelligence community or Hillary's or Bernie's people did it to delegitimize him then he becomes a victim. We are in for an endless series of punks from this slippery eel of a person. A good entertainer never fails to entertain and America is being mesmerized by him in less than a week. He is out to prove you can fool all the people all the time, after all he is the only who can do it ! The press is in jeopardy of being buried in dung by this man.
What are you hiding Mr. Trump? Why are you so terrified of showing us your taxes, where alternative facts must be documented? Just guessing:
Are you afraid we'll see that the numbers tell us your income, like your inauguration count, is much smaller than you profess?
Are you terrified that we will see you have been double dealing with Russian Oligarchs and crime-bosses all these years?
Are you fearful we'll see you pay virtually nothing in taxes and/or have no charitable donations?
Or perhaps it's as simple as what they say about your prototype the Grinch:
"It could be that your head wasn't screwed on just right, Or it could be, perhaps, that your shoes were too tight. But I think that the most likely reason of all, may have been that your heart was two sizes too small."
Are you afraid we'll see that the numbers tell us your income, like your inauguration count, is much smaller than you profess?
Are you terrified that we will see you have been double dealing with Russian Oligarchs and crime-bosses all these years?
Are you fearful we'll see you pay virtually nothing in taxes and/or have no charitable donations?
Or perhaps it's as simple as what they say about your prototype the Grinch:
"It could be that your head wasn't screwed on just right, Or it could be, perhaps, that your shoes were too tight. But I think that the most likely reason of all, may have been that your heart was two sizes too small."
1
He never intended to disclose his tax returns because he believes he is not accountable.
The "spin" now from his "surrogates" is that the election was a referendum on whether he should turn over the tax returns. Since he won the election (never mind the popular vote - although he now wants an "investigation" into why he did not win the popular vote) they say the voters have spoken.
Using that logic and extending it to it's logical conclusion, that means he can shoot someone on Fifth Avenue in New York City because the voters gave him that mandate as well.
The "spin" now from his "surrogates" is that the election was a referendum on whether he should turn over the tax returns. Since he won the election (never mind the popular vote - although he now wants an "investigation" into why he did not win the popular vote) they say the voters have spoken.
Using that logic and extending it to it's logical conclusion, that means he can shoot someone on Fifth Avenue in New York City because the voters gave him that mandate as well.
You know what is pathetic? This 1 news story should have sunk his presidential run. I ain't gonna explain how media can catapult their stories - it's what you do. But the fact you didn't catapult it by layering reasons for dodging with facts we know. And continuing to report while disregarding the sensationalism staying focussed on someone we are giving power to who must have ZERO secrets.
Did the media drop the ball? Of course. Everything else you all covered was a waste of time but you fell for it. I thought the Liberal media was full of smart people? Guess not.
'Credentialed' though not very bright.
Did the media drop the ball? Of course. Everything else you all covered was a waste of time but you fell for it. I thought the Liberal media was full of smart people? Guess not.
'Credentialed' though not very bright.
3
While I very much like this article, I disagree on one thing: demanding Mr. Trump do something doesn't work very well. Its part of the reason he's on his 3rd wife: doesn't play well with others, or at least, fairly. Nope I don't even
think about his taxes. I am positive there is murkiness worthy of a Grisham novel in them. Otherwise, we'd have seen them. If Trump has taught us a couple of things, one is he plays hardball and its time to play hardball back.
[Note to TV Anchors: please stop asking Kellyanne about them. She only uses her time to re-litigate her insecurities over Hill winning the popular vote. We are really sick of her voice and her over talking and, besides, she always looks like she needs a week of sleep ... how about we let her have it? At least a week.]
Second, Trump and Kellyanne tell lies. They both utter things that are absolutely false. I am proud the NYT actually used "lie", & on the front page no less. Bravo. Tho, if you'd done that during the campaign, Hillary would be President. Media people need to stick together: strength in #'s.
[Note to EPA employees mad at Donald's censoring: AP has a site they invite you to. Check it out on Twitter]
Third and most important: Americans, please, practice compassion with each other. Trump is a master at dividing, then taking power. Armed with that piece of info, we must, must stick together. Good Samaritans focus on the human-ness of a person. We all could take a lesson right now.
think about his taxes. I am positive there is murkiness worthy of a Grisham novel in them. Otherwise, we'd have seen them. If Trump has taught us a couple of things, one is he plays hardball and its time to play hardball back.
[Note to TV Anchors: please stop asking Kellyanne about them. She only uses her time to re-litigate her insecurities over Hill winning the popular vote. We are really sick of her voice and her over talking and, besides, she always looks like she needs a week of sleep ... how about we let her have it? At least a week.]
Second, Trump and Kellyanne tell lies. They both utter things that are absolutely false. I am proud the NYT actually used "lie", & on the front page no less. Bravo. Tho, if you'd done that during the campaign, Hillary would be President. Media people need to stick together: strength in #'s.
[Note to EPA employees mad at Donald's censoring: AP has a site they invite you to. Check it out on Twitter]
Third and most important: Americans, please, practice compassion with each other. Trump is a master at dividing, then taking power. Armed with that piece of info, we must, must stick together. Good Samaritans focus on the human-ness of a person. We all could take a lesson right now.
1
Is President Trump breaking the law by not releasing his tax returns to the public?
Yeah, that's what I thought.
Yeah, that's what I thought.
4
It is time to take a page from the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s. It is time for civil disobedience on a massive scale.
Take it to the belly of the beast. Shut down D.C.!
Sit down and refuse to move where it will do the most to disrupt. Surround the White House with 500,000 arm-locked, chanting and singing people.
Get yourself arrested, released and then immediately go back and sit down again. Nothing gets done until our demands are met: #1 - release your taxes, Mr. 45!
Take it to the belly of the beast. Shut down D.C.!
Sit down and refuse to move where it will do the most to disrupt. Surround the White House with 500,000 arm-locked, chanting and singing people.
Get yourself arrested, released and then immediately go back and sit down again. Nothing gets done until our demands are met: #1 - release your taxes, Mr. 45!
1
Trump keeps saying that he can't release his tax returns because of audits.
The IRS has repeatedly said that that is no reason not to release tax returns. None.
This guy is a compulsive liar.
The IRS has repeatedly said that that is no reason not to release tax returns. None.
This guy is a compulsive liar.
2
There's an IRS official who'd take 20 years in the slammer for leaking those returns, if he or she knew that it would lead to impeachment or resignation.
But the elected GOP in Congress want a broken narcissist in the White House to sign off on tax cuts for billionaires and medical bankruptcy for the middle class, so they're going to do nothing even if those returns show income from running an abortion megaplex. The republic's institutions have failed, and it's up to the NYT to understand that.
But the elected GOP in Congress want a broken narcissist in the White House to sign off on tax cuts for billionaires and medical bankruptcy for the middle class, so they're going to do nothing even if those returns show income from running an abortion megaplex. The republic's institutions have failed, and it's up to the NYT to understand that.
2
As tax filing time draws near for Americans, it is only fitting that the president's tax situation is front and center. We all have to file forms and wrestle with the intricacies of paperwork so why can't the president make his taxes public? His predecessors did, even the ones who he threw under the bus last Friday when he was sworn in. The president claims to be transparent but he really doesn't want people to see through him.
The 45th ignored the customs, proper decorum and traditional mores of a political candidate for public office and he got a free pass to say and do as he pleased, with absolutely no consequences or penalty. Ms. Conway, his apologist, was absolutely right when she said that people didn't care. That wasn't "alternative facts", it was the unvarnished truth. That's why he is now president.
The 45th ignored the customs, proper decorum and traditional mores of a political candidate for public office and he got a free pass to say and do as he pleased, with absolutely no consequences or penalty. Ms. Conway, his apologist, was absolutely right when she said that people didn't care. That wasn't "alternative facts", it was the unvarnished truth. That's why he is now president.
Yes we should be able to look at his taxes. Yes it would have probably cost him some votes. However, we should not lose site of the fact that this issue along with the wall and voter fraud is a fusillade of distraction that will eat up the attention space of the media and the left while the more 'reasonable' sounding measures sneak their way into law and policy.
We have to face the fact that we have a president who is basically a building contractor who will throw out wild bids and estimations out initially which he knows will be rejected but at the same time knowing they will make his real goals seem more reasonable. Please don't lose site of the creeping agenda with this huckster.
We have to face the fact that we have a president who is basically a building contractor who will throw out wild bids and estimations out initially which he knows will be rejected but at the same time knowing they will make his real goals seem more reasonable. Please don't lose site of the creeping agenda with this huckster.
What is he hiding?
It's enough to drive one nuts imaging all the goodies that could be revealed from reviewing the now infamous Trump tax return. Why, I am almost salivating at what lurks on line after line of that return. Keep up the pressure NYT, I am counting on you to break the story.
It's enough to drive one nuts imaging all the goodies that could be revealed from reviewing the now infamous Trump tax return. Why, I am almost salivating at what lurks on line after line of that return. Keep up the pressure NYT, I am counting on you to break the story.
It would be so much easier to release his tax returns -- if he has nothing to hide. If, in fact, there's nothing damning in those returns, he's a fool to make it appear as though this is the case through his intransigence. The only logical conclusion is that he DOES have something to hide, and the sooner we find out, the better. His (and his cabinet's) business dealings with Russia are very worrying.
Since the Republicans appear to care more about power than about safeguarding the country, I guess we'll have to hope someone hacks the IRS.
The sooner we get rid of Trump, the better. Pence is no gift, but at least he doesn't appear to have a serious personality disorder like his boss. The bar can hardly get lower for what's (relatively) acceptable.
Since the Republicans appear to care more about power than about safeguarding the country, I guess we'll have to hope someone hacks the IRS.
The sooner we get rid of Trump, the better. Pence is no gift, but at least he doesn't appear to have a serious personality disorder like his boss. The bar can hardly get lower for what's (relatively) acceptable.
Forget petitions - this president will ignore them. Show up by the thousands at all his public appearances. As he starts to speak start chanting in unison from all parts of the venue "Show us the tax returns." If five people do it, they will be arrested. If a thousand, day in day out, they will not.
Find real time video upload apps and keep your cameras running. They can seize the phone but the evidence is up there. If you are arrested, file a civil rights suit for violation of your first amendment rights. There are thousands of lawyers ready to help.
Unite. Organize. Prepare. Be scrupulous. Stay within the law.
Remember Solidarity? Younger people, Google it. Remember the Berlin Wall? Younger people Google it. Remember the Republican president who demanded "Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall." Younger people Google it. Poland is free. Germany is united. The wall is down.
Find real time video upload apps and keep your cameras running. They can seize the phone but the evidence is up there. If you are arrested, file a civil rights suit for violation of your first amendment rights. There are thousands of lawyers ready to help.
Unite. Organize. Prepare. Be scrupulous. Stay within the law.
Remember Solidarity? Younger people, Google it. Remember the Berlin Wall? Younger people Google it. Remember the Republican president who demanded "Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall." Younger people Google it. Poland is free. Germany is united. The wall is down.
1
The only thing that will make any significant change in this administration is for the Democrats to win overwhelmingly in the 2018 mid-term elections.
If you are a progressive, do anything that you can to help this occur.
If you are a progressive, do anything that you can to help this occur.
1
And why don't you release YOUR birth certificate, DT? After all, you expect "others" to do the same. Man up.
Or do you have something you're hiding there, too?
Or do you have something you're hiding there, too?
2
Surely a government agency is in possession of Trump's tax return (and likely the Russians as well). Possibly other parties, too.
We call upon you, dear Whistleblowers to save our beloved country (and all of the countries of the planet who follow our example and lead) to leak Trump's tax returns. Do it as soon as possible; choose respected media. You can be anonymous.
Then our democracy can follow suitable procedures: if he is square, then let it be; if he has violated the constitution and/or committed treason, then he must be impeached immediately.
We call upon you, dear Whistleblowers to save our beloved country (and all of the countries of the planet who follow our example and lead) to leak Trump's tax returns. Do it as soon as possible; choose respected media. You can be anonymous.
Then our democracy can follow suitable procedures: if he is square, then let it be; if he has violated the constitution and/or committed treason, then he must be impeached immediately.
All the kings men and all the Kings horses couldn't make him release his taxes.
Donald will never, ever release his taxes. To think he would is ridiculous.
No way, no how. I still can't understand how the people demanding his taxes
still don't know who this man is. They keep thinking he is a sane, 'regular '
U.S. president. HA!
Donald will never, ever release his taxes. To think he would is ridiculous.
No way, no how. I still can't understand how the people demanding his taxes
still don't know who this man is. They keep thinking he is a sane, 'regular '
U.S. president. HA!
2
Mr. Trump, there are pluses and minuses when you become President. You get a big jet, a cool car, lots of people hang on every word you say. On the minus side, at least for you, lots of people demand transparency from their leaders.
Release your tax returns. It comes with the job, you knew that going in. If you don't want to do that, then go be president with your pal, Putin.
Release your tax returns. It comes with the job, you knew that going in. If you don't want to do that, then go be president with your pal, Putin.
1
Republicans will not allow the Presidential Tax Transparency Act to be brought to the floor for a vote.
But a powerful political tool has been crafted: Republican senators defending their re-elections in 2018 will be forced to defend shielding of Trump's corruption - not an easy sell for the party that claims moral superiority.
Democrats are enabled to hammer this point relentlessly, all day, every day. Will Democrats know how to wield that advantage?
But a powerful political tool has been crafted: Republican senators defending their re-elections in 2018 will be forced to defend shielding of Trump's corruption - not an easy sell for the party that claims moral superiority.
Democrats are enabled to hammer this point relentlessly, all day, every day. Will Democrats know how to wield that advantage?
1
Perhaps they will offer us Alternative tax returns? Or, more likely, begin to claim that they have intact already released years of tax returns? The most tax returns that anyone has ever released, ever--period! After all, they meet each moment with a lie--and when called out on a lie, they swat it away with another. Today, for instance when confruted with questions about Trump's lie that 3-5 million illegal votes made him loose the popular vote, among the lies Sean Spicer responded with was a catchy new lie: "“Donald Trump has won more electoral votes than any republican since Regan.” (Ahhh, no he didn't. George H.W. Bush won with 436 electoral votes in 1988.)
+++I hope the journalists can keep up. It seems the Trump administration are counting on you all to grow weary of saying "The Emperor Has No Clothes." Don't let it happen.
+++I hope the journalists can keep up. It seems the Trump administration are counting on you all to grow weary of saying "The Emperor Has No Clothes." Don't let it happen.
3
President Trump, I am an American citizen and I am not a member of the media, and I want you to release your tax returns. And, everyone I know, none of whom are in the media, wants you to release your tax returns.
Until you do, we all believe that you are hiding something.
Until you do, we all believe that you are hiding something.
4
Two more things:
1. April 15 is a Saturday; a perfect day for another 1.5 million people rally.
2. I wonder if the Trump administration has kept the "We the People" petition page up on the White House website as a means to collect names and email addresses (e.g., cross reference email addresses and names with federal job applications)? For this reason, I was hesitant to add my name to the petition. But then I reminded myself -- now is not the time to be fearful - too much is at stake.
1. April 15 is a Saturday; a perfect day for another 1.5 million people rally.
2. I wonder if the Trump administration has kept the "We the People" petition page up on the White House website as a means to collect names and email addresses (e.g., cross reference email addresses and names with federal job applications)? For this reason, I was hesitant to add my name to the petition. But then I reminded myself -- now is not the time to be fearful - too much is at stake.
1
Donald Trump will reveal his taxes when the time comes to divert your attention from an important concern. There are important problems the world is dealing with at the present time and Americans are apoplectic about a minor celebrity's income taxes.
Shame on you
You need to take back your government from the people who bought it. The world needs America and you are obsessed with the inconsequential actions of a dimwitted celebrity.
Shame on you
You need to take back your government from the people who bought it. The world needs America and you are obsessed with the inconsequential actions of a dimwitted celebrity.
2
We the people certainly do care about President Trump's tax returns and much more.
Even here in this reddest of red states, sixty-five percent of Utah's registered voters, according to a recent statewide pole, believe Rep. Jason Chaffetz and his Government Oversight Committee should thoroughly investigate Mr. Trump's possible conflicts of interest. If they do not, the credibility of Mr. Chaffetz, his Committee and the entire GOP are seriously at risk.
The House and Senate investigatory committees absolutely must investigate Trump's financial dealings with the Russians and with other foreign interests.
Never before in American history has so much political-economic power been consolidated in a president and his cabinet.
Every day--as I read, hear and watch--it becomes more and more evident that we are on the brink of what is likely to be, or at the very least appear to be, an extremely corrupt Trump administration. Mr. Trump reportedly has economic interests and various degrees of indebtedness in at least a score of foreign countries, some of which--like Putin's Russia and Duterte's Philippines--are, to put it mildly, less than friendly to our nation's interests.
Moreover Mr. Trump's business interests are hidden amidst a multilayered and tangled web of interconnected LLCs, a most opaque arrangement.
The credibility of the Republican Party is now seriously at risk.
Even here in this reddest of red states, sixty-five percent of Utah's registered voters, according to a recent statewide pole, believe Rep. Jason Chaffetz and his Government Oversight Committee should thoroughly investigate Mr. Trump's possible conflicts of interest. If they do not, the credibility of Mr. Chaffetz, his Committee and the entire GOP are seriously at risk.
The House and Senate investigatory committees absolutely must investigate Trump's financial dealings with the Russians and with other foreign interests.
Never before in American history has so much political-economic power been consolidated in a president and his cabinet.
Every day--as I read, hear and watch--it becomes more and more evident that we are on the brink of what is likely to be, or at the very least appear to be, an extremely corrupt Trump administration. Mr. Trump reportedly has economic interests and various degrees of indebtedness in at least a score of foreign countries, some of which--like Putin's Russia and Duterte's Philippines--are, to put it mildly, less than friendly to our nation's interests.
Moreover Mr. Trump's business interests are hidden amidst a multilayered and tangled web of interconnected LLCs, a most opaque arrangement.
The credibility of the Republican Party is now seriously at risk.
Also relevant is the question of offshore accounts.
According to the link below Donald Trump does not appear as an owner in the Panama Papers (leaked documents from the law firm Mossack Fonseca).
But his name appears 3,540 times in the documents and some of his associates and business partners are in the files.
But Mossack Fonseca was just one law firm. It would be more surprising to learn that the Trump family has no offshore accounts than that they do. Anyway, this issue deserves more attention that it is receiving.
http://www.mcclatchydc.com/news/nation-world/national/article74789322.html
According to the link below Donald Trump does not appear as an owner in the Panama Papers (leaked documents from the law firm Mossack Fonseca).
But his name appears 3,540 times in the documents and some of his associates and business partners are in the files.
But Mossack Fonseca was just one law firm. It would be more surprising to learn that the Trump family has no offshore accounts than that they do. Anyway, this issue deserves more attention that it is receiving.
http://www.mcclatchydc.com/news/nation-world/national/article74789322.html
2
Without the release of the tax returns, I would not consider any Supreme Court justice pick.
Time to hang tough!
Time to hang tough!
1
Embarrassing. It's completely obvious he's hiding something. I fully support
1) Signing the petition (done)
2) Endorsing state legislation to require future presidential candidates to release their taxes as a prerequisite to being on the state ballot (done)
3) continued daily pressure from the media
4) protests every April 15th and
5) refusing to pay taxes (that makes me smart).
Why would I want my taxes to pay for a meaningless, useless wall?
1) Signing the petition (done)
2) Endorsing state legislation to require future presidential candidates to release their taxes as a prerequisite to being on the state ballot (done)
3) continued daily pressure from the media
4) protests every April 15th and
5) refusing to pay taxes (that makes me smart).
Why would I want my taxes to pay for a meaningless, useless wall?
3
People, I am surprised that you still bite the same old bait. Learn! The worst thing you can do to our Arsonist-in-Chief is to deny him attention he incessantly craves. So try to ignore him and focus on the people who surround him. Talk to your relatives and neighbors who voted for Trump. Try to understand them and change their minds. Why do you too think that only Trump matters?
It is already too late for asking nicely and write petitions. All you will get back is a good kick in you-know-what. Take it from an old Solidarity hand.
It is already too late for asking nicely and write petitions. All you will get back is a good kick in you-know-what. Take it from an old Solidarity hand.
2
"We the people" couldn't care less whether he discloses his tax returns or not.
They are private papers, confidential by definition, and none of your business.
The financial disclosures he has file give you all the information you need, and meet the federal filing requirements.
That others have disclosed them is irrelevant.
Grow up.
They are private papers, confidential by definition, and none of your business.
The financial disclosures he has file give you all the information you need, and meet the federal filing requirements.
That others have disclosed them is irrelevant.
Grow up.
3
If the subject of Trump's release of his tax returns was litigated in the last election, then the verdict must be that the American people want to see those documents.
Releasing the Tax Returns is urgent on so many levels: it will tell us whether and to what degree Trump is beholden to foreign actors, including Russian Oligarchs; whether he evaded paying taxes, a crime which has brought down the likes of Al Capone; and whether his tax policies will be designed to exploit the system to his economic advantage.
Thank you, Messrs Wyden and Murphy.
Releasing the Tax Returns is urgent on so many levels: it will tell us whether and to what degree Trump is beholden to foreign actors, including Russian Oligarchs; whether he evaded paying taxes, a crime which has brought down the likes of Al Capone; and whether his tax policies will be designed to exploit the system to his economic advantage.
Thank you, Messrs Wyden and Murphy.
Okay so then what happens? He releases his tax returns and we find out that he has business interests in Russia and other interests that would or do conflict with his position as Presidency. We find out that he takes huge deductions, has paid very little tax, and is not of the wealth he has said.
What happens then? He's President now--do his business interests make him impeachable? And then of course we've got Pence. God help us.
What happens then? He's President now--do his business interests make him impeachable? And then of course we've got Pence. God help us.
Mr. President we need to see your tax returns.
1
I am one of the 74% that wants to see his tax returns. As an American citizen and voter I'm demanding it. Mr. Trump works for us. He is our employee. And he needs to listen. Where is the Republican party? They need to answer for this lapse in ethics.
2
I started a petition yesterday to end censorship of all agencies. The generated link sends me to a Trump email subscription page. That is overtly wrong.
In case anyone cares to demand that First Amendment rights be upheld, he working link to the petition is here
https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/rescind-censorship-all-federal...
In case anyone cares to demand that First Amendment rights be upheld, he working link to the petition is here
https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/rescind-censorship-all-federal...
Demand whatever you want but it isn't required so why should he reveal them? If voters cared about them he wouldn't have been elected. I would prefer the editorial be: "We the People" Demand Mr. Trump Identify the 5M Illegal Voters.
If there are 5M illegal voters how do we know they didn't vote for Trump? Let's not dismiss this assertion as lunacy - there needs to be an impartial investigation. When the 5M illegal voters are identified, consider if they should be waterboarded to determine who they voted for.
If there are 5M illegal voters how do we know they didn't vote for Trump? Let's not dismiss this assertion as lunacy - there needs to be an impartial investigation. When the 5M illegal voters are identified, consider if they should be waterboarded to determine who they voted for.
This editorial concludes, and rightly so, with the following sentence:
" The only logical conclusion is that the candidate who pledged to clean up Washington is hiding damaging information about his past."
Obviously this conclusion is very valid and as we have already come to find out, Trump has indeed had much to hide - in many venues.
You can bet your booties, as well as your pink hat, on that.
Let us take a page from Trump's own playbook.
Let us exercise our right to hammer away on an ongoing basis on this subject
of his tax returns until he finally folds and reveals all.
Or someone else reveals, by way of hacking or leaking, what we all have the right to know.
Keep the issue in the public eye and eventually someone will bring the data out into the open.
This is what attention grabbing Trump did with the issue of President Obama's birth certificate.
Keep the issue in the public eye and draw attention to it without letup.
It worked for Trump. Let it work for us.
Here's the button to push (O) and the skin ( l ) to annoy as a result.
The resulting distraction could well save us a great deal of trouble in other vital areas as well.
" The only logical conclusion is that the candidate who pledged to clean up Washington is hiding damaging information about his past."
Obviously this conclusion is very valid and as we have already come to find out, Trump has indeed had much to hide - in many venues.
You can bet your booties, as well as your pink hat, on that.
Let us take a page from Trump's own playbook.
Let us exercise our right to hammer away on an ongoing basis on this subject
of his tax returns until he finally folds and reveals all.
Or someone else reveals, by way of hacking or leaking, what we all have the right to know.
Keep the issue in the public eye and eventually someone will bring the data out into the open.
This is what attention grabbing Trump did with the issue of President Obama's birth certificate.
Keep the issue in the public eye and draw attention to it without letup.
It worked for Trump. Let it work for us.
Here's the button to push (O) and the skin ( l ) to annoy as a result.
The resulting distraction could well save us a great deal of trouble in other vital areas as well.
This is very interesting. Congress can, of course, request the tax returns from the IRS for anyone and release the returns to the public. I don't know why this hasn't happened. Is there a "gentleman's agreement" here? They know Trump's excuse about an "audit" is false and misleading. The media knows this.
This is one of the many reasons why the population doesn't trust the politicians and the media.
This is one of the many reasons why the population doesn't trust the politicians and the media.
I think that he is afraid that the tax returns will show him as smaller than he likes to portray.
In an article in today's paper it was reported that he has always inflated numbers, his shows ratings, the size of his buildings and maybe even his shirt size, to appear larger than reality.
The man has a problem.
In an article in today's paper it was reported that he has always inflated numbers, his shows ratings, the size of his buildings and maybe even his shirt size, to appear larger than reality.
The man has a problem.
1
Personally, I could care less about seeing his or any other presidential or lower level politicians taxes. If anyone has been prosecuted by the IRS then that should be public record. What exactly has ever been found by these tax returns for anyone seeking the presidency? "Oh, he only paid 17.5% of taxes." While the other guy paid 19.5% taxes. So what??
If anyone used every tax break in the book, then great I would too if I could.
Btw, I also don't care about anyone's birth certificate, health records, DNA results, astrological sign, etc. Just tell me why I should vote for you and I can figure out what I need to know.
If anyone used every tax break in the book, then great I would too if I could.
Btw, I also don't care about anyone's birth certificate, health records, DNA results, astrological sign, etc. Just tell me why I should vote for you and I can figure out what I need to know.
2
Release your taxes sir!
No representation without taxation!
No representation without taxation!
1
And, he lies. The lies extend to his tax returns. I'm going to sign that petition to find out the truth about the illegitimate idiot just elected by red state gerrymandering, Russian interference, and, I suspect, collusion with James Comey's. Who is is going to investigate that?
1
Do we even know if Trump's returns ever were, or still are, under audit? According to Conway, anything he says is true and Spicer confirmed yesterday that Trump has a right to believe things that have no factual underpinning.
IF the audit is still underway can someone please do some investigative reporting with the IRS to find out WHEN it will be completed so the stonewalling can end once and for all?
IF the audit is still underway can someone please do some investigative reporting with the IRS to find out WHEN it will be completed so the stonewalling can end once and for all?
Trump will release his taxes as soon as Obama releases his college transcripts and Hillary releases her "lost" emails. LOL
3
Yes, we the people want to see your tax returns, President Trump. Readers should get onto the White House website and submit their petition.
I did. I have to say, for a moment I felt weird doing so, as if entering my name and email address to confirm the petition was going to get me onto some Trump blacklist and I would find myself getting an IRS audit as payback. But that's exactly the chilling effect that Trump is having on America and that is exactly what made me put my name down and register for the petition. We should not have to live with even an iota of fear of our government or President.
I did. I have to say, for a moment I felt weird doing so, as if entering my name and email address to confirm the petition was going to get me onto some Trump blacklist and I would find myself getting an IRS audit as payback. But that's exactly the chilling effect that Trump is having on America and that is exactly what made me put my name down and register for the petition. We should not have to live with even an iota of fear of our government or President.
2
I'm an American overseas and have been for over 15 years. Still, it is my duty to file a US tax return every year, even though I pay taxes over here. My income is well under the threshold for paying US tax, but still, file I must and file I do, in order make that declaration (and to avoid an audit should I decide to return). Were I wealthy, I would still file and pay what I owe, because I'm still a citizen and I still vote, and it's the right thing to do.
Charity is all well and good, but you still have to pay your taxes to keep your infrastructure intact. I don't understand why the middle Americans who voted for this bloke think it's ok for them to slave away and pay their way, but that their idol is exempt and seemingly exonerated from his duty to do likewise. Wonders never cease. It is plain as the wrinkles on my face that he's got something to hide. Bigly.
Anyway, I'm not going to get tired of demanding it, and the more he exercises his perfidious signatory activities, the more I'm going to shout about it.
Charity is all well and good, but you still have to pay your taxes to keep your infrastructure intact. I don't understand why the middle Americans who voted for this bloke think it's ok for them to slave away and pay their way, but that their idol is exempt and seemingly exonerated from his duty to do likewise. Wonders never cease. It is plain as the wrinkles on my face that he's got something to hide. Bigly.
Anyway, I'm not going to get tired of demanding it, and the more he exercises his perfidious signatory activities, the more I'm going to shout about it.
2
A question to Sean Spicer at every single WH briefing:
"As of today (insert current number) citizens/voters have signed the petition on the WH page for the President to release his tax returns. This is an increase of (insert number) signatures since yesterday. The IRS says the audit is not an obstacle to the release. When will the President release his tax returns?"
"As of today (insert current number) citizens/voters have signed the petition on the WH page for the President to release his tax returns. This is an increase of (insert number) signatures since yesterday. The IRS says the audit is not an obstacle to the release. When will the President release his tax returns?"
1
Please keep this on the news agenda. What are his personal financial interests? To whom is he in debt? "We see a lot of money pouring in from Russia," said Trump Jr. Secrecy and lack of transparency are poison.
Follow the petition link. It will ask you for your name and an email address. It'll email you, and you have to click a confirm link. Takes under a minute.
If he continues to refuse to release his returns, then the petition will signify that he is refusing the request of millions of Americans.
Follow the petition link. It will ask you for your name and an email address. It'll email you, and you have to click a confirm link. Takes under a minute.
If he continues to refuse to release his returns, then the petition will signify that he is refusing the request of millions of Americans.
1
Mr. Trump spent the last 8 years demanding Mr. Obama's birth certificate and questioning his citizenship. We now demand Mr. Trump's tax returns.... and will continue to do so for as long as he is president. As Mr. Obama was made to release his birth certificate, Mr. Trump MUST release his tax returns.
1
One would expect a billionaire president to quickly and unequivocally release his Tax Returns without being asked to do so. Besides transparency, it would bolster his repeated claim of his financial success -- a claim that, so far, remains unverified.
The fact that he has failed to do so and is seemingly positioning himself to fight it should this issue ever come to court speaks volumes: it means that the President of the United States has something to hide...and it's BIG.
The fact that he has failed to do so and is seemingly positioning himself to fight it should this issue ever come to court speaks volumes: it means that the President of the United States has something to hide...and it's BIG.
2
We've reached the point where focusing on Donald's taxes is the equivalent to the constant Republican blather about Hillary Clinton's email server. The damage has been done. Donald is president. And nothing will change until that is no longer the case.
Tennessee is powerfully Republican. I used to respect many of our elected officials, even while disagreeing with their narrow-minded church-driven views on certain issues. Even voted for some of them. But they're collectively either absolutely elated by their crazy new leader, or darned good actors. They remind me of a mob that rushes in breaking windows, burning buildings, stealing property without conscience, reveling in the havoc. They want to destroy the very foundation country has been built on, in their glee at releasing eight years of frustration. And we can thank Donald for igniting the flames.
So what now?
Tennessee is powerfully Republican. I used to respect many of our elected officials, even while disagreeing with their narrow-minded church-driven views on certain issues. Even voted for some of them. But they're collectively either absolutely elated by their crazy new leader, or darned good actors. They remind me of a mob that rushes in breaking windows, burning buildings, stealing property without conscience, reveling in the havoc. They want to destroy the very foundation country has been built on, in their glee at releasing eight years of frustration. And we can thank Donald for igniting the flames.
So what now?
Nothing about his refusal to release taxes is a surprise. Sane and competent voters saw this coming a mile away and voted accordingly. But have you ever had to carry the full weight of a sleeping person? Almost 1/2 of my fellow Americans were seduced, blinded and narcotized by the dark, cruel messages this devil churned out. He appealed to the worst in them and they did their worst in the voting booth. Now we must all endure it. Will our fellow Americans wake up and join us in opposing him? Without them, the task will be harder, but not impossible.
Trump is a bully. Full stop. The only language he understands is that of power. He must be forced to do this and lawmakers must give him nothing until he does. Of course, that will not happen. The GOP will cynically use him to take away protections from most Americans and reward the wealthiest. Many Dems will cooperate under the foolish delusion of getting something, anything (infrastructure!) out of it, while selling out the most vulnerable of us in the process.
May all Americans wake up before too much damage is done, and demand the release of these taxes, which will no doubt reveal much that might help us out of this nightmare. Good God, it's only Day 5.
Trump is a bully. Full stop. The only language he understands is that of power. He must be forced to do this and lawmakers must give him nothing until he does. Of course, that will not happen. The GOP will cynically use him to take away protections from most Americans and reward the wealthiest. Many Dems will cooperate under the foolish delusion of getting something, anything (infrastructure!) out of it, while selling out the most vulnerable of us in the process.
May all Americans wake up before too much damage is done, and demand the release of these taxes, which will no doubt reveal much that might help us out of this nightmare. Good God, it's only Day 5.
1
I would like to see the NYT do a little investigation as to how easily it would be for the Trump White House to manipulate the data for this (and other) polls. An interview with members of the Obama team who set up the software would be a good start. Which votes do they count? Which do they screen out?
I am already suspicious that, notwithsatnding the HUUGE publicity this poll is getting, we saw only about 50,000 votes yesterday. A small total number, and I think this is still small, could be used by Trump to counter the "release" argument, ie Conway: "Well, even after the NYT and WaPO and many others promoted this poll to the heavens...there are only 500,000 signatures...probably all journalists and in any event hardly a groundswell. The public does not care."
We may need someone else to run these polls!!!
"Trump, Show us your tax returns!!!"
I am already suspicious that, notwithsatnding the HUUGE publicity this poll is getting, we saw only about 50,000 votes yesterday. A small total number, and I think this is still small, could be used by Trump to counter the "release" argument, ie Conway: "Well, even after the NYT and WaPO and many others promoted this poll to the heavens...there are only 500,000 signatures...probably all journalists and in any event hardly a groundswell. The public does not care."
We may need someone else to run these polls!!!
"Trump, Show us your tax returns!!!"
1
But no one is interested, he told us so himself, many times.
Don't you believe him? He sounds so sincere.
Sigh.
We're stuck. And worse.
What to do?
Don't you believe him? He sounds so sincere.
Sigh.
We're stuck. And worse.
What to do?
1
It is crystal clear that Mr Trump is hiding information that would compromise him, his office and possibly (quite likely) the country.
Why so obvious?
If Mr Trump paid taxes, gave to charity, was vastly wealthy and not in debt to Russian / Chinese etc interests, then he would be shouting this from the roof tops. It would be nutriment to further feed his insatiable ego.
Why so obvious?
If Mr Trump paid taxes, gave to charity, was vastly wealthy and not in debt to Russian / Chinese etc interests, then he would be shouting this from the roof tops. It would be nutriment to further feed his insatiable ego.
2
Donald Trump isn't going to hand over his tax returns. Precisely for the reason that everyone suspects: he is beholden to Putin and the Russians. The tax returns will make that clear, and so he knows he has a lot to hide. The election is over. If he were clean, he should have released them.
We have to force his hand. The situation needs to be escalated. We should urge all Democrats in Congress to boycott the the proceedings of the House and Senate, Trump's address to Congress, ... till he releases his tax returns.
The Democrats have done well to expose the insanity in The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, I mean Trump. But with the Vichy Republicans having no shame and bowing before The Great Leader, there's little Democrats can do now to prevent their confirmation.
They can however boycott proceedings and make Congress look like the joke it is for allowing Trump to get away with not releasing his tax returns - something no US president has done in the last 40 years.
We need to mobilize and do marches, sit-ins, engage in any legal means to make it clear that we aren't going to let Trump get away with it.
Trump wants to be a despot or a Third World dictator, let's utilize tactics used against such tinpots. Strikes, hunger strikes... whatever it takes to make Trump do the right thing.
But, we can't treat this as if it were normal or just like the past. It isn't. We have an explicit quid pro quo happening to Russia's benefit that no one can explain as being in USA's interests.
We have to force his hand. The situation needs to be escalated. We should urge all Democrats in Congress to boycott the the proceedings of the House and Senate, Trump's address to Congress, ... till he releases his tax returns.
The Democrats have done well to expose the insanity in The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, I mean Trump. But with the Vichy Republicans having no shame and bowing before The Great Leader, there's little Democrats can do now to prevent their confirmation.
They can however boycott proceedings and make Congress look like the joke it is for allowing Trump to get away with not releasing his tax returns - something no US president has done in the last 40 years.
We need to mobilize and do marches, sit-ins, engage in any legal means to make it clear that we aren't going to let Trump get away with it.
Trump wants to be a despot or a Third World dictator, let's utilize tactics used against such tinpots. Strikes, hunger strikes... whatever it takes to make Trump do the right thing.
But, we can't treat this as if it were normal or just like the past. It isn't. We have an explicit quid pro quo happening to Russia's benefit that no one can explain as being in USA's interests.
2
Idea: Quite a long time ago, Ben & Jerry's was trying to get its ice cream placed in grocery stores, but Pillsbury, owner of Haagen-Dazs, used its considerable clout to prevent this from happening. So, Ben & Jerry mounted a campaign that worked. Posters of the Pillsbury Doughboy with the caption underneath: What's the Doughboy afraid of? appeared in stores throughout Vermont.
I think a similar approach about Trumps's taxes, using the exact same language, could be, not only fun but also effective.
I think a similar approach about Trumps's taxes, using the exact same language, could be, not only fun but also effective.
6
So when Trump wanted to see Obama's birth certificate, a requirement for assuming the office of president, you mocked him as a "birther" and suggested he was disrespectful. Meantime you keep asking for Trump's tax returns, which are not required by any law or Constitutional requirement. So what does that make you?
When Clinton was selling State Department favors to enrich herself and her husband, you were fine. If you could tolerate that sort of thing, what possible conflict of interest could Trump have?
When Clinton was selling State Department favors to enrich herself and her husband, you were fine. If you could tolerate that sort of thing, what possible conflict of interest could Trump have?
4
Forget Trump. He is will do as he pleases. Nothing will stop him. Those who should will even cheer him on. For we the people the question is whether we will have lives and livelihoods in four years or we will have passed on from illness or be living in poverty from lack of jobs or being drained of our meager incomes by the corporate powers. Anything above that basic threshold and I am afraid he will be re-elected, because we survived.
The bigger question is if he's forever changed what it means to be President and the social contract we've had with the Presidency and whether laws, rules, norms and civility will be expunged from the office or will they and the expectations roll back in to fill the void after (if?) he leaves office?
The bigger question is if he's forever changed what it means to be President and the social contract we've had with the Presidency and whether laws, rules, norms and civility will be expunged from the office or will they and the expectations roll back in to fill the void after (if?) he leaves office?
Well, add my name to the list of signers of this petition, which stood at 331,000+ a few minutes ago.
Trump is illegitimately in office. Period. That he is not under impeachment at this very moment is a mystery to me. A pathological liar has no place in government at any level: not dog catcher, not mayor, not, for God's sake, the office of President of the United States.
Expect the We the People Petitions feature to evaporate from Whitehouse.gov very soon.
Trump is illegitimately in office. Period. That he is not under impeachment at this very moment is a mystery to me. A pathological liar has no place in government at any level: not dog catcher, not mayor, not, for God's sake, the office of President of the United States.
Expect the We the People Petitions feature to evaporate from Whitehouse.gov very soon.
2
Trump has already responded. He won't release them.
Why should he. Mitt Romney released his and just got slammed for being to rich.
It would take a constitutional amendment to require this be a condition of office.
Why should he. Mitt Romney released his and just got slammed for being to rich.
It would take a constitutional amendment to require this be a condition of office.
3
This was discussed ad nauseum during the campaign. Mr. Trump won the election despite his not providing his taxes. It seems, then, enough voters either didn't care or didn't think it a big enough issue not to vote for him ( and, truthfully, this is probably reason number 28 on a list of 50 wn or to vote for him). Now matter how much the media harps on this, he isn't going to release them, and by focusing attention on all those of these ancillary issues, the media is playing right into his hands. His voters don't care and he will play the victim in four years.
1
A popular comment when citizens worry about being spied on by their government is,
"If you haven't done anything wrong, you have nothing to worry about."
Why would anyone (except members of the Trump family and those wishing to keep private their relationship with the president)) object to having Mr. Trump's tax returns and other financial information made public? The insistence that Mr. Trump's financial information with its vast and complix web of secrets must remain forever secret makes obvious the possibility (or really the certainty) that the Trump records contain compromising information with the potential to do great damage to the Trump record, his personal assertions and his tanbled reputation. So, Mr. President, if you have done nothing wrong, you surely have nothing that needs to be hidden from the nation you proudly serve. Open the blinds, and let the sun shine in.
Doug Giebel
Big Sandy, Montana
"If you haven't done anything wrong, you have nothing to worry about."
Why would anyone (except members of the Trump family and those wishing to keep private their relationship with the president)) object to having Mr. Trump's tax returns and other financial information made public? The insistence that Mr. Trump's financial information with its vast and complix web of secrets must remain forever secret makes obvious the possibility (or really the certainty) that the Trump records contain compromising information with the potential to do great damage to the Trump record, his personal assertions and his tanbled reputation. So, Mr. President, if you have done nothing wrong, you surely have nothing that needs to be hidden from the nation you proudly serve. Open the blinds, and let the sun shine in.
Doug Giebel
Big Sandy, Montana
How much of Donald Trump's empire is in hock to Russian oligarchs? Trump repeatedly gives a lawyerly answer by saying he owes nothing to "Russia" (implying the government) when there is no meaningful distinction between the dictatorship of Vladimir Putin and the corrupt Russian tycoons who do his bidding. Who owns the President of the United States? Trump must reveal all his financial holdings while immediately dissolving all his businesses and putting the proceeds into a blind trust overseen by an independent third party (not a family member or friend or anyone with ties to him). Not to worry -- doing so for the purpose of serving the gov't will ironically provide Trump with another huge tax break. But you can't pimp out the Presidency. It's actually against the Constitution and nothing else should happen until this is resolved. Donald Trump's tax returns and business holdings were a matter of debate during the campaign. Now they are an issue of national security.
1
Mr. Trump, who boasts he is not scared of anything or anybody, is scared to show the citizens of this nation his tax returns. What this means about his finances is anybody's guess; but it demonstrates unequivocally that he is a weak, scared, and pitiful man!
Good editorial. Seems there is a spark of life shining forth in the NY Times. But not quite there yet in terms of indignation or outrage. When the NY Times Editorial Board finally and resolutely name Mr. Trump a LIAR only then will Mr. Trump back off his belligerent assault on the press and the truth. Only then will the public begin to know what the risks are with a lying megalomaniac in the White House.
First we had no science, soon we will have no truth.
First we had no science, soon we will have no truth.
1
Sign the petition and tell your friends about it. It takes a few clicks is all. And don't forget to click the link in the confirmation email you'll get back from whitehouse.gov, so you're counted.
Already there are more than 300,000 signers and it's only been up a couple days. (And this is the first news item to even mention it, so no one has heard about it.)
Sign, be heard. Don't just give up and do nothing!
Already there are more than 300,000 signers and it's only been up a couple days. (And this is the first news item to even mention it, so no one has heard about it.)
Sign, be heard. Don't just give up and do nothing!
2
Go to whitehouse.gov click on the Participate tab and then select "we the people" petitions and sign the petition demanding he release his tax return.
It doesn't force him to do anything of course but this President doesn't like big numbers when they're in the opposition. Let's show him how many people are making this demand.
It doesn't force him to do anything of course but this President doesn't like big numbers when they're in the opposition. Let's show him how many people are making this demand.
2
The fact is that Republican lawmakers rushed "emergency power" executive orders in South Dakota to block the implementation of an open-ballot democratically passed "Government Accountability and Anti-Corruption Act", meant to reduce the very corruption that continues to power Republican fundraisers and presidential Cabinet nominations.
The fact is that Republican lawmakers in North Carolina, only in weeks after the 2016 election, passed legislation that stripped significant powers of the new governor in very likely a form of authoritarian retaliation after their party's incumbent lost.
The fact is that Republican lawmakers in North Dakota have debated a law that makes it easier for drivers to not be held liable for driving on the highway AS WELL AS criminalizing the very act of protesting even if it's peaceful, believed by some to be a deterrent for protesters of the Dakota pipeline.
The fact is that Sean Spicer was manufacturing a distorted unsupported story of the turnout of the newly-inaugurated president's inauguration, where more people protested him publicly nationwide more than turned out for the open event. Ms. Conway's "alternative facts" aren't facts.
If such lawmakers wish to show they are above the tactics of Russia or dictators, they should stop acting on them. If voters wish to reduce the lies and serve the public, then they are advised to stop treating wealth as entitlement. Stop reading only your newsfeed; demand answers and protest when lies respond back.
The fact is that Republican lawmakers in North Carolina, only in weeks after the 2016 election, passed legislation that stripped significant powers of the new governor in very likely a form of authoritarian retaliation after their party's incumbent lost.
The fact is that Republican lawmakers in North Dakota have debated a law that makes it easier for drivers to not be held liable for driving on the highway AS WELL AS criminalizing the very act of protesting even if it's peaceful, believed by some to be a deterrent for protesters of the Dakota pipeline.
The fact is that Sean Spicer was manufacturing a distorted unsupported story of the turnout of the newly-inaugurated president's inauguration, where more people protested him publicly nationwide more than turned out for the open event. Ms. Conway's "alternative facts" aren't facts.
If such lawmakers wish to show they are above the tactics of Russia or dictators, they should stop acting on them. If voters wish to reduce the lies and serve the public, then they are advised to stop treating wealth as entitlement. Stop reading only your newsfeed; demand answers and protest when lies respond back.
"The only logical conclusion is that the candidate who pledged to clean up Washington is hiding damaging information about his past."
Yes. And Trump is correct-- the (mainly) idiots that (sort of) elected him don't care.
Make no mistake. A coup has taken place.
Yes. And Trump is correct-- the (mainly) idiots that (sort of) elected him don't care.
Make no mistake. A coup has taken place.
2
THAT is the rigging: This snake getting into the People's House without showing his taxes, colluding with a foreign government and then having the nerve to say that we did not see what we saw: the Women's March dwarfing the Inauguration.
Turn over your taxes Trump. Make him do it, Congress.
Buy a backbone if need be.
Turn over your taxes Trump. Make him do it, Congress.
Buy a backbone if need be.
1
Release the tax returns, Mr. President. Your refusal smells of recalcitrance, while the benefit of doubt once afforded you rightly becomes called into question.
In such a crucible, the public is within its right to suspect you are hiding something. Something damning, something sinister.
In such a crucible, the public may rightfully -- and accurately -- question your character from the hypocrisy shown by you – you, the man who demanded his predecessor prove himself to be of US birth.
So, release the tax returns, Mr. President. Prove your character to the American public, of which you lack a majority support, as shown by the popular vote you lost and think you can change thru denial.
Convince us once and for all that your finances and sources of wealth pose no conflicts nor threat to our democracy.
You owe America, your employer, at least that much.
In such a crucible, the public is within its right to suspect you are hiding something. Something damning, something sinister.
In such a crucible, the public may rightfully -- and accurately -- question your character from the hypocrisy shown by you – you, the man who demanded his predecessor prove himself to be of US birth.
So, release the tax returns, Mr. President. Prove your character to the American public, of which you lack a majority support, as shown by the popular vote you lost and think you can change thru denial.
Convince us once and for all that your finances and sources of wealth pose no conflicts nor threat to our democracy.
You owe America, your employer, at least that much.
Hopefully, Anonymous or another hacking collective will release his taxes. Would we really trust anything Trump released himself? I'm sure he'd call it "Alternative Taxes."
Or, perhaps the Tokyo Rose of American politics and Queen of Disinformation, Kellyanne Conway, will come up with another charming sobriquet.
Or, perhaps the Tokyo Rose of American politics and Queen of Disinformation, Kellyanne Conway, will come up with another charming sobriquet.
His tax returns may not be revealing -- I think they will be -- but we the people would like to know since so many of his positions, before and after the elections, can be juxtaposed with how he became who he is.
We went to topple Saddam to find out the suspicious WMDs, in vain, and the Republicans and and Democrats supported that move. As a citizen I expect the same from all of them.
We went to topple Saddam to find out the suspicious WMDs, in vain, and the Republicans and and Democrats supported that move. As a citizen I expect the same from all of them.
Wow, I hadn't looked lately. When I signed I think there were way less than 50,000 signed on.
This issue has legs. We have to keep at it.
This issue has legs. We have to keep at it.
Why doesn't he show his tax return? There's something on that tax return that he doesn't like.
(Replace "tax return" with "birth certificate" and that's a Trump quote, by the way.)
(Replace "tax return" with "birth certificate" and that's a Trump quote, by the way.)
I am a citizen represented by Mr. Trump, and I want him to release his tax returns.
I have two sons who are eligible for military service. How can our family have any confidence whatsoever that they may be putting their lives at risk for the good of our country or the good of Mr. Trump's bottom line?
Let the American public, all of the American public, feel safe and secure in our elected representative. What have you got to hide?
I have two sons who are eligible for military service. How can our family have any confidence whatsoever that they may be putting their lives at risk for the good of our country or the good of Mr. Trump's bottom line?
Let the American public, all of the American public, feel safe and secure in our elected representative. What have you got to hide?
6
Mr. Trump’s tax returns should be reviewed prior to consideration of tax reform legislation. He has taken advantage of many tax loopholes but claims to want to rid the tax code of unfair and unproductive tax expenditures. We should know if fairness will come before the Trump Group business perks.
5
Trump truly is extraordinary; this is a record for "We the People" petitions: more than 300,000 people in just a few days!
Actually, I don't know if it is really a record but, if it is not, then it certainly is a great "alternative fact."
Actually, I don't know if it is really a record but, if it is not, then it certainly is a great "alternative fact."
1
Yes, we do. And I demand that the NY Times and other media outlets repeat this message every day on their front pages until he does. Stop being distracted by his tweets and manufactured outrages. Force him to address this issue at every public appearance, because 'We the People" do not have access to him as you do.
Now that we're making progress, I'd like to see some discussion of Mr. Trump's excessive use of Executive Orders in his first few days. Isn't this exactly the nightmare scenario we envisioned when President's began using Executive Orders to legislate?
Of course, none of this matters now. If you put enough pressure on Mr. Trump now regarding his taxes, he'll simply issue an Executive Order excusing himself and his cadre from ever needing to submit tax forms. Because that's how he does things.
If only Obama had shown half of Trump's chutzpah when in office ...
Now that we're making progress, I'd like to see some discussion of Mr. Trump's excessive use of Executive Orders in his first few days. Isn't this exactly the nightmare scenario we envisioned when President's began using Executive Orders to legislate?
Of course, none of this matters now. If you put enough pressure on Mr. Trump now regarding his taxes, he'll simply issue an Executive Order excusing himself and his cadre from ever needing to submit tax forms. Because that's how he does things.
If only Obama had shown half of Trump's chutzpah when in office ...
1
Mr. Putin, please release Trump's taxes; and might as well the videos from the Moscow hotel! America will appreciate!
5
Why is our President SCARED to release his tax forms?
I wish the press would keep asking him that, why is he so scared?
I wish the press would keep asking him that, why is he so scared?
4
Would the media please get a clear, concise statement from a senior IRS official (or recent past official) reading something like this:
"There are no IRS regulations prohibiting people under audit from releasing their tax returns. Period."
Then run this statement in bold type every time the White House offers the audit as a reason to withhold Trump's return.
"There are no IRS regulations prohibiting people under audit from releasing their tax returns. Period."
Then run this statement in bold type every time the White House offers the audit as a reason to withhold Trump's return.
2
The simplistic idea that a multi-billionaire must divest himself of all his business interests before being president is laughable and shows how naive the average liberal is.
If Trump were to devote all his energies full time for the next two years, he might get it done. The people, Common Sense conservatives, understand this and are fine with the idea that a Chinese diplomat might stay at a Trump Hotel - and our Republic survive.
Demanding tax returns, again, is but a shallow effort to demean and attack a political opponent. Surely, we can find an instant where Trump closed a hotel and a room maid lost her job where, of course, Ten Years Later her spouse died of a disease from lack of insurance. Impeach Trump!
No one any longer gives weight to the elite formulas for failure that the liberal enlightened elite have push onto the little guy for years as they bought votes, created victims and grew their inventory of underclass voters.
If Trump were to devote all his energies full time for the next two years, he might get it done. The people, Common Sense conservatives, understand this and are fine with the idea that a Chinese diplomat might stay at a Trump Hotel - and our Republic survive.
Demanding tax returns, again, is but a shallow effort to demean and attack a political opponent. Surely, we can find an instant where Trump closed a hotel and a room maid lost her job where, of course, Ten Years Later her spouse died of a disease from lack of insurance. Impeach Trump!
No one any longer gives weight to the elite formulas for failure that the liberal enlightened elite have push onto the little guy for years as they bought votes, created victims and grew their inventory of underclass voters.
3
For Trump to continue this charade over his tax returns simply reinforces the obvious conclusion that Trump's hiding big, big things from the American people. Treason? Tax fraud? Criminal activity? Any of hundreds of other unsavory and illegal acts?
Until Trump comes clean and presents ten years' worth of his personal, foundation and corporate tax returns to match what Hillary Clinton made public, he remains an illegitimate president.
Until Trump comes clean and presents ten years' worth of his personal, foundation and corporate tax returns to match what Hillary Clinton made public, he remains an illegitimate president.
1
It looks like we're going to have to look to an investigation of, say, Russian meddling in our election. The returns could be subpoenaed to show whether they had leverage against Trump and whether that's the reason they wanted him in office.
Will the investigation go forwards? It's urgent and important. No, it's not just about whether the election was "stolen"; it's about who we've installed in the presidency and what he's going to be asked to do.
Will the investigation go forwards? It's urgent and important. No, it's not just about whether the election was "stolen"; it's about who we've installed in the presidency and what he's going to be asked to do.
2
It is inexcusable that Congress as our Constitutionally mandated watchdog over the Exec Branch refuses to do their job. Our forefathers set up a system of checks and balances because they could foresee a man like Trump winning the Presidency. What they could not foresee, apparently, was a craven Congress to the extent we presently have.
It is possible we have a traitor sitting in the Oval Office-a man whose first loyalty is to a foreign government. At best we have a liar, a man profiting in business by his office and a man who is presently governing by fiat by executive order bypassing Congress entirely. This is how coups happen--through our complacency.
It takes a big man to admit he was wrong and change course. It will take a big Congress to do their mandated duty and protect us from an unfit President.
Congress: the Womens March was a mirror image of the dissatisfaction across the country shown with the vote for Trump— with YOU. Will you be a big Congress?--or a craven one.
It is possible we have a traitor sitting in the Oval Office-a man whose first loyalty is to a foreign government. At best we have a liar, a man profiting in business by his office and a man who is presently governing by fiat by executive order bypassing Congress entirely. This is how coups happen--through our complacency.
It takes a big man to admit he was wrong and change course. It will take a big Congress to do their mandated duty and protect us from an unfit President.
Congress: the Womens March was a mirror image of the dissatisfaction across the country shown with the vote for Trump— with YOU. Will you be a big Congress?--or a craven one.
2
While he is not required to do it, it is a good tactic for his opponents to bring it up over and over.
If he never does it, he loses since he promised he would.
If he does it, he loses to because it will show he paid little or no taxes while his brainwashed supporters have paid their share..
If he never does it, he loses since he promised he would.
If he does it, he loses to because it will show he paid little or no taxes while his brainwashed supporters have paid their share..
1
There may be a thousand reasons for the President to avoid coming clean on his tax returns. Some of these might even be good reasons, but a federal audit isn't one of them. I can think of only one reason that makes sense to me. The President has something to hide. Meanwhile, he proposes to open a federal investigation of voter fraud with zero probable cause beyond the paranoid need to salve his own injured, pompous vanity.
Now, stop obsessing and start presiding, Mr. President. Surely there are intelligence briefings to read. There must already be a huge backlog. I know you're, like, smart, but really, you gotta read.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
Now, stop obsessing and start presiding, Mr. President. Surely there are intelligence briefings to read. There must already be a huge backlog. I know you're, like, smart, but really, you gotta read.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
2
"The Emperor's New Clothes" (Danish: Kejserens nye Klæder) is a short tale written by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen, about two weavers who promise an emperor a new suit of clothes that they say is invisible to those who are unfit for their positions, stupid, or incompetent. Trump and his minions are saying the same thing about the American people.
However, "We the People" are not unfit, stupid or incompetent. We see that this emperor is a naked and a bald faced liar who touts "alternative facts" in the face of the truth. The same applies to his taxes. We can be absolutely assured that there is plenty of dirt hidden in his returns, Dirt that would justify action under the emoluments provisions and perhaps more importantly reveal an individual who is himself unfit, stupid and incompetent.
However, "We the People" are not unfit, stupid or incompetent. We see that this emperor is a naked and a bald faced liar who touts "alternative facts" in the face of the truth. The same applies to his taxes. We can be absolutely assured that there is plenty of dirt hidden in his returns, Dirt that would justify action under the emoluments provisions and perhaps more importantly reveal an individual who is himself unfit, stupid and incompetent.
1
This "People" could care less about seeing Trumps Tax returns.
But, as a counter offer how about publishing the tax returns of the publishers and all reporters who have a by line? Be interesting.
Semper Fi
Lee
But, as a counter offer how about publishing the tax returns of the publishers and all reporters who have a by line? Be interesting.
Semper Fi
Lee
3
Leave it to the NYT to claim an online petition web page equate to "we the people" other than Obama's name for. I'm quite sure that no one at the paper really thinks Trump is going to listen to anything it says, so this is just another in the constant anti-Trump litany it produces for daily consumption.
Trump's refusal to release his returns is indefensible only in the eyes of the board and other Trump opponents. Nothing for him to gain, and those Senate bills will go nowhere. It will be interesting to see if NY's bill will pass muster in the courts.
Trump's refusal to release his returns is indefensible only in the eyes of the board and other Trump opponents. Nothing for him to gain, and those Senate bills will go nowhere. It will be interesting to see if NY's bill will pass muster in the courts.
4
Trump promised to govern the way he does business. If you aren't torn by values and who or what you might hurt in the process, it's easy to make money in business--or create jobs with a few nasty tweets or strokes of the pen. But at what price to the people getting those jobs, the rest of us, the environment and our Democracy?
The same gag orders he has with those who work for him, he is now trying to apply to Federal employees.
I would love someone in the IRS to confirm or deny whether there is even an audit in process. If they were to come forward, I'm sure Mark Cuban or someone of that ilk would rescue them with a job offer. This is about the greater good. And if there is, in fact, an audit, I'd like to see it fast tracked and then released.
The same gag orders he has with those who work for him, he is now trying to apply to Federal employees.
I would love someone in the IRS to confirm or deny whether there is even an audit in process. If they were to come forward, I'm sure Mark Cuban or someone of that ilk would rescue them with a job offer. This is about the greater good. And if there is, in fact, an audit, I'd like to see it fast tracked and then released.
1
With respect to he WaPo-ABC News poll that was cited, the recorded answers were:
Should release and I really care that he does - 41%
Should release and I don't care all that much - 33%
Should not release - 18%
No opinion - 8%
http://www.langerresearch.com/wp-content/uploads/1185a1TrumpandTranspare...
Based on these responses, I think you could conclude the majority of Americans do not care all that much if President Trump releases his tax returns.
There doesn't appear to be any legal requirement for President Trump to release his returns. I trust Senator Wyden can keep the pressure on Trump by making disclosure a requirement through legislation. However, even if Senator Wyden did get some Republicans in the House and Senate to support such a bill, it would still need to be signed by the President - I don't see that happening.
Should release and I really care that he does - 41%
Should release and I don't care all that much - 33%
Should not release - 18%
No opinion - 8%
http://www.langerresearch.com/wp-content/uploads/1185a1TrumpandTranspare...
Based on these responses, I think you could conclude the majority of Americans do not care all that much if President Trump releases his tax returns.
There doesn't appear to be any legal requirement for President Trump to release his returns. I trust Senator Wyden can keep the pressure on Trump by making disclosure a requirement through legislation. However, even if Senator Wyden did get some Republicans in the House and Senate to support such a bill, it would still need to be signed by the President - I don't see that happening.
2
We have entered a new era where nothing coming from the United States can be trusted, from its propaganda down to its currency, its physical goods and agricultural and technological exports.
The world is going to have to take a hard look at its current engagements - financial, political, economic, supply chain, production, imports - with this country, and it is going to have to move to establishing alternative, more reliable and trustworthy sources for all its interactions elsewhere.
Speed is of the essence. You don't want polluted food sources and untrustworthy trade or financial relations to destroy your own economies.
You don't want your energy or defense needs undermined by such unreliability, either.
The wisest course is rapid, full-scale and comprehensive disengagement.
The world is going to have to take a hard look at its current engagements - financial, political, economic, supply chain, production, imports - with this country, and it is going to have to move to establishing alternative, more reliable and trustworthy sources for all its interactions elsewhere.
Speed is of the essence. You don't want polluted food sources and untrustworthy trade or financial relations to destroy your own economies.
You don't want your energy or defense needs undermined by such unreliability, either.
The wisest course is rapid, full-scale and comprehensive disengagement.
I want to see Trump's tax returns.
Trump has taken enormous heat - and risked losing the election - by hiding his tax returns from people he wanted to vote for him. Now that he's in office, one has to ask - what is in them that still keeps him from disclosing?
If you think Trump or any candidate for president or any president should share his tax returns with the American People, then write, email, Facebook, Tweet, call and keep the pressure on your SENATORS & REPS in Congress to pass the bill requiring it. Let them know you'll watch what they do and remember when you step into the voting booth in 2 years.
Trump has taken enormous heat - and risked losing the election - by hiding his tax returns from people he wanted to vote for him. Now that he's in office, one has to ask - what is in them that still keeps him from disclosing?
If you think Trump or any candidate for president or any president should share his tax returns with the American People, then write, email, Facebook, Tweet, call and keep the pressure on your SENATORS & REPS in Congress to pass the bill requiring it. Let them know you'll watch what they do and remember when you step into the voting booth in 2 years.
2
It is more likely that I will be the first player picked in the NBA draft AND the NFL draft than Trump will release his tax returns. He's never willingly going to let us see the trickery he's been up to.
Someone hacking the IRS, which the Russians have probably already done, is the only way the information will ever be disclosed.
Someone hacking the IRS, which the Russians have probably already done, is the only way the information will ever be disclosed.
2
A "Women's March to the Voting Booth" at mid-term elections may help turn the tide.
We can't have four years of Trump Catastrophes.
We can't have four years of Trump Catastrophes.
3
The propagandist must accomplish two things in the battle for control of the narrative. First, he must suppress the facts that demonstrate his lies to the public, or, in the alternative, he must discredit the sources of the facts that get out, convincing the public that facts are not facts, but are simply examples of enemy propaganda. Second, he must construct his own message in a way that the public reacts emotionally or viscerally to his message, and not think too much.
The opposition must up its game, quickly and effectively.
The opposition must up its game, quickly and effectively.
1
Once again, kudos to the NYT that you are calling the shots as you see them and using the word "obfuscator" for what it is. The concluding comment in this editorial must be the correct inference unless shown otherwise. If Trump's main concern were simply the principle of preserving his privacy, he had no business running for public office. These days, being on the right side of the letter of the law is simply not good enough, especially as that law can be fashioned and manipulated to suit particular interests. This is a matter of public trust.
Just today, it was announced that the Economist Intelligence Unit has ranked the quality of US Democracy as #21 in the world, an important reason for this low-ranking position being popular mistrust of government. This preceded the election and is cited as a factor explaining the outcome of the election. If what we've seen over the past while continues far into the future, the US rank will likely emerge yet lower in the next edition of this index. This degradation of moral authority could carry a heavy practical price in terms of America's ability to influence various international agendas.
Just today, it was announced that the Economist Intelligence Unit has ranked the quality of US Democracy as #21 in the world, an important reason for this low-ranking position being popular mistrust of government. This preceded the election and is cited as a factor explaining the outcome of the election. If what we've seen over the past while continues far into the future, the US rank will likely emerge yet lower in the next edition of this index. This degradation of moral authority could carry a heavy practical price in terms of America's ability to influence various international agendas.
Isn't the obvious question: what is holding up the completion of the audit?
And, now that he is in power, can he delay the completion at will? Presidents have attempted to use the IRS to their own ends before.
And, now that he is in power, can he delay the completion at will? Presidents have attempted to use the IRS to their own ends before.
2
How many of you demanding to see President Trump's tax returns, a demand you have no legal basis to make, complained when Barack Obama refused to show his birth certificate before his election to the office of president, a legal requirement that is written in the US Constitution?
I didn't think so.
I didn't think so.
3
To qualify for a mortgage, every American must submit recent tax returns to satisfy the lender that his money will be returned. To qualify for other loans an individual must submit statements of personally owned assets that could be used to pay off the loan balance in case of default.
On the other hand, private loans, say to Russian oligarchs, have no such requirements. Could the Donald have made a deal for loan forgiveness with his Russian friends in exchange for lifting of the sanctions against Russia or for the promise not to defend Eastern European and Baltic State members of NATO?
Follow the money...
Donald Trump's tax returns are far more important than Barack Obama's birth certificate.
On the other hand, private loans, say to Russian oligarchs, have no such requirements. Could the Donald have made a deal for loan forgiveness with his Russian friends in exchange for lifting of the sanctions against Russia or for the promise not to defend Eastern European and Baltic State members of NATO?
Follow the money...
Donald Trump's tax returns are far more important than Barack Obama's birth certificate.
2
Does Trump even care?
The people can cavil as much as they want. He is safely ensconced in The White House with his Sharpie in hand. All he has to do is use his Sharpie on a piece of paper to make any petition, any opposition vanish!
We are now effectively in the age of the 'Alternate Fact', where not paying taxes is the new normal. Paying taxes is soooo 'establishment'.
Very soon now 'Climate Change', 'Equal Rights', 'First Amendment', etc. are going to meet the same fate.
Hopefully, four years from now we will be still be alive to pick up the pieces!
The people can cavil as much as they want. He is safely ensconced in The White House with his Sharpie in hand. All he has to do is use his Sharpie on a piece of paper to make any petition, any opposition vanish!
We are now effectively in the age of the 'Alternate Fact', where not paying taxes is the new normal. Paying taxes is soooo 'establishment'.
Very soon now 'Climate Change', 'Equal Rights', 'First Amendment', etc. are going to meet the same fate.
Hopefully, four years from now we will be still be alive to pick up the pieces!
I can't believe the Times is still hung up on that.
We just had an election where his returns were an issue and he won handily - 306 to 232.
And this is why Trump won in the first place. Because all the Times and liberal media did was bash Trump, instead of focusing on the people that are suffering, e.g. those in the rust belt.
It's time to move on from these stupid returns. Besides, trying to re-litigate all these old issues prevent you from focusing on current ones.
We just had an election where his returns were an issue and he won handily - 306 to 232.
And this is why Trump won in the first place. Because all the Times and liberal media did was bash Trump, instead of focusing on the people that are suffering, e.g. those in the rust belt.
It's time to move on from these stupid returns. Besides, trying to re-litigate all these old issues prevent you from focusing on current ones.
5
In addition to requiring the release of five years of income tax records for every party's nominee for President and Vice President, Congress should mandate a complete physical and mental health evaluation, the results of which should be made public to the extent necessary to assure the public of the candidate's fitness for office. These examinations should be conducted by physicians from a branch of our arm d forces.
Mr. Trump's behavior in the first week of himself presidency have created doubt about his mental fitness for office; the campaign showed him to be vengeful, petty, and self-centered--the past five days have shown him to be unstable.
Mr. Trump's behavior in the first week of himself presidency have created doubt about his mental fitness for office; the campaign showed him to be vengeful, petty, and self-centered--the past five days have shown him to be unstable.
2
Several of the White House petitions have been behaving suspiciously. There is a new one protesting the EPA gag order that will not reflect more than one signator, despite attempts, and the arts community has surely submitted more than a few hundred signatures to protect the NEA?
Something fishy is going on--an attempt to make public concern appear less strong that it is? I hope the NYT will look into it.
Something fishy is going on--an attempt to make public concern appear less strong that it is? I hope the NYT will look into it.
Since when does the NYT Editorial Board views represent or align with the "people"?
#lackofselfawareness
#lackofselfawareness
3
Mr.Trump who refused to release his tax returns will be forced to show by a judge in a case where the ordinary citizens and some jurists or high profile lawyers have filed 'a lawsuit against him alleging that he is in violation of the emoluments clause (a.k.a. the foreign emoluments clause ) of the Constitution', as per NYT.
'The suit, filed in the Southern District of New York, seeks a declaratory judgement on the meaning and application of the clause, a ruling that Trump has violated the clause and an injunction prohibiting further violations' as per an article in WP.
So for Trump to avoid or to fight this lawsuit, he has to prove that he did not violate the emoluments clause .
But for the distinguished scholars who filed the lawsuit, Trump has already violated the clause as it's written in only 49 words in the Constitution, under Article 1, Section 9,Clause 8 that 'no person holding any office of Profit or Trust under them, shall, without the consent of the Congress, accept of any present,Emolument,Office, or Title, of any kind whatever, from any king,Prince, or foreign State'.
So by accepting Hotel fees from the Foreign Minister of Turkey and many other foreign governmental officials, Trump has violated essence of the 'Emoluments Clause' exactly as it's written.
Yes, Trump came into violation of the clause soon after noon of January 20th, 2017, when the clock for one of his causes for impeachment started rolling.
It's just a matter of time before Trump resigns.
'The suit, filed in the Southern District of New York, seeks a declaratory judgement on the meaning and application of the clause, a ruling that Trump has violated the clause and an injunction prohibiting further violations' as per an article in WP.
So for Trump to avoid or to fight this lawsuit, he has to prove that he did not violate the emoluments clause .
But for the distinguished scholars who filed the lawsuit, Trump has already violated the clause as it's written in only 49 words in the Constitution, under Article 1, Section 9,Clause 8 that 'no person holding any office of Profit or Trust under them, shall, without the consent of the Congress, accept of any present,Emolument,Office, or Title, of any kind whatever, from any king,Prince, or foreign State'.
So by accepting Hotel fees from the Foreign Minister of Turkey and many other foreign governmental officials, Trump has violated essence of the 'Emoluments Clause' exactly as it's written.
Yes, Trump came into violation of the clause soon after noon of January 20th, 2017, when the clock for one of his causes for impeachment started rolling.
It's just a matter of time before Trump resigns.
1
Why? Most people can't do their own taxes much less understand someone else's. The reporting of same would make tax dilettantes out of everyone.
3
At the very least, pass the law requiring all candidates for high public office release their tax returns. If this had been the law of the land, we never would have had a President Trump.
It will prevent Trump for running for reelection in the unlikely event he survives his first term. He has so much to hide any release would bring his whole world crashing down around his ears, and he would never voluntarily release such information under any circumstances.
It will prevent Trump for running for reelection in the unlikely event he survives his first term. He has so much to hide any release would bring his whole world crashing down around his ears, and he would never voluntarily release such information under any circumstances.
The real issue is not Trump's taxes, nor his lies. The real issue: average working class Americans have been lied to by both sides of the isle for decades.
Examples: The right promotes policies that increase the wealth of a few and improves the business climate, but starves government of revenues, assuming that total economic growth will benefit everyone, a lie. The left has drifted towards the center supporting free trade, gutting domestic industries, while simultaneously not holding the lords of finance accountable for fleecing the poor and working classes, and making justice for every aggrieved minority more important than jobs. For those without means beyond their backs and hands, these too are lies.
When there is economic opportunity and security there's invariably more tolerance. When incomes are stagnant and good jobs increasingly scarce for the working class, fear leads to intolerance, the makings of a witch's brew of discontent open to the manipulation of a demagogue.
The government has been either unable or unwilling to protect the economic interests of all the people and is, therefore, no longer trusted by those who have seen opportunity evaporate. When the American dream is a lie, the misleading acts and utterances of Trump are ignored because, for many, there is no longer a trusted authority, formerly government, to call him to account. Emotions of hate, fear, and hope are more powerful than truth, than tax returns, at least in times of voter apathy.
Examples: The right promotes policies that increase the wealth of a few and improves the business climate, but starves government of revenues, assuming that total economic growth will benefit everyone, a lie. The left has drifted towards the center supporting free trade, gutting domestic industries, while simultaneously not holding the lords of finance accountable for fleecing the poor and working classes, and making justice for every aggrieved minority more important than jobs. For those without means beyond their backs and hands, these too are lies.
When there is economic opportunity and security there's invariably more tolerance. When incomes are stagnant and good jobs increasingly scarce for the working class, fear leads to intolerance, the makings of a witch's brew of discontent open to the manipulation of a demagogue.
The government has been either unable or unwilling to protect the economic interests of all the people and is, therefore, no longer trusted by those who have seen opportunity evaporate. When the American dream is a lie, the misleading acts and utterances of Trump are ignored because, for many, there is no longer a trusted authority, formerly government, to call him to account. Emotions of hate, fear, and hope are more powerful than truth, than tax returns, at least in times of voter apathy.
My view is that the media, NYT included, is falling into a trap here. The President knows that the more the MSM moans and groans about issues that are not policy related, the vast majority of the American people will simply tune the MSM out. Then there is no real consideration of policy issues. In truth, it does not matter to almost anyone what is on any one else 's tax return. What matters is what happens in the country.
Besides, the issue was discussed at length during the campaign. Any one who wanted to vote against the new President for failure to disclose had a fully-informed opportunity to do so.
Besides, the issue was discussed at length during the campaign. Any one who wanted to vote against the new President for failure to disclose had a fully-informed opportunity to do so.
3
Other than the left wing media and the ever smaller choir that they preach to, no one cares about Trump's tax returns any more than they cared about Obama's college transcripts.
Now let the county get busy with important things, like building pipelines, reducing regulations, securing the border and putting Americans back to work in good jobs.
Now let the county get busy with important things, like building pipelines, reducing regulations, securing the border and putting Americans back to work in good jobs.
2
Since he is under no legal obligation to do so, and since he will be excoriated for them no matter what, what possible reason is there for him to release his tax returns? You know what would make for some good reading? A piece on why the Clinton Global Initiative has been shuttered. I haven't seen anything in the NYT about that. Seems pretty newsworthy, no? Oh wait, I forgot...
2
All should know that the Whitehouse comment line (202-456-1111) is now "closed". But concerned citiizens can leave a comment at whitehouse.gov/contact.
I did that this a.m., asking that Resident Trump's tax returns be made public. (and I'm not a reporter.) What do you want to say to Resident Trump?
I did that this a.m., asking that Resident Trump's tax returns be made public. (and I'm not a reporter.) What do you want to say to Resident Trump?
1
I am of the "We the people" who elected Trump knowing he had not released his take return. As a supporter, I am not looking for a gotcha, or a way to stir up controversy. I don't care if he every releases his returns, and actually prefer he not because no matter what is in them, I think his detractors will try to generate negative controversy.
I get that many millions people hate trump. Many also support him. In the end the people voted in our system, and he got the most electoral votes. I think the Times, and many commenters, have such a bias against Mr. Trump, that they will put a very negative bias on their writing. I think many want to find and point out potential fault, while suppressing the positive side.
I get that many millions people hate trump. Many also support him. In the end the people voted in our system, and he got the most electoral votes. I think the Times, and many commenters, have such a bias against Mr. Trump, that they will put a very negative bias on their writing. I think many want to find and point out potential fault, while suppressing the positive side.
4
All of his returns are under audit? How long does an audit take? I've been audited twice and It was fast and the IRS wanted quick results.
The GOP are hypocrites. Can you imagine if Obama or some other Dem would not reveal anything that was standard practice? How much of faux outrage was made about a birth certificate or emails, but the taxes are(wink,wink) under audit? Trump's Cabinet has not vetted their financial holdings in many instances. This is the behavior of the privileged. Don't do as I do,do as I say.
Mr President, you owe the American people the honesty of being transparent. Not revealing your taxes "because they're under audit" just becomes another of your many lies to us. Time to come clean.
The GOP are hypocrites. Can you imagine if Obama or some other Dem would not reveal anything that was standard practice? How much of faux outrage was made about a birth certificate or emails, but the taxes are(wink,wink) under audit? Trump's Cabinet has not vetted their financial holdings in many instances. This is the behavior of the privileged. Don't do as I do,do as I say.
Mr President, you owe the American people the honesty of being transparent. Not revealing your taxes "because they're under audit" just becomes another of your many lies to us. Time to come clean.
3
We and what's left of the Free Press did to keep the pressure on Lying Donnybrook and his hack Lying Sean Spicer daily, demanding that they produce evidence of their downright lies.
Before Al Franken became a Senator, he was a humorist whose devastatingly droll works included the marvelous, "Lies and the Lying Liars Who Tell Them". Since Trump has taken office the sales for this and the Orwell classic "1984" are booming. I highly recommend them for those who amazingly have never had the curiosity to read them. Being compliant all these years is no excuse. Compliance and apathy has gotten us here, at the precipice of totalitarianism. Deal with it.
DD
Manhattan
Before Al Franken became a Senator, he was a humorist whose devastatingly droll works included the marvelous, "Lies and the Lying Liars Who Tell Them". Since Trump has taken office the sales for this and the Orwell classic "1984" are booming. I highly recommend them for those who amazingly have never had the curiosity to read them. Being compliant all these years is no excuse. Compliance and apathy has gotten us here, at the precipice of totalitarianism. Deal with it.
DD
Manhattan
4
Considering the fanciful notion of widespread "voter fraud" --Why does Donald Trump assume those votes were cast for Clinton?
Doesn't he risk a finding that enough fraudulent votes were also cast for him to render his victory illegitimate?
Doesn't he risk a finding that enough fraudulent votes were also cast for him to render his victory illegitimate?
1
Give it up. He isn't going to release them. You need someone at the IRS to leak them or you need to get the IRS to FINISH THE AUDIT so there are no more excuses. Persuasion will not work with this crowd. Frankly, even once the audit is complete there is no way he is releasing them. The question is, where is the outrage on the part of his constituency?
3
It's a continuing outrage that Trump has not released his tax returns.
With his many business interests, it's obvious that he may have/has conflicts of interest.
Dishonesty is his policy. Impeachment should be his future!
With his many business interests, it's obvious that he may have/has conflicts of interest.
Dishonesty is his policy. Impeachment should be his future!
3
The only way to get Trump to release his tax returns is to present him with Hobson's choice: Either you release them or face impeachment. Short of that, it is futile. What's interesting is Trump is so quick with spurious allegations (Obama is not a citizen, he actually won the popular vote due to voter fraud, etc.) but he bold-face lies that he cannot release ANY of his returns because they are ALL under audit. When he holds his first press conference, the media should devote that session to demanding an answer to that question before any other questions are asked. If he doesn't answer it, they should all get up and leave. Let him put a spin on that!
4
There are polls that say that citizens want to see Trump's tax returns. Some members of the news media have echoed that desire. It won't happen until the new administration suffers penalties for refusing to comply.
Candidate Trump said that people didn't care. Now Kellyanne is testing that response. It seems probable that releasing the returns would generate more challenges for President Trump than would continuing to refuse.
How much do people really care about the taxes or the conflicts of interest? That is the important question and I haven't seen any data that answers it.
Candidate Trump said that people didn't care. Now Kellyanne is testing that response. It seems probable that releasing the returns would generate more challenges for President Trump than would continuing to refuse.
How much do people really care about the taxes or the conflicts of interest? That is the important question and I haven't seen any data that answers it.
2
It appears that most commentators here actually do not truest the IRS to do its job of checking the accuracy of Trump's tax returns. If there was something wrong wouldn't they find it? Other than that, the commentators who cry out for him to release his tax returns (where then is no law or rule that demands he do so) might as well howl at the moon. Why should he release his tax returns? Because you did not like the results of the election, because you don't trust him?. Because you demand it? If so, come to California where the rest of the "progressives" are at the beach where there is plenty of sand to pound. And even if he did release his tax returns? What would that prove? That he took advantage of tax loopholes so as not to pay more taxes than you think he should have? He didn't write the tax code. The people you voted into congress did, suckers.
1
If Trump won't release his most recent return cause he's under audit, then he should have no problem releasing the most return that ISN'T under audit. There's nothing wrong with letting the public peruse his 2014 return, if that's all that avail. Of course, The Donald will say any earlier return isn't relevant, despite the fact his biz deals are very much longterm ventures, and moonwalk away from any and all responsibility--legal, moral or otherwise. The American public has been hoodwinked by a con artist, no different than the guy selling fake Rolexes on a street corner.
3
"We the people" might really care about this as much as you claim, in fact. You note a poll. I would be interested to know how much the answers to the questions asked was influenced precisely by the journalistic drumbeat. If there is any institution within the US government that I fear and trust to sniff out the slightest sent of corruption it is the IRS. (They did get Al Capone didn't they.) And the allusion to his chequered business past..."we the people" might not care about that very much either. Anybody who has acted in any way on either side of the political spectrum is tarnished. The problem has become that the most qualifying characteristic for office has become the lack of mortal tarnish. The process (as vetted by journalists as ethicists) has created a political animal created in the laboratory. "We the people" might be more tired of that inefficacious animal in a position of power. "We the people" might want imperfect leaders able to achieve real results. No more political lab rats chosen by party elites and marketing mavens.
1
What the people rejected about Hillary Clinton is that she was talking from both sides of her mouth. On the one hand she was constantly fundraising obscene amounts of money from the super rich, and on the other she was pretending to be the protector of the blacks, the Hispanics and the Asians. Her rallies were star studded, anyone and everyone on the glam list of Hollywood or the entertainment industry was with her. During the primaries, the entire star crew of the TV series "Scandal" was hovering around Hillary. Her visuals were all wrong. They were all about glam, star, Hollywood, Silicon Valley, Wall Street. Her campaign was one long non stop partying orgy. She did not represent We the People.
5
Largely a waste of time. Do people really think that Mr Trumps personal returns will display his wealth and true controllable income. No doubt he, like most other wealthy people, will have a myriad of trusts, offshore entities etc which legally disguises his true wealth and the income under hiss control (even if not legally his). Further, I don't believe that the Bushes, Obamas or even the Kennedy's were so aggressively pursued over supposed conflicts of interest etc. If Bill Gates or Warren Buffet became president would you really expect them to divest themselves of all their financial wealth, particularly that held in other countries. Didn't do it for the Bushes, Obamas or Kennedy's.
Sorry my comment went out before my fingers were warmed up on iPad.
We see with alarm, Pres Trump is exactly who we thought he was, those who were paying attention to his behavior. He is an extreme narcissist- note how he turned the meeting with the CIA into a recital about him. Now he is president, he will become evermore emboldened, to proceed with his agenda, with no regard to the will of the majority of the people. He will not release his tax returns. Why should he? He has already been elected without proper vetting.
He will continue to act like the petulant child he actually is. Why else would he hang onto lies and continued comments regarding the popular vote and voter fraud. This is what he will do until he tires of a subject, or one of his team gets him into a choke hold. He cannot stand not to win, or think he is the greatest. He will send out the lies until he has satisfied himself - This is the real Truth.
He will do serious damage to We the People, until something so bad happens, he will need to be stopped.
We see with alarm, Pres Trump is exactly who we thought he was, those who were paying attention to his behavior. He is an extreme narcissist- note how he turned the meeting with the CIA into a recital about him. Now he is president, he will become evermore emboldened, to proceed with his agenda, with no regard to the will of the majority of the people. He will not release his tax returns. Why should he? He has already been elected without proper vetting.
He will continue to act like the petulant child he actually is. Why else would he hang onto lies and continued comments regarding the popular vote and voter fraud. This is what he will do until he tires of a subject, or one of his team gets him into a choke hold. He cannot stand not to win, or think he is the greatest. He will send out the lies until he has satisfied himself - This is the real Truth.
He will do serious damage to We the People, until something so bad happens, he will need to be stopped.
5
Conway is probably correct in saying that "people don't care" about Trump releasing his tax returns. What seemed to be of a much more burning priority throughout the entire Presidential Campaign, including for the NYT which devoted an entire editorial to it, was that Hillary Clinton release the transcripts of her Goldman Sach speeches, and the false equivalency that that was as bad or even worse. I am sure that a couple of decades hence, a book titled, 'America, The Road To Totalitarianism', published underground, will devote an entire chapter to this instance of liberal democracy's self inflicted fatal wound.
1
The only reasonable inference that can be made regarding his failure to release his tax returns is that they contain information that would have scuttled his candidacy had they been released before the election, and would certainly undermine his ability to continue as President. The information that has been released - e.g.his $915 million loss in one year - should have been sufficiently damaging, given that it was clear evidence of poor business acumen. However, the tax code allows developers great latitude in using loss to offset future income, and it also permitted him to wipe out his investors, using their losses to offset his own: legally permissible at the time but ethically deplorable.
But the media really dropped the ball by failing to keep this issue in the forefront. Now he’s the President, so this editorial is a little bit like closing the barn door after the horses got out. On the other hand, if you’re so inclined, it is possible to speculate that there is a faction in the Congress that are biding their time, waiting for enough evidence of (let’s call it what it is) incompetence to accumulate, and then we will be treated to the spectacle of a Trump impeachment.
But the media really dropped the ball by failing to keep this issue in the forefront. Now he’s the President, so this editorial is a little bit like closing the barn door after the horses got out. On the other hand, if you’re so inclined, it is possible to speculate that there is a faction in the Congress that are biding their time, waiting for enough evidence of (let’s call it what it is) incompetence to accumulate, and then we will be treated to the spectacle of a Trump impeachment.
1
The Trump era has laid bare the fact that ethics requirements for federal politicians are far too weak. The president can literally get away with anything, especially if he has a compliant Congress. The US is heading into banana republic territory. Reliance on the integrity of the POTUS and other senior politicians to comply with ethical norms - with vigilance from a vigorous press and corresponding public outcry - seems to be completely inadequate now. When you have a man of zero integrity in the highest office, it becomes very clear that there must be strong laws in place to protect democratic norms. Requiring the release of candidates' tax returns would be a start.
16
I am an ordinary American who has voted Democrat my whole life and I could care less about his taxes. Give it up NY Times. It would be nice if you spent more time reflecting on why you supported a disastrously corrupt candidate like H. Clinton, but of course that does not fit your pre-chewed narrative.
Let's view this the other way.
Why would roughly 20 to 25 percent of voters polled NOT show an interest in Mr. Trump's returns?
These are the same people who looked the other way on every occasion during the primaries and the general election when their candidate did and said the most bizarre and irrational things. No offense was sufficient to dissuade them. They weren't the least bit moved by the fact that Mr. Trump found it virtually impossible to garner endorsements from any political members OF HIS OWN PARTY. He was considered by them to be that toxic.
Are these people so insecure about their choice for president that they are willing to cast a blind eye to potential conflicts that might cause this country great harm?
They claim to be the only true patriots.
Prove it.
Why would roughly 20 to 25 percent of voters polled NOT show an interest in Mr. Trump's returns?
These are the same people who looked the other way on every occasion during the primaries and the general election when their candidate did and said the most bizarre and irrational things. No offense was sufficient to dissuade them. They weren't the least bit moved by the fact that Mr. Trump found it virtually impossible to garner endorsements from any political members OF HIS OWN PARTY. He was considered by them to be that toxic.
Are these people so insecure about their choice for president that they are willing to cast a blind eye to potential conflicts that might cause this country great harm?
They claim to be the only true patriots.
Prove it.
15
...behind TheDonald lies Frank Morgan...behind him...???
He is a crook. Of course he won't release the proof.
21
The IRS has President Trump's tax returns, which is where tax returns are filed. If they have a problem with those returns they know where to find him. Where is Lois Lerner when you need her? You people just don't get that Donald Trump just isn't going to play the political games of the left. Besides, you people innoculated politicians by looking past Hillary Clinton's blatant corruption scheme of selling access to the State Dept. for personal gain. My, what you people have done to yourselves. Anybody seen Barrack Obama's admissions status to the schools he attended? Far more important than Donald Trump's tax returns.
5
Leading by example, our president tells us that smart people don't pay taxes. I'm smart as well, and won't be paying taxes anymore. God
Bless America!
Bless America!
6
There's a movie here, an update on the Manchurian Candidate. A big businessman goes to Russia and is either filmed in a compromising situation or is implanted with a chip that will follow and control his every action. He will have a secured phone line to the Kremlin to deliver to the Russians every secret that the CIA or State Department has briefed him on. A patriotic employee of the IRS will spirit out the president's tax returns and deliver them in Seven file boxes to the Washington Post in a parking garage. The returns will reveal mysterious payments from Russia. Before he can be impeached the president will climb onto his own plane in the dead of the night and join Snowden in Moscow. The end!
12
Tonight's presentation of "The Caine Mutiny" would like to announce a change in the cast. The role played by Mr. James Cagney will be assumed by Donald J. Trump. And instead of strawberries, tonight's flight into the absurd will revolve around inauguration crowd size and popular vote total and hand size and ...
Yes. Where do I sign the petition? What is he so afraid of revealing? His ties to Putin, the Russian mob, investments in brothels? We have a right to know and the cowards in the House and Senate should find their spines and stand up for the people they are being paid handsomely to represent.
11
He should release his tax returns AND his birth certificate! Certainly, someone this disastrous for America was not born here. Russia?
10
I heard Ms. Conway just the other day say that the American People have spoken and chosen their POTUS in Donald Trump and therefore aren't interested in seeing his taxes. However, we know that more of the "American People" - approximately 2.8 million more - actually voted for the other person. No matter. He won't make it out of his first term. And it's because of the Emoluments Clause, not because of his taxes. And it will be the suit by Norm Eisen and Richard Painter that leads to his impeachment. Because the Party Over Country crowd (i.e. congressional Republicans) are content to look the other way while the POTUS brazenly breaks the law at every turn. It's Eisen/Painter's suit and the courts that will bring him to heel. It's nice to know that at least some of our institutions still try to function with integrity.
15
I fear Mr. Trump's continued insistence on "alternative facts," such as the massive voter fraud that robbed him of the popular vote and the standing ovation he received as the CIA (provided by the staff he brought along with him to stage such a reception) is a strong indication that either he is delusional and truly believes the voters do not care about this issue (or at least some portion of those people who voted for him do not care) or that he continues to build his mass-manipulation of those willing to succumb to his cult of ego to achieve his goals. His obsessive self-aggrandizement suggests he is seeking to join the rising club of authoritarian leaders taking power in democratic states where fear of change, economic hardship and the use of a bogeyman (in his case, "radical Islamic terrorism") allow him the opportunity be advance his own fundamentalist agenda and his insatiable desire for power. Vigilance is required. This is not normal, and his presidency is an affront to our democracy.
8
Ms. Conway, you are wrong. Yes, people do care, and what's more, it is incumbent upon Donald Trump to release his taxes. That he has not done so already is inexcusable. You can't sweep this under the rug.
TRUMP Has always acted as if rules did not apply to him, from the time he went to birthday parties as a little boy and started food fights to the time he and his father counter-sued the federal government for $100 million for charging them with racial discrimination for not renting apartments to blacks in the 70s. What we do know about his financial history is cause for alarm, as 15 of his business ventures have failed, he declared bankruptcy 4 times and is notorious for having cheated employees on wages and cheated suppliers and builders out of pay that was agreed upon. He settled a suit against the Trump bogus "University" for about $12 million shortly before the election to cover his patently unethical, deceptive business practices. With such a record of callous disregard for financial contracts, Trump cannot be trusted. His release of his tax returns is essential. It's highly probable that he's got lots to hide. He's channeling Roy Kohn, Joe McCarthy and J. Edgar Hoover, the triumvirate that brought us the Red scares and witch hunts in the 50s. Kohn was Trump's "mentor," who was unrelenting in his attacks of his adversaries, relished destroying others and was ultimately disbarred. McCarthy had, as was excruciatingly evident, no decency. And Hoover had what amounted to his own private secret police along with secret files where he kept dirt on everyone in Washington. So that's the sort of mindset Trump has got. Make no mistakes about it. So he's above the law?!
Fellow Citizens --
Please sign the Petition. Today.
https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/immediately-release-donald-tru...
Please sign the Petition. Today.
https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/immediately-release-donald-tru...
Yes. Now.
6
Like.
BUT -- how dumb do you have to be to ask NOW? As a Democrat that feels we NEED to see them, I ask that non-rhetorically. The man has won. The chance to see his taxes has come and gone. We have only ourselves to blame for believing the fake news an endless stream of lies, for letting Russia highjack the election, for being poorly informed, for hating the idea of a woman in charge, for fearing immigrants and wanting to go back to the 50's, when manufacturing was thriving, air was clean and white men ruled the country.
7
Huh. Wasn't this bloviator the one blabbing the most persistently for Mitt Romney to release HIS tax returns during the 2012 election?
4
Donald will never release his tax return. But Assange can release it. Look at the photo about the article on "border wall" in today's NYT. That narcissistic smile with three subservient white guys in the background. These guys wants to portray a respectable POTUS. We know better.
9
Wait till Trump tweets some nonsense which would irritate Putin. Then he will ask his hackers to release them. Or will it be the videos of...my my!
2
Trump and his team plays by their own rules. Opinion and rules and laws don't apply to him or this team. Its reality vs Trumps world. But the other thing he seems to get away with it. I wonder after making all his changes. Will he just get bored. Saying he won of course. It's time to protest. Remember Kent State. I must say on the few things he hasn't gotten to go his way (popular vote loss). He sounds like a broken record. And can't move on. For the record I doing my taxes this weekend
6
He may not have even filed his taxes. As Kelly Cann Conus explained , " it's a done deal, been voted on" or something to that effect. She follows with an effort to launch " alt-facts " as the latest Orwellian attempt at denaturing truth. Luckily Chuck Todd made the play and threw her out at first principles. Well done Chuck.
Hack those taxes if they exist. Someone please..!
Do the right thing! I'd love to know that Trump has no major investors of a Russian persuasion,or that foreign governments aren't helping with permitting, zoning, or financing real estate development projects around the world. Just ask the Scots.
They had a wonderful experience with fearless leader. Or, as Vlady likes to say,
Must get moose and squirrel.
Hack those taxes if they exist. Someone please..!
Do the right thing! I'd love to know that Trump has no major investors of a Russian persuasion,or that foreign governments aren't helping with permitting, zoning, or financing real estate development projects around the world. Just ask the Scots.
They had a wonderful experience with fearless leader. Or, as Vlady likes to say,
Must get moose and squirrel.
4
I love how Liberals love to make these statements claiming unanimous support for things that are only important to them. It is similar to how they pretend to speak for all minorities or all women. For the record, I'm a taxpayer, a citizen and a voter, and I DO NOT CARE IF PRESIDENT EVER RELEASES HIS TAX RECORDS.
4
While it is essential that DJT come clean, some of the information will be only embarrassing; other information might show a conflict of interest and some might show criminal intent.
How much DJT is worth? For the IRS: as little as possible, for the banks who give him loans, as much as possible. He varies his "worth" on a daily and immensely subjective basis, since what he is selling is his name: the price varies, probably using logarithms the airlines use when selling tickets: supply and demand.
Interesting will be the deductions he made to charities.
How much does he deduct for depreciation.
He might have had very dubious connections in 2015, but does he still have them now?
Embarrassing? He has no shame, and therefore cannot be embarrassed: "The Power of Positive Thinking" has been imbibed intravenously.
Sooner or later (hopefully sooner), somebody will leak his returns (pardon: post them online). While that is a-waiting, his minions will be erasing evidence or deep-sixing his hard drives (he might not use computers personally, but everybody who works him does).
Pity that the US is being led by a believer in Norman Vincent Peale and an acolyte of Ayn Rand.
How much DJT is worth? For the IRS: as little as possible, for the banks who give him loans, as much as possible. He varies his "worth" on a daily and immensely subjective basis, since what he is selling is his name: the price varies, probably using logarithms the airlines use when selling tickets: supply and demand.
Interesting will be the deductions he made to charities.
How much does he deduct for depreciation.
He might have had very dubious connections in 2015, but does he still have them now?
Embarrassing? He has no shame, and therefore cannot be embarrassed: "The Power of Positive Thinking" has been imbibed intravenously.
Sooner or later (hopefully sooner), somebody will leak his returns (pardon: post them online). While that is a-waiting, his minions will be erasing evidence or deep-sixing his hard drives (he might not use computers personally, but everybody who works him does).
Pity that the US is being led by a believer in Norman Vincent Peale and an acolyte of Ayn Rand.
2
Many of we the people don't care. When the audit is complete I do expect them to be released. And this paper has published such illegally as well.
1
Okay, last year's taxes are under audit. Lame excuse, but an excuse. But what about the year before that? Or the year before that? Or the latest year where they are not being audited. Seems like releasing 20 years worth of back taxes is not all that unusual, at least for those on the left or right who have nothing to hide.
Trump's holdout is lame and disgusting
Trump's holdout is lame and disgusting
Disclosure of personal data by public officials, of any kind, is always subject to debate. But why so much emphasis on a return (how many? how far back? Elizabeth Warren's proposed legislation is 3 years), when other information, say, like university transcripts and records that reveal ideology and intent (Obama's are sealed) seemed not to bother the Editors whatsoever. In fact, the previous president effectively had no past--and no voting record ("present") to reveal beliefs, positions or policy. Give him credit: he knew that in America, the press will misunderstand, misconstrue, misreport, misquote, mistake, and maim, mangle, modify, malign, muckrake and perhaps especially, make money off sensationalism and effectively anything you reveal. I'm sorry, NYT readers, but Breitbart has covered this issue best (in a op-ed by James Mann, former Assistant AG for the Tax Division, DOJ): http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/01/17/james-mann-president-...
The deluded must love masochism. Stomping feet, anguished hubris, letters, comments, whines about how the republic is structured - useless and comedic. Self-injurious as well. Congressional districts are set in stone for another 2 election cycles. As that body gets redder, along with the upper chamber, the next drawing of the maps will further cement the democratic party as the party of the minority of the minority. Your sensible members will have left, either to form a third party or, as is the human condition, join the emerging political majority opposed to all things left of left of center. You will enjoy the likes of Bernie, Lizzie and Imam Ellison as they lead the remaining delusionals into minor party status. What a great time to be an observer.
1
Anyone with half a brain long ago figured out that trump is a total fraud and a compulsive serial liar. Lying about the rainy weather while he was being sworn in, and repeating the lie, really? One can only imagine what fraud and lies trump's hidden tax returns would reveal. Kudos to passing laws that require all Presidential candidates to make their tax records public. Potential conflicts of interests with foreign governments and business, particularly trump's beloved role model Putin and the Russian oligarchs, is critically important.
3
We must know what is in these taxes in order to be sure that our President is honest and true. Members of Congress could help to make this happen, and neither Trump nor leaders of Congress should be afraid of the truth. It will come out one way or the other. Why would Congress oppose measures to ensure that these important documents are released? Why do I ask? Consider the Russian interference into local "down ballot" elections, and imagine that this might have happened two or four years ago. How might this have shaped Congress? Exactly who has supported the Radical Right wing, and where does their money come from? Who supports their media outlets? These are needed answers. If it is possible that oil and coal industries just may be involved. I encourage all concerned citizens to drive less, and take public transport, and avoid certain places of business until we have this information. You can still vote with your wallet. Millions marched last week, and millions can change their spending habits. Save the planet.
1
I don't care anything about Hillarys or Trumps Tax Return. It's irrelevant and stupid.
3
During the campaign only Hillary called for release of his taxes. A little late but at least you do it now. Please stay on it. America needs the press to do its work now more than ever.
Trump, the minority president, can't understand why everyone doesn't love him when he keeps doing what he promosed the minority. The majority is marching against his destruction of our way of life and against his dismantling of our progress on the environment, women's rights, and the economy. Unless he figures this out it will get bumpier and bumpier for him. He is ill and can't function unless he feels everyone loves him. They will not as long as he keeps trying to destroy our econony, the progress of women, our foreign relations, our place in the world......
Trump, the minority president, can't understand why everyone doesn't love him when he keeps doing what he promosed the minority. The majority is marching against his destruction of our way of life and against his dismantling of our progress on the environment, women's rights, and the economy. Unless he figures this out it will get bumpier and bumpier for him. He is ill and can't function unless he feels everyone loves him. They will not as long as he keeps trying to destroy our econony, the progress of women, our foreign relations, our place in the world......
1
Trump is not one of us.. I mean he is too rich to be one of us. He believes rightly his wealth excludes him from being one of us. Kellyanne says so when she proclaims no one as rich as Trump has ever been President .. with so many holdings and businesses.. Some how this means he is not one of us. Didn't he campaign on the fact that he was one of us? Should the complexites of his wealth exclude him from the rigors of being one of us? Someday, and I hope soon we will break through Mr. Trumps hedgerow. Someday, and I hope soon he will have to stop lying. Someday and I hope soon he will vist a shrink. I will gladly pay… just take it out of my taxes. I mean maybe he can't afford it .All I know is that we can't.
2
Please, are there no white hats?
Isn't it amusing that when a recent Democrat running for the presidency was questioned about his birthplace, a Constitutional requirement for the office, and didn't release his birth certificate (or a copy of it) until he had already been in the office for three years, none of you whiners complained. He ignored a Constitutional requirement and you found that just fine.
But when a Republican becomes President, you demand to see his income tax records, something you have no legal right to demand, and excoriate him in a thousand ways for exercising that legal right.
Might I suggest that you all move to Venezuela. It's close, and it's current administration runs just the way you like: the rulers make the rules, and those who don't like it get shot, if the lack of any food in the food stores doesn't starve them first.
But when a Republican becomes President, you demand to see his income tax records, something you have no legal right to demand, and excoriate him in a thousand ways for exercising that legal right.
Might I suggest that you all move to Venezuela. It's close, and it's current administration runs just the way you like: the rulers make the rules, and those who don't like it get shot, if the lack of any food in the food stores doesn't starve them first.
2
Donald Trump is our President for the next four years and outside of an egregious act, the media and Nytimes will have little effect and perhaps an impact contrary to their intentions by virtue of the bias the have demonstrably both during and after the campaign. Like the Boy who Cried Wolf, the Nytimes/Media has lost the trust and authority to have influence when legitimate matters like the tax returns are before us. I'm deeply troubled by Trump's positions on any number of issues, his bald face lying, and his seemingly genuine psychiatric issues. The media has such a long road ahead to restoring public trust and influence and is hell bent on further destruction of legitimacy that we have lost a leg in the stool of truth. It is now up to the Courts and Legislative branches to bring balance to the Trump Presidency. We have true test of Democracy at hand. I am not optimistic
1
We are dealing with a many headed hydra. Nothing that any of the heads speaks is true, and when one head is cut off, two grow back. The more he feels trapped (by things like being less popular than Obama's inaugural for instance) the greater the heads that grow back are. The stronger their lies are.
I would love to see his tax return, but I am not certain even a Congressional edict will make him release them. Obviously we can discern he is hiding something. Perhaps impeachment....??
I would love to see his tax return, but I am not certain even a Congressional edict will make him release them. Obviously we can discern he is hiding something. Perhaps impeachment....??
19
The conclusion of this editorial is incorrect. The hidden information is not about his past but very much about his and our nation's present situation.
15
If you have a dead body behind a closed door and people are asking you to open the door, would you? Given what is likely to be on trump's tax returns, he is far better off taking the pressure than releasing them. Basically, you can judge how bad the information on the tax returns is to trump's reputation by his resistance to releasing it.
16
I strongly encourage the NYTimes to keep writing about this.
30
Trump thinks he would have won the popular vote if it weren't for all those illegal voters; 2 or 3 million or so. If he believes this he is delusional. But I don't think he is - I think he is going to perpetuate this lie to influence voting laws that make it more difficult for people to participate in our democracy. Likewise, Trump has paid no taxes for years and now he wants to use mine and all of hrs to build a wall which also is delusional considering how the money could be used, ironically, for more constructive purposes. If he is as rich as he claims, why doesn't he pay for the wall himself.
8
Watergate. Deep Throat. "Follow the money".
20
We had an election. Tax returns were baked in the cake. Trump won. The people do not care. Get over it. Move on.
6
So, did you sign yet?
The link is at the start of the article and it takes like two seconds. Signing the petition is one clear way to really help "make America great agin."
The link is at the start of the article and it takes like two seconds. Signing the petition is one clear way to really help "make America great agin."
8
It's time for some good investigative reporting on what's happening in the background with Steve Bannon and the Mercers. Bannon wants to destroy the existing world order and he and Putin are on the same page. Bannon also looks on Putin as the white man's last hope. Trump loves being our front but he's not the guy making the decisions.
11
We the People...
Perhaps we should join our new President and stop paying our taxes to the federal government.
A president who takes pride in not paying his fair share (of federal taxes) and defies decades of democratic norms and decency by refusing to disclose his federal tax returns should not be able to collect and spend our tax dollars.
Perhaps we should join our new President and stop paying our taxes to the federal government.
A president who takes pride in not paying his fair share (of federal taxes) and defies decades of democratic norms and decency by refusing to disclose his federal tax returns should not be able to collect and spend our tax dollars.
9
Richard - your Scarlett Johansson obsession is gross - she's half your age. Your Trump is showing.
3
Woo Hoo!! I'm in full agreement with his releasing them. Glenn
Only 310,00?!? C'mon America. We can do better than that! Bigly!
3
I want to see his tax returns, too. He can't have it both ways with corruption and transparency. I'm signing the petition as soon as I get off the bus and am home. I will urge my friends to sign, too. And I will write a message of support to Senators Wyden and Murphy.
We must not let up on the messages of principles of last week's march.
We must not let up on the messages of principles of last week's march.
6
There is no more delicious irony than the New York Times starting a headline with "We the People"
6
Broken promises! Outrageous behavior! A think skinned bully! That's our President. We voted him in on this platform so don't expect him to change. What consequences do you think our disdain will have on him? Nothing. Welcome to the next four year.
2
"I'm a crook."
5
Putin won't let him release his taxes. It's part of the agreement. Trump wants to, he really does. But Vlad says no. So its no.
3
Get his medical records too. And not from that doc who wrote that weird "he's the healthiest hog in the barn" pablum. A real exam. Throw in the shrink stuff too. We got a lemon who is going to add trillions to the debt after griping about the debt.
6
You asked Hillary to release her paid speech transcripts. Fat lot of good that did. I expect this plea will have the same result.
5
WikiLeaks where are you?
It is a fantastic suggestion that we have a march on April 15, tax day, to demand that Trump release his taxes! At the same time it would be great if NYT and other sensible media outlets seriously assess the news briefings and news conferences by analyzing them with a real time Reality Check Team (ala CNN) to determine whats blatantly unfactual/incorrect in Trump events. This analysis would have to be done CONCURRENTLY and broadcast with/during the media event so that basic fact checking can be bundled as an INTRINSIC part of the event. This would become part of what listeners/readers would come to expect. An essential part of the event. FACT CHECK FIRST and only then press commentary. Not hard to have 2 windows on the screen or in an article. As it is now, Trump and Spicer have the press jumping through hoops like seals. You report their raw claims and statements unverified and, whatever they say, no matter how untrue, is propagated to the public. Coming back a day later with facts is too late. You have lost the moment. Be great too if you quit treating his tweets as news events...put them in after Sports section or in the classifieds...even there they are mostly just a weird form of toxic autocratic entertainment.
2
3 million more voters voted for Hillary thank for Trump. Know what that means? Trump is a LOSER!!
9
The new President demanded Obama's birth certificate be produced. For not releasing his tax returns, he shouldn't have received one vote. Not one.
11
So the Whitehouse petition page exists for what purpose- the appearance of democracy? I'm tired of politicians speaking for the people and then when people speak through actions like a petition we're told a blatant lie, "people don't care about his taxes." I'm the "people" and I care! If the Trump administration doesn't want to release his taxes because they're not required to then say that but don't use "the people" as an excuse.
3
The louder they chime "Nothing to see here! Move on. No one cares..." the more we can know there is something to hide.
3
If there's nothing damaging in Trump's returns, then why all the foot dragging? President Trump wants Americans to "trust" and "believe" him? Here is an opportunity for him to silence his critics and to remove any lingering suspicion. Why not do it today and have it over and done with? What's stopping you, Mr. President?
7
Trump is not a wimp. He's consummate con man. He believes the more he talks about crowd and voter fraud, the more the electorate forget about the release of his income tax return. America do not allow yourself to be manipulated by this megalomaniac. He has managed to hypnotize his victimized votaries. The rest of the nation should not be part of his gaping sycophant crowd. That Trump should release his income tax is a tasked that must be pursued diligently.
7
Nothing nationally damaging. But hugely damaging to the Trump brand as they would reveal a mere multi-millionaire, not a billionaire. In other words, the public would learn that he would have been better off investing his massive inheritance in an index fund than trying to play businessman. Of course, being uber rich is not all-important if one has solid character and values. Unfortunately, once Trump's TEN BILLION DOLLAR net worth is found to be a lie, he has nothing to fall back on.
4
Where is wiki leaks on this? Indeed, pass the law to require Presidential candidates to disclose their returns as a prerequisite for running. We go to great lengths to vet
Cabinets nominees but not for POTUS. There should to be a benchmark security clearance at the very least which includes tax returns.
All of this could have been avoided if
the electoral college upheld the standards imbedded in its mandate, it failed to hold Trump accountable. We the people will not rest until he is accountable.
Cabinets nominees but not for POTUS. There should to be a benchmark security clearance at the very least which includes tax returns.
All of this could have been avoided if
the electoral college upheld the standards imbedded in its mandate, it failed to hold Trump accountable. We the people will not rest until he is accountable.
2
He will never release them voluntarily. Never. Obviously. He will not be persuaded by reason, by sentiment, by threats. Whatever he is hiding is so damaging he was willing to risk losing all credibility as a candidate and now as "president" to keep it secret. Only hackers, or subpoena will out them. But his lawyers will find a way to to resist or indefinitely delay responding to a subpoena. Holding on to the hope that he'll be moved by a petition even signed by 50 million, or protesters numbering in the tens of millions, is delusional. The sooner we realize that the better.
3
Trump is a conman. He delivers just enough to get what he wants (give me your vote and I'll release returns AFTER the audit) then moves the goalposts (no release because no one is interested in them except the media).
5
The making of a dictator. See: Turkey, Erdogan, President. Trump is following the playbook.
5
Please go to WH.org and navigate to petition page. Sign before this strongman takes it down.
5
"...a claim that a recent Washington Post-ABC News poll disproved"
Unless Drudge or Breitbart take up this cause it's a non-starter. He surely won't care what 'the dishonest media left wing liberal lying press' are polling. And even were his tax returns released and shocking information revealed, then what? Would the Republican majority house, senate, or judiciary hold him accountable? Sadly, probably another non-starter.
Unless Drudge or Breitbart take up this cause it's a non-starter. He surely won't care what 'the dishonest media left wing liberal lying press' are polling. And even were his tax returns released and shocking information revealed, then what? Would the Republican majority house, senate, or judiciary hold him accountable? Sadly, probably another non-starter.
What difference does it make? He's president, and in two days has done more than Obama during his first year as president.
3
When Trump was a private citizen, he would come out and make these outlandish demands about birth certificates and whatever and then go into hiding. Now that he is working for us, he is suppose to not go into hiding but be transparent. Trying to choke the press is not being transparent; making the attendance amount one of his biggest complaints is very sad. Got your popcorn ready??
5
When pigs fly
1
Release the Returns!!! This must be our next rally cry!
3
There should be no speculation that he might be hiding something. He IS in fact hiding something. It's his motivation which isn't clear. His supporters don't care. Fine. But most Americans do care and should continue to demand that Trump is not a crook, as should the media. Every day. His victory doesn't give him the benefit of the doubt.
5
Thank you, New York Times for getting the word out. Now please New York Times readers, sign it. And round up your friends to sign it. If there are enough signatures Trump will do our good work getting the word out, but complaining about it. Let people know that in some small way we can get word through to Washington.
With apologies to NIKE, just do it!!!
With apologies to NIKE, just do it!!!
3
And thank you, NYT, for calling him "Mr. Trump." If he wants to be referred to as "President," he should release his taxes, as have his predecessors in office.
2
Kellyann Conway is willfully ignorant.
4
He gave his word when he said he would "absolutely" release them. His word is no good. He has no conscious or integrity. He is willfully dishonest. But then, we knew this a long time ago.
3
Count me in. I'm one of the 73% who would like to see the Trump tax returns. And the idea of showing up in DC or at local IRS offices to demand that president T releases his taxes makes a good focus for April protests.
4
Here is Donald Trump on video promising to release his tax returns if he runs for president.
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2016/9/6/1567316/-Here-s-Donald-Trump-on-v...
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2016/9/6/1567316/-Here-s-Donald-Trump-on-v...
3
I want to see how many NYT "journalists" voted for Hillary. Never mind, it was 99%. Enough said.
3
It seems as if every governmental department and agency has been hacked at one time or another. And yet no one can come up with Trump's tax returns? Amazing.
6
Thief in Chief:
All of your past history suggests you have much to hide. I will continue to believe you have outrageous conflicts until some good entity subpoenas those records.
America
All of your past history suggests you have much to hide. I will continue to believe you have outrageous conflicts until some good entity subpoenas those records.
America
3
I care. Please release your tax returns, Mr Trump.
1
Trump's obsession is becoming the richest and most powerful guy in any room. His work is not over. He is setting the stage to race through 4 years of brand building as President then resume his quest for trillions. He is a serial liar, a sociopath and a tax cheat whose character is as wispy as his bouffant. Unfortunately, excepting his inevitable demise, we will all have to suffer too.
1
Really? I don't know anybody who wants to see his tax returns or who would understand them if they did. "Ordinary" people that is.
3
I agree but you guys are kidding yourselves. There is no legal requirement that he disclose. He refused too and still got elected. The only people complaining didn't vote for him and less are complaining now than before the election. No way he buckles on this. The White House petitions will disappear as soon as they update the website.
Change the law to require it. Even if only NY/CA did it, you can't get the GOP nomination without trying for delegates from NY/CA.
Change the law to require it. Even if only NY/CA did it, you can't get the GOP nomination without trying for delegates from NY/CA.
2
I wonder what would happen if we the people decided not to file OUR taxes until Trump releases his returns. If each of us who owe taxes refused to file, remitting instead a protest letter stating our intentions, we would jam the ability of the already over-burdened IRS to come after us - as a federal agency, it would not be allowed to hire additional staff, of course (Trump's hiring freeze) - so Trump would be held responsible for our group recalcitrance unless or until he released his tax returns. Winning!
Thank you, Editorial Board, for bringing this petition to the attention of your readers. While the new administration may choose to hit the 'ignore' button on this and other issues, we must keep pushing back. His behavior, his rhetoric, his staff of 'pit bulls' is beyond disheartening, but I want to believe that together we can create a message that can't continue to be ignored.
5
What if... Trump doesn't have anything wrong in his tax return and all this "I cant show my tax return" is just a smokescreen... ok. He is not that sophisticated
2
Trump lied? I'm shocked, shocked I tell you.
4
How does the average reader, like me now, add his/her name to the petition right now? It would be useful for the NYT to provide the link each day along with its editorial so the reader can act immediately and not delay and forget to take action. Thank you.
3
I challenge all good hackers out there. Do your job!
5
I wonder how long it will take for the We the People petition site to disappear from the White House page.
6
My bad: I hadn't realized until reading this column that two Senators have already introduced a bill that would compel Mr. Trump to finally come clean about his finances. As soon as the offices of my two Senators open for business today, I plan to call them and urge them to strongly support this proposed legislation (which probably has a very formal title, such as "The Compulsory Federal Executive Branch Financial Disclosure Act of 2017" but might just as well be called "The What's He HIDING? Act").
4
Thank goodness for the temerity of 'The New York Times' and 'The Guardian'. They remain the two sole mainstream organs of the press ready to question Trump's deliberate march towards authoritarian rule with his gag orders and openly racist exclusion schemes for Muslims. But please don't tarry, for I fear that Trump will take a cue from his fellow fascist rider Reycep Erdogan in Turkey and shut down your paper over some 'trumped-up' accusations of libel or 'threat' to national 'security'. Don't let this tax return issue die !
6
What audit? Anyone really doubt that's a lie as well?
5
There is no law that requires a presidential candidate or serving president to make their tax returns public. So the tradition started why? Political expedience and benefit only. I for one would feel a whole lot more comfortable with congress passing a law of some kind before we listen to media & party hacks nosy silly logic. It's a lot like the electoral college reforms. The losers screamed for change in 2000 and zippo amendment effort. 2017 the same losers scream for change again and there is little doubt that zippo will be done again. What the losers are really up-set with is that the present is the fact that Pres. Trump again looked at the media and said NO & then won. If public disclosure of tax returns is such a good idea editorialize for a law making it a requirement in future. Right now it's spilled milk that isn't going to be wiped up by anyone.
3
"The only logical conclusion is that the candidate who pledged to clean up Washington is hiding damaging information about his past." His past? (Yes a return is about 'the past', technically.) It is the present and the future we're worried about.
1
Does Trump still own businesses deriving income from Saudi Arabia? His own supporters should want to know. Saudi Arabia is suspiciously absent from Trump's list of countries that pose a national-security threat. That means the Muslim-ban, I mean, "extreme-vetting" doesn't apply to people coming here from Mecca...
2
I believe there is no audit in progress; never was. And I believe that the tax returns will be the way to catch this poor excuse for a human being and hold him accountable for a lifetime of sleazy, slimy behavior. By the way, guess what finally sent Al Capone to prison? Tax evasion.
3
The only way we'll ever see Trump's Tax returns is if they're hacked. And maybe they've already been hacked by Russia, and Trumps been told by Putin, "You are now my little-pawed Puppy Dog, Donald, and you'll get rid of those sanctions. Right?"
3
Release your tax returns you liar.
4
I find it really surprising that there are no anti-Trump hackers not only in the USA, but in the World. Where are those guys and gals hiding? Time to practice your skills and dig up all the dirt you can find on Trump. Seems that his closet should be HUUUUGE and contain more than the average number of skeletons.
2
Stirring the pot is not responsible journalism. .
1
The president is really a Don
(He thinks he's a real Don Juan)
But so far his Don-ways
Have morphed into Con-ways
I tell you, this Don is a Con!
(He thinks he's a real Don Juan)
But so far his Don-ways
Have morphed into Con-ways
I tell you, this Don is a Con!
7
I demand he keep he keep his tax returns secret so your snowflake liberal heads will keep exploding. I did not hear a word from you people concerning Hillary's corrupt charity so now it's pay back. We are in charge now.
2
Our national security and the safety of our lives and communities depend on knowing what is in those returns. Show us!!! No one can be above the law without consequences . Trump has the nuclear codes now. Show us!!!
4
Trump is a coward.
5
Richard Nixon once famously declared "... I am not a crook." The equivalent statement from Donald J. Trump would be "I am not a crook, but if I were a crook, I'd be the greatest, yuugest crook in history!" And that might just be the most honest statement he will ever make.
8
Citizens and the media must hound Trump and Trump's representatives constantly until Trump releases his federal tax returns. There is only one reason he doesn't. Trump has something to hide!!!!!!!!
3
Hasn't NYT gotten it yet? Trump doesn't care what the "public " thinks.
The only way we will ever see his tax returns is if someone hacks the IRS or his tax accountants. Seems like the hackers can hack the IRS, the US Personnel Office, Yahoo, and the Democratic party, but cannot not successfully hack the IRS to get Trump's tax returns.
Bet if someone did, he would both be a billionaire (the press would pay enormous amounts of money) and in jail...............and Trump would say they are not his tax returns.
The only way we will ever see his tax returns is if someone hacks the IRS or his tax accountants. Seems like the hackers can hack the IRS, the US Personnel Office, Yahoo, and the Democratic party, but cannot not successfully hack the IRS to get Trump's tax returns.
Bet if someone did, he would both be a billionaire (the press would pay enormous amounts of money) and in jail...............and Trump would say they are not his tax returns.
The New York Times should request Donald Trump to release his most recent tax statement NOT under audit.
2
I am "we the people" and I don't think President Trump's tax returns are anyone's business. So there!
1
What if he releases them? What then?
Trump will NEVER release those returns, simply because they will show him to be a phony. He is not worth as much as he says, his debt burdens are probably higher than he says, and he's probably tied up to more shady deals than he says. Will we ever see them? Maybe, things have a way of getting out in the age of the internet. Then I hope we can move along and impeach this buffoon...
1
No doubt those tax returns would reveal more mess than an oil spill on the Louisiana coast. PREDICTION : they will never be released. He'll hurl every rope-a- donald that can be invented or imagined to keep it from happening.
1
Trump the tyrant will never release his taxes, even if legally forced to do so. As an individual he's despicable. As a president he's lower than that. He acts with impudence, and like he's untouchable. Demand is too soft a word. Impeachment is what needs to be done. He's obviously hiding his machinations with Russia. Even if he does which I doubt, his delusional dissembler, Kellyanne, will say there are alternative facts. Let the courts decide.
1
Can't the office of the IRS just be asked, demand rather, to see Trumps tax returns? Surely the auditors and some other people know this information. Why can't they just release it, send it in, to the New York Times, for example? It would be no more illegal or sneaky, than what Trump is doing himself.
To a patriot IRS employee:
Leak Mr. Trump's tax returns!
Leak Mr. Trump's tax returns!
1
Don't worry. Someone in the IRS will leak it.
2
What leverage exists to force Trump to do ANYTHING? He is already in violation of his lease for his DC Hotel; he is already in violation of the Constitution's emoluments clause. He is muzzling Federal employees and freezing new hires. He will soon install the richest, whitest, least qualified Cabinet in the history of the country. He called his own inauguration an National Holiday (who DOES that?) and is overturning years of progress with the stroke of his executive pen. No one and nothing can stop this runaway train. The entire Republican party now cowers before him. The only way we will see his tax returns is if Wikileaks manages to get to them. That we are looking to Julian Assange as some kind of hero is truly the ultimate dystopian twist. And this is only Day 3. Let us hope that future history books (if there is any study of history and if there are any books) don't record the Women's March as the first battle of our second Civil War.
When Ms. Conway said it had already been "litigated". Like so many other words she's been using lately it all reminds me of the scene from The Princess Bride;
"You Keep Using That Word, I Do Not Think It Means What You Think It Means"
"You Keep Using That Word, I Do Not Think It Means What You Think It Means"
2
Trump wouldn't let up on Obama about something as simple as his birth certificate. We can not let Trump get away with hiding this potentially explosive information.
10
This should be the HEADLINE EVERYDAY until we all know about DT tax returns. Maybe put a permanent banner on the front page demanding for his tax returns.
17
Now, Trump. We want and demand to see your taxes now - there is no one I know that doesn't want to see your taxes!! Should've been before the election.
9
Where do I sign?
7
Mister President, Release your income taxes! How else can we know that you are serving the interests of our country above your own? Despite your disdain for the traditions of the Presidency, we deserve to know by the rights of this tradition of disclosure which insures your legal standing and ours. Respect us! We want to know. We need to know.
6
Many, many millions do care about DJT's taxes and will forever doubt his credibility without them. But, why exactly does an audit take so long that it never gets finished? (I suspect that DJT and his lawyers spin his debt in so many directions that a clean, comprehensive audit is impossible.) Why not reveal what a partial audit looks like? Or is everything way too late since he is now pulling strings furiously as the CEO of all Washington, DC? It feels like so, so many have dropped the ball that it just won't bounce anymore.
5
Can someone please explain how legit released taxes would be and if there any way someone could redact or otherwise alter tax records? Thank you
2
Yes, that is the only conclusion, that is if one was dealing with someone who was sane. You aren't, so it will take a law. Good luck. One more example of how rich people win. We should not have bailed them out in 09. We lost, they won, again.
6
There is nothing that says President Trump has to release his tax return. Would any of you com mentors release your returns just because others have.
4
There will be ice on the equator before Trump releases his tax returns. If there're problems he opens himself up to lawsuits, Irs audits and endless congressional inquiries. If there's nothing there he gets the immense satisfaction of torturing his opponents by not releasing them. ...like the people who wrote this editorial. I happen to believe it's more likely the latter...the sadist in him enjoys watching his foes twist in the wind. Face it this is never going to happen, the 62 million people who voted for him don't care...I believe there are bigger fish to fry than this.
4
This issue was front and center during the election. Trump said he wouldn't release his taxes (which is not required). Trump won. Time to move on.
4
Even excluding 5 million imaginary fraudulent votes a good 40 million citizen taxpayers did not vote for DJT, so the argument that the election is over and nobody cares about his tax returns is a crock. From what has been leaked already we can be pretty sure he didn't pay any federal tax for years, and from his own mouth we know that he considers himself smart for doing so.
The remaining questions are what does he own, who owes him, and who does he owe?
The remaining questions are what does he own, who owes him, and who does he owe?
5
Pony up, Mr. President. This citizen definitely wants to see your tax returns, and the sooner the better. Come on!
5
Finally! Thank you. Now how to make it happen?
3
I am teaching a college course on Rule Breakers. My hope all year was that Americans would NOT vote for someone who refused to release his taxes- there were quotes from DT about Romney's taxes. But that did not happen, He won the election-(not popular vote) anyway.
He flaunted convention and he was not punished.
I hate to say it, but Conway was right. Americans may care, but they did not care enough to deny him the most powerful office in the world. What on earth would compel him to release them now?
He flaunted convention and he was not punished.
I hate to say it, but Conway was right. Americans may care, but they did not care enough to deny him the most powerful office in the world. What on earth would compel him to release them now?
3
Donald Trump made much of the claim that Hillary Clinton was beholden to Middle Eastern leaders who had supported the Clinton Foundation.
But Trump himself refuses to prove to us that he hasn't acquired similar obligations along with his wealth.
No wonder he says 'Trust me' so often. Those aren't empty words. He wants us to trust him.
Let him earn it first.
But Trump himself refuses to prove to us that he hasn't acquired similar obligations along with his wealth.
No wonder he says 'Trust me' so often. Those aren't empty words. He wants us to trust him.
Let him earn it first.
None of my friends believe me when I tell them that Trump's supporters have their limits. Good decent people threw a Hail Mary and elected this man because they have seen and felt our America stumbling for decades now. While they might be a little high now and acting tribal after this surprising win, soon they will return to being the clear eyed patriots they are, not lemming who will follow anyone off a cliff. These IRS returns could become a deal breaker in short order. The truth will out. Insist upon it.
5
The logic behind a massive Trump Tax Return Protest is so obvious:
since he is now the leader of the government (including the IRS) we will all be submitting our tax returns to him, and therefore he should absolutely have to reciprocate.
As responsible citizens, we must not let this issue simply fade away!
since he is now the leader of the government (including the IRS) we will all be submitting our tax returns to him, and therefore he should absolutely have to reciprocate.
As responsible citizens, we must not let this issue simply fade away!
5
Will seeing Trump's tax returns matter? Some have tried to defend Trump by saying he's not a liar, because he believes what he says, and simply delusional. A lying president is bad, but a delusional president is okay? Either way he can't be trusted to ever admit a wrongdoing, and the Republican leadership controlling all branches of government refuse to hold him accountable, even for ludicrously false statements.
4
I presume my own tax returns no longer need to be truthful, in the new spirit of America, where lies and obfuscations and ignorance - claimed and real - are encouraged and bragged about by the President. Surely this assinine and corrupt President's behavior now frees all American taxpayers of the burden to submit truthful tax returns and any other claims and forms for government services? Imagine that! A country where lies and deceit are prized over honesty by the leader. Oh, I forgot. That's standard practice in Russia!
10
The Wizard of Oz, starring Donald J. Trump as the great and mighty powerful Wizard. Written and directed by "we" the people.
2
We the People respectfully request from the MSM to stop the
persecution against President Trump and let him do his job.
Your dislike towards the man has turned into an obsessive fixation, and is hurting the Nation.
Thank you.
persecution against President Trump and let him do his job.
Your dislike towards the man has turned into an obsessive fixation, and is hurting the Nation.
Thank you.
3
He will never release his returns voluntarily. It's a waste of time to try. This should have been pushed and cared about before the election, not after. Unless a judge orders it in a corruption lawsuit it's over. People worried more about emails and charitable foundations than Trumps obvious conflicts. That was a choice we made when it counted. Now we have four years to suffer through until we have any hope of clawing our way out of this hole.
4
Americans will die for Trump lies.
6
What ordinary American are you talking about? I do think we may be in line for a high drama potentially problematic presidency but his taxes will not mean anything to what is to come for good or bad.
2
I believe he is on record as stating he would release his taxes after the IRS completes their review. Well let the Media begin pressuring the IRS through Editorials and front page articles about their slowness. The lets pressure Trump to live up to his words.
1
President Trump has no legal obligation to release his Tax Returns. It is not a requirement to be President and although other Presidents have done it in the past-it means nothing going forward. Liberals continue to beat the subject into the ground. Move on!!
3
One trait of the self-absorbed personality “they are amazing and everyone else is a disaster”. It is a sure bet they use the words “I” and “amazing” in the same sentence meanwhile the rest of us are packaged with the descriptor disaster. If Trump is so very very amazing why doesn’t he flaunt us with his tax returns for the past five years? Unless Mitt Romney was correct, Trump is a huckster.
1
What the tax returns may reveal is that Trump is a cheat and a crook as well as a braggart and liar. More sinister is that he is probably in debt to Russian banks and gangsters, including Vladimir Putin. Contrary to Kellyann Conway's assertion that we don't care, YES WE DO!
7
Trump: stop being a coward and show your tax returns.
5
You guys are too late. He is already elected. You have no leverage. Maybe this was posted 5 months ago and I did not see it.
2
I think the Petitions Page is not working.
I put up petition about Student Loans and nobody can find it.
https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/federal-bankruptcy-code-includ...
I put up petition about Student Loans and nobody can find it.
https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/federal-bankruptcy-code-includ...
Finally, the editorial page writers of the NYT are moving past shock and awe, and are now looking for ways to effectively engage in "loyal opposition." Thank you, Mr. Bruni, and also to David Brooks, for stepping up and leading the rhetorical charge.
1
Trump doesn't want any financial info about himself made public. This would expose him as the corrupt, shady and dishonest businessman that he is.
3
Maybe during the next 'press conference' every reporter in that room would agree to ask just that one crazy question:
Why has Donald Trump gone back on his word to release his income tax when his spin doctor Kelly Ann Conway said he would towards the end of the campaign?
Over and over again Sean Spicer wouldn't get a different question.
Of course it would be a difficult proposition to pull off since they have obviously got friendly reporters planted in the room, but would be interesting nonetheless.
Why not fight fire with fire?
Why has Donald Trump gone back on his word to release his income tax when his spin doctor Kelly Ann Conway said he would towards the end of the campaign?
Over and over again Sean Spicer wouldn't get a different question.
Of course it would be a difficult proposition to pull off since they have obviously got friendly reporters planted in the room, but would be interesting nonetheless.
Why not fight fire with fire?
6
Trump will never release his real tax returns. He has far too much to hide. If not, he would have cleared the air before the election as the IRS said he could. What about a thorough report in his health? What about a complete disclosure of his foreign business interests? In fact, we know less about Trump than any president in modern times. This is no accident.
The IRS has gone over his returns. Any problems with them will be handle there. The IRS has gone over my returns and found no problems. Think I should release them to the press and public? Not a chance and Trump shouldn't either. None of their business.
2
Trumplstiltskin is petrified we will realize he is an illegitimate
UNpresident. That's why he obsesses about the crowd size and that he lost by almost 3 million votes. Where are you tax returns Mr T!
UNpresident. That's why he obsesses about the crowd size and that he lost by almost 3 million votes. Where are you tax returns Mr T!
2
The NYT and other serious news reporting organizations must never abandon the issue of Trump's tax returns, no matter how otherwise overloaded the news cycle gets. Therein are the thuggish associates, compromising deals and tax avoidance scams of our President. Our President.
3
Why can't the IRS simply wrap up Trump's audit and take that excuse off the table? What's stopping them? I'm sure Trump's taxes are complicated, but if they feel he is underpaying what he owes, surely they could reopen an audit at any time in the future; what's the hangup here?
3
Name added: Thank you for providing the link. Anyone else?
2
Will all of you set up a march for issues affecting tens of millions of your compatriots?: Honestly, all I want is a job, a goid job. I'm tired of going from unemployment to underemployment. I want more for our veterans in the way of resources and respect. I want to stop competing with people who are here illegally from South America for the work that I can get... will all of you set up marches for those three major issues our country has been dealing with? Where's your passion and fight on those critical public policy issues?
I am tired of people saying that the people don't care. I have always cared. It seems not to matter that we demand it.
5
Maybe some IRS employee could do us all a favor and release trump's taxes for him? Trump loves wikileaks so we can only assume he'd be ok with this.
7
Trump obviously has something to hide--otherwise, why not release them? What we need is a Trump-like personality to take the issue on, similar to how Trump became the face of his very disturbing "birtherism" movement. Someone famous whose sole mission is to be in the news, asking Trump to produce his tax returns!
All I know is that I'm an average American, and what did my sign say at the March this weekend? "Tax Returns Now." I care, and Trunp can't prove he is governing in good faith until he releases his tax returns.
All I know is that I'm an average American, and what did my sign say at the March this weekend? "Tax Returns Now." I care, and Trunp can't prove he is governing in good faith until he releases his tax returns.
2
I believe the Dems should announce that will will filibuster ANY Supreme Court nominee until Trump shows his tax returns to the Senate Intelligence Committee (audit or no audit). How can we allow someone who is suspected of financial ties to the Russian government to make a lifetime appointment to the Supreme Court? Suppose 6 months from now Trump or members of his administration are shown to be in the pay of Russian secret services. Any confirmed justice would be considered illegitimate. This will cause a crisis for the American government. This is the patriotic thing to do. Write to Sen. Schumer and demand the Dems take this action.
2
I signed the petition after finding out about it on Huff Post. When I went to click on the "share" link though, first, a photo of Trump and Pence came up. Then, trying again, I came up with a dead link. Suspicious?
2
The same people who applauded Wikileaks' release of the DNC emails is strangely silent over Assange's threat to release Mr. Trump's tax returns...
This should be put to bed. His returns will likely show that he (legally) paid a lot less taxes than one would think fair, but who among us would pay more taxes than required by law? If he did something illegal in declaring his taxes, let the IRS address it. We should be holding his (and all the other politicians) feet to the fire on health care, education, social security, and other quality of life issues and not be distracted with other issues that are likely inconsequential.
The petition should have a deadline. "Release the tax returns by President's Day or be impeached." He is a threat to the democratic order. Hope the petition gains traction.
4
Trump remains the biggest target in the world. Give things time and we will be getting huge amounts of information on him. He really is an emperor with no clothes. I am anxious to see him exposed in front of the whole world. Be patient but be in his face.
3
Kellyanne Conway (con-way?) is conning us when she says that the election showed that "people didn't care." Actually, a majority of the voters did and do care. It's the majority of the Electors from the Electoral College who don't care. Trump should care. He should be willing to make this minor sacrifice which would do much to legitimize his presidency. He is unwilling to make even this small sacrifice. How can he expect anyone to respect him as Commander-in-Chief when he behaves like such a big baby?
5
Tomorrow, Trump will trot out Spicer to claim that those petitioners are all "illegal aliens." No evidence, of course, and no explanation of how illegal aliens would benefit from a release of Donald's tax returns.
2
Release the tax returns now. You work for the people.
5
I am worried that Trump will take the site down or sabotage it. It is over 300K signatures now and the threshold for a response from the WH is 100K. Is this site protected by any legislations? Who runs it? Very scary that you have to ask these type of questions about the head of state :(
2
So strange. I signed the petition this morning. It requires an email verification to be counted. I have not received the verification email. I can only hope the website has somehow become overloaded with requests for DJT to release his returns that it crashed. Wishful thinking?
1
Trump was elected president via an absurdly unbalanced electoral system that allowed him to win the election with 3 million fewer votes than his opponent, but it was perfectly legal. He made it clear that he would not release his taxes. Perhaps in the future, this will me made a requirement. It isn't now. It's perfectly legal and people voted for him. Making demands that Trump has no obligation to comply with, and which he will not comply with, just looks silly. I hate Trump, but I think the editorial board could come up with better suggestions for limiting the real damage that Trump can do while in office. And hopefully the democrats can find some real leadership for the next election.
1
March on Washington April 15th to demand his tax returns?
5
If the IRS takes many months to examine these returns, no layman or journalist is really going to make a eureka discovery even if they dedicated a mere two months (24/7) to reading them....and none of us are going to do that. Trump keeps the media in impossible land...impossible in this case due to the impossible amount of time necessary to find anything untoward. Think of it. Ordinary Trump haters thinking they'll find a simple crime in one day if only they could read those returns while the IRS takes months to understand the truckload load of papers.
The IRS can audit a maximum of 6 years, google it. I'd like the NYT and other news organizations to press for disclosure of all tax returns for 2009 and prior, they cannot be under audit.
2
...and why is the audit not finished yet?????
2
It is OUTRAGEOUS that he has not released his returns. Democracy demands an educated and involved populace; c'mon people, we can't let him get away with this! What is the next line he will cross if we continue to give him a pass?
3
'We The People' DEMAND that Trump release his tax returns! No more delays or excuses. Release them now!
3
Presidential candidates have voluntarily disclosed personal tax returns since the Watergate scandal? This is nothing less than TaxGate.
2
Candidate Trump was very proud of pushing for Barack Obama's birth certificate. He claimed that President Obama must have had something to hide when he did not display it originally. With that mindset, the only conclusion anyone can reasonably make about why President Trump does not release his tax returns is that he does have something serious to hide. We, the people, must not let this issue get forgotten.
4
Bring back Edward Snowden on the condition that he hack into and disclose all of Trump's business and tax files - it should be a cakewalk for him. It is not sufficient to demand the tax returns at this point: this man has massive, unconstitutional conflicts of interest everywhere we turn, and has done nothing at all to establish a blind trust, to divest, or to fully disclose how he has addressed these matters of grave concern. He is a liar and a con man, and the public needs to be fully informed of the depth of his fraud. 1/25, 8:39 AM
4
This is a canard. The Times has the resources to do an expose on the loopholes that many of the wealthy leverage with their high priced attorneys and accountants. The Times wants the returns to smear Trump and inflate the conflicts of interest angle further promoting divisiveness. I'm pretty sure Trump's high priced tax specialists kept him just on the safe side of the applicable tax laws. The real outrage should be at the loopholes that can be exploited, not the signature on the return.
2
Can't the Chinese hack into the IRS and release it?
1
The IRS, the same IRS that illegally targeted the Tea Party, has combed through Trump's taxes year after year, and under the Obama administration, this IRS looked for every wrong doing possible that Trump could have done, and found NOTHING illegal. So why do sanctimonious left wing liberals care and to what constructive purpose will they use this tax information, if at some point it was illegally stolen and divulged to the public? I cannot wait to hear the illogical rationalization and sanctimonious self-justification for this rationale.
4
I signed the petition, make sure you go to whitehouse.gov to do likewise. We can do it, we can make it happen. There just needs to be enough of us demanding it, relentlessly.
2
We should be calling for the IRS to wrap up the audit. Who cares what he might owe? The stakes are now astronomically high. Put the ball in his court. I really want to see those tax returns.
What does it say about our country that this ignorant, hateful liar has had so little trouble turning us into an authoritarian regime within a week of assuming power?
This is a job for Julian Assange.
What can individuals do to add to the demand that he reveal his tax returns? I was infuriated by his claim that nobody but the press cares. I care, deeply. Another march on Washington? The audit should be completed ASAP with the aid of extra staff borrowed from the CIA. Our national security could depend upon it.
1
Personally, I am not interested whatsoever in Trump's taxes. At this time of the year, I am interested only in my own. I suggest that everyone else in this nation focus on their own taxes and stop worrying about Trump's. Thank you.
3
Go to the link. Sign the petition.
1
Where do I sign up? I'd like to support the effort to "out" the (gag) President on this issue. It's appalling that he thinks he can get away with this. It's MORE appalling that he apparently NEEDS to get away with it.
I am left wondering where we are headed as a country with Mr. Trump as the President. There is no question that he has an appeal when he speaks about stopping other countries from taking our jobs or stopping companies from moving offshore by wanting to impose border tax on goods made outside the USA as does China and others countries. However, I cannot believe he will get away with not releasing his tax return. American media have no problem reporting on illegally obtained information on Mrs. Clinton's by Russia and Wikileaks but somehow Mr. Trump’s tax return remains hidden. If you think that Pres. Trump is a changed man better think again, affairs and many scandals are on the way. God help us!
Ordinary Americans wanted to see Obama's birth certificate- and?
3
I think there should be another mass demonstration on Tax Day, April 15, which falls on a Saturday this year. Also people can inundate the White House with mail, phone calls, and emails making this demand. I've got nothing to hide, what are you hiding, Trump?
Republicans refusal to pass legislation making it mandatory for any presidential candidate to release his or her tax returns. Just reiterates their hypocrisy, if they truly honor the full integrity of the highest office they should pass legislation. It's obvious, if you don’t have nothing to hide. Show your tax returns.
I applaud Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington ("CREW") and several legal scholars for commencing suit against Donald Trump in the NY federal court for violating the Emouluments Clause and to compel the production of the tax return. I was outraged to learn that we, the American taxpayers, are footing the cost of his defense against this lawsuit. What is wrong with this picture? Since his total lack of respect for the law necessitated the commencement of this type of lawsuit, at a minimum, he should pay the defense cost out of his own pocket. The US Justice Department should not get involved in providing his defense. Furthermore, using our money to defend Trump against this lawsuit is simply outrageous
Please stop it. Trump will not release his tax returns ever. How many times can you run this editorial and not see the futility? There is no law requiring he do so and congress will not force him. It is only tradition for him to do so and he cares nothing about tradition.Find actual, verifiable proof of his assets and release them. Then, if there is a law violated something can be done.
2
It may be that not all Republicans are crazy. But what does it take for the sane ones to recognize a crazy one?
Call your Senators (202-224-3121; number for U.S. Capitol). Tell them to support the "Presidential Tax Transparency Act of 2017," being sponsored by Senators Wyden and Murphy.
Keep the phone number on speed dial, and use it to let your Senators know that you care, OFTEN.
Keep the phone number on speed dial, and use it to let your Senators know that you care, OFTEN.
4
In addition, to the fact that he pays nothing to support our military he owes hundreds of millions to Russian oligarchs. He has and will betray us and yet the GOP will not impeach him. Terrible.
The returns can and should be subpoenaed as part of a complete and bipartisan investigation into his Russian business relations. This should be done now before the returns magically vanish, or in some other way are redacted or altered. Get a "screen shot" ASAP.
1
Americans, we don't have to feel powerless. Pick a topic and hammer on it. Transparancy is critical in a democracy; I will continue to call and email my Congressmen to hold this president accountable, and join organizations like https://www.womensmarch.com/100/
Keep TRump's flabby feet to the fire, because he WILL shut the doors of the White House on all of us. I can't do everything, but I can do something.
Keep TRump's flabby feet to the fire, because he WILL shut the doors of the White House on all of us. I can't do everything, but I can do something.
Or he could ask his buddy Putin to hack the IRS and release his tax returns.
1) all of his income tax returns and communications with the IRS;
2) all of his personal and corporate business records;
3) all of his medical and health records;
4) all of his campaign and President-elect records of any communications with any Russian and Israeli government officials;
5) all of his campaign and President-elect records of any communications with FBI Director James Comey;
6) all of his campaign and President-elect records of any communications with WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange;
7) all of the records regarding the immigration of Ivana and Melania Trump to the United States.