The ego-in-chief has a history of overreacting to any slight, however minor, with a flurry of memos, tweets and actions meant to shame and gut any opponent who doesn't agree with his view of the world or business practices. Now he has a nuclear option to back up his threats, and a man/child at his shoulder who believes in chaos. Not a good combination for our security when other nations now perceive them as making America the greatest bully on the block and the greatest threat to world stability. From starting a trade war, threatening to invade Mexico, hanging up on the President of our biggest ally in the Pacific, rolling back healthcare for women worldwide, it just doesn't get any greater than this! And they're only beginning their 3rd week in office.
9
What a mind-bending contrast he is to President Obama! We have moved from the sublime to the ridiculous.
20
A very eerie editorial, editorial board. Please don't let your thoughts on the subject end here.
It's increasingly clear that Trump, and Republicans, will listen to no one outside their circle. They've got a well-funded supporting orchestra of think tanks and online agitprop. Like the Titanic's band, they'll be playing on.
This country's citizen majority, dismissed as elitist, is left hoping bureaucrats and professional advisers will impose common-sense on Trump. They probably can't. Instead, there's a thousand or so Generals, C-level corporate executives, hedge-funders, other rich folk, and alt-right media mavens, who might have such influence.
This, I'm afraid, smacks of Fascism: a cabal of central power and business and military power holders. We're left hoping that Fascism will work, a perverse condition.
It's increasingly clear that Trump, and Republicans, will listen to no one outside their circle. They've got a well-funded supporting orchestra of think tanks and online agitprop. Like the Titanic's band, they'll be playing on.
This country's citizen majority, dismissed as elitist, is left hoping bureaucrats and professional advisers will impose common-sense on Trump. They probably can't. Instead, there's a thousand or so Generals, C-level corporate executives, hedge-funders, other rich folk, and alt-right media mavens, who might have such influence.
This, I'm afraid, smacks of Fascism: a cabal of central power and business and military power holders. We're left hoping that Fascism will work, a perverse condition.
14
Can I ask? How many here partaking in yet another hatchet job on Trump would be disappointed if he didn't start a nuclear war? You know just so you could say you were right?
This is more pathological than Fox news.
This is more pathological than Fox news.
5
There are people out there who believe that Mr. Trump is capable of acting rationally with respect to these ultimate weapons. These are probably the same people who said that we could not have a female president because of those "monthly" issues she might have and the possibility of nuclear war because of them.
We have some really stupid people in this country and there is nothing we can do about them.
However, we can all work together, starting right now, to get rid of Trump.
Resist.
We have some really stupid people in this country and there is nothing we can do about them.
However, we can all work together, starting right now, to get rid of Trump.
Resist.
21
An unstable and untrustworthy power monger like Trump having access to the nuclear codes is perhaps the scariest single fact of his presidency. The fact that he has treasonous, fascistic, white supremacist Steve Bannon advising him makes the situation doubly frightening. No matter how badly Trump screws up the workings of our government we have a chance to come back from it. There is no coming back from nuclear annihilation.
27
Because so many of us know that this president--our King Lear!--is mentally ill even though we don't have a psychiatrist's assessment (but hardly do we need that given all the evidence), there has to be a way to prevent him from doing the craziest of all crazies. I am thinking, ironically, about that ad Hillary Clinton's primary campaign had in 2008: the three a.m. one, suggesting she was more prepared than Obama to deal with that type of issue. But now we have the most unstable president ever (following quite possibly one of the most stable): and Congress needs to move and fast. Whatever it takes.
28
That our lives are in his hands is absolutely terrifying. What else is there to say, except to ask, 'is the Trump reign over yet?'
31
I am eerily reminded of the 1983 film "The Dead Zone" in which the main character (Christopher Walken), when he grasps someone's hand can see their future. He shakes the hand of a populist charismatic candidate for the Senate (Martin Sheen long before "The West Wing") and sees the candidate, now President, bullying the Secretary of Defense into pushing "the button" that sets off a nuclear attack, threatening to "cut off your hand" if he does not comply.
7
Intentional unpredictability is good. Your adversaries have to worry, will you de-escalate, respond proportionally, or gobsmack them?
Unintentional unpredictability is bad. It makes people's trigger fingers itch. A clever adversary can maneuver such a person into striking the wrong target at the wrong time.
You could count on Obama to de-escalate, or respond proportionally. That was a weakness because you knew that gobsmacking was off the table.
You can count on Trump to escalate quickly and strike the most obvious target. Like a bull facing a matador, he will strike the cape and ignore the sword.
Unintentional unpredictability is bad. It makes people's trigger fingers itch. A clever adversary can maneuver such a person into striking the wrong target at the wrong time.
You could count on Obama to de-escalate, or respond proportionally. That was a weakness because you knew that gobsmacking was off the table.
You can count on Trump to escalate quickly and strike the most obvious target. Like a bull facing a matador, he will strike the cape and ignore the sword.
9
I live in Florida. Florida is infamous for unregulated support of Republicans regardless of their views, lack of experience or ability to think clearly. What I find most frightening is that too many people down here believe, seriously believe, that Donald should in deed, nuke someone. They offer such nonsense as "It's necessary to send a strong message" and "We need to put these people in their place" and "There's too many Muslims and it would a great way to reduce threat of a Muslim takeover".
Trump is in outer space. So are his supporters. No one in their right mind could believe that threatening to use nukes is rational. I will not be surprised to see our nation involved in war. I feel badly for thousands who will suffer and sacrifice everything because Trump knows nothing.
Trump is in outer space. So are his supporters. No one in their right mind could believe that threatening to use nukes is rational. I will not be surprised to see our nation involved in war. I feel badly for thousands who will suffer and sacrifice everything because Trump knows nothing.
64
How could Congress assemble and declare war in 8 minutes? It would have to be "pre-declared".
3
Perhaps from the sheer exhaustion of my failed efforts to comprehend your madman in chief, I find myself readying for whatever end might await us from any impetuous, unexamined nuclear options Dr. Strangelove might eventually select
Might this be how the earth is fated to shed itself of the blight we call humanity? Perhaps Trump's only purpose is to push us over the proverbial edge into oblivion.
Might this be how the earth is fated to shed itself of the blight we call humanity? Perhaps Trump's only purpose is to push us over the proverbial edge into oblivion.
6
Button, Button!
In the context of a devolving Trump presidency, Daniel Kahneman's "Thinking, Fast and Slow" becomes a necessary, if possibly terrifying read. Without offering too much credit to any of President Trump's handlers, it almost seems some parts of this text have been added to a "Whitehouse Playbook" -- while also offering insights into human nature that the President himself may be incapable of processing. Fortunately, Kahneman's text can also become a guide to avoiding and countering some of the top-down manipulations already deployed by Team Trump and well tested by other historic figures.
President Trump's "System 1" brain may revel in playing an Antithesis-in-Chief, but the values he and too many of his advisors continue to denigrate and undermine can easily help scaffold a dialectic whose inevitable and cataclysmic synthesis will completely by-pass "System 2" reasoning -- for all of us. Trivialization of the "nuclear option" could make much more than the filibuster obsolete.
Whether ascribed to an Earth Day poster, to Walt Kelly's Pogo, or as re-purposed in Jim Morin's Fort Hood editorial cartoon -- "We have met the enemy and he is us..." -- remains relevant and ever more appropriate.
Who's got the Button?
In the context of a devolving Trump presidency, Daniel Kahneman's "Thinking, Fast and Slow" becomes a necessary, if possibly terrifying read. Without offering too much credit to any of President Trump's handlers, it almost seems some parts of this text have been added to a "Whitehouse Playbook" -- while also offering insights into human nature that the President himself may be incapable of processing. Fortunately, Kahneman's text can also become a guide to avoiding and countering some of the top-down manipulations already deployed by Team Trump and well tested by other historic figures.
President Trump's "System 1" brain may revel in playing an Antithesis-in-Chief, but the values he and too many of his advisors continue to denigrate and undermine can easily help scaffold a dialectic whose inevitable and cataclysmic synthesis will completely by-pass "System 2" reasoning -- for all of us. Trivialization of the "nuclear option" could make much more than the filibuster obsolete.
Whether ascribed to an Earth Day poster, to Walt Kelly's Pogo, or as re-purposed in Jim Morin's Fort Hood editorial cartoon -- "We have met the enemy and he is us..." -- remains relevant and ever more appropriate.
Who's got the Button?
We must understand that ANY finger near the "Nuclear Button" is de facto dangerous and potentially devastating. Well past time to rid our world of these weapons before we run out of time. The Markey/Lieu Bill is a good start! (https:www.blogspot.com)
3
No president or any single individual should be empowered to launch a first strike without Congress declaring war. No time clock is ticking, as would be the case if the president were told nuclear missiles were headed toward the United States! Will the GOP-led Congress foolishly stand in the way of making this much-needed, bipartisan move toward a safer, saner world? They might, and for the worst possible reason. Because they fear that it might confirm what they already know and can't admit: the current president is dangerously unpredictable and a threat to national security.
5
Enough castigating of Donald J. Trump.
He was elected by the people based on the laws of this country. It is we, it is you, it is the N.Y. Times, that bears responsibility. It is we who tolerated a culture that fostered the deep discontent of a large enough block of voters to allow him to gain the frightening power that he now possesses.
The entire world is at risk, as this man has been placed at the helm of the most complex entity, the most incredible interconnected legal, diplomatic and military structure that have ever existed. It is not we who will be the first to suffer from the result of the chaos to come, but those in other countries, who had nothing to do with placing this man in office.
The N.Y. Times did their part by ignoring those who have been disoriented by a change in cultural values over the last few decades that had provided stability for those "reactionaries" over centuries. This inchoate rage found a voice, and tragically he was not a film star, a governor or a novelist, but one vying for the position of head of both the state and the government of this most powerful country ever imagined.
Trump now has no choice but to remain at the helm, continuing to deny his absolute inability to comprehend, much less lead this 21st century Leviathan. The potential catastrophe is too great to attribute to one mere mortal's failure, as we are the ones who allowed this unfolding tragedy to occur.
AlRodbell.com
He was elected by the people based on the laws of this country. It is we, it is you, it is the N.Y. Times, that bears responsibility. It is we who tolerated a culture that fostered the deep discontent of a large enough block of voters to allow him to gain the frightening power that he now possesses.
The entire world is at risk, as this man has been placed at the helm of the most complex entity, the most incredible interconnected legal, diplomatic and military structure that have ever existed. It is not we who will be the first to suffer from the result of the chaos to come, but those in other countries, who had nothing to do with placing this man in office.
The N.Y. Times did their part by ignoring those who have been disoriented by a change in cultural values over the last few decades that had provided stability for those "reactionaries" over centuries. This inchoate rage found a voice, and tragically he was not a film star, a governor or a novelist, but one vying for the position of head of both the state and the government of this most powerful country ever imagined.
Trump now has no choice but to remain at the helm, continuing to deny his absolute inability to comprehend, much less lead this 21st century Leviathan. The potential catastrophe is too great to attribute to one mere mortal's failure, as we are the ones who allowed this unfolding tragedy to occur.
AlRodbell.com
6
A president who not only doesn't have the slightest idea who Jonathan Schell was, but is incapable of reading a book. Being manipulated by a hateful sociopath neo-Nazi and a cadre of contemptible sycophants trafficking in "alternative facts."
This after Barack Obama.
If GW Bush was Tiberius, Trump is Caligula.
This after Barack Obama.
If GW Bush was Tiberius, Trump is Caligula.
15
Would you allow a four years old child to drive your car ?
15
When Trump advised Mitch McConnell to use the Nuclear Option to get Gorsuch nominated to SCOTUS the hair on my neck stood up. It sounds as though he has been "primed".
13
Hopefully, he got fake codes, the man is so impulsive he just might start the doom of mankind.
2
Keep in mind too - his team is full of outright idiots like Kelly Anne Conway, blithely announcing "massacres" that never happened. What stops DT from believing some delusional tidbit and immediately ordering a "retaliatory" strike?
6
The real dilemma is to how to restrain this "Monkey with a Sword " from harming himself and others. Keep America and the world safe. Put the monkey in a Cage.
3
we are so ......
2
Get RID of Emperor Nero before he burns down Rome!!!
3
The world is currently subject to a risk that the whims of human impulse could destroy millions or billions of lives in a nuclear holocaust. The United States should become a leader in changing this fate and adopt a legal framework that makes the use of nuclear weapons an explicitly deterrent feature of our military, used only to respond to similar use of nuclear force or open full scale military action on our soil. The President, as our civilian leader who oversees the military, should have a veto on any otherwise procedurally proper use of nuclear weapons, but it should be made clear that any other use would constitute an act of war requiring the approval of the Senate. From recent reporting, it's not clear to me that our laws currently provide us this basic level of procedural protection.
2
The vast majority of countries -- 123 -- voted, on October 27, 2016, to ban nuclear weapons, and they will begin negotiating the ban treaty next month at the UN.
The world is going to make nuclear weapons -- their use, construction, sale, and development -- a crime.
The US and the other big shots who want to keep the rest of the world cowering in fear are going to become rogue states, because we don't want to join the human race as much as we want to enjoy American exceptionalism.
The world is going to make nuclear weapons -- their use, construction, sale, and development -- a crime.
The US and the other big shots who want to keep the rest of the world cowering in fear are going to become rogue states, because we don't want to join the human race as much as we want to enjoy American exceptionalism.
3
It's totally crazy that the US president has power to launch nuclear weapons by himself!
2
It's time to dismantle the global nuclear arsenal, and to harness safe nuclear power for clean energy and desalinization projects. If estimates are right that nuclear weapons cost nations a trillion dollars over 10 years, what better reason to collect the old swords, developed for another day, and create plowshares for today. What a legacy that would be.
1
February 6, 2017
Let give the big guy a digital APP to tap - tap control to release his forces of nuclear selective justice, and as needed by the leader of the free world.
Yet the question is of course the target of opportunity or opportunities on our planet and indeed near earth orbitals satellites of counter aggressions for best case scenario. Warning attack may or may not be in the selection design, nor confirmation that the explosive force would proportional to the risk cause to deter from humanity and as such the world would need all those involved to account for the drama and dramaturgical horror unleashed and its aftermath to avoid other such executions on humanity’s abilities to find happy remedies in future havocs by more humane and less costly in the disasters to life and property to our healthy collective nature to live with one another and respectful to the pursuit of happiness en masse.
Jja Manhattan, N.Y.
Let give the big guy a digital APP to tap - tap control to release his forces of nuclear selective justice, and as needed by the leader of the free world.
Yet the question is of course the target of opportunity or opportunities on our planet and indeed near earth orbitals satellites of counter aggressions for best case scenario. Warning attack may or may not be in the selection design, nor confirmation that the explosive force would proportional to the risk cause to deter from humanity and as such the world would need all those involved to account for the drama and dramaturgical horror unleashed and its aftermath to avoid other such executions on humanity’s abilities to find happy remedies in future havocs by more humane and less costly in the disasters to life and property to our healthy collective nature to live with one another and respectful to the pursuit of happiness en masse.
Jja Manhattan, N.Y.
1
As a student of History, I have been gob-smacked at the parallels between our current Govt, and its recent (30 years) chronic, totally partisan dis-function and the Roman Republic's switch from a Republic to Autocracy, first under C. Julius Caesar, & later on Octavian/Augustus.
Ever Since Dubya & Repubs realized how easy it was to steal elections, I have been waiting & watching for OUR version of Caesar...
It would appear that the wait is over.
Ever Since Dubya & Repubs realized how easy it was to steal elections, I have been waiting & watching for OUR version of Caesar...
It would appear that the wait is over.
7
The worst horror movie imaginable.
3
February 6, 2017
We may all find it easier to read this important editorial while listening to the following:
Composer: Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750)
J.Chr. Bach Missa da Requiem and Miserere in B flat major ...
Mass in B minor BWV 232
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVUYUwb8_E0
JJA Manhattan, N. Y.
We may all find it easier to read this important editorial while listening to the following:
Composer: Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750)
J.Chr. Bach Missa da Requiem and Miserere in B flat major ...
Mass in B minor BWV 232
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVUYUwb8_E0
JJA Manhattan, N. Y.
1
A “game” is defined by rules that all the players must know and accept. We should be less worried that Trump doesn’t understand this than whether other countries do.
2
"...Trigger-Happy...?"
—
The New York Times’ Editorial Board has presented another good reason for impeaching President Trump. And I doubt very much, that the editors of any news outlet anywhere would disagree.
I would simply add, "the sooner the better."
—
No doubt, our new President's erratic behavior allows even our enemies time for a laugh or two. But knowing, “[that his] finger is on the Nuclear Button [op cit],” instantly erases all smiles.
It’s no joke on either side, that Donald Trump could, in one rash moment, forever end both their civilization and ours.
—
Given a little more time, even America’s worst enemies will also be urging, as I am, “that the US [Congress] will come to it’s senses and impeach this reckless, unreliable leader, as soon as possible.” [my caption]
—
The New York Times’ Editorial Board has presented another good reason for impeaching President Trump. And I doubt very much, that the editors of any news outlet anywhere would disagree.
I would simply add, "the sooner the better."
—
No doubt, our new President's erratic behavior allows even our enemies time for a laugh or two. But knowing, “[that his] finger is on the Nuclear Button [op cit],” instantly erases all smiles.
It’s no joke on either side, that Donald Trump could, in one rash moment, forever end both their civilization and ours.
—
Given a little more time, even America’s worst enemies will also be urging, as I am, “that the US [Congress] will come to it’s senses and impeach this reckless, unreliable leader, as soon as possible.” [my caption]
The left's outrage at Trump. The very notion that a pragmatic business person could become president (unless he or she was a democrat) shivers the timbers.
This outrage by the left has become nothing more than a silly game. I'm outraged, says one. Another say, me too, I'm more outraged. A 3rd whines in, no, I'm really, really outraged. And on and on. He's been in office 2 weeks. Why don't we all write in and write about how our lives have suddenly spun into chaos because of Trump. If we did, you know what we'd get --- I don't feel safe. Or other such blather.
And that's it.
This outrage by the left has become nothing more than a silly game. I'm outraged, says one. Another say, me too, I'm more outraged. A 3rd whines in, no, I'm really, really outraged. And on and on. He's been in office 2 weeks. Why don't we all write in and write about how our lives have suddenly spun into chaos because of Trump. If we did, you know what we'd get --- I don't feel safe. Or other such blather.
And that's it.
1
Oh, dear. It all looks so dire, and I am afraid it is. I do hope the senators manage to pass the bill to require congressional declaration of war before the nuclear button can be pushed, but with very few people in the congress standing up to Trump, I fear that even congressional approval might be granted, as hardly anyone on the Republican side seems to care about anything, anymore, not the truth, not our future, and not the future of our children or the future of the entire world. I just have to cry, when I think about it, and I can only hope that somehow, a way can be found to get this president (it still feels ridiculous to give him the title) impeached as soon as possible. With all the lies and the dangerous and frivolous appointments he has made, and his obvious coziness with the Kremlin, this shouldn't be too difficult.
1
One can only hope that Trump realizes his own beloved children and grandchildren are at risk with his own small hands on the nuclear codes. Surely he has a heart for them, if not for the American people?
1
The current president knows as much about nuclear weapons as his predecessors Washington & Jefferson. With his finger on the trigger of some 4,000 nuclear weapons he is the president that should go to Hiroshima & talk with Hibakusha, bomb survivors, so they can tell him what these bombs can do. They can inform him that many still Suffer physically from what happened 71 years ago.
This president has Islamic terrorism on the brain but there is no bigger form of Terrorism than the nuclear weapons controlled by a handful of people in the 9 Nuclear Weapon States. As time moves further away from Hopefully the only 2 times that nuclear weapons were used in conflict back in 1945 & the Fear that permeated the World back in 1962 as the Specter of Nuclear Apocalypse was a distinct possibility, people Forget just how Scary these weapons are!
I spent close to 5 years along with Stuart Overbey making a documentary about nuclear weapons called "The Forgotten Bomb," & it wouldn't be a bad thing for Everyone in this Administration to watch it & read any number of books like "The Fate of the Earth" by Jonathan Schell whom we interviewed for our film so they can educate themselves to the history & realities of nuclear weapons. They should talk with people like former Secretary of State George Shultz whom we also interviewed, as well as Henry Kissinger another former Secretary of State, because they both think that nuclear weapons are Unusable & that we should just get Rid of them!
This president has Islamic terrorism on the brain but there is no bigger form of Terrorism than the nuclear weapons controlled by a handful of people in the 9 Nuclear Weapon States. As time moves further away from Hopefully the only 2 times that nuclear weapons were used in conflict back in 1945 & the Fear that permeated the World back in 1962 as the Specter of Nuclear Apocalypse was a distinct possibility, people Forget just how Scary these weapons are!
I spent close to 5 years along with Stuart Overbey making a documentary about nuclear weapons called "The Forgotten Bomb," & it wouldn't be a bad thing for Everyone in this Administration to watch it & read any number of books like "The Fate of the Earth" by Jonathan Schell whom we interviewed for our film so they can educate themselves to the history & realities of nuclear weapons. They should talk with people like former Secretary of State George Shultz whom we also interviewed, as well as Henry Kissinger another former Secretary of State, because they both think that nuclear weapons are Unusable & that we should just get Rid of them!
1
There are a number of basics that Trump doesn't understand about his job. If I had to pick just one it would be his responsibility to reassure and calm the country. I believe that some of the comments to Trump from Obama were an attempt to nudge him in that direction.
Beginning now my request to Trump would be that, in the future, you ask yourself whether your next action is more or less likely to make the citizens feel more secure!
Beginning now my request to Trump would be that, in the future, you ask yourself whether your next action is more or less likely to make the citizens feel more secure!
The way he waves his hands and fingers uncontrollably when he speaks, and the apparently irrefutable evidence that he cannot control what says, that he shoots before he aims, makes me think this is like Homer Simpson in the nuclear power plant control room. Would someone please substitute an adult there!
2
I think about my mother's white trash boyfriend and how he would always say, "you know what we should do? nuke 'em! yeah!" I told her she could do better and was acting out of some sort of desperate need for validation, but implicit in such gauche crudity was a tacit understanding that it was never going to happen.
So the New York Times can be complicit in a takedown piece, "Oh, you don't know the nuclear triad! Sad." (remember Aleppo, for those into double standards) and never ask, maybe the lack of nuclear strategy is because it has not been and never will be seriously considered as a nuclear strategy, so why bother?
Sorry to burst your bubble here, but you are once again blind to rhetorical flourishes and figures of speech, and what is more badass than a nuke? (Cudgel? mom's boyfriend asks...Oh I'm Scaarrred). This elite restraint and careful deliberation is codeword for let's get away with ignoring enforcement of our existing immigration laws in the name of fine appreciation of the most delectable intricacies of entangled alliances (for those with discriminating taste) and hurl epithets of racism for anyone who says wait a minute.
In other words, know your audience. That wasn't meant for you. Here we go again, the grey lady is crying. She'll get over it and if she doesn't we'll nuke her.
So the New York Times can be complicit in a takedown piece, "Oh, you don't know the nuclear triad! Sad." (remember Aleppo, for those into double standards) and never ask, maybe the lack of nuclear strategy is because it has not been and never will be seriously considered as a nuclear strategy, so why bother?
Sorry to burst your bubble here, but you are once again blind to rhetorical flourishes and figures of speech, and what is more badass than a nuke? (Cudgel? mom's boyfriend asks...Oh I'm Scaarrred). This elite restraint and careful deliberation is codeword for let's get away with ignoring enforcement of our existing immigration laws in the name of fine appreciation of the most delectable intricacies of entangled alliances (for those with discriminating taste) and hurl epithets of racism for anyone who says wait a minute.
In other words, know your audience. That wasn't meant for you. Here we go again, the grey lady is crying. She'll get over it and if she doesn't we'll nuke her.
1
Actually, I would favor rather specific legislation. "No one named Donald Trump may order the use of our nuclear arsenal for any purpose whatsoever." There, that should take care of it.
6
As there are no checks and balances on Trump's authority to launch a nuclear strike, he is the one to push the nuclear button. Fortunately between the time he authorises one and the time it is carried out, there are other people involved in the chain of command, such as James Mattis. The Secretary of Defence could refuse to obey the order if he had reason to doubt Trump's sanity. This would constitute a mutiny and Trump could fire Mattis and get his deputy to carry out his order. By then the whole nation could rise up and depose him.
2
I agree that recent discussions of nuclear use are irresponsible and dangerous.
However, it is not just Trump. This talk started before Trump, and Hillary indulged it too. It is a trend among the hawks and neocons that has been building for awhile.
It should be stopped. It won't be stopped if the problem is misidentified as being the person of Trump rather than a larger problem stemming from our hawkish Washington insider thinking over the last few years.
This is not to defend Trump for falling into the problem too. It is to say the problem is much bigger, did not start with him, and does not end with him either.
However, it is not just Trump. This talk started before Trump, and Hillary indulged it too. It is a trend among the hawks and neocons that has been building for awhile.
It should be stopped. It won't be stopped if the problem is misidentified as being the person of Trump rather than a larger problem stemming from our hawkish Washington insider thinking over the last few years.
This is not to defend Trump for falling into the problem too. It is to say the problem is much bigger, did not start with him, and does not end with him either.
7
Absolutely right, Mr. Thomason, a lot of people have been contemplating the use of nuclear weapons, and this whole notion of small-yield nuclear missiles so that a limited use could be attained is very frightening and did not start with Trump. Really, Trump has no idea what it's all about, and has never seen the movies, "The Day After", "On the Beach", "Dr. Strangelove", or any other dramatization of the topic. But people who should know better are theorizing that a nuclear missile or two could be used without ending civilization, and that notion must be fought against.
4
Mr Trump should be given the nuclear codes - with one number missing. He obviously con't be trusted with a BB gun, never mind a nuclear holocaust.
8
The "limited use" of nuclear weapons in the hand of an individual with significant mental health disorders, is the direct result of a categorical failure of the Electoral College participants to fulfill their Constitutional duties.
The southern states will soon be led to Succession by Senator Jeffery Sessions, so our congress might just as well allow every single American's vote to count in an American election (let alone 2.8 million American votes).
It is past time to drop the Electoral College.
The southern states will soon be led to Succession by Senator Jeffery Sessions, so our congress might just as well allow every single American's vote to count in an American election (let alone 2.8 million American votes).
It is past time to drop the Electoral College.
12
Article Two, Section Four: "The President, Vice President and all civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other High crimes and misdemeanors."
We have yet to get the story on Trump's income taxes and conflicts of interest with business dealings in foreign countries. But I don't think we need to wait for that inquiry. His erratic behavior and emotional instability we have already witnessed in the first two weeks of his "presidency," and he has put our country and the world and planet at risk with his dubious if not unconstitutional executive orders. We have seen enough already to begin drafting the articles of impeachment. Trump must go.
We have yet to get the story on Trump's income taxes and conflicts of interest with business dealings in foreign countries. But I don't think we need to wait for that inquiry. His erratic behavior and emotional instability we have already witnessed in the first two weeks of his "presidency," and he has put our country and the world and planet at risk with his dubious if not unconstitutional executive orders. We have seen enough already to begin drafting the articles of impeachment. Trump must go.
16
This would involve a large swath of testicless Republicans having the fortitude to actually think beyond their gold-plated pension plans and lifelong dental care for their Beagles.
2
Everything that is happening now with the so-called president, Trump, was predictable. All of his bad personality and character traits were obvious. I have no hope that things will get better while this amateur, his right-wing vice president and his inexperienced staff run things.
It's all very depressing for millions of Americans. Greater minds than mine who value our American democracy had better come up with a solution sooner than later.
It's all very depressing for millions of Americans. Greater minds than mine who value our American democracy had better come up with a solution sooner than later.
14
It's called "impeachment". There are already plenty of bases for this, including the emoluments clause. We need to get rid of him, and in a hurry! Our civilization depends on it.
2
I fear that in a fit of pique this spoiled brat presently reigning from the White House might aectually press a button and send of an IBM Missal to prove who's right and who's boss in today's world. Surely there must be someway to prevent this from happening. Perhaps the little black box (or whatever it is that has the magic button to send off such a missal) can be disabled somehow without Mrs. Trump's little boy being made unaware of it. Difficult times call for difficult measure.
5
"What appears to be the established order of present-day civilization is actually only the inert but spectacular momentum of a high-velocity vehicle whose engine has stopped functioning." (Jose Arquelles, "The Mayan Factor")
The Big Wheel turns, demanding human unity as a pre-condition for continuing human civilization. Now, Mr. Trump and his Republican handlers have the opportunity to present their case for American exceptionalism to the world. We need only refrain from killing one another, if we are able.
The Big Wheel turns, demanding human unity as a pre-condition for continuing human civilization. Now, Mr. Trump and his Republican handlers have the opportunity to present their case for American exceptionalism to the world. We need only refrain from killing one another, if we are able.
2
I sincerely hope that our generals and admirals have the courage to resist an order to unleash the nuclear dogs of war if it is apparent that an attack on the US is an alternative fact.
7
Fortunately or unfortunately the military is Constitutionally bound to follow the orders of the Commander in Chief/President. And the Congress is suppose to declare "war". But that function has become moot, with the War Powers Act. Also, with the advent of "preventive strikes" there is not room for error. Diplomacy does have the virtue of slowing down physical responses
2
My father was stationed in the pacific fleet as a diesel mechanic during WWII. Several years ago he shared this story with me
He was stationed off the coast of japan after the war had ended.
After being at sea for nearly three years and seeing some of the heaviest combat he was sick in his heart and ready to just go home. A group of newly minted young officers wanted to go ashore to survey the damage the bomb had inflicted and celebrate the end of the war. This was not an official mission but a sightseeing tour. The captain order my father to be their driver, they needed a mechanic in case the jeep broke down, he was irritated, the NCO of the engine room has better things to do than to babysit a bunch of Ensigns.
He remembers the officers joking and laghing on the way. He stopped outside the city and told the officers that the jeep could go no further and they should walk the rest of the way, he refused to go with them.
As he told me this tears began to brim in his eyes "The city was gone, just completely gone, and those stupid officers. Not one of em had seen a lick of action, well, they came walking back to the jeep and none of em was smili'n after that. No sir they were all pale and silent, one of em was cryi'n"
Tears were streaming down his face, now we were both crying " The city was gone, just gone, all those people."
We just sat in silence. I mean what do you say after that.
That's history folks and no one in this administration has any appreciation for it.
He was stationed off the coast of japan after the war had ended.
After being at sea for nearly three years and seeing some of the heaviest combat he was sick in his heart and ready to just go home. A group of newly minted young officers wanted to go ashore to survey the damage the bomb had inflicted and celebrate the end of the war. This was not an official mission but a sightseeing tour. The captain order my father to be their driver, they needed a mechanic in case the jeep broke down, he was irritated, the NCO of the engine room has better things to do than to babysit a bunch of Ensigns.
He remembers the officers joking and laghing on the way. He stopped outside the city and told the officers that the jeep could go no further and they should walk the rest of the way, he refused to go with them.
As he told me this tears began to brim in his eyes "The city was gone, just completely gone, and those stupid officers. Not one of em had seen a lick of action, well, they came walking back to the jeep and none of em was smili'n after that. No sir they were all pale and silent, one of em was cryi'n"
Tears were streaming down his face, now we were both crying " The city was gone, just gone, all those people."
We just sat in silence. I mean what do you say after that.
That's history folks and no one in this administration has any appreciation for it.
137
I found this a deeply meaningful and profound post to read considering the predicament in which we now find ourselves. Thank you for sharing it with us. Your father possessed something our new president sorely lacks; empathy.
3
I met a very smart young woman from Japan while studying at the University of Michigan. She was born the same year as me, 1954, in Hiroshima, Japan. She is now a distinguished professor at a Japanese university. She never married and has never, ever considered having children after her genes were soaked in the fallout surrounding her city. Until I met and spoke with her, the concept of nuclear weapons being used seemed like just a frightening tale that we always acted like should never come true. But it has happened--and it was the U. S. that used them.
Sadly, Trump isn't thoughtful or curious enough to talk with innocent victims of our nuclear explosions to see just what his use of such weapons would mean. I suspect for him, they are just another means to demonstrate how big his hands are. And his supporters seem to like that. Makes you wonder what is wrong with them--do they have hand issues too? What a bizarre country the U.S. has become.
Sadly, Trump isn't thoughtful or curious enough to talk with innocent victims of our nuclear explosions to see just what his use of such weapons would mean. I suspect for him, they are just another means to demonstrate how big his hands are. And his supporters seem to like that. Makes you wonder what is wrong with them--do they have hand issues too? What a bizarre country the U.S. has become.
15
No worries, these guys can't even find the light switches in the WH.
4
I've wondered many times what world events might need to occur to prompt the current occupant of the White House to launch a nuclear attack.
One that comes to mind is the moment one of the many properties around the world emblazoned with the name "Trump" gets hit by terrorists.
One that comes to mind is the moment one of the many properties around the world emblazoned with the name "Trump" gets hit by terrorists.
8
In reality, all Trump might need is a mistake.
Do a quick online search for "Stanislav Petrov" – a Soviet nuclear missileer who is credited with saving the United States from nuclear annihilation in 1983.
Do a quick online search for "Stanislav Petrov" – a Soviet nuclear missileer who is credited with saving the United States from nuclear annihilation in 1983.
Yes, that is a huge problem. His properties are sitting ducks, and the thin-skinned one might just react violently when someone injures his toys.
Looking at all this from across the Atlantic, I am quite appalled.
Europe has of course taken the permanence of the American nuclear deterrent for granted for far too long. We have neglected our own defense capabilities, preferring to fritter away our money on a variety of well-meaning, but often badly administered and coddling social engineering programs. Mentioning a possible war on the European continent was thought of as a show of insanity. Not anymore.
Now we have Mr. Trump, perfectly lawfully elected to the office of President of the United States. As such, he has the authority to appoint whomsoever he desires to a variety of highly powerful positions. With the collusion of a like minded and/or cowed Congress he is even ensuring that those yet more powerful positions that require Senate confirmation are also filled with people that fit his mold. The checks are unbalanced.
The choices Mr. Trump makes, the decisions he takes, the very words he speaks, one might even add the eyebrows he raises while listening or speaking (his own or those of his audience), define, more than anyone could have foreseen, the future of the world. I wish this were hyperbole, but it isn't.
Crises are coming, as they always have, but this America is completely unready to address them appropriately or measuredly. It is a matter of time before some small thing goes horribly wrong. Before some incident is reacted to with excessive force and the dying starts.
The future is bleak indeed.
Europe has of course taken the permanence of the American nuclear deterrent for granted for far too long. We have neglected our own defense capabilities, preferring to fritter away our money on a variety of well-meaning, but often badly administered and coddling social engineering programs. Mentioning a possible war on the European continent was thought of as a show of insanity. Not anymore.
Now we have Mr. Trump, perfectly lawfully elected to the office of President of the United States. As such, he has the authority to appoint whomsoever he desires to a variety of highly powerful positions. With the collusion of a like minded and/or cowed Congress he is even ensuring that those yet more powerful positions that require Senate confirmation are also filled with people that fit his mold. The checks are unbalanced.
The choices Mr. Trump makes, the decisions he takes, the very words he speaks, one might even add the eyebrows he raises while listening or speaking (his own or those of his audience), define, more than anyone could have foreseen, the future of the world. I wish this were hyperbole, but it isn't.
Crises are coming, as they always have, but this America is completely unready to address them appropriately or measuredly. It is a matter of time before some small thing goes horribly wrong. Before some incident is reacted to with excessive force and the dying starts.
The future is bleak indeed.
8
Many professions and occupations require a psychological exam before
being hired. Why is the Presidency exempt from this important indicator of mental stability? Congress need to enact legislation requiring all nominees to undergo a mental evaluation. And, it should be made retroactive ASAP.
being hired. Why is the Presidency exempt from this important indicator of mental stability? Congress need to enact legislation requiring all nominees to undergo a mental evaluation. And, it should be made retroactive ASAP.
13
It's not just Trump's own instability. His apparent instability creates instability in other nuclear powers. With multiple nuclear powers on the planet, we essentially exist in a perpetual "Mexican stand-off" (to borrow that movie phrase.) When one person in the stand-off suddenly starts acting irrational and appears willing to shoot, it gives the other people involved in the stand-off itchy trigger fingers.
9
And the punishment for violating the law? By the time the president could be impeached and tried, the horse would be long out of the barn and incinerated.
10
I have to ask this question: When President Obama was in the White House, did the right wing suffer the pure terror progressives and the rest of the rational world feel right now?
The right wing electorate wanted a change in Washington and, unfortunately, we have it. Like many other NYT readers, I too was raised by duck-and-cover schoolroom instructions. In 1956 our new t.v. presented films of mushroom clouds rising from the earth, films that colored my dreams for years. As a child, I endured nightmares of my family and I rising heavenward, our early deaths the result of nuclear catastrophe. I wept in my sleep. i remember those dreams still.
Today the rogue king potters about the oval office pen in hand with his cadre of Iago yes men whispering sweet affirmations in his ear. He slashes and burns without stepping outside the office, paying little heed to those his ink-stained fingers affect. To him it's all a business transaction; to the rest of us it is life.
Many of the men and women who populate Congress on both sides of the aisle are in the same age range as I, Trump just one year younger. Have they forgotten what it is like to grow up with those fears? What happened to their pledge to work on behalf of the American people? What purpose does nuclear saber rattling serve? And how will it end?
The right wing electorate wanted a change in Washington and, unfortunately, we have it. Like many other NYT readers, I too was raised by duck-and-cover schoolroom instructions. In 1956 our new t.v. presented films of mushroom clouds rising from the earth, films that colored my dreams for years. As a child, I endured nightmares of my family and I rising heavenward, our early deaths the result of nuclear catastrophe. I wept in my sleep. i remember those dreams still.
Today the rogue king potters about the oval office pen in hand with his cadre of Iago yes men whispering sweet affirmations in his ear. He slashes and burns without stepping outside the office, paying little heed to those his ink-stained fingers affect. To him it's all a business transaction; to the rest of us it is life.
Many of the men and women who populate Congress on both sides of the aisle are in the same age range as I, Trump just one year younger. Have they forgotten what it is like to grow up with those fears? What happened to their pledge to work on behalf of the American people? What purpose does nuclear saber rattling serve? And how will it end?
12
Problem: DT is extraordinarily reactive, esp to insults and limitations on his power. It would be far better not to approach this publicly, as Markey has done---now the possibility of a first strike has been suggested to DT, along with the idea that people don't think he can handle the issue.
Now he'll want to react to show the world that the Dems and the NYT don't control him.
How will he react? LIkely with a tweet, but as he becomes more and more bitter and hurt he will become more dangerous. Maybe that's why some have treated him gently (Obama, Elon Musk).
Now he'll want to react to show the world that the Dems and the NYT don't control him.
How will he react? LIkely with a tweet, but as he becomes more and more bitter and hurt he will become more dangerous. Maybe that's why some have treated him gently (Obama, Elon Musk).
3
I suppose the benefit of an idiocracy in a nuclear-armed super power is that it tends to be self-terminating. Yay?
3
We need a wise and sane person with good judgement to be in charge of our arsenal, both conventional and nuclear. We do not have one.
7
This guy has to be removed from office.
5
Who knows? Maybe Donald Trump has his cellphone already programmed so he can activate nuclear missiles, any time of the day or night!
=========================================================
We, as a nation need to be on the alert for any signs that Trump is getting trigger - happy about the use of nukes!
From a Bush War on TERROR, we now need a War on Trump ERROR.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
=========================================================
We, as a nation need to be on the alert for any signs that Trump is getting trigger - happy about the use of nukes!
From a Bush War on TERROR, we now need a War on Trump ERROR.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3
Con artist that he is, Donald Trump concealed absolutely nothing about his character from students of human nature, in the process of winning the presidency for revealing nothing at all about his own finances. That is why his conscience is clear about taking the whole country to the cleaners now.
4
"What a conscience? Asking for a friend..."
D.J.T.
D.J.T.
1
This is the time to impeach Mr. Trump. The suggestion that Mr. Trump engage with Russia to further reduce both countries' nuclear arsenals is not a good one. First of all, Putin has already declared that a non-starter in response to a tentative overture by Mr. Trump. Second, Mr. Trump's relationship with Russia is suspect.
The United States should not have a president who is more loyal to Russia than to the U.S. It should also not have a president as unstable as Mr. Trump with a finger near the nuclear buttons.
The United States should not have a president who is more loyal to Russia than to the U.S. It should also not have a president as unstable as Mr. Trump with a finger near the nuclear buttons.
6
The real threat to a nuclear WWIII came from Obama, when he failed to take out Iran's nuclear capability and prevented Israel from doing it. Instead he empowered and encouraged the world's #1 terrorist state with world wide acceptance, $150 billion, a seriously flawed agreement and an inspection system full of holes.
2
It isn't possible to keep physics a secret. It is choice to invest in nuclear weapons or not, just as it is a choice to own a gun or not. If you own a gun, chances are that you will be its victim.
4
I was once among those military officers who determined whether an order for the release of nuclear weapons from the president was authentic. I was confident that the president and his advisors were thoughtful and knowledgeable. With Donald Trump as president, I have concern for persons currently in similar positions. I also feel consternation that, by his recklessness, our nation's nuclear deterrent may be deemed to be undermined.
9
Everything else Trump does can be undone, but not this.
8
Not quite true. His bumblings in international trade and relations may well put us into a global depression. And yes, that might be undone, with time, say 10-20 years. But we haven't fully recovered from the 2008 disaster yet.
The rest of world is still struggling with the aftermath of that economic chaos.
The rest of world is still struggling with the aftermath of that economic chaos.
5
And I'll add to Jljarvis's good comment that environmental disaster -- climate change, species extinctions, etc. -- is also not reversible. Nor are the human deaths that will be caused by snatching away health care.
3
It's not the finger that's on the button that is the problem, folks.
It's the voice of President Bannon who's whispering in the ear of the Narcissist in Chief, telling him how he can do no wrong (even if he pushes that button).
It's the voice of President Bannon who's whispering in the ear of the Narcissist in Chief, telling him how he can do no wrong (even if he pushes that button).
7
S200 and HR669, both bills introduced this year in the Senate and the House, respectively, to restrict first-use of nuclear weapons, are critical. I have been in touch with my senators and congressional rep to support the passage of a bill that bars a President from using a nuclear first-strike without congressional approval. I think that this should be at the top of the agenda in congress.
4
And he chose Rick Perry, with his degree in Animal Husbandry, to run the Department of Energy -- and Perry accepted because, somehow, neither man knew that said department is in charge of the nation's nuclear arsenal.
Every day is a new reason to replay the past election campaign and wonder how we got to this point, and to wonder even harder how we'll get out.
Every day is a new reason to replay the past election campaign and wonder how we got to this point, and to wonder even harder how we'll get out.
8
Remember "Dr. Strangelove"? A madman may give an order to attack. Sane people may refuse to obey orders and try to stop him. But the situation may turn out to be irreversible. Very scary.
4
When the first reports of a nuclear strike hit, Trump supporters will say "Fake news."
When they can no longer deny it, they will say, "Go Trump! At least he's not Hillary."
When it comes to politics, this country has millions of delusional and psychotic people in it. Don't underestimate yet again how little they care about the future of life itself.
When they can no longer deny it, they will say, "Go Trump! At least he's not Hillary."
When it comes to politics, this country has millions of delusional and psychotic people in it. Don't underestimate yet again how little they care about the future of life itself.
5
And whom do we have to thank for becoming a banana republic?
The Koch brothers, and then.... the electoral college.
Long since time to abolish that artifact of early-years election rigging.
Why should someone's vote in Ohio count more than mine?
Question is whether the one-man, one-vote ruling by the supreme court might trump Hamilton's electoral college.
The Koch brothers, and then.... the electoral college.
Long since time to abolish that artifact of early-years election rigging.
Why should someone's vote in Ohio count more than mine?
Question is whether the one-man, one-vote ruling by the supreme court might trump Hamilton's electoral college.
3
I would hope that generals would hesitate to obey a launch order from Trump and ask about its legitimacy. Given his mental status, a general who refused Trump would save millions of lives.
5
It's perfectly possible for a man to be insane and believe that Mr Trump should not be President of a slingshot. But it isn't possible for a sane man to doubt it.
2
Sometime during his term trump will order a nuclear weapons test. At that time, he should be removed from office.
1
Why wait?
1
In another era, General Curtis LeMay had a President Kennedy to counter his rash belligerence in urging draconian response to the primary threat of that time.
It takes a calm & reasoned approach to controlling nukes with the fate of the world in balance. The tables are turned now. It may be up to the general to be the cool head & the smartest guy in the room.
It takes a calm & reasoned approach to controlling nukes with the fate of the world in balance. The tables are turned now. It may be up to the general to be the cool head & the smartest guy in the room.
3
Nuclear devices are not weapons. Drop one on a population anywhere on the planet, and what? Pray that no one retaliates in the same mad fashion.
We have all this power to destroy our species, yet little wisdom to guide us. Either language matters or it doesn't - if it does not then the murderous ape that hits the hardest is all we have left to show after 5,000 years of learning to care about each other. Please NYT show a little insight into our present dilemma. Editorial board, look your child in the eyes, and then write a diatribe about the world that we have created.
We have all this power to destroy our species, yet little wisdom to guide us. Either language matters or it doesn't - if it does not then the murderous ape that hits the hardest is all we have left to show after 5,000 years of learning to care about each other. Please NYT show a little insight into our present dilemma. Editorial board, look your child in the eyes, and then write a diatribe about the world that we have created.
2
I was horrified to hear from The Editors that Trump inherited a "particularly unstable time, with the Middle East in turmoil and Russia and China acting more aggressively".
How the heck did that happen on the previous president's watch? Maybe all that instability (The Editors left out references to Africa, The Sub-Continent, SE Asia and the drug-war infestations south-of-the-border) is the reason the previous president called for a major nuclear rehabilitation and upgrade program (The Editors left out any mention of that alternative fack). I don't remember The Editors fussing too much about re-arming and re-setting the launch codes when their guy did it. I guess they figured their candidate for C-I-C, that old war protester from the 60's who reluctantly voted for neo-conning Saddam would have a steady finger on the updated nuclear annihilation arsenal; Gaddafi might disagree with The Editors about her tendencies for restraint.
How the heck did that happen on the previous president's watch? Maybe all that instability (The Editors left out references to Africa, The Sub-Continent, SE Asia and the drug-war infestations south-of-the-border) is the reason the previous president called for a major nuclear rehabilitation and upgrade program (The Editors left out any mention of that alternative fack). I don't remember The Editors fussing too much about re-arming and re-setting the launch codes when their guy did it. I guess they figured their candidate for C-I-C, that old war protester from the 60's who reluctantly voted for neo-conning Saddam would have a steady finger on the updated nuclear annihilation arsenal; Gaddafi might disagree with The Editors about her tendencies for restraint.
1
For those with an interest in learning about the effect of nuclear weapons, I would suggest reading about the firestorms in Dresden, Tokyo or the largest fire in the history of the US in October, 1871. It was NOT in Chicago (although it was the same day!), but rather Peshtigo, Wisconsin. That firestorm advanced faster than a man could run and took out 1.4 million acres of woodlands. The town of Peshtigo was obliterated with so many killed 350 of the 2,000 victims are buried in a mass grave because no one was left alive who could identify them. At that was just a fire without any radiation capable of planet-killing effects.
3
Meanwhile, Japan is literally being eaten alive, today, by the Fukushima Daichi disaster. But so-called President Trump avers that we have nuclear weapons so we can use them, and says other nations are welcome to join the nuke club. Nuclear weapons leave gigantic, timeless, radioactive scars, like the Fukushima Daichi disaster is doing in Japan. Trump is a madman holding a loaded gun to Earth's head. Good job, Trump voters! I guess you'll still be saying "He'll come around" when your skin is melting?
2
The word "nuclear" is no longer a joke. As "abnormal" overtakes "normal" from the White House, we need to know what the actual procedure is re nuclear control. I recall seeing a program years ago showing the control room of one of our nuclear weapon launch facilities - there were two officers present. To launch a weapon the two officers at different locations had to turn keys at the same time - a single person could not launch. Considering any President and his/her mental condition, surely a similar "double check" system should be in place. Do we have one?
2
Who or what person, entity or organization with a major voice in this country is going to be the first to say: "We Need to Remove this Man from the White House." We're on the NYT forum, in which thousands have been making very informed statements of alarm and fear for the last two weeks. ?Time for the NYT to turn the arguments of its readers around and make the assertion? We Need to Remove this Man from the White House.
3
This, from today's NYT: "But for the moment, Mr. Bannon remains the president’s dominant adviser, despite Mr. Trump’s anger that he was not fully briefed on details of the executive order he signed giving his chief strategist a seat on the National Security Council, a greater source of frustration to the president than the fallout from the travel ban."
3
As a former Nuclear Weapons and Security Officer, I can very well relate to doubts about president trump's attitude toward their use. These weapons have only been used once in war 72 years ago and to even threaten to use them or suggest that other nations should develop them is more than scary, it is insane.
From my understanding, when President Nixon was in the midst of his Watergate Scandal, I understood that our military leaders at the time went to
Congress and informed our Legislative Branch leaders, both Republicans and Democrats, that if Nixon ordered a pre-emptive nuclear attack, they would not follow his orders.
The two man control for launching nuclear weapons went all the way down the line to me and my Commanding Officer. I could not launch a nuclear missile without his finger on the button, nor could he without my finger on my button. I had control of the missiles and the CO had control of the electronic power packs that enabled a nuclear explosion.
I am sure that our military under this unstable president would convey the same message to Congress, if they have not already done so, as they did under President Nixon. I have much, much more confidence in America's military leadership, than in our current president.
From my understanding, when President Nixon was in the midst of his Watergate Scandal, I understood that our military leaders at the time went to
Congress and informed our Legislative Branch leaders, both Republicans and Democrats, that if Nixon ordered a pre-emptive nuclear attack, they would not follow his orders.
The two man control for launching nuclear weapons went all the way down the line to me and my Commanding Officer. I could not launch a nuclear missile without his finger on the button, nor could he without my finger on my button. I had control of the missiles and the CO had control of the electronic power packs that enabled a nuclear explosion.
I am sure that our military under this unstable president would convey the same message to Congress, if they have not already done so, as they did under President Nixon. I have much, much more confidence in America's military leadership, than in our current president.
5
Any congress/senator who would oppose this needs to be removed from office ASAP. Their opposition would clearly indicate that they simply do not comprehend "of the people, by the people and for the people." The United States of America should only initiate the destruction of life on the planet as we know it if the voice of the people agrees by a super majority... There is bound to be a few nut cakes or Bannons in the mix.
2
I believe, so far, the media has been overly, sometimes falsely, critical of alleged racism & sexism of Trump & his followers, and under-critical of the very dangerous reality of this impulsive man virtually having the capability of ending human life on earth, on his say-so, at any time. He has the same kind of pride in thoughtless, macho-chickenhawk impulsiveness, masquerading as "decisiveness", that characterized the G W Bush administration & which started the unnecessary Iraq war & all the consequent violent instability in the Middle East, the refugee crisis in Europe & the U.S., and exacerbation of the global terrorism problem. That emblem of "Valor" that he likes to show in the background of his photo-shots has the flavor of 1930s European fascism, & his show of inflexible, chickenhawk machismo is frightening.
Adlai Stevenson once said, “Perhaps we need a coward in the room when we are talking about nuclear war.” But Trump surrounds himself with only shoot-from-hip macho-men.
Adlai Stevenson once said, “Perhaps we need a coward in the room when we are talking about nuclear war.” But Trump surrounds himself with only shoot-from-hip macho-men.
4
What do the Russians have on Donald Trump?
7
Trump tells the American people every day in every way that he is mentally unstable with a violent temper. Trump is on record asking military advisers multiple times why is it that if we have nuclear weapons we cannot use them. Trump is truly a megalomaniac with his finger on the nuclear button. The entire world is in great danger.
6
True and obvious from the beginning to everyone but the ignorant. Hey Trump supporters, how great is America now? Feeling safe and proud? Or humiliated and scared to death?
3
Recently a couple of instances of "false alarms" during the Cold War have surfaced, and only by the grace of God and some calm, level-headed responses by officials both on our side and the Soviet side prevented the launching of retaliatory strikes in the face of perceived (but false) preemptive strikes. I shudder to think what might have happened had Trump been president.
5
As "nuts" as some may feel Trump is (myself included), I think we were just a "bit" closer to nuclear war during the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962 or the Berlin Crisis of 1961.
The Union of Concerned Scientists apparently doesn't know much about history. As Richard Feynman once said, outside of their areas of expertise, PhD's are just a dumb as anyone else, and the Union has just demonstrated it once again.
The Union of Concerned Scientists apparently doesn't know much about history. As Richard Feynman once said, outside of their areas of expertise, PhD's are just a dumb as anyone else, and the Union has just demonstrated it once again.
Trump is a nutcase. Everyone knows that. He lives in an alternate universe with himself as chief god. The people who are responsible for his ascendancy to the throne are the Republican leaders who knowingly backed and now support him despite his obvious mental instability. If there is a nuclear war started by an angry Trump these anti-patriots will be responsible.
6
"A calm disposition might mean the difference between peace on earth and a nuclear apocalypse. ... Ideally, the president would never be short-tempered, impulsive or clinically depressed."
Eric Schlosser, author of "Command and Control, 2013.
Well, now...the leader of the free world is notoriously thin-skinned, highly reactive--and even aggressively reactive.
Holds grudges, fixates on perceived slights. Says provocative remarks, often doubling down.
Calm disposition? Nope.
Short tempered? Yep.
Impulsive? Seemingly, as evidenced by tweet storms in the middle of the night or at dawn.
Clinically depressed? That would be us.
Eric Schlosser, author of "Command and Control, 2013.
Well, now...the leader of the free world is notoriously thin-skinned, highly reactive--and even aggressively reactive.
Holds grudges, fixates on perceived slights. Says provocative remarks, often doubling down.
Calm disposition? Nope.
Short tempered? Yep.
Impulsive? Seemingly, as evidenced by tweet storms in the middle of the night or at dawn.
Clinically depressed? That would be us.
6
I find this matter to be overly dramatized and as such troubling. There is no reason at all to expect a nuclear war and every reason to think such a war unthinkable. What bothers me is why President Obama renewed our emphasis on nuclear weapons when we have enough, more than enough, for all generations to come.
Trump Asks Security Expert, ‘If We Have Nukes, Why Can’t We Just Use ‘Em?’
- Joe Scarborough, Dec. 2016
Former Director of Central Intelligence and ex-National Security Agency Director Michael Hayden, who discussed Trump’s erratic, inconsistent , unpredictable style. “Those are dangerous things,” said Hayden. “They frighten your friends and they tempt your enemies.”
Feel better now?
- Joe Scarborough, Dec. 2016
Former Director of Central Intelligence and ex-National Security Agency Director Michael Hayden, who discussed Trump’s erratic, inconsistent , unpredictable style. “Those are dangerous things,” said Hayden. “They frighten your friends and they tempt your enemies.”
Feel better now?
3
Don't you mean Trump, not Obama?
The existence of large stores of nuclear weapons is far more troubling than people's fear of them ever being used.
The existence of large stores of nuclear weapons is far more troubling than people's fear of them ever being used.
1
Wait a minute. Trump says "Let it be an arms race," and you think there's no need to be dramatic. However, Obama ordering updates to guidance systems for existing arsenal does?
5
The military's default response to any such order from Trump should be to disobey it. We have a madman in the White House. This is not hyperbole; the empirical truth of this is compounded every day. It's worse, I think, than anyone could have imagined. We've become a banana republic.
83
Pete,
I see you use the word "should" when talking about the military. It's clear you've not served; the word you describe is an anathema for those in uniform. You do what you're told. Period.
I see you use the word "should" when talking about the military. It's clear you've not served; the word you describe is an anathema for those in uniform. You do what you're told. Period.
1
I concur. And that very well may be the case. However - that would be a direct violation of a lawful order from the Commander-in Chief - which, if nothing else, would open the door allowing anyone regardless of rank to question any order given by a superior down the entire chain of command. In other words - an entire dismantling of the military hierarchy and chain-of-command.
Completely and totally agree. This is no time for hesitating on the seriousness of this situation. It calls for unequivocal resistance. There can hardly be a more important issue. We could destroy not just ourselves, but thousands of other species who never had a say in the development of nuclear weapons.
Nuclear war must never allowed to happen under any circumstances. Surely Trump supporters understand that childish slogans like "Make America Great Again" will be meaningless if we destroy or damage for thousands of years to come all sentient life on the planet.
Nuclear war must never allowed to happen under any circumstances. Surely Trump supporters understand that childish slogans like "Make America Great Again" will be meaningless if we destroy or damage for thousands of years to come all sentient life on the planet.
3
"the scientists who study the risk of nuclear war." What kind of *science* might that be? Being knowledgeable about the technical aspects of nuclear weaponry might make you a nuclear scientist, but it doesn't qualify you to prognosticate about the kind of messy and unpredictable set of events, bluster, fear, paranoia, etc. that could lead up to a decision to launch a nuclear strike. I just don't think their so-called doomsday clock is very useful. The risk is always equally high as long as these weapons exist.
3
..."all presidents have had and should have..." why? is this nuclear foolishness really making amerika better? I agree with the part about how we shouldn't unleash those weapons at all. mutually assured destruction. what good is that?
4
I once worked for the Post Office and had many conservative friends.There was general agreement that all though we had differing opinions about policy we were at essence all Americans (we were all vets).At one point during the start of the Iraq war, there was a particularly brutal attack in which Iraqi insurgents blew up a convoy of Americans soldiers while they were passing out candy to Iraqi children.We were discussing this and the conversation then took a horrific detour.
One combat vet from Vietnam stated angerly 'WE WOULD NEVER DO SOMETHING LIKE THAT!" Out of reverence for his service and combat, I declined to point out that Nixon had done exactly that in Vietnam by engaging in his secret and indiscriminate bombing campaign. Another friend "yeah we would never kill children like that!" I pointed out that it had already happened and Timothy McVeigh had killed 19 children. Not the same thing they protested. "WE SHOULD JUST NUKE EM ALL, DROP A NUKE ON BAGCAHD AND FORGET ABOUT IT!
I paused took a deep breath looking them straight in the eyes "yeah that would kill a few children don't ya think" I was met with stunned silence.
My point? This is the epitome of conservative reactionary thinking. The willingness of my conservative friends to throw ideas like this around and the inability to take these ideas to their logical conclusions. I regarded all these friends as thinkers and readers and decent human beings.Trump, finger on button isn't any of those things and that's scary!
One combat vet from Vietnam stated angerly 'WE WOULD NEVER DO SOMETHING LIKE THAT!" Out of reverence for his service and combat, I declined to point out that Nixon had done exactly that in Vietnam by engaging in his secret and indiscriminate bombing campaign. Another friend "yeah we would never kill children like that!" I pointed out that it had already happened and Timothy McVeigh had killed 19 children. Not the same thing they protested. "WE SHOULD JUST NUKE EM ALL, DROP A NUKE ON BAGCAHD AND FORGET ABOUT IT!
I paused took a deep breath looking them straight in the eyes "yeah that would kill a few children don't ya think" I was met with stunned silence.
My point? This is the epitome of conservative reactionary thinking. The willingness of my conservative friends to throw ideas like this around and the inability to take these ideas to their logical conclusions. I regarded all these friends as thinkers and readers and decent human beings.Trump, finger on button isn't any of those things and that's scary!
27
Back in like '03, when Shiites were protesting the US in Baghdad, a fellow working for me, former military was reflexive & resolut in his solution:
"Just light 'em up"
So the response to those things we were supposed to be trying to instil in a democratic Iraq, which includes by definition free speech, assembly & all that, was basically, 'they dislike up, so just kill them'.
There you have the derangement of the militaristic mind.
People need to think about what exactly enlistees are being trained to do, how they actually behave. Militarism is not some heroic career, it is a derangement, an addiction, and an industry & activity that constantly creates a need for itself under the quasi-religious myth of valor & patriotism.
Unless combat is questioned as a valid policy inevitability, this mindset of 'blow them all up' (kill 'em all & let god sort 'em out, etc) will prevail.
"Just light 'em up"
So the response to those things we were supposed to be trying to instil in a democratic Iraq, which includes by definition free speech, assembly & all that, was basically, 'they dislike up, so just kill them'.
There you have the derangement of the militaristic mind.
People need to think about what exactly enlistees are being trained to do, how they actually behave. Militarism is not some heroic career, it is a derangement, an addiction, and an industry & activity that constantly creates a need for itself under the quasi-religious myth of valor & patriotism.
Unless combat is questioned as a valid policy inevitability, this mindset of 'blow them all up' (kill 'em all & let god sort 'em out, etc) will prevail.
3
No mention of Bannon and his seat on the NSC here. You know, the guy who refers to himself as Darth Vader. Members of Congress surely view nuclear war as a non-partisan issue, so you'd think they would pick this battle as one worth waging. No need to hit the panic button or tie directly to Trump but not elevating this issue is a gross dereliction of duty. Maybe Nikki Haley can take this on as a signature issue with Trump. She'd be a capable steward given her new role. Wait, I'm dreaming. She'll never get past Bannon.
16
"But for the moment, Mr. Bannon remains the president’s dominant adviser, despite Mr. Trump’s anger that he was not fully briefed on details of the executive order he signed giving his chief strategist a seat on the National Security Council, a greater source of frustration to the president than the fallout from the travel ban." from today's NYT.
1
Trump is not qualified to hold any office, certainly not the highest office in the world. He has demonstrated rash behavior and precipitous reactions to events--definitely not traits in a man who has the ability to start a nuclear war that would end civilization and most life forms on this planet.
26
Donald Trump has made a career not of destroying things, but of building them--many of his creations are grand and beautiful. It has made him a billionaire many times over. To think that he would wantonly and rashly bring destruction to the globe is just so much hysterical baloney--the type the left-wing media seems intent on spreading.
The NY Times lost the election. It's time to get over it and move on to more responsible reporting--not making up fanciful, ridiculous scenarios in order to scare dim-wits, or to whip of the liberal base.
The NY Times lost the election. It's time to get over it and move on to more responsible reporting--not making up fanciful, ridiculous scenarios in order to scare dim-wits, or to whip of the liberal base.
6
He has had more failures than successes.
Without his tax information, there is no way to confirm that he has any net worth.
Those of his 'creations' that still operate are not 'beautiful'. They are tacky and garish. He is rightly described as "a poor persons idea of a rich person"
While he did win the Electoral College vote, he did it with the greatest loss in the popular vote of any president.
Jesse, your assessments are all incorrect. Your assurance that it is hysteria to be afraid that Trump will 'rashly bring destruction' is probably just as incorrect.
Without his tax information, there is no way to confirm that he has any net worth.
Those of his 'creations' that still operate are not 'beautiful'. They are tacky and garish. He is rightly described as "a poor persons idea of a rich person"
While he did win the Electoral College vote, he did it with the greatest loss in the popular vote of any president.
Jesse, your assessments are all incorrect. Your assurance that it is hysteria to be afraid that Trump will 'rashly bring destruction' is probably just as incorrect.
2
It might be helpful for you to do research about the Trump casinos in Atlantic City. They were built, then abandoned when they failed financially, by Trump; those grand creations stand empty, yet still managed to make money for Trump himself, even though his investors and his contractors lost lots and lots and lots of it.
As citizens of America, we are the investors in the grand creation of the future of this country. He is the billionaire, concerned only about himself, asking you and me to buy shares in the nonsense he's selling.
As citizens of America, we are the investors in the grand creation of the future of this country. He is the billionaire, concerned only about himself, asking you and me to buy shares in the nonsense he's selling.
4
Being creative architecturally does not make one a sane leader.
1
I increasing feel like we have a five year old kid from Queens behind the wheel of his father's car on route to California. We're all lined up on the sides of the road wondering if we will get a glimpse of him driving by. Or will he just run us all over and keep going? I think that question has already been answered. He is running us over. The next question is, how do we take control of the car?
I can write comments, call my representatives, or engage in conversations that usually end in everyone so upset we have to go our separate ways. None of it has any effect. Trump continues to barrel down the highway and
warn us that if something bad happens it is OUR fault.
Well, bad things ARE happening. This country is being torn apart, and we
are doing nothing about it. In that respect, it IS our fault. Congress needs to have a closed door sessions as of yesterday and agree on safeguards that will restrain this person at the least, and remove him from office if necessary. If "high crimes and misdemeanors" do not cover the current situations needs, then our great minds in the legislature need to write new law to address it before it is too late. There really needs to be an intervention here.
I can write comments, call my representatives, or engage in conversations that usually end in everyone so upset we have to go our separate ways. None of it has any effect. Trump continues to barrel down the highway and
warn us that if something bad happens it is OUR fault.
Well, bad things ARE happening. This country is being torn apart, and we
are doing nothing about it. In that respect, it IS our fault. Congress needs to have a closed door sessions as of yesterday and agree on safeguards that will restrain this person at the least, and remove him from office if necessary. If "high crimes and misdemeanors" do not cover the current situations needs, then our great minds in the legislature need to write new law to address it before it is too late. There really needs to be an intervention here.
38
"Congress needs to have a closed door sessions as of yesterday and agree on safeguards that will restrain this person at the least, and remove him from office if necessary."
Let us hope they already have.
Let us hope they already have.
1
A person with the instincts, experience, track record and lack of judgment exhibited by Donald Trump should never have been allowed to run for President in the first place. There should be minimum standards of integrity that need to be met by any candidate who may be voted into an office with such enormous responsibility. Since DT did become President, we need to do everything we can to restrict his ability to take military action - especially nuclear. Removing him and his associates from office would be the best option, if it can be done.
34
Based on his incessant twittering, Trump is sleeping -- alone -- maybe 3-4 hours per night. He is easily provoked. Challenged to make good on his promise to annihilate ISIS and Islamic terrorism, it won't be long before our president decides it's time to drop a nuke or two on ISIS HQ, wherever that may be. Now is the time for all of us to start building bomb shelters that many of us had during the Cold War. A Hot War seems inevitable.
22
Nonsense does not even begin to describe this ioiocy
2
In 1973, career officer, combat veteran and nuclear missileer Air Force Major Harold Hering asked, "How can I know that the nuclear launch order I get is from a President who is sane?"
Then as now our nuclear command-and-control systems are based solely upon verified identification of the President - nothing more.
The answer Major Hering received was an Air Force discharge based on lack of confidence in leadership skills. (NY Times reported on this in 1975)
I would invite everyone in this age-of-trump to do a quick online search of this little known (outside of nuclear circles) individual and, to me, a hero.
Given today's situation, it is time we provided an answer to Maj. Hering's question.
Then as now our nuclear command-and-control systems are based solely upon verified identification of the President - nothing more.
The answer Major Hering received was an Air Force discharge based on lack of confidence in leadership skills. (NY Times reported on this in 1975)
I would invite everyone in this age-of-trump to do a quick online search of this little known (outside of nuclear circles) individual and, to me, a hero.
Given today's situation, it is time we provided an answer to Maj. Hering's question.
60
That was a very good question with the rather paranoiac Richard Nixon in the White House on the brink of impeachment.
4
#HaroldHering
2
You did not cite his entire quote.
"Let it be an arms race. We will outmatch them at every pass and outlast them all".
Maybe he was trying to be eloquent, but these sound like the words of a madman.
"Let it be an arms race. We will outmatch them at every pass and outlast them all".
Maybe he was trying to be eloquent, but these sound like the words of a madman.
19
It seems these days it's not unusual to have a son who made it because of his father, with funny hair, boasting, making pronouncements and edicts, surrounded by Leninists. Unfortunately in our case there is no DMZ between us.
7
As a 65-year-old male, I stopped having nuclear war nightmares, complete with images of nearby searing mushroom clouds, to which I awoke in a cold sweat, at about age 30. This was not a unique experience for many of us who were children during the most tense years of the Cold War.
Sadly, those bad dreams may be on the verge of returning.
Sadly, those bad dreams may be on the verge of returning.
18
Exactly! Sixty-three years ago, as a six year old living close to NYC, the fear of nuclear war took over my life. At that tender age, I used to lie awake at night listening for the alarm. The fear continued into my thirties until the end of the Cold War. So not ready to go there again.
3
"This is the way the world ends/this is the way the world ends/this is the way the world ends" not with a whimper but a little hand pressing the button, KABOOM!
Republicans "leaning together/headpiece filled with straw...We whisper together...in our dry cellar. Mitch McConnell in his rat's coat. Bannon in his crow skin. The Shadow will fall on all of you hollow men.
Republicans "leaning together/headpiece filled with straw...We whisper together...in our dry cellar. Mitch McConnell in his rat's coat. Bannon in his crow skin. The Shadow will fall on all of you hollow men.
12
There is some hopefulness provided by the initiative by the work of 123 nations at the UN to commence work in 2017 towards a ban on nuclear weapons.
7
Every person in the military who has any responsibility for launching nuclear weapons needs to have a good long think about whether he or she would follow an order to launch from this Administration.
16
Dear Board,
Good editorial but it is like 'you write I read and I write you read' - for like minded people. Bernie Sanders call Mr. Trump , 'a fraud'. Some of us call him, 'a liar, a fabricator, a selfish, a cheater, a judge hater and a insult-monger'. That is how he built his empire but he does not understand that US government is not for one man show. Mr. Trump is always getting cheers from his 40% strong supporter. He has surrounded himself with people with strong belief of 'Alt facts' and 'white nationalists'. They do not see anything beyond their own world. At this stage, the senate and the congress may be only saviors. It looks they are blind for their own vested interests. They may act like when they acted during the Nixon presidency to correct the course. Mr. Nixon was a child in comparison with Mr. Trump. The congress and the senate may not have the luxury of time to watch and wait. The disaster may fall sooner than we expect and it may be toooooooo late to correct the course.
Good editorial but it is like 'you write I read and I write you read' - for like minded people. Bernie Sanders call Mr. Trump , 'a fraud'. Some of us call him, 'a liar, a fabricator, a selfish, a cheater, a judge hater and a insult-monger'. That is how he built his empire but he does not understand that US government is not for one man show. Mr. Trump is always getting cheers from his 40% strong supporter. He has surrounded himself with people with strong belief of 'Alt facts' and 'white nationalists'. They do not see anything beyond their own world. At this stage, the senate and the congress may be only saviors. It looks they are blind for their own vested interests. They may act like when they acted during the Nixon presidency to correct the course. Mr. Nixon was a child in comparison with Mr. Trump. The congress and the senate may not have the luxury of time to watch and wait. The disaster may fall sooner than we expect and it may be toooooooo late to correct the course.
10
Whether it is a variant of the Markey-Lieu proposal or some other approach, it insane to allow any president the capacity to launch a first-strike nuclear attack without clear guidelines for consultation with the Joint Chiefs, the C.I.A. and, most importantly, a bipartisan committee of Congress.
It is insane because the absence of concurrence not only creates too much room for an honest error, it places America at the mercy of an impulsive – even insane – chief executive.
Never has that possibility of launch of a nuclear-armed missile or plane ordered in blind anger been as worrisome as it is right now.
It is insane because the absence of concurrence not only creates too much room for an honest error, it places America at the mercy of an impulsive – even insane – chief executive.
Never has that possibility of launch of a nuclear-armed missile or plane ordered in blind anger been as worrisome as it is right now.
11
"Any decision responding to an attack would have to be made quickly." Given trump's modus operandi is "act first, think later" the fact that he has 4,000 weapons that he alone can launch is truly frightening. His decision making skills have been tested and have proved to be extremely flawed.
It might be time for those "alien beings from distant planets" to come and rescue us from ourselves, because the alien beings from our own planet are bent on destruction.
It might be time for those "alien beings from distant planets" to come and rescue us from ourselves, because the alien beings from our own planet are bent on destruction.
5
After the demoralizing outcome of our recent election, I came to the conclusion that as long as the man who now occupies the White House left my civil rights intact and did not start a nuclear war, I would consider his presidency a success. Anything else was not to be expected. However, his rhetoric and impulsively bad decision making has accelerated so quickly since taking office that I genuinely worry about not getting entangled in a destructive conflict that could cause mass destruction, with NYC, as always, at the top of any list of targets. With 2 unstable men in control of the majority of the world's nuclear arsenals, it is a fantasy to think that a nuclear war could happen over the next several years? Just as fantastic as having a charlatan with no international experience at all as leader of this nation, don't you think?
11
There's a funny/unfunny picture of Kim Jong Un with the caption "I no longer craziest leader." Take note of that truth, Republican legisjlators.
3
President Trump has demonstrated the behaviors of a sociopath all his life. He can't change it, nor is he likely to try. Look up these behaviors to fact check my assessment. After you do that, write all senators and tell them to start looking for the quickest way to impeach Donald Trump. I am not a psychiatrist but I think Mr. Trump has a well known and verifiable mental disorder.
Republicans would be wise to lead this campaign if they want to have a chance at redeeming the Party. They won't be able to get elected to a school board after Mr. Trump's presidency.
Mental health professionals should be on every talk show educating us all about what sociopaths (not DJT specifically or they would be liable for a lawsuit, and we all know how he likes to sue) are and what they are capable of doing.
Hitler surely heads any list of high functioning sociopaths, but the list is long and terrifying. Everyone step up now to remove DJT before he has a temper tantrum that ends the world as we know it. It's not a matter of if, but when.
Republicans would be wise to lead this campaign if they want to have a chance at redeeming the Party. They won't be able to get elected to a school board after Mr. Trump's presidency.
Mental health professionals should be on every talk show educating us all about what sociopaths (not DJT specifically or they would be liable for a lawsuit, and we all know how he likes to sue) are and what they are capable of doing.
Hitler surely heads any list of high functioning sociopaths, but the list is long and terrifying. Everyone step up now to remove DJT before he has a temper tantrum that ends the world as we know it. It's not a matter of if, but when.
15
You are absolutely right. As a retired mental health professional, I not only agree but believe it is time for our professional organizations to make a statement and take a stand.
5
"Mr. Trump, who was not fully briefed on the executive order he signed giving his chief strategist a seat on the National Security Council, has demanded that he be looped in earlier."
WHAT? Is this, at all, believable? If so, it's a sign of executive incompetence of the most extreme kind. And just what is the source of this paragraph on the first page of the NYT? Trump is the man with his finger on the nuclear button.
Or is it Bannon? One Cheney was enough.
WHAT? Is this, at all, believable? If so, it's a sign of executive incompetence of the most extreme kind. And just what is the source of this paragraph on the first page of the NYT? Trump is the man with his finger on the nuclear button.
Or is it Bannon? One Cheney was enough.
7
Back in November, I observed that we'd see impeachment within 18 months.
It appears that may have been conservative.
The only question is how long it will take for him to commit some egregious error that can't be walked back. Something big enough to cause a bipartisan collaboration to remove him.
It appears that may have been conservative.
The only question is how long it will take for him to commit some egregious error that can't be walked back. Something big enough to cause a bipartisan collaboration to remove him.
4
Unfortunately if we have a nuclear war, there won't be much a "bipartisan collaboration" can do about it at that point.
This article begs the question, how stupid is our president? Doesn't he understand the descruction of our planet is at stake? Certainly, the end of the civilized world Bannon wants to bring about. Just his attitude emboldens countries who would do a 1st strike-- Isreal, North Korea. It is childish beyong belief to have so little disregard for people and the planet. It indicated that he truly does not understand what is at stake.
3
For Trump, he is the world. He cannot see beyond himself. He cannot comprehend or care about the 7,000,000,000 fellow humans sharing his world with him.
2
Reading this editorial along with endless other well crafted pieces and columns about Trump, there is no doubt in my mind that the man is mentally disturbed and should be removed from office asap. However, it is also clear that so far, no one in either the GOP or among the Democrats has the courage or moral fiber to do anything about this. That the POTUS is stark raving mad, delusional and a danger to this country and even the planet, is to many of us a truth that should no longer be ignored or explained away in beautiful prose. For once, will the media do its job and tell the unvarnished truth that the US has a dangerous psychopath as its leader who has surrounded himself with power-hungry ideologues like Bannon, Miller, Conway, Spicer etal., who are as delusional as their boss is.
14
Scientists who study the risk of nuclear war recently moved the hands of the symbolic Doomsday Clock to 2½ minutes before midnight — meaning they believe that the world is closer to nuclear catastrophe than it has been since 1953 after the United States and Soviet Union tested hydrogen bombs.
Forgive me, but this is total nonsense. Since 1953???????? Who are these "Scientists who study the risk of nuclear war"? Is such a thing subject to rigorous scientific analysis? If so, how do they go about it? Where is their "lab"? Who is delegated to move the hands of the clock?
I'm a yellow dog Democrat and a pacifist, but this editorial reads as if it was crafted at the Democratic National Committee. Or in some coffee house in Berkeley.
Forgive me, but this is total nonsense. Since 1953???????? Who are these "Scientists who study the risk of nuclear war"? Is such a thing subject to rigorous scientific analysis? If so, how do they go about it? Where is their "lab"? Who is delegated to move the hands of the clock?
I'm a yellow dog Democrat and a pacifist, but this editorial reads as if it was crafted at the Democratic National Committee. Or in some coffee house in Berkeley.
3
Or in the real world??
2
Bannon, who admires Russia and Putin, reminds me of Rasputin. Rasputin, the Russian monk, who advised the Czar. The Czar took Rasputin's advice and this did not work out well for either Russia, or the world. Trump has his own mad monk, Bannon. Some how, I do not think this will work out well.
7
Seriously New York Times have you no shame or journalistic integrity Countless unfair articles on a daily basis trying to de legitimize our President who received over 300 electoral votes who according to you with no reasonable evidence is going to launch nuclear weapons irresponsibly .No matter how many idiotic articles like this you produce along with the other news outlets bombarding us with videos of demonstrators etc. the majority of people do not accept this nonsense You and the other leftist media outlets do not represent them
3
Have fun after he blows you up, Harry!
3
Stick to Breitbart alternate facts. The truth hurts.
3
Actually, "the majority of people" DO "accept this 'nonsense.' since about 3 million more of them voted for Hillary. The demonstrators in the streets will never go away until the insane, incompetent figure in the Oval Office is removed. We'd be well advised to hope relief comes quickly.
3
I believe there is more of a threat concerning global nuclear war, since this administration is being led by a whole host of unstable people.
Having said that, we are more likely to die from starvation or sickness than the above. This administration is already in high gear making everything more and more expensive, while ticking off trading partners. ( many of which supply the engine which is the United States )
How much will water be ( or can we even get it ) when everything is fracked out and oil spillages, coal run off spillages, clear cutting, open pit mining and so many other disastrous to the environment things all culminate to our destruction in support of corporate profits ?
right.
Having said that, we are more likely to die from starvation or sickness than the above. This administration is already in high gear making everything more and more expensive, while ticking off trading partners. ( many of which supply the engine which is the United States )
How much will water be ( or can we even get it ) when everything is fracked out and oil spillages, coal run off spillages, clear cutting, open pit mining and so many other disastrous to the environment things all culminate to our destruction in support of corporate profits ?
right.
7
And where are these eggheads when unhinged mullahs or worse, puffy hermits with delusions of greatness, steal, acquire, test and threaten the use of these weapons? Crickets. And that's why so much of academia is held in as low regard as STDs.
1
I can't help but notice that Trump's strategy of looking irrational and unpredictable is exactly the same as the criticism that Americans lob against the North Korean leadership. Ah, the lofty heights to which Trump aspires!
3
We keep learning that the president has way too much power.. Another example.
Yikes, so much for democracy even representative democracy.
77,000 votes put Trump in
The SYSTEM demands change. Apparently, all it might take is ONE miscommunication to start a nuclear war. Think about how Trump might have reacted to 9/11!
In this case perhaps three people -- or even four -- should have to be present to push the button.. President, V-P, Speaker of the House, Senate majority leader...Oh my --people would actually have to stay put in DC?!
Yikes, so much for democracy even representative democracy.
77,000 votes put Trump in
The SYSTEM demands change. Apparently, all it might take is ONE miscommunication to start a nuclear war. Think about how Trump might have reacted to 9/11!
In this case perhaps three people -- or even four -- should have to be present to push the button.. President, V-P, Speaker of the House, Senate majority leader...Oh my --people would actually have to stay put in DC?!
5
Trump's scary.
3
Seven Days in May looms ever closer with each passing day, under this horrifying, incompetent, ignorant and volcanic charade of an "administration." Once again, I state that this infantile, stunted, ignorant, tempestuous brat of a "POTUS" poses an existential threat to this nation and the entire globe. His party won't ever stop him; the Democrats are incapable of running successful campaigns, let alone stopping him - it may well be our own military stopping him and stilling the Doomsday Clock. 2/6. 8:53 AM
4
Trumps election and editorials like this bring to the fore one of my personal hero's - the virtually unknown Air Force Major Harold Hering - who, when training as a nuclear missileer in 1973 - asked, "How can I know that my launch order came from a sane president?"
Indeed - nuclear launch codes are concerned only with verifying identity - nothing more. As further complication of nuclear command and control - there are other non-presidential pre-delegates - those who have the power to launch if National Command Authority is undermined. It's why someone like the Sec. Of Agriculture is absent during a State-of-the-Union address - sequestered in a remote location with the nuclear codes.
For asking the question, Major Hering, a career military officer and combat veteran, was deemed unfit for further service and discharged.
It is upon the rest of us - and more than ever - to demand the answer that Maj. Hering never received.
Indeed - nuclear launch codes are concerned only with verifying identity - nothing more. As further complication of nuclear command and control - there are other non-presidential pre-delegates - those who have the power to launch if National Command Authority is undermined. It's why someone like the Sec. Of Agriculture is absent during a State-of-the-Union address - sequestered in a remote location with the nuclear codes.
For asking the question, Major Hering, a career military officer and combat veteran, was deemed unfit for further service and discharged.
It is upon the rest of us - and more than ever - to demand the answer that Maj. Hering never received.
3
Excuse me could we edit your opening sentence so it has a more truthful ring, you know, the rest of the story? Partisan left wing ideologue scientists who are in lockstep with the NYT Propaganda Department's world view and have no compunction about injecting politics into science, and stifling dissent political or "scientific", recently moved the hands of the symbolic Doomsday Clock because like witchdoctors everywhere they believe manipulating magic symbols will spook the herd and keep those fearful lemmings coming across with the grants and fellowships. The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists which like the NYT has been co-opted by leftwing ideologues wants you to worry that President Trump will start WWIII ,with the ultimate aim of crippling his presidency. This is simple tribal payback because President Trump had the audacity to inform the American people that most mainstream journalists do far more editorializing than reporting facts and their political persuasions outweigh any ethics of fairness. In other words they're manipulating liars with an ax to grind.Take Trump's supposed narcissistic love of his real estate empire and square it with starting WWIII. These two fictional Trumps, straw men both, don't match up in their fictional pursuits.Not to mention stupid Trump vs conspiracy theory smart Trump or wanting to be loved compliant Trump with drop dead defiant Trump. All these whipping boy Trumps have one thing in common, the petulant culture warriors will stop at nothing.
2
No. You're wrong. Huff and puff all you like, but sane people anywhere on the political spectrum understand that avoiding nuclear war is not a left/right thing.
1
The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists is not the American Psychiatric Association.
Having said that, the fact that this discussion is even taking place is an index of how Mr. Trump's personality disorders, erratic and impulsive behavior, and 5th grader's need for retaliation and the last word have begun to permeate public discourse about our new "leader of the free world."
Having said that, the fact that this discussion is even taking place is an index of how Mr. Trump's personality disorders, erratic and impulsive behavior, and 5th grader's need for retaliation and the last word have begun to permeate public discourse about our new "leader of the free world."
2
This is so frightening, given Trump's unstable, confused, narcissistic personality. Trump is a lawless and ruthless man, who delights in upending situations and people, and he functions not like a presidential leader, but like a cult leader.
Similar to cult leaders, Trump is all-consumed with his personal power and authority over others. He cannot abide the slightest criticism, is irrational, and thinks in all-or-nothing terms. What scares me is that if Trump is under threat of almost any kind, as is already rightfully happening, if he feels he is going down, he will seek revenge by taking everyone else with him.
I am counting on the military, high government officials, and other world leaders to recognize the seriousness of Trump's unstable personality and that Trump truly is unfit for Office of President. A much tighter "Fail Safe" system is needed to make sure Trump, or any unstable individual, is no where near the nuclear button.
The sad and reprehensible thing is the Republicans are merely standing by and doing nothing to control their very dangerous and damaging President.
I do not see any likelihood Trump will be changing his entire personality and ways.
The one thing a Trump presidency should do right now is to unite both parties to in order to save this country from any more of Trump's (and Bannon's) chaos, embarrassment, and wreckage.
Similar to cult leaders, Trump is all-consumed with his personal power and authority over others. He cannot abide the slightest criticism, is irrational, and thinks in all-or-nothing terms. What scares me is that if Trump is under threat of almost any kind, as is already rightfully happening, if he feels he is going down, he will seek revenge by taking everyone else with him.
I am counting on the military, high government officials, and other world leaders to recognize the seriousness of Trump's unstable personality and that Trump truly is unfit for Office of President. A much tighter "Fail Safe" system is needed to make sure Trump, or any unstable individual, is no where near the nuclear button.
The sad and reprehensible thing is the Republicans are merely standing by and doing nothing to control their very dangerous and damaging President.
I do not see any likelihood Trump will be changing his entire personality and ways.
The one thing a Trump presidency should do right now is to unite both parties to in order to save this country from any more of Trump's (and Bannon's) chaos, embarrassment, and wreckage.
9
Trump is reckless and impulsive and, he sees these traits as an asset. Those who thought he would flip a switch and become a thoughtful, predictable leader after his inauguration were deluding themselves.
All it might take is another country's leader goading him in order for Trump to order a nuclear response. We have reason to fear what Trump will do and, duck-and-cover won't save us.
All it might take is another country's leader goading him in order for Trump to order a nuclear response. We have reason to fear what Trump will do and, duck-and-cover won't save us.
4
Bottom line, no one with demonstrated mental problems, such as Trump, should be in the position to start nuclear war to begin with.
4
Remember, Trump declared during the debates he could shoot someone dead in the middle of 5th Avenue and no one would do anything about it. He believed he was invincible, untouchable then. He believes it now. Our legislative branches, held hostage by the Republican Party, do not have the courage to -- will not-- disabuse him of that notion.
Here's the math:
(cellophane-thin skin + hair-trigger temper) x ignorance^2 = Trumpocalypse
Here's the math:
(cellophane-thin skin + hair-trigger temper) x ignorance^2 = Trumpocalypse
10
If Trump makes decisions the way he approved the Yemen raid, we are in trouble and Congress had better pass the Markey-Liu bill swiftly.
The NY Times had reported about the disastrous Yemen raid this way: "With two of his closest advisers, Jared Kushner and Stephen K. Bannon, joining the dinner at the White House along with Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr., Mr. Trump approved sending in the Navy’s SEAL Team 6...."a
Slate elaborated on it thus: "Officials told me that Trump approved the plan then and there. The next day, the National Security Council’s Deputies Committee—an interagency group of deputy and undersecretaries from various Cabinet departments—held a meeting to discuss the plan. But, as one official put it, the meeting was “pro forma and irrelevant,” as the decision had already been made." http://tinyurl.com/zus6d5j
With a nuclear launch, there is no "next day" to "discuss the plan."
The NY Times had reported about the disastrous Yemen raid this way: "With two of his closest advisers, Jared Kushner and Stephen K. Bannon, joining the dinner at the White House along with Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr., Mr. Trump approved sending in the Navy’s SEAL Team 6...."a
Slate elaborated on it thus: "Officials told me that Trump approved the plan then and there. The next day, the National Security Council’s Deputies Committee—an interagency group of deputy and undersecretaries from various Cabinet departments—held a meeting to discuss the plan. But, as one official put it, the meeting was “pro forma and irrelevant,” as the decision had already been made." http://tinyurl.com/zus6d5j
With a nuclear launch, there is no "next day" to "discuss the plan."
6
This question was posed before the election: is he safe with this power? At that time many supporters assumed that behind the theatre there was a rational mind, that in government he would act wisely.
The difference now is that Trump's plethora of EOs has shown this belief to be foolish. I do not assume that Pence would pursue different policies (the religious right and corporate interests will still dictate) but one prays that he at least would understand the consequences of his actions.
The immigration order was a scatter-gun aimed at the wrong targets: unwise, driven by the irrational - similar to Bush's invasion of Iraq. The fear is that Trump is already talking incautiously about nuclear weapons and his action would have even greater consequence, sheer bloody MADness.
The difference now is that Trump's plethora of EOs has shown this belief to be foolish. I do not assume that Pence would pursue different policies (the religious right and corporate interests will still dictate) but one prays that he at least would understand the consequences of his actions.
The immigration order was a scatter-gun aimed at the wrong targets: unwise, driven by the irrational - similar to Bush's invasion of Iraq. The fear is that Trump is already talking incautiously about nuclear weapons and his action would have even greater consequence, sheer bloody MADness.
5
The President declared his poll numbers by ABC. CNN and NBC are fake news. He is certain every American is behind him. I guess we should add that there is a clinically paranoid man with a finger on the button. Duck and Cover?
5
If you ever wondered about the real reason the "white working class" hasn't done so well in recent years, its obvious death wish in electing Trump ought to make it obvious. It doesn't really even want to keep on living. If it can't go back to its gooey fantasy of the 50s--sans those pesky nuclear bombs it can't seem to remember--it would rather we just all get incinerated in a rich-boy patriarchal temper tantrum.
11
Al the thoughtful comments here about how congress must pass laws that will restrain a president in the future--or even this President--from using nuclear weapons, or restrain him/her in some other way, or about how President Trump should or must consider this or that, are truly sad iin terms of how far they are removed from actual reality. As Morris Berman opined in another context in "Dark Ages America, you might as well suggest that someone or something should or must suspend the law of gravity. In general it's true, but with the proclivities and deadly incapacities of this president and this congress it's absolutely so. (I actually laugh when they talk of eliminating a president's first strike option. Don't they remember the supposed enemy attack in the Gulf of Tonkin? There's ample reason to expect the present oval-room triumverate could cook up justification for a "retaliatory" nuclear strike in seconds. And, if there remained any time, one that would be "alternatively" explained by dutiful mouthpiece Conway or Spicer!) To conclude by referring to Berman's analogy, whenever I read in this paper about how this congress or president should or must do something, I always turn to my wife and say, "hold me down, honey!"
1
I cried when I read it...
In spite of the unsubstantiated fears of the esteemed Editorial Board, members of which are limited in their experience to managing their checkbooks, I cried at the suggestion.
Why?
Because they are willing to sell the United States down the river for purely political reasons. They loved Obama; they don't like trump.
That's the sum of the their objections.
In spite of the unsubstantiated fears of the esteemed Editorial Board, members of which are limited in their experience to managing their checkbooks, I cried at the suggestion.
Why?
Because they are willing to sell the United States down the river for purely political reasons. They loved Obama; they don't like trump.
That's the sum of the their objections.
1
If the day comes when there's more reason to fear the man in the White House than our enemies, we're cooked.
Thought experiment: Suppose instead of Donald Trump, the current Donald Trump - not facing a crisis - not backed into a corner, we have Jack D. Ripper, the mad general in "Dr. Strangelove" who unilaterally starts a nuclear war. Are WE not totally mad, given our weapons of annihilation, when we give such power to a solitary man and have no circuit breakers?
'"He just got pissed, ...They were half in the tank, sitting around the pool drinking. And Nixon got on the phone and said: 'Bomb the shit out of them!'"'
"'Nixon became incensed and ordered a tactical nuclear strike... The Joint Chiefs were alerted and asked to recommend targets, but Kissinger got on the phone to them. They agreed not to do anything until Nixon sobered up in the morning.'"
https://www.theguardian.com/weekend/story/0,3605,362958,00.html
Trump is more fragile and less competent than Nixon. He has no Kissinger.
Thought experiment: Suppose instead of Donald Trump, the current Donald Trump - not facing a crisis - not backed into a corner, we have Jack D. Ripper, the mad general in "Dr. Strangelove" who unilaterally starts a nuclear war. Are WE not totally mad, given our weapons of annihilation, when we give such power to a solitary man and have no circuit breakers?
'"He just got pissed, ...They were half in the tank, sitting around the pool drinking. And Nixon got on the phone and said: 'Bomb the shit out of them!'"'
"'Nixon became incensed and ordered a tactical nuclear strike... The Joint Chiefs were alerted and asked to recommend targets, but Kissinger got on the phone to them. They agreed not to do anything until Nixon sobered up in the morning.'"
https://www.theguardian.com/weekend/story/0,3605,362958,00.html
Trump is more fragile and less competent than Nixon. He has no Kissinger.
13
The above horror story never happened. There is no credible proof of such tall tales.
Also, Nixon was drunk but Donald is stupid. In the morning Nixon would be sober but Donald would still be stupid. lol
2
The Nixon story is horrifying.
Ho hum. More hysteria.
8
Yeah, that's the problem. Knuckleheads like you say "ho hum" after casting your ballot for the biggest, but most dangerous, political buffoon in our history. Maybe if you keep yawning he will go away and we can all pretend like this was just some kind of a bad dream. That always works.
2
really?
As the folks in Damascus Arkansas if they want an expansion of our nuclear arsenal. September 18, 1980.
2
So here it is, the heart of the matter. I agreed with Paul Krugman's column declaring that every issue so many of us have been freaking out about for the past two weeks, is secondary to whether or not Donald Trump knows when he is lying. It's another way of saying that everything else is secondary to whether or not this person has something fundamentally wrong with him. I think it's obvious by now that he does. He changes his mind all the time because he doesn't really know what he thinks, and it could kill us all. I've heard it said that it's the liberals' big fantasy that any day now, we'll discover Putin was blackmailing him and he'll be out. I'm a liberal but this is beyond politics. We need to get rid of him for our survival.
11
I far prefer someone who changes his mind when the occasion requires to the rigid doctrinaire of the person that always thinks he is the smartest man in the room.
We had eight years of Obama declaring that only he knew best, and the world is finding out that his legacy was built on the sands of executive order not on legislative success.
Obama and the liberals have only themselves to blame for failing to embrace the legislative process to render Obama's "teachings" more permanent than yesterday's sand castle.
We had eight years of Obama declaring that only he knew best, and the world is finding out that his legacy was built on the sands of executive order not on legislative success.
Obama and the liberals have only themselves to blame for failing to embrace the legislative process to render Obama's "teachings" more permanent than yesterday's sand castle.
1
Trump has adopted Staples' old motto, "That was easy," now that they have changed their motto to "Get more done" because too many people commented, "'That' was not what I'd call 'easy'."
1
Let's hope he doesn't adapt their Big Red Button.
1
Yes, it's not the fickle finger of fate that worries us, but the fickle mind of a foolish man who awoke one day to find himself sitting in the Oval Office with his finger poised over the button that could turn our planet into a glowing pile of space dust.
Who will act to restrain him? Mitch McConnell? Paul Ryan? Hs! Maybe Melania will say hold that thought, dear, I just got this lovely facia dress back from the cleaners and it would be a shame to soil it. Also, all those giant T's you plastered on your buildings will vanish, too.
Who will act to restrain him? Mitch McConnell? Paul Ryan? Hs! Maybe Melania will say hold that thought, dear, I just got this lovely facia dress back from the cleaners and it would be a shame to soil it. Also, all those giant T's you plastered on your buildings will vanish, too.
10
Why do people keep talking about this issue as if Trump is simply a flawed human being? Such discussion is masturbatory and nearly as concerning as the fact that we continue to allow him to hold our very lives in his hands.
4
You make a good point in the first part of your second sentence. The left is good at this self-reinforcing rhetoric that has no practical purpose other then to continue to divide the already divided with greater chasms between them and reality.
Trump is the President of the United States. And absent impeachment (highly unlikely) or a coup d'etat (treason), he will remain President Trump until the voters through the electoral college turns him out.
Your remark about continuing to allow Trump to hold our very lives in his hands suggests that you are not willing to live to the rules of democracy that this nation has established.
And that is very, very sad and unproductive.
Trump is the President of the United States. And absent impeachment (highly unlikely) or a coup d'etat (treason), he will remain President Trump until the voters through the electoral college turns him out.
Your remark about continuing to allow Trump to hold our very lives in his hands suggests that you are not willing to live to the rules of democracy that this nation has established.
And that is very, very sad and unproductive.
1
Optimists think the human race is savvy and empathetic enough to never wipe ourselves out with the touch of a button. Pessimists don't hold much hope for the human race. Obama know's that as long as we keep our nuclear weapons ready to launch, we statistically, increase our chances of extinction. But everyone's scared of everyone else. Once again we are driven by our fears. And now we have a president who has always done business by acting as though he's so crazy he'll do anything to get what he wants. In a psychiatric ward if a patient threatens to hurt himself or others he's immediately restricted to 24 hour watch.
5
As I recall, wasn't it Trump this election cycle who encouraged the reduction of nuclear arms?
It probably doesn't matter unless everyone gets rid of them. It's the fear of knowing someone has one. It wouldn't take a lot of warheads to wipe out humanity. Why not get rid of them and give that money to education, jobs etc?
It has been reported that Bannon is the author of many of these "executive orders" and that Trump doesn't read them before signing. That is how Bannon inserted himself onto the Security Council on his own volition. What guarantee is there that he won't trick Trump into giving him the nuclear codes?
4
There is NO WAY to overestimate Donald Trump's stupidity.
The NYTimes spent over a year tarring Mr. Trump as a bigot, giving scant attention to this dramatically more important issue. Too little too late.
1
The notion of President Trump and the ability to launch a nuclear strike of any proportion is the stuff of Doctor Strangelove.
DJT’s most favored tactics are those of the consummate bully, brinkmanship, and unrelenting frontal attack. Ditto for his chief advisor and iconoclast Steve Bannon.
Given the volatile mix of the hyper-reactionary state of today’s world and the all to frequent erratic behavior of the current Command in Chief, who can for even a moment possibly think that the risk of a grand nuclear weapons miscalculation or misstep is not exponentially increased.
Making America Safe Again one NUC at a time. Trust me you’re going to love it.
DJT’s most favored tactics are those of the consummate bully, brinkmanship, and unrelenting frontal attack. Ditto for his chief advisor and iconoclast Steve Bannon.
Given the volatile mix of the hyper-reactionary state of today’s world and the all to frequent erratic behavior of the current Command in Chief, who can for even a moment possibly think that the risk of a grand nuclear weapons miscalculation or misstep is not exponentially increased.
Making America Safe Again one NUC at a time. Trust me you’re going to love it.
1
I used to worry about this stuff and the I saw Dr. Strangelove.
It put two points in my brain. Nuclear war is or should be unthinkable.
US Presidents are people as are other foreign leaders and one day one of them will be a big enough dope to push that button. Kennedy almost did over Cuba.
In the meantime there is literally nothing I can do about it.
And don't say vote, I do. Fact is Democrats can push buttons too and it was Democrats that dragged us into Viet Nam so really they are no different from Republicans except that lately they have been losing a lot and whining about it.
It put two points in my brain. Nuclear war is or should be unthinkable.
US Presidents are people as are other foreign leaders and one day one of them will be a big enough dope to push that button. Kennedy almost did over Cuba.
In the meantime there is literally nothing I can do about it.
And don't say vote, I do. Fact is Democrats can push buttons too and it was Democrats that dragged us into Viet Nam so really they are no different from Republicans except that lately they have been losing a lot and whining about it.
The Democrats should push this legislation hard. One emotional meltdown (bad pun) by Trump is all it would take for him to cross that line, and I don't watch to see Conway come on tv and tell us all we're being over dramatic. At what point does the Republican Congress re grow their spines and kahunas to stand up to Trump? On this one, more than their careers are on the line.
4
Why didn't Trump supporters think about this before they elected him.?
5
With the Atomic clock so close to midnight, we seem to forget that this works in ISIS favor. Their goal, supposedly, is to bring about the apocalypse, and by making the threat of nuclear war as an option it very well may not work as Trump thinks it will.
With Bannon whispering in Trump's ear, we well might see that clock closer to midnight before this is over.
With Bannon whispering in Trump's ear, we well might see that clock closer to midnight before this is over.
3
Doomsday was the day President Trump was inaugurated to start his chaotic, frantic unheard of, unprognosticated executive orders and install his personal pit-bull attack dog, Steve Bannon, on the National Security Council. Precipitous action - "that finger on the Nuclear Button" (Trump's or Bannon's) - has been allayed by Senator Edward Markey of MA and Rep Ted Lieu of CA, who have proposed legislation to prohibit any president from launching a first-strike nuclear weapon without a declaration of war from Congress. This is not the time for our impulsive and chaotic 45th President to wield the threat of using nuclear weapons as his brand of saber-rattling.
9
Oh, my, Ms Socolow, it appears that you jumped off into the deep end with the Third Senator from Maryland and the replacement for one of the most irrational representatives in the history of the House, Henry Waxman.
Are you willing to trade the future of American government for political points?
Isn't that what put you Democrats in the position of irrelevance except in the failing major cities of our nation where you have been in control for more than half-a-century?
And there is another cogent point that you need to consider...
Do you ACTUALLY think that this Congress will do anything but relegate this measure to committee oblivion, which it richly deserves.
Get a grip on yourself. The Democratic circus is closed for a couple of more years.
Are you willing to trade the future of American government for political points?
Isn't that what put you Democrats in the position of irrelevance except in the failing major cities of our nation where you have been in control for more than half-a-century?
And there is another cogent point that you need to consider...
Do you ACTUALLY think that this Congress will do anything but relegate this measure to committee oblivion, which it richly deserves.
Get a grip on yourself. The Democratic circus is closed for a couple of more years.
1
This piece skirts the real issue of the dangerous Mr. Trump:
an ego this big and bad cannot and will not change.
The only path to nuclear safety is removal of Trump's
command of such ferocious weaponry.
an ego this big and bad cannot and will not change.
The only path to nuclear safety is removal of Trump's
command of such ferocious weaponry.
9
Hopefully, dopey Trump will eventually implode and get impeached before he starts a war. He is a menace to world peace. However, waiting in the wings is Pastor Pence who is another menace hoping to make America Christian again. Behind that calm demeanor is a wacky extremist who would like to bring about a kind of Christian sharia state. He encourages Trump to his own advantage. Liberty's Flameout.
8
None of this means a thing to Donald Trump.
Hillary Clinton warned in the debates. She pointed out Donald Trump lives strictly in his own reality. No one else, not even Bannon, his kids, Mike Pence are living in that same space. No one.
Hillary Clinton warned in the debates. She pointed out Donald Trump lives strictly in his own reality. No one else, not even Bannon, his kids, Mike Pence are living in that same space. No one.
131
Yes, trump lives in his own reality and has been afforded that his whole life withe wealth and privilege which has protected him from the real world. And we see the same with his billionaire cabinet picks: Betsy DeVos, who knows nothing about public education to be Ed Secretary, for example. And the others who are billionaires are the same: knowing nothing about the office/agency they have been nominated to run.
trump treats the nuclear button like a new toy--"Maybe I will use it, maybe I won't" as a way to rule by fear and feel like he is the most powerful person in the universe.
What is scary is that I, as a regular citizen with a college education, know more about how the government works and the Constitution and limits of power than the the current president and his aides/appointees. Now, that is sad!
trump treats the nuclear button like a new toy--"Maybe I will use it, maybe I won't" as a way to rule by fear and feel like he is the most powerful person in the universe.
What is scary is that I, as a regular citizen with a college education, know more about how the government works and the Constitution and limits of power than the the current president and his aides/appointees. Now, that is sad!
2
Good of you to mention that the hands on the Doomsday Clock were moved from 6 minutes before midnight in 2010 to 3 minutes before midnight in 2015. Remind me who was President during those years?
1
Those who decided that the Commander in Chief has the authority to launch obviously never thought of a President Trump.
1
Once identified as a person responsible for delivering a nuclear, here is the primary reason among many reasons that I strongly oppose Trump.
Growing up in the 1960s, we knew the massive devastation of nuclear weapons with fall out shelters across the nation. Late last century, the public stopped being informed of the danger and like our wars, nuclear weapons became some how 'acceptable' again. Perhaps the time has come to demonstrate the total devastation of nuclear war. Report on the test data of nuclear weapons development.
Growing up in the 1960s, we knew the massive devastation of nuclear weapons with fall out shelters across the nation. Late last century, the public stopped being informed of the danger and like our wars, nuclear weapons became some how 'acceptable' again. Perhaps the time has come to demonstrate the total devastation of nuclear war. Report on the test data of nuclear weapons development.
It does not matter that any particular finger is on the nuclear button. What really matters is the maturity, wisdom, character, intelligence, insight and knowledge of the human being with the ultimate authority to decide what to do with that button.
Thankfully the incorrigible juvenile delinquent whose dad sent him off to the New York Military Academy for seasoning did not have his finger on the nuclear button during the Korean War or the Vietnam War or the Cuban Missile Crisis or during the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
While Donald Trump's emotional and mental health is not objectively determinable due to his refusal to disclose his medical health condition, his immature intemperate incompetent reckless fickle nature is on full display. Impeachment or removal under the 25th Amendment are the ultimate remedy with our feckless Congress and a torpid tortured glacial judicial process. But the ultimate authority and power over our elected and selected hired American republic help under our Constitution rests with we the people.
Thankfully the incorrigible juvenile delinquent whose dad sent him off to the New York Military Academy for seasoning did not have his finger on the nuclear button during the Korean War or the Vietnam War or the Cuban Missile Crisis or during the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
While Donald Trump's emotional and mental health is not objectively determinable due to his refusal to disclose his medical health condition, his immature intemperate incompetent reckless fickle nature is on full display. Impeachment or removal under the 25th Amendment are the ultimate remedy with our feckless Congress and a torpid tortured glacial judicial process. But the ultimate authority and power over our elected and selected hired American republic help under our Constitution rests with we the people.
1
I think for many of us this is our greatest frear about trump. We have someone unfit for office and displays mentally unstable behavior. He also has Stephen Bannon, a very strange, hard right character next to him that has some sort of apocalyptic obsession and believes we will be experiencing a "great clash of civilizations" during a "fourth turn." If that is not even to scare the wits out of all of us, I don't know what would. I think the first step is the Republicans should grow a spine and pressure trump to fire Bannon.
3
disruptive? impulsive? Those are words to describe a toddler in his crib or a kindergartener whose mom just got told "should be home-schooled".
Trump is the distracter in chief while congress and the courts smash progressive ideals....all the while the NYT questions whether it is ok like the kid who gets his lunch taken away.
Trump is the distracter in chief while congress and the courts smash progressive ideals....all the while the NYT questions whether it is ok like the kid who gets his lunch taken away.
Are we, Americans, not the nuclear threat -- to float into this situation and not rise up in alarm and self-protection, and a sense of morality and sanity? The Republicans who promote this lying, delusional. greed & authoritarian & mostly ignorant, destructive power-oriented administration regarding domestic and foreign affairs, capable of acts of hate, destruction of community and civilization, and a habitable planet itself? The liberal class who take a 'wait and see attitude' and deny 'evil' or the 'ignorance' (to use a Buddhist concept) or trances --and the real consequences of such states of mind and emotion? Human beings are full of delusion, and it is about to cost us all our lives. The truth can set you free. There is no such thing as a post-truth. There are lies, there is sanity, there is wisdom, there is morality & sense or dealing with facts. Trump and those around him -- and maybe the Nation as a whole shows we are now literally governed by lies, shadows, hate and delusion. Talk about 'sad!' It's tragic and frightening in extreme.
3
"Did you see the size of my mushroom cloud? Seriously, that had to be the biggest mushroom cloud ever. And the heat, the heat - my people tell me we set some sort of heat record. I think we also set a blast wave record, some kind of force thing; just so proud of the great people I have following orders. Now I'm waiting on the fallout report, no doubt it will be best ever, great great fallout report sure to come. That'll teach those Ausies a thing or two."
MAKE THE WORLD QUAKE AGAIN.
MAKE THE WORLD QUAKE AGAIN.
5
If trump truly had any intention of making America safe or was interested in our security at all, he certainly would not be randomly tweeting about an arms race or denigrating our relationships with our allies.
And then there is trump's cherished relationship with the killer, Putin. If trump thinks there are killers in the US as well, as he claimed to O'Reilly, he is correct. trump is at the top of the list. trump now has his first Navy seal under his belt. Who is next?
Blaming a lack of safety and security on Muslims is just another ploy to distract us from the true threat to our nation: trump himself.
And then there is trump's cherished relationship with the killer, Putin. If trump thinks there are killers in the US as well, as he claimed to O'Reilly, he is correct. trump is at the top of the list. trump now has his first Navy seal under his belt. Who is next?
Blaming a lack of safety and security on Muslims is just another ploy to distract us from the true threat to our nation: trump himself.
1
The codes are keep in suitcase known as the football and carried by a military officer. Trump does not have direct access to the codes. His finger is not on the button. There is no button. Thank you.
2
Trump has a chaotic mind which shows up in his itchy fingers and chaotic pronouncements. It is problematic whether our country will survive as a working unit. Presidents have made bad decisions in the past, but Trump has no cohesive center to even know he has made a mistake.
1
There is no situation that the leader of the free world would retaliate with a nuclear weapon as a first strike weapon. This is absurd, crazy and irresponsible. Today's weapons are 1000 times larger than Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombs if not more destructive. This is just one bomb. This action would be condemned by the world but we would all be in survival mode. The Empire (Republican Party) would be in the bunkers. We would have the ire of every person on this planet. There is no way that any President should ever consider using a nuclear weapon to start a War or anything. Having worked inside military commands, I know they are ready to use them, this is why the President was made Commander in Chief.
Trump is a clown as are the jerks that voted for him.
1
We have Iran, a terrorist nation with nuclear and ballistic missile capability, and the editorial board sees fit to condemn the president. And no one walks into the White House as a nuclear expert, including former President Obama.
Article after article, whether posted by The New York Times, Washington Post or lesser papers, fails to truly establish that the Republican Party is now the White Christian Fascist Party, headed by a certifiably mentally ill malignant narcissist. Alarm is far too kind a word. We, the majority of the electorate, are at war with an administration of almost uniformly evil men to use Hanna Arendt's definitions of cruel banality based on fear mongering.
We (progressives and, again, the majority of the electorate) need to work diligently to impeach this sick orange tyrant. We then to to resist and resist again and find a way of protecting our great country against the forces of tyrant and fascism mounted on the back of fear that produced the calamity we are witnessing day by day called the Trump Administration.
We (progressives and, again, the majority of the electorate) need to work diligently to impeach this sick orange tyrant. We then to to resist and resist again and find a way of protecting our great country against the forces of tyrant and fascism mounted on the back of fear that produced the calamity we are witnessing day by day called the Trump Administration.
2
Trump's record of acrimonious histrionics and access nuclear launch codes is just a bad idea all the way around. Hitting that button isn't like issuing vindictive and largely meaningless executive orders, (or issuing angry tweets at 3 a.m, ) that get your smirking face on TV in hopes of re-assuring your "base" that you're staying the course and executing your promises to MAGA. And of course, one way to permanently diminish your "base" is to have them annihilated by a counter strike.
The reason we have the Middle East in turmoil and Russia and China acting more aggressively is because of Obama's feckless foreign policy. Let's hope President Trump is able to clean this mess up.
1
Can someone please answer me this, I am an innocent.
In a democracy where each of us have a vote what is intelligent or even sensible about having one man in sole charge of weapons that can destroy humanity? He was not even voted in by majority but by an indirect and manipulatable system, i.e., the electoral college
Surely a group of men and women from the USA and our allies should decide on this ultimate annihilating event - not one man.
Least of all a man that is now being seen by the world as detached, unhinged and immature.
In a democracy where each of us have a vote what is intelligent or even sensible about having one man in sole charge of weapons that can destroy humanity? He was not even voted in by majority but by an indirect and manipulatable system, i.e., the electoral college
Surely a group of men and women from the USA and our allies should decide on this ultimate annihilating event - not one man.
Least of all a man that is now being seen by the world as detached, unhinged and immature.
1
I am not a Trump supporter and would have liked John Kasich to have won the Presidency. That said, I accept the election result and wish Mr. Trump all good fortune to achieve an agenda that will serve the best interests of our country.
My hopes for President Trump are that we not incur the following under his presidency:
• new protracted wars with any nation,
• lost prestige across the globe,
• exponential increase to our national debt,
• loss of our civil liberties or erosion of our constitutional protections,
• elimination of our newfound abilities to get health insurance, and
• erosion of health and safety safeguards provided through regulation in the water we use and the air we breath.
Unfortunately, although we're only a few weeks into his Presidency, I only see us losing ground on all of the above goals.
A primary disappointment of mine, bordering on fear, is that Mr. Trump's management style fosters great uncertainties in leaders across the globe on the identification, prioritization, and mechanisms to address issues of priority to his administration. It is very unclear what are President Trump's most pressing topics that should be tackled, and this unsteadiness is alarming.
Also disappointing is how Mr. Trump seems to care very little about maintaining and culturing relationships with our global allies. His interactions with the leaders of Australia and Mexico leave much to be desired.
Hopefully President Trump will right this ship as we move forward.
My hopes for President Trump are that we not incur the following under his presidency:
• new protracted wars with any nation,
• lost prestige across the globe,
• exponential increase to our national debt,
• loss of our civil liberties or erosion of our constitutional protections,
• elimination of our newfound abilities to get health insurance, and
• erosion of health and safety safeguards provided through regulation in the water we use and the air we breath.
Unfortunately, although we're only a few weeks into his Presidency, I only see us losing ground on all of the above goals.
A primary disappointment of mine, bordering on fear, is that Mr. Trump's management style fosters great uncertainties in leaders across the globe on the identification, prioritization, and mechanisms to address issues of priority to his administration. It is very unclear what are President Trump's most pressing topics that should be tackled, and this unsteadiness is alarming.
Also disappointing is how Mr. Trump seems to care very little about maintaining and culturing relationships with our global allies. His interactions with the leaders of Australia and Mexico leave much to be desired.
Hopefully President Trump will right this ship as we move forward.
"A Pentagon advisory board recently proposed that the United States consider building more lower-yield nuclear weapons to provide an option for “limited use” in a regional conflict..."
Right. Because making it EASIER to decide to use nukes is SUCH a good idea...
Right. Because making it EASIER to decide to use nukes is SUCH a good idea...
There's good reason to worry. Has this man shown anything other than his malignant narcissism, incredibly shallow decision making non skills, and a propensity to retaliate like he was downing bowls of tic tacs. Hey Trump, grow up, you're terrifying the world idiot.
1
Until now, the nuclear threat has come from nations - particularly the US and Russia. Fortunately, cool heads have prevailed on both these sides and we have been trying to reduce these threats to humanity.
BUT Now we have two problems:
1 - our own loose nut at the wheel with our huge nuclear arsenal and
2 - the threat of individual weapons in the hands of terrorists
Truly 1 is more unexpected, but IMHO, 2 is still more threat than 1.
Unfortunately 1 makes 2 easier and more likely.
BUT Now we have two problems:
1 - our own loose nut at the wheel with our huge nuclear arsenal and
2 - the threat of individual weapons in the hands of terrorists
Truly 1 is more unexpected, but IMHO, 2 is still more threat than 1.
Unfortunately 1 makes 2 easier and more likely.
2
Come to think of it, this one issue is really why, the day Trump gets impeached, or resigns, or dies, is going to be a day of great celebration for me. I am going to go around to bars and buy rounds of drinks for the house, thrilled that we have dodged the end of civilization, now that Trump is out of office. I look forward to that day more than anything, whereas if Putin died it would be no big deal for me.
1
Stackhouse -- your comment shouldn't have been allowed. You're hoping Trump dies. He won't impeached, as he has done nothing to merit that nor will he resign.
Another good example of why the left is sinking into a quagmire of self pity from which they will never arise nor win enough votes to gain back the presidency.
Another good example of why the left is sinking into a quagmire of self pity from which they will never arise nor win enough votes to gain back the presidency.
Dear Ralphie,
Sorry but you misunderstood, I said the say he gets impeached, or resigns, or dies. There is no doubt that he, like everyone else, will die. I am not directly hoping he dies. I'm just pointing out that whenever it happens, I will make a day of celebration about it, even if it's twenty years from now. Note that I did not do so when Reagan died, will not do so when G.W. Bush died, and so forth; this is a disrespectful act I will reserve only for Trump.
Since I didn't directly wish him dead, the moderators accepted it, and I think they made the right call. I've said harsher things that they rejected on that basis, and I accept those being blocked.
Sorry but you misunderstood, I said the say he gets impeached, or resigns, or dies. There is no doubt that he, like everyone else, will die. I am not directly hoping he dies. I'm just pointing out that whenever it happens, I will make a day of celebration about it, even if it's twenty years from now. Note that I did not do so when Reagan died, will not do so when G.W. Bush died, and so forth; this is a disrespectful act I will reserve only for Trump.
Since I didn't directly wish him dead, the moderators accepted it, and I think they made the right call. I've said harsher things that they rejected on that basis, and I accept those being blocked.
1
I don’t fear a nuclear attack from the Nuclear powers of the world, as much as,I fear an attack from religious zealots like the ones that crashed our hijacked planes into the Twin Towers, in their quest for virgins.They are not deterred by our ability to respond.Countries like Pakistan & North Korea are capable of equipping terrorists with nuclear weapons to attack their enemies, hoping to escape retaliation. We must make it clear to Russia, China,Pakistan North Korea, & Iran, That even if they had nothing to do with such an attack, that we would hold them responsible & would retaliate against them. This would encourage them to help to eliminate such a threat, before it occurs. This must be made very clear to China, who has influence with North Korea, & Russia who has influence with Iran.
1
The Markey/Lieu bill is excellent and I hope the Times will continue to lobby for it. But it would be stronger if it provided that no one person could launch a nuclear attack of any kind -- even in defense. The reason is that there have been too many "close calls" due to false information about an attack. A "two signature" policy would guard against that and against a president run amok. In the past, this was logistically impossible, given the rapid response time possibly involved. Today technology makes it eminently feasible.
2
What if Trump hears on Fox News that Mexico has launched a nuclear attack? Will he retaliate? Does he realize that Mexico doesn't have any nuclear weapons?
2
Trump showed himself to be unstable and unqualified long before he was elected and took office, yet his followers put him there. In the two weeks and few days since he took office he has displayed, I suspect, not even yet the limits of his instability; that, frighteningly, remains to be seen. And still his followers, the Republican Congress, and a rogue's gallery of unqualified people in the White House as his advisers, plus his woefully inappropriate choices for the Cabinet, continue to support him. Thanks to him our government and by extension our country becomes by the day more xenophobic, antisemitic, homophobic, misogynistic, scornful of the law, intellectual achievement and tradition with every tweet and presidential fiat, with no end in sight. He insults and disrespects our allies and has downgraded our reputation in the world. And this is the man who can destroy the world like a little boy trashing his playroom in the throes of a tantrum? God help us all.
125
Well said.
I apologize. My omission of racist was unintentional.
2
This jerk, Donald Trump is not only a Putin apologists, but he is starting to sound like he's the most Un-American person ever elected President. And Dumb, Mike Pence is no better..............................
Every time Trump opens his mouth, he proves the majority of the country was right when they voted for Hillary Clinton for President over him by 3 million votes..........thanks to the electoral college we are stuck with this imbecile.
I only hope he doesn't get us in a world conflagration.
Every time Trump opens his mouth, he proves the majority of the country was right when they voted for Hillary Clinton for President over him by 3 million votes..........thanks to the electoral college we are stuck with this imbecile.
I only hope he doesn't get us in a world conflagration.
5
I just read an article concerning previous new administrations briefed on the nuclear capabilities of the United States. Here's a paraphrase: ...Scowcroft left in tears.
Bannon and his puppet trump seem rudderless, "Full steam ahead!"
Bannon and his puppet trump seem rudderless, "Full steam ahead!"
1
For our 'illegitimate president Trump, everything is a game.
He uses his cellphone for twitter purposes like a child in America uses the joysticks to launch a virtual nuclear bomb in a fantasy games of warfare.
But for a president, he's not in a position to understand what is his business venture and what is his presidential duty?
Like he proclaimed many times before in all his campaigns, to nuke the middle-eastern countries at the slightest of provocations, this boy-child Trump might actually do that in a real life and death situation in the United States which can easily be controlled with the conventional weapons.
So, it's really important for the Republican congress to take up the proposal that Democratic 'Senator Edward Markey of Massachusetts and Representative Ted lieu of California proposed a legislation to prohibit any president from launching a first-strike nuclear weapon without a declaration of war from Congress' as said by you in this article.
Given Mr. Trump's penchant for self- bravado and totally boorish behavior, the Republican led Senate under the majority leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, must give it a serious thought unless he wants our country and the whole world blown out by a madman dictator called Donald J.Trump.
'With Mr. Trump,sound decision-making may be an ever greater challenge....', as said by you in this article.
So I'll sincerely request the Republican leadership to curb Trump's power before we're all dead because of his idiosyncrasies.
He uses his cellphone for twitter purposes like a child in America uses the joysticks to launch a virtual nuclear bomb in a fantasy games of warfare.
But for a president, he's not in a position to understand what is his business venture and what is his presidential duty?
Like he proclaimed many times before in all his campaigns, to nuke the middle-eastern countries at the slightest of provocations, this boy-child Trump might actually do that in a real life and death situation in the United States which can easily be controlled with the conventional weapons.
So, it's really important for the Republican congress to take up the proposal that Democratic 'Senator Edward Markey of Massachusetts and Representative Ted lieu of California proposed a legislation to prohibit any president from launching a first-strike nuclear weapon without a declaration of war from Congress' as said by you in this article.
Given Mr. Trump's penchant for self- bravado and totally boorish behavior, the Republican led Senate under the majority leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, must give it a serious thought unless he wants our country and the whole world blown out by a madman dictator called Donald J.Trump.
'With Mr. Trump,sound decision-making may be an ever greater challenge....', as said by you in this article.
So I'll sincerely request the Republican leadership to curb Trump's power before we're all dead because of his idiosyncrasies.
3
If you give a primate a high tech toy, he will play with it. See: US; USSR; China; France; UK;...
1
Exactly right. Human beings are only slightly variant chimpanzees wrapped (badly, in Trump's case) in various forms of cloth.
Children (either chronologically or genetically) should not be allowed to play with sharp instruments.
Nuclear weapons? Fuggedaboudit.
Trump is perhaps THE extreme example of the case in point.
Children (either chronologically or genetically) should not be allowed to play with sharp instruments.
Nuclear weapons? Fuggedaboudit.
Trump is perhaps THE extreme example of the case in point.
I spent a lot of my career advising wealthy people. Sometimes during a disagreement a form of this taunt would come up: 'If you're so smart, why aren't you rich?'
In watching Trump, I finally came up with a perfect reply, several decades too late: 'If you're so rich, why aren't you smart?'
In watching Trump, I finally came up with a perfect reply, several decades too late: 'If you're so rich, why aren't you smart?'
6
Over half of all eligible voters (some 100 million) didn’t even bother to vote. And this is the consequence. Voter apathy is tragic and dangerous.
3
Does anyone think laws will prevent this man from doing anything? I fear that if he feels he's about to go down, he may just want to bring the rest of us with him. That's the only argument I can find for removing him from office, but it's the best one for doing that, too.
2
Another ridiculous EB article. So some lefty nuke scientists have decided that Trump as pres increases the risk of nuke war. Based on....? What? That they don't like him?
I haven't heard Trump saber rattling or threatening anyone with nuclear weapons. And if he did, that might make some think twice before they attempt to expand their power.
Again, incoherence on the EB's part -- but exactly what do you mean by the phrase "the only legitimate role for nuclear weapons is deterrence." Deterrence of what? Nuclear attack by others -- or conventional attacks?
Nuke give us the ability to inhibit the ambitions of any aggressor. Limited yield nukes would give our military the option of a measured response -- instead of blowing up a country they could simply pinpoint the aggressor's troops and inflict with one bomb unacceptable damage. That is deterrence.
Of course, since Trump (according to the deranged left) is a Putin puppet, we don't have to worry about him nuking Russia, do we? And he might have long term real estate interests in China so -- no risk there.
And I would remind the hysterical, the only president who has gotten us close to nuclear war was JFK with his reckless behavior regarding Cuba.
I haven't heard Trump saber rattling or threatening anyone with nuclear weapons. And if he did, that might make some think twice before they attempt to expand their power.
Again, incoherence on the EB's part -- but exactly what do you mean by the phrase "the only legitimate role for nuclear weapons is deterrence." Deterrence of what? Nuclear attack by others -- or conventional attacks?
Nuke give us the ability to inhibit the ambitions of any aggressor. Limited yield nukes would give our military the option of a measured response -- instead of blowing up a country they could simply pinpoint the aggressor's troops and inflict with one bomb unacceptable damage. That is deterrence.
Of course, since Trump (according to the deranged left) is a Putin puppet, we don't have to worry about him nuking Russia, do we? And he might have long term real estate interests in China so -- no risk there.
And I would remind the hysterical, the only president who has gotten us close to nuclear war was JFK with his reckless behavior regarding Cuba.
1
Do we need any more reason to bring about the removal of Trump from office in one way or another.
A serious an immediate effort to impeach Trump must begin now.
An impeachment effort could well lead him to resign.
Such a result would save us from his chaotic behavior and the dangerous inclinations he demonstrates on a daily basis.
Trump is what he is and that is a self-centered person interested only in his own affairs, his personal financial survival, his business practices, and his own aggrandizement.
For the rest of us he will only prove to be a disaster - sooner or later.
In addition remember that sitting presidents can be sued as citizens.
So any one person or any group with an inkling of a case - step up immediately as a patriotic duty. (My check will be in the mail.)
Trump needs to be distracted and this can be done by targeting his numerous business enterprises.
Boycotting any and all of his and his family's business should be done NOW.
Companies have already begun this effort.
On 2/2/17 Nordstrom announced the phasing out of Ivanka Trump items due to poor sales.
Take note of grabyourwallet.org.
Trump is a business man.
So let us hold his feet to the fire that may cause him to resign in order to tend to his own business enterprises.
Let boycotts become our business and wait to see what happens as a result.
A serious an immediate effort to impeach Trump must begin now.
An impeachment effort could well lead him to resign.
Such a result would save us from his chaotic behavior and the dangerous inclinations he demonstrates on a daily basis.
Trump is what he is and that is a self-centered person interested only in his own affairs, his personal financial survival, his business practices, and his own aggrandizement.
For the rest of us he will only prove to be a disaster - sooner or later.
In addition remember that sitting presidents can be sued as citizens.
So any one person or any group with an inkling of a case - step up immediately as a patriotic duty. (My check will be in the mail.)
Trump needs to be distracted and this can be done by targeting his numerous business enterprises.
Boycotting any and all of his and his family's business should be done NOW.
Companies have already begun this effort.
On 2/2/17 Nordstrom announced the phasing out of Ivanka Trump items due to poor sales.
Take note of grabyourwallet.org.
Trump is a business man.
So let us hold his feet to the fire that may cause him to resign in order to tend to his own business enterprises.
Let boycotts become our business and wait to see what happens as a result.
4
"Scientists who study the risk of nuclear war..."
Stop, no. These are not scientists who study nuclear war. These are fear-mongering political hacks who live off science funding. Read who these people actually are, and you'll be sorely disappointed.
Stop, no. These are not scientists who study nuclear war. These are fear-mongering political hacks who live off science funding. Read who these people actually are, and you'll be sorely disappointed.
2
Mr. Trump and his followers need to not only pay attention to history, but recognize that we have a tripartite form of government, or at least did. I sense that they may not have been paying attention to civics classes in their formative years. It is a fundamental tenant of America embodied in the Constitution that not all power is in the executive branch, or the legislative or judicial branches. The Constitution established three equal branches of government. That is what, or should, distinguish us from a third world, or communist, dictatorship. Our checks and balances to power of each branch of government are what made America great. Mr. Trump appears to believe that all power and judgment rests in the executive branch. Mr. Trump's belittlement of our judicial system is extremely disturbing. There are disturbing similarities to the rise of Hitler and the Nazi party, in part fueled by distrust and rejection of the status quo and political gridlock. We do have problems with politicians of all colors (including Republicans) digging in and contributing to ineffective gridlock just for the sake of "scoring points." But, if Mr. Trump's approach of "executive branch only right" is allowed to continue, I firmly believe that it will destroy America. Please, don't let him get away with it.
My motto is "Keep America Great," not Mr. Trump's destructive "Make America Great Again."
My motto is "Keep America Great," not Mr. Trump's destructive "Make America Great Again."
2
Not so fast. The Trashmaster goes out of his way daily to make America grate again. And again... and again...
1
I agree, it does seem stupidly irresponsible to create then give one person sole command over 4,000 of these lethal weapons. What morons came up with such a scheme? Maybe the same adults that leave guns around the house for their kids to find and kill each other with, and then blame the kids when it happens?
2
I worked on nuclear tests in Nevada during the 70s and have seen the havoc that even a modest nuclear device can do. Frankly it's all over once we see the mushroom cloud - the fierce blast and heat happen instantaneously. We need to be reminded of that ferocity to get this discussion out of the abstract. Go watch "The Atomic Bomb Movie" to get a dose of reality. Then you will understand why we need to get rid of these damn things. Especially now.
4
The assumption that ANY president, not just this president, would make a first-strike nuclear attack without adequate reason is absurd.
This esteemed Editorial Board once again demonstrates its partisan nature and the absurdity that has taken over its ability to reason.
This esteemed Editorial Board once again demonstrates its partisan nature and the absurdity that has taken over its ability to reason.
1
Apparently you have (mysteriously) failed to note that we have elected a "president" who is patently, aggressively mentally ill. One suggests that you pay closer attention to what is happening in the "real" world.
I believe the Editorial Board is suggesting that your so-called President is absurd enough to launch a first strike, perhaps in peevish response to a supposed slight.
1
The Goldwater atomic bomb ad keeps reverberating in my head.
1
Mr. Trump has demonstrated that he somehow missed what most of the rest of us consider common knowledge. “Frederick Douglass is an example of somebody who’s done an amazing job and is getting recognized more and more, I notice,”
In his interview with Chris Matthews, he demonstrated his confusion about abortion AND nuclear weapons. He seemed to be saying--- Why do we have them if we're not going to use them.
He and I both grew up in the era of Mutually Assured Destruction, so I don't understand what he missed about the danger of destroying all of humanity. Movies, books, news were full of references you couldn't miss, even as a kid.
Given his lack of impulse control, and some anger issues, I would feel a little better if this issue was more talked about. Maybe, just maybe that would give him pause.
In his interview with Chris Matthews, he demonstrated his confusion about abortion AND nuclear weapons. He seemed to be saying--- Why do we have them if we're not going to use them.
He and I both grew up in the era of Mutually Assured Destruction, so I don't understand what he missed about the danger of destroying all of humanity. Movies, books, news were full of references you couldn't miss, even as a kid.
Given his lack of impulse control, and some anger issues, I would feel a little better if this issue was more talked about. Maybe, just maybe that would give him pause.
3
Editors, this piece is measured and tactful, as is typical. But let's be frank: the scientists are reacting to what we all recognize is the alarming danger of Trump in command of America's apocalyptic weapons.
You point out that all presidents should have the authority to respond to a nuclear attack on their own authority. That is arguable. The fact that all presidents have that authority is a problem, that begins with how they get that authority.
Ideally authority comes from the people, who willfully choose a president largely because they trust the candidate's judgment. But there is no required evidence of a candidate's qualifications for assuming presidential authority. People choose subjectively. And of all presidential authority, the readiness to command the nuclear arsenal should be measured by an objective process.
Compounding the situation is that the electoral college, not the people, actually choose the president. This is a catastrophic flaw in the system as is now clear with Trump. It means that the authority over the nuclear arsenal is disconnected from any trust granted through the will of the people. To the contrary, so many people voted for anybody other than Trump that his life and death authority is now forced on the people AGAINST their will.
The proposal to take the first nuclear strike authority from Trump is insufficient. He should be stripped of even the defensive strike capability. Otherwise, he is very likely to get the world blown up
You point out that all presidents should have the authority to respond to a nuclear attack on their own authority. That is arguable. The fact that all presidents have that authority is a problem, that begins with how they get that authority.
Ideally authority comes from the people, who willfully choose a president largely because they trust the candidate's judgment. But there is no required evidence of a candidate's qualifications for assuming presidential authority. People choose subjectively. And of all presidential authority, the readiness to command the nuclear arsenal should be measured by an objective process.
Compounding the situation is that the electoral college, not the people, actually choose the president. This is a catastrophic flaw in the system as is now clear with Trump. It means that the authority over the nuclear arsenal is disconnected from any trust granted through the will of the people. To the contrary, so many people voted for anybody other than Trump that his life and death authority is now forced on the people AGAINST their will.
The proposal to take the first nuclear strike authority from Trump is insufficient. He should be stripped of even the defensive strike capability. Otherwise, he is very likely to get the world blown up
80
"Compounding the situation is that the electoral college, not the people, actually choose the president."
Its my understanding that the purpose of the electoral college was precisely to avoid this kind of situation should a popular demagogue come along.
Rather than repeal the electoral college we should examine what went wrong with it this time.
Its my understanding that the purpose of the electoral college was precisely to avoid this kind of situation should a popular demagogue come along.
Rather than repeal the electoral college we should examine what went wrong with it this time.
More nonsense from the Left wing. North Korea is building the bomb and makings threats everyday. China has more then tripled its military spending including a full upgrade of its nuclear stock. Russia is also increasing its military spending two-fold. All of this occurring well before Mr. Trump's election-----but the Editors of this paper continue to harangue the man who defeated their God Empress.
2
His international financial skin in the game would likely moderate General T.
The mere shocking necessity of this editorial highlights the frightening mental instability that leads our country. We desperately need a sane and unified political approach to dealing with such an unprecedented crises of command. That the Republicans are unwilling to work with Democrats, and seek a nuclear option on other issues for no good reason (i.e. Affordable Care Act), hastens an outcome the world is unprepared for.
4
True to his form, yelling at us about the other candidate not being suited because they will do X - is exactly what trump wants to do. He has always told us the truth if we simply sussed it out.
1.He claimed the opposition was bigoted - Trump demonstrated his open bigotry on day one and at press conference after press conference,
2.He said the opposition was lying - Trump lied to our face and argued that everyone was wrong in spite of the facts - the Birther movement,
3.Trump claimed that Wall street was taking advantage of tax law - and then it was later proved he wrote-off other peoples money as his own,
4.Trump claimed that the Clinton Foundation was shady, doing nothing and taking money from terrorists - and then documents proved he was directly profiting/benefiting from/by his foundation- so much so that he stopped talking about Clinton's foundation because it was drawing too much attention to his own,
5.Then Trump claimed that the election was rigged - and what party was attempting to suppress the opposition vote by:
5.1. passing confusing and complicated voter requirements laws,
5.2 purging valid voters from the rolls,
5.3 delaying getting valid registrations on the rolls - some as old as three years,
5.4 closing poling places in areas where the vote would be against him, and
hatching significant plans to intimidate voters - like his website where people could make and print their "official" Poll Watcher badges.
5.6 claiming that Hillary would get us into WW-3.
1.He claimed the opposition was bigoted - Trump demonstrated his open bigotry on day one and at press conference after press conference,
2.He said the opposition was lying - Trump lied to our face and argued that everyone was wrong in spite of the facts - the Birther movement,
3.Trump claimed that Wall street was taking advantage of tax law - and then it was later proved he wrote-off other peoples money as his own,
4.Trump claimed that the Clinton Foundation was shady, doing nothing and taking money from terrorists - and then documents proved he was directly profiting/benefiting from/by his foundation- so much so that he stopped talking about Clinton's foundation because it was drawing too much attention to his own,
5.Then Trump claimed that the election was rigged - and what party was attempting to suppress the opposition vote by:
5.1. passing confusing and complicated voter requirements laws,
5.2 purging valid voters from the rolls,
5.3 delaying getting valid registrations on the rolls - some as old as three years,
5.4 closing poling places in areas where the vote would be against him, and
hatching significant plans to intimidate voters - like his website where people could make and print their "official" Poll Watcher badges.
5.6 claiming that Hillary would get us into WW-3.
5
The election of Donald Trump seems to lessen the chance of nuclear war, at least between the U.S. and Russia. Why would Trump/Bannon launch nuclear missiles against a country whose dictatorial leader and autocratic system of government they strive to emulate? Why would Putin want to wreak nuclear holocaust against a country whose leaders he has already subverted?
3
Did Khrushchev subvert Kennedy or was it the other way around? Either way, a relationship that mattered to the world.
But there is always N Korea, Iran, China, and of course our neighbors with borders in common...Mexico where he could show a little nuke power. There is no end to his creativity when it comes to paranoia, conspiracy theories, and the subjugation to Bannon.
It's Israel's "nuclear muscle" along with American support ("subjugation"?) that has kept it from disappearing into the pages of Middle East history. The knowledge of the "cudgel" is important in the modern world.
The worst cabinet choice in U.S. history: Rex Tillerson, who paid journalists to lie about global warming back when a reduction of fossil fuel emissions might have saved mankind from extinction.
10
I can think of one member of the species worthy of oblivion RU, care to guess who?
Our only hope is that Trump has properties and business interests around the world that would cost him money if he pressed the button.
2
You are assuming that the unhinged Trump actually has normal thoughts. When he's criticized, he strikes out, to heck with any consequences. He can't see around corners, like normal people. He's an immature 6 year old.
3
Since "pressing the button:" entails the end of human civilisation and most life on earth, naturally this would include his "business interests".
1
The political imperative is impeachment, by reason of those things Trump has already done, accepting emoluments, violating the establishment clause of the First Amendment and possibly treason for supporting and being supported by our enemy, Russia. All the rest is like arguing about the number of angels that can dance on the head of a pin.
1
On what planet would any country allow the President to strike first in a nuclear showdown? We need a bill for this?!!
This one. The Us President has unrestricted and unrestrained access to initiate a first strike. It has been, until now a sound policy based on outcomes wherein a policy of deterrence must be as robust as posible in order to prevent situations occuring where a thermonuclear exchange might take place.
Science fiction fans of post-apocalyptic futures have long been familiar with characters who Trump resembles? Maniac demagogues looking not quite human in command of packs of loyal wolf-like acolytes. So, fellow Losers, welcome to Brave, New World. Expect no mercy. It's politics as blood-sport. Not new. Not original. Just over-the-top, sensation seeking, Monday to Friday. His only vice-not drugs, not alcohol-just narcissism, incredible bottomless hubris. Paging Luke Skywalker.
1
This is my biggest fear about Trump and why he is a threat to America and has to be removed from office as soon as possible. The hasty decision process over one dinner no less and then the botched execution of the Yemen raid is an example. The botched execution of the Muslim ban which is against the Constitution to begin with.
I truly fear that Trump is a menace to this country and the sooner Republicans wake-up and realize this the better. If his feckless, hasty, botched decision making hasn't shown that he is an inept leader and that America is in imminent danger because of it. We are doomed!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I truly fear that Trump is a menace to this country and the sooner Republicans wake-up and realize this the better. If his feckless, hasty, botched decision making hasn't shown that he is an inept leader and that America is in imminent danger because of it. We are doomed!!!!!!!!!!!!!
1
Whether or not a bomb is nuclear is somewhat irrelevant. What is relevant is the power of the bomb, and the target. Clearly, annihilating a whole city is an abominable repugnant crime, whatever method is used. The 1945 bombing of Tokyo ("at least 100,000" deaths and "about one million" injured) was as much an unforgivable crime as the bombing of Hiroshima (70,000–80,000 killed, 70,000 injured) or Nagasaki (39,000 to 80,000 deaths).
Clearly you are not familiar with the effects of ionising radiation. A nuclear war would be worse than a war which used comparable megatonnage of TNT - not thaere is nearly enough TNT in the world to equal the firepower of America's strategic nuclear arsenal. It would be worse in several ways. But one of the ways in which it would be worse is that most life on the surface of the earth - apart from a very few types of microbial life, would die.
When will decent Republicans in Congress wake up and realize that having this dangerous, inept buffoon in the White House is nothing short of a national emergency?
1
There is a devastating expose in another part of this paper that talks about the incompetence of the Trump White House. Among the doozies presented: Trump and his small merry band of idiots don't know how to operate the lights in the cabinet room and thus work in the dark. That and they wander around from room to room looking for exits....
....and if that was not alarming enough, turns out El Trump has not even read the executive orders he signs!
.....and he inspires zero loyalty given the number of leaks.
I am frightened by the incompetence and problematic mental problems exhibited by our narcissist-in-chief.
....and if that was not alarming enough, turns out El Trump has not even read the executive orders he signs!
.....and he inspires zero loyalty given the number of leaks.
I am frightened by the incompetence and problematic mental problems exhibited by our narcissist-in-chief.
1
Watch out. Kim Jong-un may no longer be the craziest president. Seriously.
1
This is a President who probably could not pass a mental health test. He should be relieved of nuclear codes so he can't use deadlt weapons to upgrade his tweets!
2
how cleverly we skate right up to the edge and fail to leap: "A troubling propensity to discount or outright reject expert advice;" "sound decision-making may be an even greater challenge, given his disruptive, impulsive style;" "the world is closer to nuclear catastrophe... Trump is the main reason."
I'll jump. The president is unstable, self-absorbed, irrational and dangerous. We wouldn't let anyone with such behavioral issues fly a plane. Why should we allow him to steer the nation?
I'll jump. The president is unstable, self-absorbed, irrational and dangerous. We wouldn't let anyone with such behavioral issues fly a plane. Why should we allow him to steer the nation?
We elected a game show host and circus ringmaster with no experience or interest in government and gave him the nuclear football. Now we are letting him do whatever he wants. Who is crazier, him or us?
1
"On 26 September 1983, the nuclear early warning system of the Soviet Union reported the launch of multiple USAF Minuteman intercontinental ballistic missiles from bases in the United States. These missile attack warnings were correctly identified as a false alarm by Stanislav Yevgrafovich Petrov, an officer of the Soviet Air Defence Forces. This decision is seen as having prevented a retaliatory nuclear attack based on erroneous data on the United States and its NATO allies, which would have probably resulted in nuclear war and the deaths of hundreds of millions of people. Investigation of the satellite warning system later confirmed that the system had malfunctioned." (Wikipedia)
Intention or accident, which comes first? With Hope, and that's all we have - neither.
Intention or accident, which comes first? With Hope, and that's all we have - neither.
1
A finger on the nuclear button? I would say it is a fist!!
1
Another NYT article today documents Trump's obsession with decorating the WH, especially when he learned he didn't have to pay for it. Let's just hope his decorator isn't in Moscow if Trump is dissatisfied and decides pushing the button is easier than an international lawsuit.
1
The White House fear mongers are completely distracting us from the real "peril" - their fanatical agenda and egotistical desire to succeed, at all costs.
1
Making America afraid again.
130
So true. I had a deep fear of nuclear war in 1981 and thereabouts, particularly when Reagan made a joke about nuking the U.S.S.R.. The film The Day After also made a big impact on me. During G.H.W. Bush's term things looked better, and really since then I haven't directly feared nuclear war, even with G.W. Bush. Since 1/20/17, I have feared nuclear war again, and worry about it every day.
2
More useless speculation from the biased NYT. No credibility.
1
Doomsday was the day President Trump was inaugurated to start his chaotic, frantic unheard of, unprognosticated executive orders and install his personal pit bull attack dog, Steve Bannon, on the National Security Council. Precipitous action - "that finger on the Nuclear Button" (Trump's or Bannon's) - has been allayed by Senator Edward Markey of MA and Rep Ted Lieu of CA, who have proposed legislation to prohibit any president from launching a first-strike nuclear weapon without a declaration of war from Congress. This is not the time for our impulsive and chaotic 45th President to wield the threat of using nuclear weapons as his brand of saber-rattling.
2
I am sure the military has a plan to take over if it gets to crazy. Well I hope they do.
2
His maniacal need for attention is what's frighteneing.
He has the ability to use nuclear weapons just so he could go down in history and be forever known as the person who altered human existance.
Tell me again... why would you vote for someone so emotionally unstable that he could end our world as we know it just to feed his ego? Can you honestly say he's incapable that?
He has the ability to use nuclear weapons just so he could go down in history and be forever known as the person who altered human existance.
Tell me again... why would you vote for someone so emotionally unstable that he could end our world as we know it just to feed his ego? Can you honestly say he's incapable that?
3
As the women's march on Washington fades fast into history, how about organizing one about a truly pressing and critical issue -- i.e. a nuclear arms protest? Or starting a petition in support of Markey's bill? Please NYT, stop whining and ranting, and get an expert to write an intelligent analysis of the situation with recommendations on what we can do!
3
One can never predict what will Trump do. While wandering like Hamlet through the halls of the White House or like an inmate in a house of alienated, he might have an urge to start the final nuclear war. What checks and balances are there to forestall such an eventuality?
5
During the Vietnam War, my husband flew B-52s. We lived on the Grand Forks Air Force Base. For three to four days a week, he and his crew were sequestered on the "alert pad," prepared to respond instantly to an order to go airborne with their bombs. The underbelly of the planes were painted white to deflect the flash from the explosion.
My next-door-neighbor spent up to a week at a time in a missile silo somewhere on the Great Plains.
Anecdotally, people used to say that if North Dakota seceded from the Union, it would be the second greatest nuclear power on earth. Which, obviously. made all of our families prime targets for a nuclear attack.
So I know what it is like to live in fear and awe of the weapons we possess. And it is heartbreaking to know that those families again have to live with an acute awareness of the stakes. The terrible difference now must be to live with the knowledge that the Commander-in-Chief toys so casually with this vast and deadly power.
My next-door-neighbor spent up to a week at a time in a missile silo somewhere on the Great Plains.
Anecdotally, people used to say that if North Dakota seceded from the Union, it would be the second greatest nuclear power on earth. Which, obviously. made all of our families prime targets for a nuclear attack.
So I know what it is like to live in fear and awe of the weapons we possess. And it is heartbreaking to know that those families again have to live with an acute awareness of the stakes. The terrible difference now must be to live with the knowledge that the Commander-in-Chief toys so casually with this vast and deadly power.
5
This president is not a shrewd man. I admonish commenters who think he's got some strategic plan in mind by threatening the use of nuclear arms to think again. "Strategy" like that only works in real estate, when you're convincing lenders even greedier than you are to give you money. There's no greed working here, only hatred and enmity. Our position as global peacekeeper will surely suffer because of this.
We have a massive military and intelligence community. Until this bully leaves office I'm depending on them to maintain sanity.
I am in favor of the Markey/Lieu proposal. We shouldn't be launching nuclear missiles unless under a declaration of war or in response to a strike.
We have a massive military and intelligence community. Until this bully leaves office I'm depending on them to maintain sanity.
I am in favor of the Markey/Lieu proposal. We shouldn't be launching nuclear missiles unless under a declaration of war or in response to a strike.
2
It's about time you, the NYT, got around to mentioning this little niggling presence in our happy go lucky lives - the fact that this guy Trump could reduce the earth to a cinder in a fit of pique after being slighted by one of the women who just happen to lead countries (among several dozen other reasons). I'll show Her! Mash! BOOM!!
3
Today we read that "... Mr. Bannon remains the president’s dominant adviser, despite Mr. Trump’s anger that he was not fully briefed on details of the executive order he signed giving his chief strategist a seat on the National Security Council." If Donald Trump is going to pay someone else to do his homework and if he continues to sign so much as a thank-you card without reading it or understanding it, we'll be engaged in wars around the globe before he has any chance to make America great again
4
To the Editors,
So you really think a "law", written by Democrats no less, will have any effect on the current "leader"? Time for the Editorial Board to stop maintaining the "moral high ground" when the opposition doesn't even recognize "morality"; just ask any refugee.
The best deterrent we have against this president's "seat of the pants" control is his Secretary of Defense, Mr. Mattis.
He's "old school", a Marine and, I believe, would put the interests of the country ahead of anything that a wayward president might do because his ego is bruised. Mr. Mattis might just be the "fail safe" device that will stop his boss from doing something even dumber than he's done already.
It's not the "best" of systems and of dubious "Constitutional" value but it's better than bringing "a bunch of papers to a nuclear war" as a deterrent if the imbecile in charge tries to walk down that dark, dark path.
So you really think a "law", written by Democrats no less, will have any effect on the current "leader"? Time for the Editorial Board to stop maintaining the "moral high ground" when the opposition doesn't even recognize "morality"; just ask any refugee.
The best deterrent we have against this president's "seat of the pants" control is his Secretary of Defense, Mr. Mattis.
He's "old school", a Marine and, I believe, would put the interests of the country ahead of anything that a wayward president might do because his ego is bruised. Mr. Mattis might just be the "fail safe" device that will stop his boss from doing something even dumber than he's done already.
It's not the "best" of systems and of dubious "Constitutional" value but it's better than bringing "a bunch of papers to a nuclear war" as a deterrent if the imbecile in charge tries to walk down that dark, dark path.
1
I want to believe that at some point the Republicans in Washington will wake up and restrain Trump. But I also believe that republicans will need lots of help getting to that point. So far self interest rules the Republican Party, notpatriotism and certainly not common sense.
6
So, maybe the fears we have about the end of Social Security, Medicare, the Voting Rights Act, Row v. Wade, racism becoming law, environmental catastrophe, is moot at best since the biological Earth will end sometime in the next four years. Perhaps former Generals Kelly and Mattis can develop a strategy to create a wall between Trump and the red button. Democrats after advancing Markey and Liu's bill should advertise on TV and social media all those that vote against it.
I paraphrase Sting in his song about the Russians: "I hope the Republicans love their children too."
I paraphrase Sting in his song about the Russians: "I hope the Republicans love their children too."
1
"The Partnership" by Philip Taubman
Instead of stirring a new editorial tempest; the NY Times should provide this book as a free gift for everyone sitting in the US Congress, including our voting VPUS:
"A World Free of Nuclear Weapons"
By George P. Schultz,
William J. Perry,
Henry A. Kissinger and
Sam Nunn
Updated Jan. 4, 2007 12:01 a.m. ET
https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB116787515251566636
and the book they helped produce reviewed in the NYTimes:
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/01/books/review/the-partnership-five-cold...
How They Learned to Hate the Bomb
By GARY J. BASS DEC. 30, 2011
Instead of stirring a new editorial tempest; the NY Times should provide this book as a free gift for everyone sitting in the US Congress, including our voting VPUS:
"A World Free of Nuclear Weapons"
By George P. Schultz,
William J. Perry,
Henry A. Kissinger and
Sam Nunn
Updated Jan. 4, 2007 12:01 a.m. ET
https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB116787515251566636
and the book they helped produce reviewed in the NYTimes:
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/01/books/review/the-partnership-five-cold...
How They Learned to Hate the Bomb
By GARY J. BASS DEC. 30, 2011
While I agree with the editorial board regarding President Trump's Nuclear knowledge, lets be honest, is there really a single button?
If Trump decided to bring a nuclear holocaust to the middle east, I would think it would involve more than just pushing a single button. The weapons need to be targeted, involving many people between him and the weapons. How many, by which mechanism to which location; all would have to be worked out.
I don't want to minimize the danger, however this issue needs more facts and less hyperbole.
If Trump decided to bring a nuclear holocaust to the middle east, I would think it would involve more than just pushing a single button. The weapons need to be targeted, involving many people between him and the weapons. How many, by which mechanism to which location; all would have to be worked out.
I don't want to minimize the danger, however this issue needs more facts and less hyperbole.
That pedestal puppet Trump is standing on is surrounded by water way over his head and he's absolutely clueless to the fact. He's obviously ill with some degree of Narcissistic Personality Disorder but is surrounded with sycophants interested in making big monies off this imposter so they partake in whatever puppet Trump conjures up. However, his license now has his Twittering finger close to his Nuclear finger and that's way past worrisome. He's in dangerous territory now with a batting average somewhere around .123. His daily hair technique seems to be the only thing he's getting right, if that's the word.
3
What is surprising to me is that so many people seem surprised about Trump's actions.
My opinion is that many folks just heard what they wanted to believe in before the elections. For some it was better jobs, for others it was reinstatement of the white male as the dominant person in control and for other it was freedom from government regulation. Even a smart man as the owner for the Jaguars and an immigrant was surprised. What is it about human nature that we only hear the things we want to believe in?
My opinion is that many folks just heard what they wanted to believe in before the elections. For some it was better jobs, for others it was reinstatement of the white male as the dominant person in control and for other it was freedom from government regulation. Even a smart man as the owner for the Jaguars and an immigrant was surprised. What is it about human nature that we only hear the things we want to believe in?
In 1973, when the Yom Kippur War broke-out in Palestine, our Missile-men were at "Prepare to Launch" status. Imminent war, between the U. S. and the Soviet Union was feared.
That was also in the darkest hours of the Watergate Era, when President Richard Nixon was drinking heavily. Luckily for America--and the World--we had capable deputies to step-in. Nixon had been sent to bed to sleep it off.
Henry Kissinger, then National Security Advisor, and James Schlesinger, Secretary of Defense, advised the Missile Commanders that they were only to launch upon their orders. We truly dodged a nuclear war by having trusted, stable advisors to step in.
With Trump, who is unstable, temperamental and unable to process complicated situations, who do we have to step-in today? To calm him down, to stand-up to his unpredictability? Mike Flynn and Steve Bannon?
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
That was also in the darkest hours of the Watergate Era, when President Richard Nixon was drinking heavily. Luckily for America--and the World--we had capable deputies to step-in. Nixon had been sent to bed to sleep it off.
Henry Kissinger, then National Security Advisor, and James Schlesinger, Secretary of Defense, advised the Missile Commanders that they were only to launch upon their orders. We truly dodged a nuclear war by having trusted, stable advisors to step in.
With Trump, who is unstable, temperamental and unable to process complicated situations, who do we have to step-in today? To calm him down, to stand-up to his unpredictability? Mike Flynn and Steve Bannon?
https://thetruthoncommonsense.com
2
I mean this in all seriousness, and in genuine regret to have to say it:
It would behoove the Republican leadership to seriously consider the mental health status of President Trump, and to engage expert professional advice in that diagnostic process.
Our current situation reminds me very much of "The Emperor's New Clothes'.
The country needs to wake up; the clock is ticking.
It would behoove the Republican leadership to seriously consider the mental health status of President Trump, and to engage expert professional advice in that diagnostic process.
Our current situation reminds me very much of "The Emperor's New Clothes'.
The country needs to wake up; the clock is ticking.
4
I have suspected long before Trump won the nomination that he'd be diagnosed with narcissitic personality disorder if he were ever to be clinically evaluated. He's a superb con artist.
I don't believe he is fit to be president. He's attempting to run the country like his former reality TV show. Bannon & company are actually running, ah, creating chaos.
Force him to release his tax returns. They might provide information useful to the impeachment process.
Force him to release his tax returns. They might yield information useful to the impeachment process.
I don't believe he is fit to be president. He's attempting to run the country like his former reality TV show. Bannon & company are actually running, ah, creating chaos.
Force him to release his tax returns. They might provide information useful to the impeachment process.
Force him to release his tax returns. They might yield information useful to the impeachment process.
1
"He has said he values unpredictability, meaning presumably that he wants to keep other nations on edge" - the problem is, given what we have seen of his "focus on the job" - we are all on edge.
90
Trump's strategy about being "unpredictable" is amateurish and all too predictable for America's adversaries. What it says to the world is that Trump will act on context-free impulses with no consideration about outcomes. He needs to realize is that using nuclear weapons is a one-way street - once you start down that path, there is no return. He should continue the policy of past presidents to work toward reductions of nuclear stockpiles, ultimately leading to their complete eradication. They have no use in today's world. They are not a good deterrent because no rational country would ever use them as offensive weapons. That has to include the United States.
The reason why so many Democrats supported General Mattis was because he represents a level of sanity in this otherwise lunatic administration. When Trump comes to him and tells him to launch a nuclear weapon against a real or imagined enemy, the thought is that Mattis would have the wherewithal to stand up to him and say NO. The danger is that in his bubble of inferiority complex and naivete, Trump would actually consider a launch of such a weapon as a viable option, which is can never be.
All of Trump's many deficiencies aside, this is the one area where he needs to articulate a very clear policy to the world. He cannot sit back and try to be mysterious about it. That will just lead to catastrophe.
The reason why so many Democrats supported General Mattis was because he represents a level of sanity in this otherwise lunatic administration. When Trump comes to him and tells him to launch a nuclear weapon against a real or imagined enemy, the thought is that Mattis would have the wherewithal to stand up to him and say NO. The danger is that in his bubble of inferiority complex and naivete, Trump would actually consider a launch of such a weapon as a viable option, which is can never be.
All of Trump's many deficiencies aside, this is the one area where he needs to articulate a very clear policy to the world. He cannot sit back and try to be mysterious about it. That will just lead to catastrophe.
88
But Trump doesn't need to "tell him" [Mattis] to launch a nuclear weapon. The chain of command goes from Trump to the missiles.
Some of Trump's voters are beginning to recognize that electing an insular, isolated "monarch" was not "clear thinking" but an impulse, a reaction to Republican-Russian propaganda. Some people who voted against Clinton, did not consider the possibility that Trump would endanger our existence. Trump's alternative facts, Trump's lies, Trump's insults of judges, Democrats, and foreign leaders and his "doubling down"on lies and opinions that defy reality which were glossed over in the primary and the election are damning to the leader of the free world who has the power to start a nuclear war or whose deranged communications could provoke a nuclear attack.
It is not too late to act, to redeem a vote for Trump. Let your Senators and Congressman or woman know that you are afraid of this dangerous man has no self control and that he cannot be permitted to control our nuclear arsenal.
Let your elected officials know that we need the protection from an unfit President provided by the 25th Amendment.
Too much time and energy are being devoted to Trump's peripheral atrocities and distract Americans from the horror of nuclear war. All of the terror created by Trump, his representation of ISIS and "Islamists" as a threat to America are trivial when contrasted with nuclear annihilation. We cannot pretend that he will change or that he will be moderated or that he will be checked by the Judiciary or Congress. Trump is unfettered and a clear and present danger.
It is not too late to act, to redeem a vote for Trump. Let your Senators and Congressman or woman know that you are afraid of this dangerous man has no self control and that he cannot be permitted to control our nuclear arsenal.
Let your elected officials know that we need the protection from an unfit President provided by the 25th Amendment.
Too much time and energy are being devoted to Trump's peripheral atrocities and distract Americans from the horror of nuclear war. All of the terror created by Trump, his representation of ISIS and "Islamists" as a threat to America are trivial when contrasted with nuclear annihilation. We cannot pretend that he will change or that he will be moderated or that he will be checked by the Judiciary or Congress. Trump is unfettered and a clear and present danger.
1
Yes, we have a man with no-brainer diagnosis of Cluster B personality disorder carrying the nuclear football and commanding the the most powerful military in history. The republican congress that could act as a check on his behavior is 99% a combination of greed and spinelessness. The likely doomsday scenario is not that trump impulsively presses the button in a fit of pique, but that he starts a complex chain of actions through his tweets, and poppings-off of the mouth, ending in a war that he figures he needs to manipulate the citizenry's 'rally around the leader' instinct. The most single fearful thing about trump is the fact that putin has him by the crotch. The putin praise would have been dropped long ago if putin didn't have the goods on trump.
2
"It won't go anywhere in this Republican-controlled Congress?" The end of global civilization is minutes away if a mad man were to unleash our nuclear arsenal. Dwell on that for more than a few seconds. Each Trident submarine made in Groton CT is equal to all the destruction of WWII. This time America would be hit in retaliation with perhaps hundreds of WWII's on our own cities AKA 'vaporized' and not just one port in Hawaii partly destroyed. Back to 3rd world status for you and I. Does anyone need further proof over this past month that Trump is borderline crazy? The type of egomaniac that could set in motion the end? He would be the most remembered man for the rest of history of he launched first. PASS THIS LEGISLATION or humans don't deserve to inherit the Earth.
2
This is our worst nightmare. The man is ignorant, impulsive & petty. I believe this great nation of ours is in great peril. His babbling incoherent ramblings belong in a mental institution, not the white house. Sad days, indeed.
2
If his "size" issues turn out to be more than standard male insecurities, and a compromising video gets leaked, boy are we in for it.
I bet all them right wing sellers of doomsday survival supplies are rolling in mountains of cash but the funny thing is that they may not ever get to spend it.
In fact, I think that this will be our saving grace-his billionaire friends won't have enough time to spend their money and luxuriate in comfort if their buddy blows us all to kingdom come, and so maybe the great and powerful Donald will spare us lowly bottom dwellers from a certain fate.
Oh thank you dear glorious leader.
I bet all them right wing sellers of doomsday survival supplies are rolling in mountains of cash but the funny thing is that they may not ever get to spend it.
In fact, I think that this will be our saving grace-his billionaire friends won't have enough time to spend their money and luxuriate in comfort if their buddy blows us all to kingdom come, and so maybe the great and powerful Donald will spare us lowly bottom dwellers from a certain fate.
Oh thank you dear glorious leader.
In a science fiction novel by Isaac Asimov, the commander of a military spaceship ordered a nuclear strike against an opposing planet. Rather than use nuclear weapons on the surface of a planet (as opposed to using them in space), his crew refused and removed him from command. We can only pray that we have people of similar courage in our military.
3
All these statements are rational, and must be carefully considered. Using nuclear weapons would be catastrophic, as any reasonable individual, with basic education and a sound mind, would agree. But then, go tell irresponsible ignoramus Trump about it; you might meet with rejection...and bluster. We live in trying times, due to a bully at the helm.
1
The republicans knew he was unstable. They knew he was dangerous. They stated as much. But they got behind him anyway thinking killing the ACA and nominating a supreme court judge was more important than the health and stability of our country. The republicans have lost their minds. They think their party's politics are more important than America. That is an insane position and as we are on the cusp of a national disaster of unprecedented proportions, they still can't see the forest from the trees. They have lost their collective minds.
2
It is a black irony indeed that the same scientists who feverishly work to increase the destructive power of nuclear weapons, should claim to be the most worried that President Trump (who else) is unstable and might use the very weapons they so assiduously strive to perfect. The NYT would justify these immoral weapons as "deterrence," and that if they are used at all then they must not be used "precipitously", but presumably would be acceptable if used after "expert" deliberation. It truly is a MAD world. There must be an immediate global ban on nuclear weapons' research, and all existing stockpiles must be destroyed. This the only sane solution to a threat that hangs like a sword of Damocles over humanity.
1
All would agree that this guy is mercurial. Lashes out in a mean-spirited way toward any slight. Once said something to the effect of, why have nuclear weapons if we don't use them. I no longer wonder whether he'll impulsively start a war, very likely using weaponry solely at his disposal. Against whom? Doesn't really matter. It'll spread. Rather quickly. Flynn and Bannon increase the likelihood.
3
Trump recently tweeted that if "bad things happen" because his awful immigration order was paused by our court system, people should blame that "so-called judge."
If bad nuclear things happen, I'm blaming 60-some million Americans too short-sighted to have seen through this magnificent charlatan.
If bad nuclear things happen, I'm blaming 60-some million Americans too short-sighted to have seen through this magnificent charlatan.
2
We should not be paralyzed in the face of this madman at the helm. If the spineless GOP senators cannot remove this man and cannot see nuclear catastrophe our Power is in WE THE PEOPLE - who can organize to wrest power from the Congress from not doing their job and remove him ourselves. I cannot stand any more to read how terrified we are, and still do nothing.
1
What about permanent damage to the infrastructure caused by the incompetence of the information technology world? Obsolete applications devices, encryption methods, etc using email gateways, fax to scan document tools, sending and receiving, etc. The prior administration had to learn the hard way, that privileged separation and authority allowed for circumventing basic fundamental security concerns regardless of policies. The result is that if you have to rebuild the entire infrastructure to ensure such a system even works. Or take the effort to test those systems and find out they fail. It seems the contractors and the civil servants have relegated the countries defense systems to ground troops only. While other countries have worked their way around our best offensives as well as defenses. I see lots of evidence that points to having a quorum of accountability that is offshore programmers. The problem is they too are immigrants that can also hold the country hostage, if in the event that the country decides to ever use such weapons. I think of UC Berkeley, which originally built the core of the iPhone (UNIX), as well as the edge network designs operating systems for many Silicon Valley startups for imaging, as well as navigation. All replaced by offshore countries because of a lack of accountability.
1
Did you ever give a BB gun to your 12 year old kid and warn him never to shoot it in the house ?
He is definitely going to "Go Nuclear" at some point.
He can't wait!
He is definitely going to "Go Nuclear" at some point.
He can't wait!
7
Trump's violent rhetoric worries me. When he tells Congessional Republicans to "go nuclear" against Dems, it bespeaks a mindset. The decades of growing a violent society, demonizing Muslims and equating strength with big gun bravado are now ready to pay off with a big bang. God help us all. Hopefully, as one must hope for best, but expect the worse, we will get of this still alive as a planet but perhaps sobered to the point that we end this experiment in reckless governance. It is nothing but the insanity of a country ready to fall that we would threaten China, throw around nukes like candy or propose wars on two fronts.
3
Hey Roger don't you know that Harry Reid already used the'nuclear' option to eliminate filibusters on Obama cabinet candidates. Did you complain about his mindset then?.
Remember also that zither Drpartment of Energy where nuclear weapons are maintained and the research is conducted is now under Rick Perry, an obvious misfit. His two immediate predecessors were the head of physics at MIT and a Mobel Laureate scientist- both with an extensive background in nuclear physics and research as opposed to Perry's undergraduate agriculture degree. Trump removed the chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the director of National Intelligence from his NSA and put Bannon, an Islamophobe and white supremacist on the NSA. It's not just the finger on the trigger; it's the mad man with the little hands.
7
I campaign to have all countries cede all of their armed forces in agreed stages, to a democratically elected United Nations, until war becomes impossible; as discussed in the peace treaty between the USSR and USA that ended the Cold War by the US agreeing to cut WMD in return for democracy in Eastern Europe.
1
Prior to Nixon resigning, his mental state was of such concern that an alternate chain of nuclear launch was set up. Let us hope a similar action has been taken here.
237
Indeed, Nixon was drunk a great deal of the time - at one point even joking that he could leave the room for 25 mins. and erase 70-million people.
It was out of that situation that little-known Air Force Major Harold Hering - then in training as a nuclear launch-key missileer – asked, "How can I know the order I get to launch is from a President who is sane?"
For this question, Major Hering was discharged from the Air Force. The question has never been answered.
It was out of that situation that little-known Air Force Major Harold Hering - then in training as a nuclear launch-key missileer – asked, "How can I know the order I get to launch is from a President who is sane?"
For this question, Major Hering was discharged from the Air Force. The question has never been answered.
1
Attention all those how support The Con Don and his Top 1% Global Financial Elite Robber Baron/ Radical Religion Boys Party: nuclear weapons, bombs, land mines and other weapons do not distinguish between the haves and have- nots. They do not care who they blow up. They have no social or moral conscience, nor does the technology behind them.
A few people in power want war, destruction, rape, pillage, plunder the better to steal from the rest of us and profit from the chaos. If you are not one of those people you had better find one thing you value about democracy, civility and stability in America and the world and fight like hell to preserve/restore it before the power mongers decide to destroy it/us all.
A few people in power want war, destruction, rape, pillage, plunder the better to steal from the rest of us and profit from the chaos. If you are not one of those people you had better find one thing you value about democracy, civility and stability in America and the world and fight like hell to preserve/restore it before the power mongers decide to destroy it/us all.
13
Don't count on the congress or military to check him when he feels the urge to annihilate some one or something. Everyone knew what he is capable of when he was sworn in. They did not use the opportunity at that time. He is violation of the constitution now and no one in power does anything, so what makes anybody think someone will stop him from lighting up those missiles.
39
This from the New Yorker:
WHEN IT’S TOO LATE TO STOP FASCISM, ACCORDING TO STEFAN ZWEIG
"In Zweig’s view, the final toxin needed to precipitate German catastrophe came in February of 1933, with the burning of the national parliament building in Berlin–an arson attack Hitler blamed on the Communists but which some historians still believe was carried out by the Nazis themselves. “At one blow all of justice in Germany was smashed,” Zweig
recalled. The destruction of a symbolic edifice—a blaze that caused no loss of life—became the pretext for the government to begin terrorizing its own civilian population. That fateful conflagration took place less than thirty days after Hitler became Chancellor. The excruciating power of Zweig’s memoir lies in the pain of looking back and seeing that there was a small window in which it was possible to act, and then discovering how suddenly and irrevocably that window can be slammed shut."
http://www.newyorker.com/books/page-turner/when-its-too-late-to-stop-fas...
WHEN IT’S TOO LATE TO STOP FASCISM, ACCORDING TO STEFAN ZWEIG
"In Zweig’s view, the final toxin needed to precipitate German catastrophe came in February of 1933, with the burning of the national parliament building in Berlin–an arson attack Hitler blamed on the Communists but which some historians still believe was carried out by the Nazis themselves. “At one blow all of justice in Germany was smashed,” Zweig
recalled. The destruction of a symbolic edifice—a blaze that caused no loss of life—became the pretext for the government to begin terrorizing its own civilian population. That fateful conflagration took place less than thirty days after Hitler became Chancellor. The excruciating power of Zweig’s memoir lies in the pain of looking back and seeing that there was a small window in which it was possible to act, and then discovering how suddenly and irrevocably that window can be slammed shut."
http://www.newyorker.com/books/page-turner/when-its-too-late-to-stop-fas...
17
Everyone should read n the Garden of Beasts: Love, Terror, and an American Family in Hitler's Berlin by Erik Larson. It is a real eyeopener for those not familiar with the rise of Hitler in Germany.
It's beyond obvious that Putin is blackmailing Trump, or at least has the potential to do so. (Kompromat?)
There could be many scenarios revolving around this high-probability situation, but one must also assume that the FBI under Comey is in collusion with Trump as well. So don't expect any help from them.
It's a catastrophic situation.
House and Senate Republicans have a very small window to yank Trump and do a reset with Pence via the 25th amendment. But they'll need half the cabinet to agree.
Whatever it takes, it must happen soon. Trump is a pure lunatic and an incredibly dangerous liability to the planet.
There could be many scenarios revolving around this high-probability situation, but one must also assume that the FBI under Comey is in collusion with Trump as well. So don't expect any help from them.
It's a catastrophic situation.
House and Senate Republicans have a very small window to yank Trump and do a reset with Pence via the 25th amendment. But they'll need half the cabinet to agree.
Whatever it takes, it must happen soon. Trump is a pure lunatic and an incredibly dangerous liability to the planet.
29
The presidential campaign revealed Trump's temperament in all its glory. No one can claim he didn't KNOW.
33
putting the blame on trump for the advance of the nuclear clock fits with the times' total (macconnellian?) attempt to nullify his presidency, but the real danger behind the posture is that is conceals a number of things far more threatening to the future of the republic.
brushed aside are the actual, as in hardware and technology, advances of iran and north korea and, even more critical, the lax oversight of same for decades as our foreign policy abandoned confrontation, (the bully on the block can be daunted before complacency empowers him/her/it), for conciliation, (ineffective on one-way streets).
in passing the forest for the tree, the times refuels that same complacency, the one which also gave us trump in the first place, (recall so-called democrats, disdaining engagement with all americans, the cynicism of "stronger together" now clear), and has led us to the blind (guilt-driven) rage that threatens to throw out several babies with the trump water - most notably the first amendment, but also voting rights, still under threat...we will survive the worst of trump but not the damage done by the erosion of these fundamental, (constitutional), elements.
elsewhere in today's paper mention is made of our decline into factionalism at the expense of unity, but history shows that we have always been factional, but above that, we were sensitive to our common bonds, the shared conditions, the "suffering that kept us together" as cesar chavez said.
stop the noise, reGROUP.
brushed aside are the actual, as in hardware and technology, advances of iran and north korea and, even more critical, the lax oversight of same for decades as our foreign policy abandoned confrontation, (the bully on the block can be daunted before complacency empowers him/her/it), for conciliation, (ineffective on one-way streets).
in passing the forest for the tree, the times refuels that same complacency, the one which also gave us trump in the first place, (recall so-called democrats, disdaining engagement with all americans, the cynicism of "stronger together" now clear), and has led us to the blind (guilt-driven) rage that threatens to throw out several babies with the trump water - most notably the first amendment, but also voting rights, still under threat...we will survive the worst of trump but not the damage done by the erosion of these fundamental, (constitutional), elements.
elsewhere in today's paper mention is made of our decline into factionalism at the expense of unity, but history shows that we have always been factional, but above that, we were sensitive to our common bonds, the shared conditions, the "suffering that kept us together" as cesar chavez said.
stop the noise, reGROUP.
1
The NY Times Editorial Board will never regroup and coalesce until their world is threatened and the other side is the only side that can guarantee them survival.
What they are missing today, is that they have lost the trust of the very People on which their future existence is base.
What they are missing today, is that they have lost the trust of the very People on which their future existence is base.
1
While there is some truth to the things you say, you are dead wrong about the need to address Trump, his personality disorders & privilege, and how they impact the threat of nuclear war. You see there is nothing so immediately threatening to the world than deployment nuclear weapons, which Trump has suggested, proclaimed and threatened to do. In my opinion, the only issue close to it is climate change. After that comes issues as you listed. Thankfully, we are a very populous nation and as the popular vote demonstrated this election year, there are more of us than them. Especially when once considers all the people who were disenfranchised in 2016. We can work on multiple issues at one time.
Whatever you think of democrats or Hillary, please get with the program. We are in the fight of and for our lives. I agree with you that our focus on our common bonds and shared interests has all but evaporated.The wealthy and the pitfalls of social media are at fault in part to be sure. We are a mean spirited people now. Trump personifies that!
But, there is hope. Look at the protests. Some of the largest in our nation's history. The Indivisible movement is strong and growing! People are outraged! We MUST focus on our commonalities and keep the pressure on. We have support across the globe! But, none of that matters if nuclear bombs are deployed! Trump poses a very real threat in that regard.
Whatever you think of democrats or Hillary, please get with the program. We are in the fight of and for our lives. I agree with you that our focus on our common bonds and shared interests has all but evaporated.The wealthy and the pitfalls of social media are at fault in part to be sure. We are a mean spirited people now. Trump personifies that!
But, there is hope. Look at the protests. Some of the largest in our nation's history. The Indivisible movement is strong and growing! People are outraged! We MUST focus on our commonalities and keep the pressure on. We have support across the globe! But, none of that matters if nuclear bombs are deployed! Trump poses a very real threat in that regard.
Clinton supporters voted for stability and steady progress but we lost. Trump's supporters voted for change and won. Instead of change they gave us chaos. I just hope we survive this maniac.
46
It is chaos primarily because those of you who favored Clinton are failing to get with the program that The People through the Constitution and the electoral process there under decided.
After yelling about "democracy" for the past nine plus years, what is it that you find distasteful about "democracy" in action.
Is it because you lost?
How terrible is that?
After yelling about "democracy" for the past nine plus years, what is it that you find distasteful about "democracy" in action.
Is it because you lost?
How terrible is that?
The Clinton/Gore and Clinton/Obama teams each started more wars than any republican in the last 40 years.
Amazing!
1
Normally a President should have the ability to launch a first strike. It's a power that the President should not advertize. Indeed, the entire value of that awesome power lies in the unstated existence of the power itself: don't mess with the United States.
Mr. Trump is not a "normal" President as he himself has reminded us many times. Limiting his ability to launch a first strike is necessary. The danger assumed by limiting his authority is far outweighed by the value inherent in not having an unstable person weilding such an awesome, world-ending power.
Any such power limitation should have a sunset, let's say January 20, 2020 Noon Eastern. After which time Congress could reassess the need for such a limitation.
Mr. Trump is not a "normal" President as he himself has reminded us many times. Limiting his ability to launch a first strike is necessary. The danger assumed by limiting his authority is far outweighed by the value inherent in not having an unstable person weilding such an awesome, world-ending power.
Any such power limitation should have a sunset, let's say January 20, 2020 Noon Eastern. After which time Congress could reassess the need for such a limitation.
16
typo: date should be 2021
Limiting his ability to act as the situation demands puts the first-strike capability in the hands of fools like Kim Jong Un, Vladimir Putin, and the Communist Party hierarchy in Beijing.
Smart...Really smart.
Smart...Really smart.
The American Presidency is an office that holds the power to destroy civilization. At a minimum, it should require some qualifications to hold that office besides being an adult and being born in the US.
A President should have extensive experience running a large organization, and more than a little experience around how the world really works.
As it is, we have a Russian stooge sitting in the White House devoted to disrupting America and dividing America from its allies. If Depression and bankruptcy also are a result of Trump's delusions, then all the better.
All this may be making SNL a much better show, but it is scaring people like me a lot.
Hugh Massengill, Eugene Oregon
A President should have extensive experience running a large organization, and more than a little experience around how the world really works.
As it is, we have a Russian stooge sitting in the White House devoted to disrupting America and dividing America from its allies. If Depression and bankruptcy also are a result of Trump's delusions, then all the better.
All this may be making SNL a much better show, but it is scaring people like me a lot.
Hugh Massengill, Eugene Oregon
45
I am reminded how those great minds, Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, and John Forbes Kerry managed to leave our foreign policy in tatters and two countries, Libya and Syria smoldering in their wake.
Neither of those had any experience running a large organization or in mobilizing and administrative force to do the right things.
Neither of those had any experience running a large organization or in mobilizing and administrative force to do the right things.
If you see reality through the narrative lens of dispensational Christianity, it is likely you voted for Trump precisely because he has a propensity to indiscriminately use thermonuclear weapons. The European Union, TPP and international climate accords all point to the coming of anti-Christ and one world government. Israel continues its efforts to restore sovereignty over the biblical borders of Palestine and presumably to breed the perfect red heifer. The rapture and great tribulation must be imminent, so why not move God's hand and destroy a few hundred million people with an unprovoked nuclear attack.
15
What you say, would be in line with Pence's thinking. Help God along is what too many born again Christians think should be done. Trump's line of thinking would be pure rage. How dare they cross me? Either way, it's a very grave situation. And i would think some kind of solution is available. Do we just stand by and watch our planet go bye-bye and us with it?
Oh my goodness...a vast right-wing CHRISTIAN theorist as emerged.
Jack, you just jumped the shark...
Again.
Jack, you just jumped the shark...
Again.
Except, modern nuclear weapons, unlike the relatively tiny ones used on Japan, will alter the Earth's atmosphere such that the environmental disaster coming in decades or a millennium will happen immediately - extreme heating of the atmosphere, high levels of radiation throughout the world. The only good thing, if you can call it that is that these un-American Republicans will die the horrible death right along with the rest of us. Like the dinosaurs 65 mya, we'll all be toast. Maybe the cockroaches will survive.
1
This scenario was made evidently clear by Secretary Clinton during the debates while 60+ million people watched in horror as Trump huffed and puffed around the stages. But the Republicans' fervent lust for power viciously slandered Clinton and whipped up the masses with false and salacious innuendo even calling upon Putin and the FBI to come to their aid. Now that Trump has rammed through what the Republicans couldn't do without their stooge, they are stage whispering how unstable is Trump.
Give me a break.
Give me a break.
84
I agree DC, but read John Yoo's column here today. Even the most right-wing torture guy takes exception to Trump. Having said that however, Republicans who are the only ones who can stop him see the probability of doing what they have wanted, in many cases for decades in their grasp: elimination of Social Security and Medicare to pay for the giant tax cuts for the rich (robbing the poor to feed the rich), roll back Roe v. Wade (finally put women in their place), eliminate the Voting Rights Act to punish those brown people who are stealing money from the rich, eliminate all environmental and bank regulations - you get the picture.
Because they are children seeing the candy store right in front of them, they won't do a thing to stop this madman. Democrats need to get on TV and social media and show the American people what the vote for and against.
Because they are children seeing the candy store right in front of them, they won't do a thing to stop this madman. Democrats need to get on TV and social media and show the American people what the vote for and against.
1
Now the tape plays in my head of the end of Dr. Strangelove as Vera Lynn sings the WWII ballad accompanying a tableau of nuclear explosions..."We'll meet again, don't know where, don't no when, but I know we'll meet again some sunny day..."
I may have lived too long but so-called president trump may soon see to that.
I may have lived too long but so-called president trump may soon see to that.
115
You had a chance to ride one of the weapons on Obama's drones taking out guys he selected from his playing cards, Doug Mc. The result would have been the same, and you would have learned first-hand what it would have been like.
And, I hate to inform you that Trump IS President of the United States and will be for the next four years, and, given the way you liberals are action, more probably the next eight.
Of course you could always volunteer to ride one of the bombs that Trump is going to drop, so you will be the first to know what happens when they go off.
And, I hate to inform you that Trump IS President of the United States and will be for the next four years, and, given the way you liberals are action, more probably the next eight.
Of course you could always volunteer to ride one of the bombs that Trump is going to drop, so you will be the first to know what happens when they go off.
1
Mr. Owl: I have seen enough death in my years in military service and the practice of medicine I do not need a Slim Pickens-like education about the effect of explosions, nuclear or otherwise. I will ignore the ad hominem tone to your reply.
I fully understand Mr. Trump is the titular president for his tenure but I do not believe the actions of we liberals, namely favoring the Constitution and prudence in the use of the power of the office, to effect an extension of his reign,
I fully understand Mr. Trump is the titular president for his tenure but I do not believe the actions of we liberals, namely favoring the Constitution and prudence in the use of the power of the office, to effect an extension of his reign,
3
I have to watch that movie again...along with "The Day After" and "On "The Beach."
1
The proposed legislation described in this editorial strikes me as completely toothless and rather silly. What is to stop the president from launching a nuclear strike and claiming he has the power to do so, with the matter then being referred to the courts to determine the legality of his action?
46
I agree. This is a shoot-first, damn-the-torpedos president. The only way to deal with a situation where we fear a deranged president would endanger us and the world is to remove him from office ASAP.
1
You have a good point. Who or what would determine when it goes to congress or when he can respond to an attack. I suppose there's a way with all the new technological advancement. But,it would have to be fool proof and how could that be tested. It would be wise for congress to do some research first. But, republicans don't believe in science. I won't hold my breath.
I believe sir, you have hit the nail on the head.
We can only hope that he doesn't launch a nuclear attack while having dinner with this "advisors", based on "alternative-facts intelligence".
147
What these past few weeks have shown us is that Trump SHOULD BE TAKEN LITERALLY. Many of his supporters and even some of his detractors have chamfered the edges of his statements by saying that he is speaking figuratively. So when it come to the "nuclear" option, lets be clear, he wants the ability to use these weapons in any way he sees fit. Not only does he demonstrate ignorance on the nuclear arsenal, but also the way the government operates (separation of powers and checks and balances).
Perhaps Fox News can talk him out of using nuclear weapons.
Perhaps Fox News can talk him out of using nuclear weapons.
4
Television will be the root of war as it always has been.
Hundreds of years ago, wars were limited to regions. News of wars took months to spread around the world. Now it takes just milliseconds.
Hundreds of years ago, wars were limited to regions. News of wars took months to spread around the world. Now it takes just milliseconds.
1
Mr Trump's lack of familiarity with the United States' and other powers' capabilities and weapons are a source of concern. Nonetheless those who understand, even if not necessarily buying, Trump's message will wonder whether the editors of the Bulletin are acting out their concern because they're yet another elite who are shocked and scandalized that the new president is skeptical about their motives and wisdom.
1
Donald Trump raises a novel question about war and peace.
Can a worldwide conflict be avoided when the most powerful military power in the world is led by an authoritarian hot-headed president?
Can a worldwide conflict be avoided when the most powerful military power in the world is led by an authoritarian hot-headed president?
12
Israel has nuclear weapons, Uzi.
You on the left have accused him of being an "authoritarian hot-headed president" (sic), but he hasn't seem to have initiated a nuclear war yet.
Care to explain yourself a little more clearly...
Or is your remark just another one of the viscous, hot-headed, irrational, patently political statements that the left only seems capable of these days?
You on the left have accused him of being an "authoritarian hot-headed president" (sic), but he hasn't seem to have initiated a nuclear war yet.
Care to explain yourself a little more clearly...
Or is your remark just another one of the viscous, hot-headed, irrational, patently political statements that the left only seems capable of these days?
Who did these scientists vote for in 2016? BETTER YET, WHO DID THEY SUPPORT IN 1980? Why should we trust their judgement.
1
Notice that all of those scientists are still making money off of the research grants provided by the federal government into how to make and preserve nuclear weapons?
You say they are doing it for the nuclear industry? What nuclear industry?
We haven't built a nuclear power plant in almost four decades, and none are planned.
Nuclear medicine is a pretty small and well-defined field with not that much research money going to primary investigations any more.
X-ray technology has pretty much reached its limits, with work going to look at refinements.
Seems to me that "these scientists" have a touch of hypocrisy attached to them.
You say they are doing it for the nuclear industry? What nuclear industry?
We haven't built a nuclear power plant in almost four decades, and none are planned.
Nuclear medicine is a pretty small and well-defined field with not that much research money going to primary investigations any more.
X-ray technology has pretty much reached its limits, with work going to look at refinements.
Seems to me that "these scientists" have a touch of hypocrisy attached to them.
I fail to see how the 1980 election has that much bearing on this. It is hindsight that puts the 1980 election into this context today. I would assume that how scientists voted would be in keeping with their ethics. Trump was more than clear in demonstrating his opinion/attitude on logic and science.
Those "scientists" have only one ethic when push comes to shove...
The ethic that says they will take any research money they can get their hands on.
Make no mistake about that.
The ethic that says they will take any research money they can get their hands on.
Make no mistake about that.
Only a crazy person would initiate, or even contribute to, a nuclear holocaust. That, of course, doesn't mean Mr. Trump wouldn't. Stupid voters in the U.S. have, literally, put most species on the earth at risk.
23
The Twitter President. President Trump has created more problems in his
first 18 days of his presidency. There seems to be no moderating
voices beyond the Trump twitters. The readers of the NYTIMES seem to
have a better understanding of the Trump nuclear strategy, than the
Trump White House. That's frightening.
first 18 days of his presidency. There seems to be no moderating
voices beyond the Trump twitters. The readers of the NYTIMES seem to
have a better understanding of the Trump nuclear strategy, than the
Trump White House. That's frightening.
12
Surely I am not the only person to have noticed that Trump has a propensity to "gloat" that his status gives him access to things which other people do not have access to. Secrets, for example--"I know something you don't know, I know something you don't know." Does anyone doubt that Trump has already played the "Show-Off" to Bannon, i.e. that Bannon has already had a close-up look at the "biscuit"; i.e. the card on which the nuclear codes are written--and that he has already some idea of how the actual football works. Does the thought of that make you nervous?
17
This fool sees the Nuclear Button as his personal joy stick in a video game.
13
TALK, TALK, TALK .... in the social media era. Zillions of comments, gossip, stories and ... the derelicts not only remain in power: they clamp harder and deeper. I am convinced that democracy is at fault simply because our species is flawed. The electoral college was created by the tyrannical powerful centuries ago to guarantee that they would continue tyrannical and powerful.
The guy lost the popular vote, the only one that should be valid and The System allows this to continue unabated.
Look at the amount of outrageous "exec orders", gross comments, vicious attacks, public measures whose only raison d'être is vindictive are being produced by a gang of fascist ignoramus whose user manual is "1984" by Orwell.
So...what was I saying?
Ah, .... look, small mustache could be stopped in 1929 BEFORE he caused 60M deaths. What are we waiting? Why is it that there's never enough time to do it right, and a ton of time to do it over. Problem: this time there will hardly remain anybody alive to restart....
The guy lost the popular vote, the only one that should be valid and The System allows this to continue unabated.
Look at the amount of outrageous "exec orders", gross comments, vicious attacks, public measures whose only raison d'être is vindictive are being produced by a gang of fascist ignoramus whose user manual is "1984" by Orwell.
So...what was I saying?
Ah, .... look, small mustache could be stopped in 1929 BEFORE he caused 60M deaths. What are we waiting? Why is it that there's never enough time to do it right, and a ton of time to do it over. Problem: this time there will hardly remain anybody alive to restart....
12
You should note, that the "excessive number of executive orders" from the Trump administration are merely "undo's" of the excessive number of executive orders that Barack Obama issued trying to avoid having Congress not go along with his agenda.
And, as I recall for my reading of our Constitution, the legislative function...the making of law...is reserved to...well...er...the Congress.
Do you have a problem with that, Heckpa?
And, as I recall for my reading of our Constitution, the legislative function...the making of law...is reserved to...well...er...the Congress.
Do you have a problem with that, Heckpa?
1
we handed the nuclear codes to an impulsive, vindictive narcissist. Would it really be surprising if mushroom clouds are in our future?
22
Yes. We should never have handed those nuclear codes to Barack Obama.
It's a good thing that Putin only took over parts of the Ukraine and China took over parts of the South China Sea without any response from The Exalted One, President Obama.
It's a good thing that Putin only took over parts of the Ukraine and China took over parts of the South China Sea without any response from The Exalted One, President Obama.
1
Trump rarely punches those who can punch back. (Think of the GOP in the primaries.) Russia and China have lots of nukes, so they are less likely targets for a first strike. Pity those countries without similar weapons that he perceives as enemies. If they have the capability to acquire or build such weapons, Trump's rhetoric encourages them to do so.
8
The Times is, as often, a trifle too polite. DJT is a high risk for non-rational, impulsive behavior that can cost him and us all our lives. He has no impulse control systems and no advisors with experience or decent judgment. He has surrounded himself with sycophants, toadies, light-weights, and idiots (a few, like Conway, fit all categories) none of whom will match impulse with restraint. They all lack respect for facts believing that somehow the 'know' the trust without work, research, or discussion. They have no process for self-control as shown by Bannon's immigration order and no sense of impact, justice or fairness.
We should all be ashamed to have elected this dangerous person.
We should all be ashamed to have elected this dangerous person.
42
One way to atone for over half of your eligible voters not bothering to vote and creating this mess, keep up your protests, put your elected reps on notice. Start mobilizing now for the 2018 midterms and ensure that in all subsequent elections that your democracy is not determined by 27% of your population.
Trump is mentally ill and should be removed from office, before he takes the world with him in one last act of defiance.
58
Do you have a medical license to practice psychiatry?
Have you examined him?
Either way you are either practicing medicine without a license, a felony in all jurisdictions in this country, of engaged in malpractice, for which you could lose your license.
You are entitled to your opinion. You are not entitled to offer gratuitous slander.
Have you examined him?
Either way you are either practicing medicine without a license, a felony in all jurisdictions in this country, of engaged in malpractice, for which you could lose your license.
You are entitled to your opinion. You are not entitled to offer gratuitous slander.
1
Trump has a deep seated belief in over-reacting to any perceived threat; a tactic he learned early on from Roy Cohn. In addition he is ignorant of nuclear policy, thin skinned, and impervious to information that goes against his prejudices.
So what we have is a man who is quick to anger, quick to look for a way to massively retaliate, and slow to take any moderating advice. Truly and dangerous and explosive situation. God help us.
So what we have is a man who is quick to anger, quick to look for a way to massively retaliate, and slow to take any moderating advice. Truly and dangerous and explosive situation. God help us.
205
On the contrary, a president perceived to have an itchy finger on a hair trigger--- who is narcissistic, petty, defensive and unpredictable--- is an asset, vis a vis those inimical to the United States.
As long as Republicans in Congress and local governments and courts enable him, the breadth and depth of Trump's threats to civilization will continue. The bomb threat looks bad, but his actions on denial of climate change are equally dangerous if not more so. I tend to think it's unlikely he will actually be able to launch bombs, though it is shocking that any powerful public official is so unstable and immature that it should be in question.
But there is no question that climate change is here and acceleration, and he is eager to dismantle not only any development of clean renewable energy but other controls over other kinds of toxic emissions. Poisoning our air, water, and earth (and privatizing things we all need for profit) are toxic to life on earth.
Then there are the kleptocrats who are eager to dismantle any protections against global financial collapse, again for profit. The skimming of the casino on Wall Street continues apace, with real value being removed entirely from the system.
By the way, Trump is not a successful businessman, but he does a good enough impression of such to deceive the credulous. This too is all smoke and mirrors, and he must love having bigger toys to threaten people with.
Problem is, nuclear weapons are not toys.
Donald J. Trump, time to grow up. It's never too late to acknowledge your membership in the human race.
But there is no question that climate change is here and acceleration, and he is eager to dismantle not only any development of clean renewable energy but other controls over other kinds of toxic emissions. Poisoning our air, water, and earth (and privatizing things we all need for profit) are toxic to life on earth.
Then there are the kleptocrats who are eager to dismantle any protections against global financial collapse, again for profit. The skimming of the casino on Wall Street continues apace, with real value being removed entirely from the system.
By the way, Trump is not a successful businessman, but he does a good enough impression of such to deceive the credulous. This too is all smoke and mirrors, and he must love having bigger toys to threaten people with.
Problem is, nuclear weapons are not toys.
Donald J. Trump, time to grow up. It's never too late to acknowledge your membership in the human race.
3
Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin are both pathological narcissistic tyrants. Trump speaks admiringly of Putin. Is Putin our friend? Well, he flies Bear nuclear bombers off the coast of California on the Fourth of July to wish us a happy holiday. That does not sound very friendly. This U.S. Administration and Russia seem like a very dangerous combination. In terms of nuclear weapons in general, the most horrifying thing is that this is now only one of many things we will have to worry about.
6
I served on an ICBM launch crew that would have launched our weapon in under one minute from valid launch order - vaporizing Moscow and killing millions of Russian citizens in less time than it takes for pizza delivery.
We knew that if we launched 'Mutually Assured Destruction' was inevitable and that Russian ICBMs were en route...and that the human race had been run. It only takes a couple dozen nuclear explosions to trigger a nuclear winter and end human civilization as we know it. The lucky ones die instantly in this scenario.
This terrifying possibility has been successfully kept at bay since the dawn of the nuclear era by relatively reasonable men and a collective sense of humanity. Our so-called president, however, clearly lacks the emotional maturity and stability to be trusted with any weapon, let alone the world's most dangerous nuclear arsenal. Congress (grow a spine), the media (never back down), the judiciary (please hold) and the people (thank goodness someone is taking action) MUST stop this vile, narcissistic idiot before he takes us, and the world, down with him.
We knew that if we launched 'Mutually Assured Destruction' was inevitable and that Russian ICBMs were en route...and that the human race had been run. It only takes a couple dozen nuclear explosions to trigger a nuclear winter and end human civilization as we know it. The lucky ones die instantly in this scenario.
This terrifying possibility has been successfully kept at bay since the dawn of the nuclear era by relatively reasonable men and a collective sense of humanity. Our so-called president, however, clearly lacks the emotional maturity and stability to be trusted with any weapon, let alone the world's most dangerous nuclear arsenal. Congress (grow a spine), the media (never back down), the judiciary (please hold) and the people (thank goodness someone is taking action) MUST stop this vile, narcissistic idiot before he takes us, and the world, down with him.
16
I am very afraid - for my children and their children. There is maybe some consolation in the hope that the Generals and Admirals have the strength and courage to safeguard the stupid voters from the abomination they've granted powers beyond his and his advisors' capacity to wield. The Trump Administration is the No Nuance Zone. There are only winners and losers, right and wrong, white and black, Christian and Heathen. I am very afraid.
9
Do people really believe a president can push a button and nuclear bombs fall 18 minutes later? -- It does not work that way people.
1
Remember during the campaign when we were told that Trump supporters don't take him literally but take him seriously? And that the dems took him literally but not seriously? Wow. Seems both sides were wrong and we all should have taken him both literally and seriously. Someone should invoke the 25th amendment and get the man away from the codes ASAP.
I am embarrassed for our country. Not to mention scared to death.
I am embarrassed for our country. Not to mention scared to death.
2
Presidential nominees should be required to pass a mental health evaluation certifying they are, like, not only smart but also sane. Oughta be a law.
2
Lament all you want, nothing is going to make Mr Trump any different than what he is. He is not a change agent for himself
Nuclear proliferation in the middle east began right after the Iran Deal was signed. To ignore this makes you... a garbage newspaper. Again. Also fear-mongerers. But it's different when you do it, I know, I know...
I didn't vote for Trump and like you believe him to be dangerously unstable, but tell the truth.
I didn't vote for Trump and like you believe him to be dangerously unstable, but tell the truth.
1
I just paired this article with one in a recent issue of the New Yorker about the boom in doomsday preppers among the mega-rich. Perhaps that's the game plan: squeeze all the money out of the bottom 99%, use it to buy your own personal nuclear winter hideaway, start WW3 before the populace arrives with torches and pitchforks. They want to rob then scourge us off the planet.
2
If his removal from office should ever seem imminent - either by voters or by impeachment - that paranoid megalomaniac would opt to first destroy the planet. You can count on it. Get your thermonuclear preparations ready.
1
How many atomic bombs would render most of the world unfit for human beings? Ten? twenty? Whatever the number is, we and about six other countries have enough of these horrific weapons to destroy the earth.
And who feels safe when the person in control of our A bombs is a mentally and emotionally challenged man such as our new president?
Global warming is worrisome, but nuclear weapons in the hands of Trump is a nightmare beyond belief.
And who feels safe when the person in control of our A bombs is a mentally and emotionally challenged man such as our new president?
Global warming is worrisome, but nuclear weapons in the hands of Trump is a nightmare beyond belief.
4
If there is any possibility that this is a realistic scenario ( Trump pressing the button) - and in my opinion there is, as winning and being the " greatest" seems to be most important to this old child - it´s far worse than expected: incredibly dumb isolationistic and small-minded retro-politics by a homophobic racist, anti-feminist and BAD business-man, etc......which would be bad enough.... a destabilization of the whole globe by this narcissist and incompetent wanna-be -great -leader.
But this is a threat of a different dimension!
Try to get rid of him by impeachment as soon as possible; the world will thank you!
But this is a threat of a different dimension!
Try to get rid of him by impeachment as soon as possible; the world will thank you!
5
I have coined a new phrase, hypro.
Hysterical propaganda.
Hysterical propaganda.
2
A clever(?) neologism is not a rebuttal.
Certainly, one of the reasons Clinton lost was because she was a known war monger, with a documented history of a love of intervention and use of force. She seems saner than Trump, but it seemed likely that she would lead us into many unnecessary battles.
The Democrats have now proposed good legislation to limit a president's ability to destroy life on earth. That legislation is guaranteed to go nowhere, as the Times says here. Isn't that typical of the Democrats? When Obama came to office, the Democrats had control of the White House and both houses of Congress. The time for that common-sense legislation was then.
The Democrats have now proposed good legislation to limit a president's ability to destroy life on earth. That legislation is guaranteed to go nowhere, as the Times says here. Isn't that typical of the Democrats? When Obama came to office, the Democrats had control of the White House and both houses of Congress. The time for that common-sense legislation was then.
3
You misunderestimate Clinton, who was not a "war monger ... love of intervention and use of force". She is a thoughtful person who heeds advice and lives in the real world. Hatemongering on Clinton always misses the complexities and realities of the Clintons, such as their history of dealing with other people, unlike the Trumpster.
8
Something that is finally coming into clearer focus is the vision and wisdom of the Norwegian Parliament in awarding President Obama the Nobel Peace Prize. At the time they said he had changed the face of America to the world but many were unconvinced since we still had troops in Iraq and Afghanistan and Gitmo was still open and he was authorizing drone attacks . Now we know the sense of stability he provided, the importance of countries and people cultivating respect and understanding towards others, the need to have knowledge of our own and others' history, and his goal (even if not yet achieved) of ending wars and promoting peace.
8
We were at war for every single day of Obama's Presidency. He was the first president to use drones to assasinate American citizens, without the benefit of due process. Yeah, he really deserved that "peace" prize.
Well, he did say he knows more than the generals. Which part of military strategy he knows more about is up for debate but he did say he knows better. Of course if you think with your guts that's an easy thing to say. If you think using logic or common sense, it's harder to state, with a straight face, that you know more about military strategy than people who have spent their adult lives dedicated to just that. However, Trump is not known for having or using logic or common sense. His first weeks as president confirm that. I guess that Tom Lehrer song, "We will all go together when we go" might come true sooner than we thought.
2
We have always skirted with unimaginable disaster for the world with nuclear weapons. Obviously, Trump does not help matters at all with his reliance on raw emotions over rational thought. However, allowing him or any President only the power to retaliate without Congressional approval is strategically a mistake as it allows the other side (Russia or China or whoever else) to not consider the likelihood of a first strike from the US which would make their planning a lot simpler. Having said that, what is much more likely than a nuclear standoff with Russia or China is Trump getting baited by rogue nuclear nations like North Korea and choosing to strike them preemptively. That can open the floodgates after which we will all be history.
46
You are totally missing the point. This law would prevent the President from launching a first strike, not a retaliatory strike if we're first being attacked. It certainly makes sense.
Except there will be nobody left to write it for nonexistent future generations. We will all be "On The Beach." Kim Jong Un is indeed no longer craziest leader.
Apocalyptic "end days" are anticipated by the wacky extremist fundamentalists of both Islamic and evangelical Christian beliefs. We have a president who is clearly unhinged from any reality, spouts unwavering distain for the former and has surrounded himself with true believers of the latter......what could possibly go wrong?
9
We need to stop pretending we have an actual President and start dealing realistically with the fact that we don't.
4
"A Pentagon advisory board recently proposed that the United States consider building more lower-yield nuclear weapons to provide an option for “limited use” in a regional conflict."
Are the members of this advisory board still at the Pentagon? If so, who are they? Name them, Shame them! This cannot be a part of any dialogue, any military thinking or strategy. No rationalization of this can be allowed. Are other nuclear countries having this insane discussion as well? If so, name them.
Please, America, get on the phones, take to the streets, demand that the legislation prohibiting a first strike be enacted, and quickly. Trump and his incompetent team cannot be trusted. After "travel ban" and the Yemen disaster, I don't even have much faith in Gens. Kelly and Mattis to influence what's going on in this white house. Failing legislation, we're back to marching in the streets with our "No Nukes" signs. This is just bloody nuts.
Only America has dropped atomic bombs. JFK got us through the Cuban Missile Crisis....and it goes without saying that trump is no JFK.
Are the members of this advisory board still at the Pentagon? If so, who are they? Name them, Shame them! This cannot be a part of any dialogue, any military thinking or strategy. No rationalization of this can be allowed. Are other nuclear countries having this insane discussion as well? If so, name them.
Please, America, get on the phones, take to the streets, demand that the legislation prohibiting a first strike be enacted, and quickly. Trump and his incompetent team cannot be trusted. After "travel ban" and the Yemen disaster, I don't even have much faith in Gens. Kelly and Mattis to influence what's going on in this white house. Failing legislation, we're back to marching in the streets with our "No Nukes" signs. This is just bloody nuts.
Only America has dropped atomic bombs. JFK got us through the Cuban Missile Crisis....and it goes without saying that trump is no JFK.
1
"The bill would not undercut Mr. Trump’s ability to respond on his own authority to a nuclear attack, an authority all presidents have had and should have."
An authority all rational, informed presidents have had and should have.
As with so many issues an exception needs to be made for Mr. Trump. Congress should appoint a committee of babysitters to guide Mr. Trump so he doesn't do anything reckless during a tantrum.
An authority all rational, informed presidents have had and should have.
As with so many issues an exception needs to be made for Mr. Trump. Congress should appoint a committee of babysitters to guide Mr. Trump so he doesn't do anything reckless during a tantrum.
1
In 1983, when the threat of nuclear war with Russia was escalating under the Reagan administration, an impactful movie named "The Day After" was aired on TV. It graphically depicted the mushroom cloud burst, vaporization of people, and widespread fire and destruction to property. The final third of the movie detailed the suffering, the sickness, the lawlessness, as well as the efforts of those trying to survive. According to Wikipedia, Reagan and his Joint Chiefs were so impacted by this film that it was reportedly a factor in the disarmament efforts of the intermediate range nuclear forces treaty several years later.
I recently rewatched this movie as a reminder of what is at stake with this administration. I wish I had the power to compel the Trump and Bannon administration to watch this film and take note of the gravity of their power and responsibility for the lives of Americans and others.
I recently rewatched this movie as a reminder of what is at stake with this administration. I wish I had the power to compel the Trump and Bannon administration to watch this film and take note of the gravity of their power and responsibility for the lives of Americans and others.
3
Having Trump and Bannon watch "The Day After" would be pointless. Trump is psychologically incapable of caring about a single other human being; Bannon might in fact welcome such global suffering.
At the very least we know that empathy and compassion are alien concepts to our co-presidents, and that logic, reason and belief in facts are utterly meaningless.
So, of course the Doomsday Clock moved closer! We have an thin-skinned narcissist and a white-supremacist conspiracy peddler calling the shots.
But back at the diner in Iowa all those retired farmers are feeling good, just glad no Muslims will be be rushing to Keokuk with terror on their minds.
At the very least we know that empathy and compassion are alien concepts to our co-presidents, and that logic, reason and belief in facts are utterly meaningless.
So, of course the Doomsday Clock moved closer! We have an thin-skinned narcissist and a white-supremacist conspiracy peddler calling the shots.
But back at the diner in Iowa all those retired farmers are feeling good, just glad no Muslims will be be rushing to Keokuk with terror on their minds.
The Ayatollahs are ruling Iran. They have the real power .
The Government in Iran is a mere Rubber Stamp,obeying orders of Ayatollahs.
Why elect Trump or anyone else when you have the Federal Judges.
The Judges should decide who comes in,have the final fingers on the Nuclear football...
The Judges should run the nation with a Rubber Stamp Trump.A mere ceremonial office to entertain visiting heads of state.
Why waste money on elections,when you have the Judges.
The Government in Iran is a mere Rubber Stamp,obeying orders of Ayatollahs.
Why elect Trump or anyone else when you have the Federal Judges.
The Judges should decide who comes in,have the final fingers on the Nuclear football...
The Judges should run the nation with a Rubber Stamp Trump.A mere ceremonial office to entertain visiting heads of state.
Why waste money on elections,when you have the Judges.
1
Get a grip man, are you so naive that you think he can just launch out of the blue , really. Do you think Obama as a two year senator had full knowledge when he assumed office. Stop the temper tantrum. Yea sure, no more Australia. Take your tablets guys, we are no longer listening!
3
It has nothing to do with inexperience alone--it has to do with his mental state--he is clearly mentally ill and has been diagnosed as such by professionals. Having such a person in charge of anything, let alone the nuclear arsenal, should be troubling to anyone paying attention.
The Religious Industry Complex is beside itself with glee over Lord Commander Marmelade, who will bring about their longed-for Armageddon.
2
All other branches of American government must labor constantly to keep this toddler tyrant in check.
http://www.thecriticalmom.blogspot.com
http://www.thecriticalmom.blogspot.com
What's becoming alarmingly clear to anyone who actually gets off the golf course to pursue greater knowledge of the whole world(and its history) is that the new kid(mentally, emotionally) seems to the most disconnected person to try and lead the mightiest military ever created. Yes, this a very long sentence. But it is difficult to ignore the inherent dangers: like a three year old who found a loaded revolver. Our new chief executive is as alarmingly similar to the three year old as the resultant outcome of leaving the child alone with his new toy. We can only hope that an adult is nearby and willing to enter the room in order to prevent a tragic outcome.
Up until now the person who most resembled this toddler analogy was the 'dear leader' of North Korea, Kim Jong Un. We've been watching this nation's bellicosity now for 67 years. The most worrisome feature to fear is the simple mindedness of trio leadership of this single inheritance of father to son to grandson that despite the absolute backwards march away from a civil society to have been able to possess any type of nuclear weapon along now with advanced rocketry. Yes they had help and a purposeful, but dangerous neglect throughout its history.
America should not join in setting loose another three year old toddler with a loaded revolver in a room by himself.
Up until now the person who most resembled this toddler analogy was the 'dear leader' of North Korea, Kim Jong Un. We've been watching this nation's bellicosity now for 67 years. The most worrisome feature to fear is the simple mindedness of trio leadership of this single inheritance of father to son to grandson that despite the absolute backwards march away from a civil society to have been able to possess any type of nuclear weapon along now with advanced rocketry. Yes they had help and a purposeful, but dangerous neglect throughout its history.
America should not join in setting loose another three year old toddler with a loaded revolver in a room by himself.
Yet more ridiculous Chicken Little fearmongering from the left. I'm SHOCKED.
3
If we Americans had a parliamentary system of government, Trump would be removed from office in a vote of no confidence in a recognition that the election was a mistake and needed to be corrected.
The founding fathers rejected a parliament, probably because it was too much like England, and stuck us with this rigid system of government that gives too much power to one president and is to difficult to correct.
In any event, this amount of concern for the president's competence merits consideration of removal. Possible arguments are conflict of interest with all his business holdings, incompetence, and emotional instability. Emotional instability is a catch all phrase for someone whose temperament is not conducive to making rational decisions.
Isn't it time for like minded democrats and Republicans to come together and make a presentation to the president for his resignation. Some of Trump's family members may wish to assist with this effort.
Lacking this outcome, the Congress needs to take steps for an impeachment in the House or a possible removal under the 25th amendment!
The founding fathers rejected a parliament, probably because it was too much like England, and stuck us with this rigid system of government that gives too much power to one president and is to difficult to correct.
In any event, this amount of concern for the president's competence merits consideration of removal. Possible arguments are conflict of interest with all his business holdings, incompetence, and emotional instability. Emotional instability is a catch all phrase for someone whose temperament is not conducive to making rational decisions.
Isn't it time for like minded democrats and Republicans to come together and make a presentation to the president for his resignation. Some of Trump's family members may wish to assist with this effort.
Lacking this outcome, the Congress needs to take steps for an impeachment in the House or a possible removal under the 25th amendment!
3
If a frog had wings, it wouldn't bump its butt when it hopped.
Stupid is as stupid does...one can only look to the complacency behind such remarks as, "I feel safer with Trump in the White House," and take away from this encounter that many Americans are safe from any appeals to reason or intelligence. We have the president we deserve in this brat-infested, self-entitled land that has lost all sense of true community and sharing. Let the worst happen. It's too late now anyway.
1
Show us the tax returns.
His slander of a Federal Judge is a direct violation of his oath of office.
And his continual need to praise the Russians while insulting Alias and Neighbors, makes it shockingly apparent that Putin does indeed have blackmail material on Little Donnie.
Show us the tax records.
His slander of a Federal Judge is a direct violation of his oath of office.
And his continual need to praise the Russians while insulting Alias and Neighbors, makes it shockingly apparent that Putin does indeed have blackmail material on Little Donnie.
Show us the tax records.
5
What most folks don't seem to want to face, is the FACT that even a "limited" nuclear exchange involving a hundred or less warheads, would bring a dissaster upon the entire planet, such as has not been known in human history: in addition to the fallout and subsequent increased risk of cancer and such, the "nuclear winter" which would follow all but the smallest of nuclear explosions, would result in massive crop failures all around the world, and the deaths of .. well, who knows how many: hundreds of millions? This is, of course, according to the latest calculations of scientists well versed in climatology and what nuclear warfare would entail..... Another huge problem is the risk that a large warhead exploding over North America or Europe would produce an EMP - electromagnetic pulse that could fry most of the electronics which our civilization depends upon. This is NOT an inconsequential matter either.. It would be very sensible to simply unilaterally destroy ALL of "our side"'s nukes and then negotiate for Russia, Israel, China, Pakistan and China (and Korea, lol) to follow suit, for the good of everyone and everything on the planet. But, that's not likely to happen, sigh. // Trump has flat out said "What's the point of having them [nuclear weapons] if we can't use them?" He is a menace to EVERYTHING we hold dear, and must be stopped by any legal means possible, before things spiral out of control even more than they already appear to be doing.
3
Anyone who has any real understanding of the Cold War, the near misses (of which there were several that we know about, and several that we don't) and the incredibly delicate politics of the time, would rightly be terrified of the consequences of this presidency.
It's been revealed in the last few hours that Trump didn't even read the Executive Order putting Bannon on the NSC. Let that sink in. He didn't even read the order he was signing. This is the President of the most powerful nation on Earth, with the most powerful military and a government with the capacity to do almost anything to effect change across the world, and he can't even read and comprehend the orders his (arguably insane) staff give him.
When #PresidentBannon was trending people were treating it as a mocking attack on his credibility, but now it's proven to be absolutely true; Trump is not the President, the Nazi Bannon is.
Aside from the great actions by legal professionals overturning his despicable Muslim ban, I'm still waiting to see all these checks and balances there apparently are.
If this was a functioning government, Trump would have been removed already and replaced by someone who isn't clearly mentally ill. The fact that he's still there is damning.
If America still exists by the time the opportunity is due, the GOP are going to be removed from office all across the country.
It's been revealed in the last few hours that Trump didn't even read the Executive Order putting Bannon on the NSC. Let that sink in. He didn't even read the order he was signing. This is the President of the most powerful nation on Earth, with the most powerful military and a government with the capacity to do almost anything to effect change across the world, and he can't even read and comprehend the orders his (arguably insane) staff give him.
When #PresidentBannon was trending people were treating it as a mocking attack on his credibility, but now it's proven to be absolutely true; Trump is not the President, the Nazi Bannon is.
Aside from the great actions by legal professionals overturning his despicable Muslim ban, I'm still waiting to see all these checks and balances there apparently are.
If this was a functioning government, Trump would have been removed already and replaced by someone who isn't clearly mentally ill. The fact that he's still there is damning.
If America still exists by the time the opportunity is due, the GOP are going to be removed from office all across the country.
5
Might be a good idea to ban presidential tweets containing the word "nuclear" too if the goal is to contain the damage this fool can do.
3
You can't walk back a nuclear weapon or claim it misspoke. As a veteran, I am more worried about the current office holder than anytime in the past 60 years.
34
I believe the rumor that Donald has reconfigured his tweeting device to include "The" launch button that will end survival of the species. if Donald manages to contain his temper tantrums leading him to press "The" button he still has his backup plan to end human existence, All industries involved in the use, promotion, delivery and extraction of fossil fuels have had their hands untied.
21
"Mr. Trump commands about 4,000 weapons that he alone is empowered to launch." Are we sure he hasn't signed an executive order allowing Bannon to go into the nuclear suitcase whenever he wants?
26
Aside from the use of nuclear weapons in war, which would end the world as we know it, what about collateral issues such as storage of nuclear material? Will some one be able to get their hands on enough of that stuff to make a suitcase nuke, a dirty bomb, or to poison the water supply of a major city? Let’s hope everything is not up for grabs, because if that is the case, then nothing can be taken for granted.
8
A useful reminder from you in the midst of political chaos that Flint needs help and clean uncontaminated water.
2
The events of the past two weeks show that Trump is not fit to becPresident. clearly he spends insufficient time at his job. The assessment that the White House is understaffed and can't find the light switches, that the President was unaware that Steve Bannon was taking over the security council and banning most important people, and that the executive orders were not submitted to any assessment demonstrates that Trump does not have the mental capacity to fulfill his duties. His son-in- law and a chief advisor is out with his socialite wife - he too is apparently not accustomed to the rigors of work. I wake up each day wondering if Steve Bannon has started another war and if he is the one with the nuclear codes. Trump is not the lion or fox - he is the old goat - worrying about the decor. Two weeks in office and he had to escape to his golf club.
61
Yes, but try convincing any of his True Believers that this guy is a dangerous Fraud and a Buffon. All they care about is that Hillary Clinton wasn't elected and Trump made them feel good about themselves.
Mr. Trump won't care if there is a law saying he can't act unilaterally. Since assuming the presidency he's shown he doesn't care about laws. The only way to bring him under control is to remove him from office.
83
And the way to begin is to have him undergo a non-partisan mental health evaluation, ASAP.
Back in the 60s my older sibling, the one with the brains, is standing on the beach, arms outstretched giving me a history lesson on the possibility of America launching a nuclear war. A long line of invisible soldiers and citizens are marching into the sea, endlessly, they are 'China'. It is a never-ending march where population on earth survives.
Times have changed since those days, the world is moving much faster to stay in pace with the technological revolution and it is harder to feel grounded. 'Keep Them Guessing', which appears to be Trump's daily motto, is getting stale, and throwing not only America into a state of turmoil, but impacting poorly on our allies, our detractors and the World on a global basis.
'Cry Wolf', and eventually a Dragon may show up. An unstable mind leads to instability. 'He keeps his promises' from an uneasy elderly Trump supporter and perhaps this is true. But promises are often veiled threats.
Keep the children occupied and away from the News. Some are running scared. They are not alone, but it is up to the grownups of our Nation to hold them closer to their hearts during this damming and dark passage in our History, and we may still have a Spring Celebration where the Country places aside a basket of vipers, and goes on a search for a new President.
Times have changed since those days, the world is moving much faster to stay in pace with the technological revolution and it is harder to feel grounded. 'Keep Them Guessing', which appears to be Trump's daily motto, is getting stale, and throwing not only America into a state of turmoil, but impacting poorly on our allies, our detractors and the World on a global basis.
'Cry Wolf', and eventually a Dragon may show up. An unstable mind leads to instability. 'He keeps his promises' from an uneasy elderly Trump supporter and perhaps this is true. But promises are often veiled threats.
Keep the children occupied and away from the News. Some are running scared. They are not alone, but it is up to the grownups of our Nation to hold them closer to their hearts during this damming and dark passage in our History, and we may still have a Spring Celebration where the Country places aside a basket of vipers, and goes on a search for a new President.
5
"He keeps his promises" and the promises may be simplistic and not make sense in this complex evolving world.
Nixon initiated the opening to China for a reason. Maybe we allowed lopsided trade with China because we realized that we did not want to ustain the isolation of that country in the 50's -70's, which would help create a bigger and more threatening version of North Korea in which an authoritarian government would spend all the country's resources on the military and not work to impove the lives of its 1 billion population. Maybe our calculus was that the world was better off if China had skin in the game of global trade. Is that too subtle for some people to understand ?
Nixon initiated the opening to China for a reason. Maybe we allowed lopsided trade with China because we realized that we did not want to ustain the isolation of that country in the 50's -70's, which would help create a bigger and more threatening version of North Korea in which an authoritarian government would spend all the country's resources on the military and not work to impove the lives of its 1 billion population. Maybe our calculus was that the world was better off if China had skin in the game of global trade. Is that too subtle for some people to understand ?
Yes. Perhaps when the World has another global recession?
1
During the Cuban Missile Crisis I was a SAC Atlas-F ICBM launch officer. I will assert there is no such thing as a limited nuclear war. Once missiles begin to fly they will not be flying in one direction only. There would be ground bursts and air bursts. Once those war heads start going off radiation fall-out will start circling the globe and life as we know it will start circling the drain. All-out nuclear war is unthinkable and, while the consequences may be somewhat unknowable, they are certainly imaginable. This will not be a TV show this will be the real thing.
78
How many previous Presidents were "well-schooled in arcane nuclear doctrine"?
What sort of thing is this "arcane nuclear doctrine"? Does it take an advanced degree to know the moment when a nuclear strike is indicated? It seems pretty simple--if someone else (i.e., Russia) launches a nuclear attack on us, then we launch one on them. We have a general policy, like all other nuclear powers, of no preemptive strikes, but it's never smart to take options completely off the table when talking international relations.
There is no great science to the conduct of war, not even nuclear war. The science is in the development of ever more powerful and efficient weaponry. There is no reason whatsoever to imagine that the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists have any greater expertise in assessing international affairs, even regarding the use of nuclear weapons, as the man on the street.
A fetish for expertism or scientism is simply another means of conducting that other sort of diplomacy done domestically--angling for political advantage.
Incidentally, unpredictability is a time-honored and tested means of keeping subordinates in line. When maintaining discipline over a stiff-necked horde, being arbitrary and capricious is sometimes just the ticket. Nations will be slower to belligerence if they can't feel certain what the US might do in response. It worked for Yahweh in the Old Testament. It could also work for Trump.
What sort of thing is this "arcane nuclear doctrine"? Does it take an advanced degree to know the moment when a nuclear strike is indicated? It seems pretty simple--if someone else (i.e., Russia) launches a nuclear attack on us, then we launch one on them. We have a general policy, like all other nuclear powers, of no preemptive strikes, but it's never smart to take options completely off the table when talking international relations.
There is no great science to the conduct of war, not even nuclear war. The science is in the development of ever more powerful and efficient weaponry. There is no reason whatsoever to imagine that the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists have any greater expertise in assessing international affairs, even regarding the use of nuclear weapons, as the man on the street.
A fetish for expertism or scientism is simply another means of conducting that other sort of diplomacy done domestically--angling for political advantage.
Incidentally, unpredictability is a time-honored and tested means of keeping subordinates in line. When maintaining discipline over a stiff-necked horde, being arbitrary and capricious is sometimes just the ticket. Nations will be slower to belligerence if they can't feel certain what the US might do in response. It worked for Yahweh in the Old Testament. It could also work for Trump.
17
Thinking that the use of experts and science are "fetish" and that the "man in the street" is as well equipped to access complex intellectual and moral dilemmas is exactly the attitude of a dilettante suffering from Duning-Kruger incapcitation.
Is that you, Donald?
Is that you, Donald?
1
"time honored and tested..." What impudence! I am not Trump's subordinate. I am a citizen and tax-payer.
1
North Korea may not agree.
MAD was all about predictability and stability. Putin and Trump don't believe in either. What happens when Trump decides the bromance is dead?
4
It was always a bad idea to have one person with their finger on a button which could end the world. Somehow over time we became inured to that concept even though it is insane. Perhaps having someone as unstable as Trump in the White House will be the impetus to rethink this whole situation and what it portends.
30
The lack of a vote of no confidence leading to snap elections to restore faith in government with a democratic election is another fatal flaw in the obsolete US Constitution.
Before the election, we were worried about what Kim Jong Un might do with his nuclear weapons.
But elections apparently do have consequences, don't they?
Before the election, people were worried about ISIS. Now, not so much.
But elections apparently do have consequences, don't they?
Before the election, people were worried about ISIS. Now, not so much.
23
The Doomsday Clock? No wonder people don't take scientists seriously.
Weren't there " finger on the button " stories when Nixon was President? Are we still here? Has the World Health Organization come up wit a clinical term for people that fear the Apocalypse. I mean at this rate the price of guns and ammunition is never going down now is it?
Weren't there " finger on the button " stories when Nixon was President? Are we still here? Has the World Health Organization come up wit a clinical term for people that fear the Apocalypse. I mean at this rate the price of guns and ammunition is never going down now is it?
3
Comparing Nixon to Trump may not be conducive when it comes to discussing nuclear warfare since the latter has a few buttons missing.
A dictatorial madman and an ignorant fool in charge of nuclear weaponry? What could possibly go wrong? Are the extreme-right evangelicals pushing the clock ahead to get to the "end times" and bring Jesus back to clean up the mess?
30
They are absolutely desperate to elicit some proof that that the imaginary God they worship in their own images is real.
I lived in Hiroshima in the seventies. The people were still suffering terribly, as were their children born after the war. Every politician should read the book of survivors' memories. Title 'Hiroshima in Memoriam and Today'. Editor Hitoshi Takayama. I wish I knew a way of getting it to today's leaders.
22
I couldn't find this book on a search of Barnes and Noble. Are you sure of the title? Is it still in print? Who is the publisher?
Send a case of the books to the Presidents Family! And the Staff! Get donations to purchase them. This Clown thinks he's invincible. That his money will keep him safe. There is no SAFE from a nuclear War. Only extinction!
Deterrence is not effective against Islam. Islam demands your subjugation or death. You are free to choose.
3
Well, I'd happily pretend to be a Muslim over radiation poisoning.
"Islam demands your subjugation or death"? What is your definition of Islam?
Deter wisely or deter like a suicidal fool?
Those of us old enough to have lived through the Cuban Missile Crisis now know how truly close we came to all-out nuclear war with the then Soviet Union. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Curtis LeMay was all for bombing Cuba. Unbeknown to JFK, LeMay and others the Soviet High Command had given the authority to launch the nuclear tipped missiles to the local commanders in Cuba. Had JFK listened to LeMay, I doubt anything that we think matters now would even exist.
Now imagine something akin to the Cuban Missile Crisis occurring now. Not only does Trump not seem to have an appreciation of the serious danger nukes present, but many of the people he relies on apparently don't either.
We know that Trump is unschooled when it comes to nuclear weapons, and we know he prides himself on being unpredictable. Lack of knowledge and unpredictability are two qualities that should never be used in the same sentence with nuclear weapons.
The only thing we can't reverse by taking control of at least one chamber of Congress from the Republicans is nuclear war. So it's no wonder the Doomsday Clock has been advanced towards midnight, aka armageddon.
Trump having control of our nukes is THE REASON he should never have been elected. Having a job won't do his supporters any good if they (and the rest of us) are wiped out in a nuclear holocaust. It is the prime reason he should be impeached.
Now imagine something akin to the Cuban Missile Crisis occurring now. Not only does Trump not seem to have an appreciation of the serious danger nukes present, but many of the people he relies on apparently don't either.
We know that Trump is unschooled when it comes to nuclear weapons, and we know he prides himself on being unpredictable. Lack of knowledge and unpredictability are two qualities that should never be used in the same sentence with nuclear weapons.
The only thing we can't reverse by taking control of at least one chamber of Congress from the Republicans is nuclear war. So it's no wonder the Doomsday Clock has been advanced towards midnight, aka armageddon.
Trump having control of our nukes is THE REASON he should never have been elected. Having a job won't do his supporters any good if they (and the rest of us) are wiped out in a nuclear holocaust. It is the prime reason he should be impeached.
6
All that having a loose cannon like Trump as President reveals is the insane position that humanity has gotten itself into by creating the abomination of nuclear weapons.
Seriously, does one really think there's ANY human being alive or that has ever lived that has the wisdom manage the power to end the world - because that's what the power of 4000+ nuclear weapons is (and that's only OUR arsenal).
Give me a name, any name - Lincoln, FDR, Washington, Ghandi, the historical Jesus himself - none of these people are up to the moral challenge of this type of power.
If we were sane, we'd dismantle every single one of these things - now.
Seriously, does one really think there's ANY human being alive or that has ever lived that has the wisdom manage the power to end the world - because that's what the power of 4000+ nuclear weapons is (and that's only OUR arsenal).
Give me a name, any name - Lincoln, FDR, Washington, Ghandi, the historical Jesus himself - none of these people are up to the moral challenge of this type of power.
If we were sane, we'd dismantle every single one of these things - now.
5
Enrico Fermi was probably right that humans will wreck this planet with nuclear war within 200 years of exploding the first nuclear bomb.
3
It seems to me the most likely target of a nuclear weapon would be Iran.
If you read "Field of Fight' by Michaell Flynn, the current National Security Advisor, it is very clear that his prime objective is defeat of the Islamic regime in Iran. I do not think military conflict or invasion is the first option, but it could easily go that direction. I do not trust Trump, and even Flynn is subject to vastly overstating the threats of Isis and Radical Islamic Terrorism.
I believe the interactions with Russia, and the pro-Putin stance, come in part from a need to pry Russia away from their alliances with Iran and perhaps even Assad. Putin probably has some other hold on Trump. But make no mistake, Putin will expect something in return, like a free hand in the Ukraine, and an eventual lifting of sanctions.
My belief is that, with the potential for political damage arising from the Congressional investigation into Trump-Putin ties, Trump will refrain from taking a more pro-Putin position. They will likely also look for some other token concessions from Putin.
But I think that a pullback from Iran is their main objective, but they can't yet afford the outlines of their real agreement -- we let Ukraine go, they let Iran go-- become apparent. Not yet. But this seems to me the most likely explanation of the hacking in the election, and also Trump's obvious pro-Putin stance.
One has to wonder how severely he may be damaged politically when the hearings get fully underway.
If you read "Field of Fight' by Michaell Flynn, the current National Security Advisor, it is very clear that his prime objective is defeat of the Islamic regime in Iran. I do not think military conflict or invasion is the first option, but it could easily go that direction. I do not trust Trump, and even Flynn is subject to vastly overstating the threats of Isis and Radical Islamic Terrorism.
I believe the interactions with Russia, and the pro-Putin stance, come in part from a need to pry Russia away from their alliances with Iran and perhaps even Assad. Putin probably has some other hold on Trump. But make no mistake, Putin will expect something in return, like a free hand in the Ukraine, and an eventual lifting of sanctions.
My belief is that, with the potential for political damage arising from the Congressional investigation into Trump-Putin ties, Trump will refrain from taking a more pro-Putin position. They will likely also look for some other token concessions from Putin.
But I think that a pullback from Iran is their main objective, but they can't yet afford the outlines of their real agreement -- we let Ukraine go, they let Iran go-- become apparent. Not yet. But this seems to me the most likely explanation of the hacking in the election, and also Trump's obvious pro-Putin stance.
One has to wonder how severely he may be damaged politically when the hearings get fully underway.
1
Trump acts like a kid in a 'nuclear buttons and executive order ' candy store, without adult supervision.
2
The nightmare scenario is a last tweet from The Donald: “Duck and cover."
1
It's so fascinating to me that our system of governance has no effective way to stop a definitively mentally-ill, destructive, incompetent, dishonest, bigoted, physically- and mentally-abusing, law- and Constitution-violating, and possibly traitorous citizen from damaging our democracy and possibly causing a nuclear winter. The electoral college is a bizarre and ineffective way to safeguard against a horrible president. What's the point of a Bill of Rights if I don't have the right to be safe from a raving lunatic and evil ,
10
The Electoral College is an extrmely effective way to nullify votes so consistently it makes people believe US elections are nothing but another scam in a nation that tells the truth about nothing.
1
Amen. Well said.
I would agree that Trump has a finger on the nuclear option which he will use in his negotiations with North Korea and Iran and of course he will ask for it to be used to get his chief justice nominee confirmed but I have no doubt that he will never press the nuclear button. He may come close but will never ever do it. Interestingly, yesterday in an interview with Bill O'Really of Fox news before the Super bowl kick off Trump predicted that The New England Patriots will win the LI super bowl by 8. They won by 6 after being down by 25 when I had given up on them and went to bed thinking game over. Unless Trump had issued an executive order to his friend Tom Brady to play hard and his very best, it is quite an amazing prediction that was so close. Once again Trump has shown that Trump has his finger on every trivial as well as earth shattering thing that could happen in our country. If he does not like it he will certainly tweet, he will threaten the use of nuclear option but will never use it. He has been in the construction business and destruction is not in his psyche, demolition yes but only to build something better without hurting anyone.
2
Mr. Trump indeed is reducing the logically-sophisticated and technically-complex nuclear strategic discourse to a series of, often contradicting, tweets and declarations. The indeed alarming “Let it be an arms race” was accompained by a staunch anti-nuclear stand “For one thing, I think nuclear weapons should be way down and reduced very substantially” just before his inauguration. In that London Time interview he also insisted that “we can make some good deals with Russia” and included a universalistic-sounding message: “I think something can happen that a lot of people are gonna benefit”.
Obama's real “legacy” is absolutely horrifying – he made the world safe for nuclear weapons, flared up a new nuclear arms race to the tone of hundreds of billions of dollars and managed to get the Russian to assume his administration is pursuing “escalation dominance”. Long-range cruise missiles, a new and “improved” fleet of ballistic missile submarines and “limited use” -- that’s a direct course to midnight. Obama’s crowning achievement, the Iran nuclear deal, was delayed due to elections’ expedient calculations which made it quite vulnerable now to Trump’s (and Netanyahu’s) machinations.
Trump may indeed turn out to be a loose nuclear canon, or he may even speak as a “Muscovites Candidate” (which may prove to be the ultimate “cunning of history” saving humanity) – but he certainly has done nothing yet to deserve being branded as the dim-witted derivative of Dr. Strangelove.
Obama's real “legacy” is absolutely horrifying – he made the world safe for nuclear weapons, flared up a new nuclear arms race to the tone of hundreds of billions of dollars and managed to get the Russian to assume his administration is pursuing “escalation dominance”. Long-range cruise missiles, a new and “improved” fleet of ballistic missile submarines and “limited use” -- that’s a direct course to midnight. Obama’s crowning achievement, the Iran nuclear deal, was delayed due to elections’ expedient calculations which made it quite vulnerable now to Trump’s (and Netanyahu’s) machinations.
Trump may indeed turn out to be a loose nuclear canon, or he may even speak as a “Muscovites Candidate” (which may prove to be the ultimate “cunning of history” saving humanity) – but he certainly has done nothing yet to deserve being branded as the dim-witted derivative of Dr. Strangelove.
So very true.
Though I am more immediately concerned about the freedom with which the current President may deploy drone, a tendency already dramatically expanded under the preceding President. The impunity drones offer for action without consequence, against the temperament highlighted in the article, risks setting significant precedent as drone technology advances and they become a viable (and low cost) weapon globally.
We lead by how we act.
Though I am more immediately concerned about the freedom with which the current President may deploy drone, a tendency already dramatically expanded under the preceding President. The impunity drones offer for action without consequence, against the temperament highlighted in the article, risks setting significant precedent as drone technology advances and they become a viable (and low cost) weapon globally.
We lead by how we act.
1
The threat from everyday disease, occupational, and environmental hazards is vastly greater than any terrorist or foreign threat. But “If something happens, blame the judge.” Actually, something is happening every day. In fact, Trump himself poses more of a threat than any terrorist actions he hopes we fear. He could easily be as unhinged as the pilot who deliberately flew into the mountain a couple of years ago.
36
Exactly. Trump is the biggest threat in the world today. He is a destabilizing force and while being a bully may have gotten him somewhere in business (in his own mind anyway), it's not the way to work with the rest of the world. That said, his enablers are just as responsible as he is: McConnell and Ryan letting him damage the United States in numerous ways to get their idiotic agenda further along.
Maybe Ivanka could stop him from pushing the button, appealing on the basis of his grandchildren. Or Putin, warning that Mar-a-Lago is a prime target at the start of mutually assured destruction. Maybe he could absorb a 2-paragraph summary of "Hiroshima", or Mad Dog could sit with him through a White House screening of Dr. Strangelove, though its satire may be too subtle, and Peter Schaffer's War Games, though its pseudo doc style will confuse him. Would he identify with Henry Fonda in Fail Safe (bye-bye, Melania, Barron and his priceless Tower), or Pence could distract him with a war on women's reproductive rights and atheists, or Mr. Exxon of State could persuade that making of oodles off of MidEast oil will be hard to do while the sands are glowing (forever). But the only sure way to stop Trump from going nuclear was before the election, which those who deplorably supported him refused to consider, so convinced that they're the ones who've suffered and deserve revenge on the rest of the world (us all).
15
I worry about this a lot, and it makes me furious that DJTs is president. My background: Ex-pat Brit, with parents born in 1930, still alive and well. So, memories of WW2, mushroom clouds, the first cold war years have not yet slipped over the horizon of living memory for me. However, everything I´ve read about the Republican party indicates to me that they´re very good at looking after themselves and their pals. I HOPE this means that the grey eminences have disabled the nuclear suitcase. DJT is incapable of understanding that he, too, would die if nukes were fired up. Those around him, are not incapable (I fervently hope!).
5
If we last four years without a nuclear war launched by Trump, I will be relieved. That is how low my bar is set for this Presidency. Just to survive as a nation.
30
The "Nuclear Doomsday" was last move 2 minutes to midnight when Reagan was elected for the 2nd time in 1986.
Every time a Republican came to office it got closer and when a Democrat was elected it got farther away.
The closest we even been to Nuclear War was during the Cuba missile crisis and it didn't even change at all.
The clock is a actually a better measure of how much liberals dislike the president and inversely proportionally to how far we are from nuclear war.
Good news we are going to probably having another start treaty and less nuclear weapons in the world, making everyone safer.
Every time a Republican came to office it got closer and when a Democrat was elected it got farther away.
The closest we even been to Nuclear War was during the Cuba missile crisis and it didn't even change at all.
The clock is a actually a better measure of how much liberals dislike the president and inversely proportionally to how far we are from nuclear war.
Good news we are going to probably having another start treaty and less nuclear weapons in the world, making everyone safer.
2
Perhaps his conflicts of interest dictate that he won't use nuclear weapons. It would be really bad for his hotel business.
The last round of nuclear weapon pit production has left us with billions of dollars in paying for the medical costs of cancers that nuclear lab workers and down winders received. With some 7000 nuclear weapons still in the US arsenal, it is idiotic to think that we need more production. Brain cancer rates at Los Alamos and Sandia Labs are off the charts. Senators Udall and Heinrich can't stop pimping for the nuke labs however to bring in money to New Mexico. Then there is the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant that had a fire and explosion in 2014 and has been compromised for nuclear weapons waste disposal. The Beatty, Nevada waste dump exploded and sent a radiation cloud over three states. The Sandia Mixed Waste Landfill that has metallic sodium in leaking containers will likewise probably blow up sending a radiation cloud over Albuquerque and the Kirtland Air Force Base that has over 2000 nuclear warheads.
The last round of nuclear weapon pit production has left us with billions of dollars in paying for the medical costs of cancers that nuclear lab workers and down winders received. With some 7000 nuclear weapons still in the US arsenal, it is idiotic to think that we need more production. Brain cancer rates at Los Alamos and Sandia Labs are off the charts. Senators Udall and Heinrich can't stop pimping for the nuke labs however to bring in money to New Mexico. Then there is the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant that had a fire and explosion in 2014 and has been compromised for nuclear weapons waste disposal. The Beatty, Nevada waste dump exploded and sent a radiation cloud over three states. The Sandia Mixed Waste Landfill that has metallic sodium in leaking containers will likewise probably blow up sending a radiation cloud over Albuquerque and the Kirtland Air Force Base that has over 2000 nuclear warheads.
10
So a bill is introduced that would prohibit the President from ordering a first-strike nuclear attack without a declaration of war by Congress - a rational, reasonable measure to deal with the irrational, unstable, hair-trigger-tempered Id-in-Chief in the White House.
A bill that's true to the Constitution - yet which in saner times with a sane, normal President of any party wouldn't even be necessary.
Yet "it won't go anywhere in this Republican-led Congress." So in other words, Republicans in Congress are so gutless and/or so wedded to rightwing ideology or even worse, a lunatic version of Christianity that not only looks forward to the Rapture but hopes to bring on the Apocalypse ASAP - that they're likely to shoot down even this attempt to maintain order and cool down in a crisis.
This tells us all we need to know about this Republican Congress, which is: they're bat-manure insane.
To all the drum-beating militarists and nuclear cowboys out there, I ask the same question I ask of all the climate-change deniers and fossil-fuel fans: just what planet do you plan to live on once you destroy this one?
And if there is such a place, what makes you think you'll be welcome there as a refugee?
A bill that's true to the Constitution - yet which in saner times with a sane, normal President of any party wouldn't even be necessary.
Yet "it won't go anywhere in this Republican-led Congress." So in other words, Republicans in Congress are so gutless and/or so wedded to rightwing ideology or even worse, a lunatic version of Christianity that not only looks forward to the Rapture but hopes to bring on the Apocalypse ASAP - that they're likely to shoot down even this attempt to maintain order and cool down in a crisis.
This tells us all we need to know about this Republican Congress, which is: they're bat-manure insane.
To all the drum-beating militarists and nuclear cowboys out there, I ask the same question I ask of all the climate-change deniers and fossil-fuel fans: just what planet do you plan to live on once you destroy this one?
And if there is such a place, what makes you think you'll be welcome there as a refugee?
121
The US has never committed to a no-first-strike nuclear weapons policy.
Terrifying. Captain Chaos at the helm.
21
Yesterday's article "Trump and Staff Rethink Tactics After Stumbles" is somewhat misnamed, since it's really about how Trump spends his days. It's clear he isn't really used to working hard.
Let's face it: the elected president thought his job was some kind of combination of running a business and being on TV, so he thought—and a horrifying number of "middle Americans" thought—he was eminently qualified. Turns out you actually have to know stuff, and he's incapable of thinking through a problem. Turns out it's a hard job with enormous responsibilities! Who knew?
I used to say that if I had one wish, I'd be torn between vast wealth (since that's the only thing that counts in today's America) and changing the outcome of the 2000 election (since today's America would be a different place, hopefully one in which other values might also flourish). Now, if there's a genie listening, I take that back: my wish is that some obscure constitutional provision be found that allows us to have a do-over of last November's election. I'm quite sure that if people had the chance to do it over, they would see the urgency and get out to vote against nuclear weapons in the hands of a toddler.
Let's face it: the elected president thought his job was some kind of combination of running a business and being on TV, so he thought—and a horrifying number of "middle Americans" thought—he was eminently qualified. Turns out you actually have to know stuff, and he's incapable of thinking through a problem. Turns out it's a hard job with enormous responsibilities! Who knew?
I used to say that if I had one wish, I'd be torn between vast wealth (since that's the only thing that counts in today's America) and changing the outcome of the 2000 election (since today's America would be a different place, hopefully one in which other values might also flourish). Now, if there's a genie listening, I take that back: my wish is that some obscure constitutional provision be found that allows us to have a do-over of last November's election. I'm quite sure that if people had the chance to do it over, they would see the urgency and get out to vote against nuclear weapons in the hands of a toddler.
2
Clearly, an individual who is so affected by some form of dementia , is not fit to conduct either diplomacy(please see the definityion of deplomacy, whether in the "D" volumes of the Britannica 11th edition, or even in online Wikipedia), or most certaily, decalre war or even conduct military affairs.
he military once would have been aware of this. I am very sad and depressed to discover that the NY Times and other media, seem not also to be conscious of the immense and imminent dangers that result when such an individual, not merely carrying arms, but has his finger on the "nuclear trigger", so to speak.
It needs not even for him to use a weapon. He merely to needs to make enough careless, possibly mad or demented threats to cause an opponent to become unsure enough of US intentions and processes so that they launch a first strike.
The 25th Amendment may offer an honorable out for all parties while leaving the hard right in power. But Go, he should.
he military once would have been aware of this. I am very sad and depressed to discover that the NY Times and other media, seem not also to be conscious of the immense and imminent dangers that result when such an individual, not merely carrying arms, but has his finger on the "nuclear trigger", so to speak.
It needs not even for him to use a weapon. He merely to needs to make enough careless, possibly mad or demented threats to cause an opponent to become unsure enough of US intentions and processes so that they launch a first strike.
The 25th Amendment may offer an honorable out for all parties while leaving the hard right in power. But Go, he should.
5
"Don't worry," they said. "He doesn't mean what he said," they said. "He would leave it to Congress and just sign his name," they said.
They are all wrong now that Bannon and Miller are running the show. But the real losers are America and the rest of the world
They are all wrong now that Bannon and Miller are running the show. But the real losers are America and the rest of the world
5
Looking at the world through the lens of the West Side of Manhattan, your NY Times editorial writer sees little or nothing about the brutish and nasty world outside his or her window.
While your editorialist studies Martin Buber and revels in the multicultural excitement and creative flourishing of the arts and sciences in New York City, the world remains full of evil dictators like those in Iran, Russia, China and North Korea.
If your editorial writer had read "The Prince" by Machiavelli, the creator of political science, and still the most important thinker in political leadership, her or she would have seen how shrewdly Trump is brandishing the nuclear sword as a way to reduce the threat of nuclear war.
Trump is a lion and a fox. He will more feared than Obama, whose idea of leadership as social work was laughed at by Iran, Russia, China and North Korea.
Unlike your editorialist, Trump clearly sees that nuclear weapons are essential to be brandished as a cudgel against ruthless regimes such as these.
Always uncertain about whether or not Trump will take unilateral action to cut their megalomaniacal ambitions down to size, they will think twice about threatening the rest of the world.
Unlike your editorialist, they have read Machiavelli and know that Trump means what he says.
If Iran crosses Trump's red line, he will take action.
When Syria crossed Obama's red line, Obama paid no attention. Result: two million refugees in Europe and 500,000 dead Syrians.
While your editorialist studies Martin Buber and revels in the multicultural excitement and creative flourishing of the arts and sciences in New York City, the world remains full of evil dictators like those in Iran, Russia, China and North Korea.
If your editorial writer had read "The Prince" by Machiavelli, the creator of political science, and still the most important thinker in political leadership, her or she would have seen how shrewdly Trump is brandishing the nuclear sword as a way to reduce the threat of nuclear war.
Trump is a lion and a fox. He will more feared than Obama, whose idea of leadership as social work was laughed at by Iran, Russia, China and North Korea.
Unlike your editorialist, Trump clearly sees that nuclear weapons are essential to be brandished as a cudgel against ruthless regimes such as these.
Always uncertain about whether or not Trump will take unilateral action to cut their megalomaniacal ambitions down to size, they will think twice about threatening the rest of the world.
Unlike your editorialist, they have read Machiavelli and know that Trump means what he says.
If Iran crosses Trump's red line, he will take action.
When Syria crossed Obama's red line, Obama paid no attention. Result: two million refugees in Europe and 500,000 dead Syrians.
2
"Trump is a lion and a fox" . . . No, he is a self-absorbed man-child who thinks his Halloween lion costume frightens the adults. But it's not the costume that's frightening, it's the adults who think the little man actually is a lion.
So sad.
So sad.
The presidency needs institutional restraints applied urgently by Congress and the judiciary, by lopsided margins, in several areas. National security should receive attention first and may be the area where a bipartisan jolt can do the most good.
For example, revise the National Security Act:
1. To require Senate confirmation of the National Security Advisor, Deputy National Security Advisor and all NSC Principals. Apply the change to both incumbents and new appointees.
2. To make the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Director, National Intelligence statutory members of the NSC, rather than just statutory advisors.
Passage soon of these changes by veto-proof majorities would have multiple benefits:
1. The public needs to be confident that national security decisions are informed by fact.
2. The NSC would always have at least one statutory member with military experience.
3. Signal the administration that Congress as an institution rejects a casual or “Anything Goes” approach to national security. Such as the notion of lifting sanctions against Russia imposed due to actual and attempted grabs of sovereign territory; belittling of allies, whether alliances or nations; imperiling individual interpreters and operatives; and having a political crank magnify the president’s limitations and impulsiveness.
For example, revise the National Security Act:
1. To require Senate confirmation of the National Security Advisor, Deputy National Security Advisor and all NSC Principals. Apply the change to both incumbents and new appointees.
2. To make the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Director, National Intelligence statutory members of the NSC, rather than just statutory advisors.
Passage soon of these changes by veto-proof majorities would have multiple benefits:
1. The public needs to be confident that national security decisions are informed by fact.
2. The NSC would always have at least one statutory member with military experience.
3. Signal the administration that Congress as an institution rejects a casual or “Anything Goes” approach to national security. Such as the notion of lifting sanctions against Russia imposed due to actual and attempted grabs of sovereign territory; belittling of allies, whether alliances or nations; imperiling individual interpreters and operatives; and having a political crank magnify the president’s limitations and impulsiveness.
9
It is fully reasonable for the rest of the world to collaborate on a plan on how to deal with us. We are a major threat to world stability. So sad.
2
We have strong and valid reasons to be worried about having an unstable man in charge of the nuclear codes. However the 60 million plus Americans who voted for him are not worry because "they are going to fill the vacant seat on the Supreme Court."
Hopefully, they are right not to be worried and we are wrong.
However, if it happens that we are right, will it really make any difference?
Hopefully, they are right not to be worried and we are wrong.
However, if it happens that we are right, will it really make any difference?
When I observe exactly what things Trump has said as well as what he has done and those things he is in the process of doing and all the things he can and is able to do...
" Guns Don't Kill People, People Do "
Yes they do.
But one can only ask why such a person has been given so many,as well as such destructive and powerful guns to help him endanger, risk, hurt and potentially kill so many?
" Guns Don't Kill People, People Do "
Yes they do.
But one can only ask why such a person has been given so many,as well as such destructive and powerful guns to help him endanger, risk, hurt and potentially kill so many?
2
The 46.1 percent who cast their votes for him and the electoral college is why. And with the help of these people Trump and Bannon can kill a lot of Muslims, Jews, liberals, blacks, Hispanics, and whoever else they choose.
1
If you have not read it yet, you need to:
http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/1946/08/31/hiroshima
http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/1946/08/31/hiroshima
1
Funny how nothing is off the table, including the nuclear apocalypse, but it's illegal to say what is on billions of people's minds.
1
Can it really be that Trump can launch a nuclear weapon without any check or balance? With nothing in his way? If this is true, it's actually easier to imagine him going nuclear in a fit of rage than it is to imagine him showing daily (and nightly) restraint for the next four years.
4
Any act by Congress to reel in the President's options on Nuclear strikes has to consider first curtailing his daily intake of Propecia for his hair loss - side effects include impotence, dizziness, irritability, and memory loss.
7
It also causes runny noses. Remember the debates?
Such nonsense. So much more complex than pushing a big red button. Layers of secured channels and command-level decisions required before any nuclear weapon is cleared to launch in an offensive attack. Defensive is equally complex, though, more responsive, as it should be. Even with definitive Pentagon input, still has levels of security that must be negotiated and cleared.
Bush-Cheney never launched a nuclear weapon, but, nonetheless, managed to set the entire Middle East on fire as if they had launched a dozen or so--NYT Editorial Board was okay with that then.
The "clock", it would seem, has far more to do with the "cudgel" brandishing North Korea than anything Trump might do--but a nice fear-mongering spin for the left and the NYT.
Bush-Cheney never launched a nuclear weapon, but, nonetheless, managed to set the entire Middle East on fire as if they had launched a dozen or so--NYT Editorial Board was okay with that then.
The "clock", it would seem, has far more to do with the "cudgel" brandishing North Korea than anything Trump might do--but a nice fear-mongering spin for the left and the NYT.
3
Chauncey Gardner with nuclear weapons.
8
"Chauncey Gardner with nuclear weapons". I can imagine Trump sitting on his bed watching the nuclear holocaust unfold. "I like to watch - the world blow up".
2
More frightening than the idea of an irascible and impulsive Trump with sole access to the nuclear codes is the thought that it might actually be Steve “Darth Vader” Bannon with his finger on the button.
Given the president is not even reading the executive orders he is signing - including the one that placed Bannon on the National Security Council - this is more worrisome than ever.
Given the president is not even reading the executive orders he is signing - including the one that placed Bannon on the National Security Council - this is more worrisome than ever.
19
Resign Mr. Trump. You will do the world a favor and be able to gain some honor by doing so. Be honest. We the People do not want to sink any lower with your failing leadership. You cannot be trusted to lead. You have unsettled a planet and made it less secure by rattling your forked tongue.
9
And then we have Pence? Listen, with Trump there is a tiny bit of push back from Congress. With Pence there's a united team ready to steamroll the country into, using their own idiom, "alternative democracy" which usually goes by the name of Fascism.
108
I don't think this is really so. We have been conditioned by the GOP's 6 years of obstructionism that they are a single block, but that's true only in that one regard.
Now that they have power, we will see some light between "movement conservatives" like Ryan and traditionalists like McCain and Hatch. Not to mention the so-called Freedom Caucus.
I'm not saying there aren't things they will move lockstep on. But I don't think they are as unified as all that.
Now that they have power, we will see some light between "movement conservatives" like Ryan and traditionalists like McCain and Hatch. Not to mention the so-called Freedom Caucus.
I'm not saying there aren't things they will move lockstep on. But I don't think they are as unified as all that.
1
@Chip Steiner
The success of Trump is due in no small part to that kind of attitude. Trump's enemies keep looking past him, thinking he is the lesser threat, the lesser evil. Republicans keep thinking "at least he is better than a Democrat." Democrats keep thinking, "at least he is not a real Republican." Both sides think Trump is half an ally.
Of course, people who think this are rarely the same people directly threatened by Trump's policies.
The success of Trump is due in no small part to that kind of attitude. Trump's enemies keep looking past him, thinking he is the lesser threat, the lesser evil. Republicans keep thinking "at least he is better than a Democrat." Democrats keep thinking, "at least he is not a real Republican." Both sides think Trump is half an ally.
Of course, people who think this are rarely the same people directly threatened by Trump's policies.
1
In the past there have been false detections of major Russian nuclear attacks to which presidents have had only 15 minutes to respond.
We need to thank God for those presidents who have shown restraint against what were false radar or satellite reports.
Trump is not likely to show similar calmness under extreme pressure. He poses an unacceptable risk of nuclear armageddon for America.
Trump needs to be removed from the presidency given to him by Comey, the Russians and voter suppression.
We need to thank God for those presidents who have shown restraint against what were false radar or satellite reports.
Trump is not likely to show similar calmness under extreme pressure. He poses an unacceptable risk of nuclear armageddon for America.
Trump needs to be removed from the presidency given to him by Comey, the Russians and voter suppression.
8
I hope that all of the speculation in this article is wrong.
However, President Trump's veiled references to "unused real abilities" during his CIA speech are spooky: "We've been fighting these wars for longer than any wars we've ever fought. [Not true.] We have not used the real abilities that we have. We've been restrained. We have to get rid of ISIS. Have to get rid of ISIS. We have no choice.'
Candidate Trump during a national security briefing, reported on by CNN on August 3, 2016 by Matthew J. Belevedere, couldn't quite get his head around the idea that nuclear weapons should not be used. According to the report, Donald Trump reportedly asks why the US can't use nukes:Candidate Trump asked a foreign policy expert advising him why the U.S. can't use nuclear weapons, MSNBC's Joe Scarborough said on the air Wednesday, citing an unnamed source who claimed he had spoken with the GOP presidential nominee. Scarborough said, "Several months ago, a foreign policy expert on the international level went to advise Donald Trump. And three times [Trump] asked about the use of nuclear weapons. Three times he asked at one point if we had them why can't we use them,"
Mr. Trump has been clear that he intends plans to use warfare to destroy ISIS and during his National Prayer Breakfast said "viciously, if we have to".
Personally, I think Trump needs to spend more time thinking about and pursuing peace, stop talking compulsively, and seek non-military help
However, President Trump's veiled references to "unused real abilities" during his CIA speech are spooky: "We've been fighting these wars for longer than any wars we've ever fought. [Not true.] We have not used the real abilities that we have. We've been restrained. We have to get rid of ISIS. Have to get rid of ISIS. We have no choice.'
Candidate Trump during a national security briefing, reported on by CNN on August 3, 2016 by Matthew J. Belevedere, couldn't quite get his head around the idea that nuclear weapons should not be used. According to the report, Donald Trump reportedly asks why the US can't use nukes:Candidate Trump asked a foreign policy expert advising him why the U.S. can't use nuclear weapons, MSNBC's Joe Scarborough said on the air Wednesday, citing an unnamed source who claimed he had spoken with the GOP presidential nominee. Scarborough said, "Several months ago, a foreign policy expert on the international level went to advise Donald Trump. And three times [Trump] asked about the use of nuclear weapons. Three times he asked at one point if we had them why can't we use them,"
Mr. Trump has been clear that he intends plans to use warfare to destroy ISIS and during his National Prayer Breakfast said "viciously, if we have to".
Personally, I think Trump needs to spend more time thinking about and pursuing peace, stop talking compulsively, and seek non-military help
4
What people don't understand about "the nuclear button," i.e., the missile launch codes at the president's disposal, is that its only purpose is to permit the U.S. president to initiate a coordinated, all-out, preemptive surprise attack against all Russian nuclear weapon facilities.
U.S. strategic weapons are designed for that mission, with sufficient accuracy and explosive power for high "hard-target kill probability" against Russian underground missile silos. Russian ballistic missile submarines are also vulnerable to attack, unlike the well-hidden U.S. ballistic missile submarines.
If the Russians strike first, those Russian silos and launch tubes will be empty, eliminating any point in prompt retaliation against them. The president will probably be dead, anyway, along with everybody in Washington.
Retaliation against Russian cities and towns can be conducted at any time by U.S. ballistic missile submarine commanders, after the chain of command above them has been destroyed.
The real question is: why does the Cold War, first-strike system still exist?
U.S. strategic weapons are designed for that mission, with sufficient accuracy and explosive power for high "hard-target kill probability" against Russian underground missile silos. Russian ballistic missile submarines are also vulnerable to attack, unlike the well-hidden U.S. ballistic missile submarines.
If the Russians strike first, those Russian silos and launch tubes will be empty, eliminating any point in prompt retaliation against them. The president will probably be dead, anyway, along with everybody in Washington.
Retaliation against Russian cities and towns can be conducted at any time by U.S. ballistic missile submarine commanders, after the chain of command above them has been destroyed.
The real question is: why does the Cold War, first-strike system still exist?
3
Of course, we all fear Trump's narcissism, his impulsive actions and the power he has to push that awful button. But we need to get real and also fear his Republican sycophants in the Senate and Congress who are enabling him. The refusal of the Republican controlled legislative branch of our government to voice any opposition to Trump is frightening. They bear responsibility for condoning his actions. And if Trump's Supreme Court nominee is confirmed, then we'll have the judicial branch also enabling Trump's finger that's itching to push that nuclear button, let alone his actions against Muslims, women, gays, Jews, and whoever doesn't stroke his ego.
Republicans, get a grip, please. You've got the power in the United States now. Use your power to reign in your president. If not, you'll be held responsible for his words, his damaging tweets, and his harmful actions.
Republicans, get a grip, please. You've got the power in the United States now. Use your power to reign in your president. If not, you'll be held responsible for his words, his damaging tweets, and his harmful actions.
451
Not will be responsible....they ARE responsible...
Their actions over the past decade laid a foundation for someone like trump and they are responsible for his current and future actions.
Their actions over the past decade laid a foundation for someone like trump and they are responsible for his current and future actions.
A front page article in today's NYT adds concern when it notes that to "fill time" between meetings Mr. Trump sometimes gives tours to visitors. My last job before retirement was (merely) the Interim Senior Pastor of a 500 member church. I had plenty of work to "fill time" between meetings - and then some. So why is a President without knowledge in so many areas (and without a nuclear plan or many other plans or a full staff) not working full days including the time between meetings?
47
You know the answer to that. Between his short attention span and his need for constant adulation what better way to feed his ego than to give tours to his adoring fans (probably the only people seeking White House tours at this point).
I'm amazed at the optimists out there who actually believe that there will be some magical change in this narcissistic egomaniac simply because he holds the Office of the President!
Maybe he can have Frederick Douglass drop by and give him some advice.
I'm amazed at the optimists out there who actually believe that there will be some magical change in this narcissistic egomaniac simply because he holds the Office of the President!
Maybe he can have Frederick Douglass drop by and give him some advice.
Has it come to this? God help us all.
8
Trump believes he can bluster, swagger, and bluff hrough as if geopolitics were a game of chicken or poker or negotiation over a real estate transaction. Without it being explicit, he ran on the platform that business and government are essentially the same, run on the same principles and accomplishment attained by the same traits, including coarse aggressiveness, brashness and bravado, narcissism and preparedness to obliterate normal standards of civility and basic integrity when advantageous or apparently advantageous.
But now thathat game includes nuclear arms.
Trump is not entirely to blame for this utter insanity. The human capital-neocon-ayn rand school of thought worked tirelessly to remake American culture on these principles, which is to say, turn the US into one big casino. Of course Mr. Casino himself is the perfect emblem-leader of such a society. Not a safe situation, though Hobbes might have been pleased.
But now thathat game includes nuclear arms.
Trump is not entirely to blame for this utter insanity. The human capital-neocon-ayn rand school of thought worked tirelessly to remake American culture on these principles, which is to say, turn the US into one big casino. Of course Mr. Casino himself is the perfect emblem-leader of such a society. Not a safe situation, though Hobbes might have been pleased.
13
Steven King's DeadZone imagined characters like Trump and Bannon 25 years ago. See this clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tj9M34DzAKo
It is no longer fiction that the President of the United States is deranged.
It is no longer fiction that the President of the United States is deranged.
10
Shame on every single one of the third-party, purity voters in 2016. To paraphrase our so-called president, 'if anything happens, it's YOUR fault.'
In this case, it is.
We will not and cannot forget this crime, Jill "Clinton and Trump are the same" Stein and Gary "what's Aleppo?" Johnson.
Shame, shame, shame.
In this case, it is.
We will not and cannot forget this crime, Jill "Clinton and Trump are the same" Stein and Gary "what's Aleppo?" Johnson.
Shame, shame, shame.
21
It's over. Go away. Clinton won by three million votes. It made no difference.
I have never feared my government until now. Trump is worrisome but I find an unbridled and unhinged GOP terrifying. Then you add Trump into that mix. WOW, absolutely terrifying.
48
It is the responsibility of the Courts to stop the abuse of power of the individual now parked in the Oval Office, and for Congress to impeach him for he poses an existential threat to our national security. Members of Congress: Donald Trump is a sociopath. Even your self-serving dishonesty pales next to his. Do your jobs. Rid the United States of this fellow, who takes his marching orders from Little Putin's Kremlin before he destroys the United States of America.
23
But is Pence any better?
Pence is a conservative politician. Hate his politics but he doesn't show signs of lunacy or treason like his boss.
This editorial is the latest attempt to talk reasonably about an unstable person we just elected oresident. The important thing now is that he's there.
What he 'might or could do' is where we should be saying 'can do.'
Which makes it all the more immediately necessary to be engaged in eliminating the possibility sooner rather than later.....like now, not someday in the future, w when the future eliminates itself by engaging in something that makes now the last thing, it will be too late to have prevented it. That we are actually thinking about this is almost more frightening than allowing it to come true. We won't be able to wish he didn't it after he does it.
What he 'might or could do' is where we should be saying 'can do.'
Which makes it all the more immediately necessary to be engaged in eliminating the possibility sooner rather than later.....like now, not someday in the future, w when the future eliminates itself by engaging in something that makes now the last thing, it will be too late to have prevented it. That we are actually thinking about this is almost more frightening than allowing it to come true. We won't be able to wish he didn't it after he does it.
10
Indeed. The slightest nod twoards Trump that he is a legitimate president, i.e. that he is mentallly, emotionally and intellectually up to the task of governing this country, is a danger in itself.
1
I doubt that Mr. Trump has studied the maps of the Pacific Ocean and the incredible, haunting images of the spread of "dirty" nuclear material and radioactivity from the accidental release of these substances after the 2011 tsunami that struck Sukuiso, Japan, and destroyed the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, causing a level 7 nuclear meltdown. A natural disaster and inadequate safeguards built around a nuclear power source has made the planet's greatest ocean a poisoned fishing ground and swimming pool.
How anyone who has the slightest understanding of this, as Mr. Trump does not, can cavilierly think of deploying more of our own nuclear weapons the world round, and thus making our friends and enemies in the terrible "nuclear club" more likely to create greater numbers of radioactive weapons and comtemplate using them is not only a crime against all human life. It is a crime against all living things, and against our planet itself.
How anyone who has the slightest understanding of this, as Mr. Trump does not, can cavilierly think of deploying more of our own nuclear weapons the world round, and thus making our friends and enemies in the terrible "nuclear club" more likely to create greater numbers of radioactive weapons and comtemplate using them is not only a crime against all human life. It is a crime against all living things, and against our planet itself.
24
"Mr. Trump commands about 4,000 weapons that he alone is empowered to launch."
"The bill would not undercut Mr. Trump’s ability to respond on his own authority to a nuclear attack..."
Basically what this article suggests and infers is that The President can do what he wants , how he wants to do it and to whom he wants to do it against.
If we take that as it theoretically stands, it is entirely possible that an ill-informed obnoxious egotist could launch a nuclear attack on any country he decides regardless of the logic or reason (if any) of why he decided to do so, or if he even supplies any!
The possibility of a Nuclear War leading to the death of millions and consequent Global collapse that might follow should not be left in the hands of a rank Amatuer. (assuming that s not the only issue that affects the 45th President)
President Trump should not have the right or power to determine the fate of more than 150 countries and billions of people from his actions however wrong or bizarre they might be.
Be responsible and ensure our collective safety and continued existence America...how dare you not?
"The bill would not undercut Mr. Trump’s ability to respond on his own authority to a nuclear attack..."
Basically what this article suggests and infers is that The President can do what he wants , how he wants to do it and to whom he wants to do it against.
If we take that as it theoretically stands, it is entirely possible that an ill-informed obnoxious egotist could launch a nuclear attack on any country he decides regardless of the logic or reason (if any) of why he decided to do so, or if he even supplies any!
The possibility of a Nuclear War leading to the death of millions and consequent Global collapse that might follow should not be left in the hands of a rank Amatuer. (assuming that s not the only issue that affects the 45th President)
President Trump should not have the right or power to determine the fate of more than 150 countries and billions of people from his actions however wrong or bizarre they might be.
Be responsible and ensure our collective safety and continued existence America...how dare you not?
26
"given his disruptive, impulsive, style." I wouldn't call his symptoms of sociopathy "style" but rather what they are, symptoms. This is one sick puppy folks. His orange hot narcissism makes it Impossible with a capital "i" for him to fake true emotional intelligence for longer than a photo op. He is all that matters to himself. Someone should tell him that his dead father isn't paying any attention to him.
129
So many people I talk to are very concerned. President Trump could have a serious negative effect on many people's mental health. Not only here, but in other countries. He lies most of the time, which means he has no respect for anyone. If he doesn't respect anyone, why not kill whomever he wants? I am sad to be an American for the first time. Even during the ugly American years I knew everything would eventually be OK and we'd figure out how to be nice to other countries, which we never really did, but things did get better. Now, things are going to be really bad for a very long time.
55
Dear heavens, the naivete. The US is not nice to other countries out of the goodness of its heart, not even because other countries share our so-called liberal "values". The US, like all other countries, is nice to other countries when doing so accrues to our strategic advantage. International diplomacy is not kindergarten. It is a crude power struggle where there is no law except that of the jungle. If appearing to be nice garners an advantage, then the US will be nice. If blowing up people and things garners an advantage, then we'll blow up people and things. The ethics are always and forever situational.
1
What bothers me the most is that tRump is surrounded by a lot of people who seem to not be frightened to death that tRump can push the button to end the world whenever he feels like it.
4
I find it odd that most of the voices crying in alarm over the prospect of a nuclear exchange are particulating in red baiting and Russophobia. The NATO alliance has encroached onto the very borders of the only other state that poses an existential threat to life, and yet Trump is excoriated for seeking to de-escalate tensions.
If you loathe him so greatly and fear his short fingers on the button, then it should be a relief that he's pursuing détente.
If you loathe him so greatly and fear his short fingers on the button, then it should be a relief that he's pursuing détente.
1
Its china they seem to be anticipating a war with. And the Russophiles aand trump supporters seem to be unaware that China too, posesses the ability to annihilate the United States in an afternoon if things should come to pass that way.
The whole psychotic Trump movement is a death wish. These people won't quit until they have killed the planet.
10
Good grief, here we go again!
What will the esteemed NYT Op-Ed crew put up next? Trump's clear propensity to drown puppies and throw widows and orphans out onto the street?
Who was Hillary gonna have on her team that was nuclear literate? Cher?
What will the esteemed NYT Op-Ed crew put up next? Trump's clear propensity to drown puppies and throw widows and orphans out onto the street?
Who was Hillary gonna have on her team that was nuclear literate? Cher?
2
And good grief! Yet another right wing spin to change the subject to Clinton. She lost Johnny. We all know that. The concern is for the narcissist who won. And incidentally, he hasn't gotten around to puppies but he has thrown widows and orphans from all over the world out into the streets.
"Scientists who study the risk of nuclear war . . . believe that the world is closer to nuclear catastrophe than it has been since 1953. . . . President Trump is the main reason. . . . Mr. Trump came to office with little knowledge of the vast nuclear arsenal and the missiles, bombers and submarines it contains. . . . He has said he values unpredictability."
But thank God we don't have a President with a private e-mail server!
But thank God we don't have a President with a private e-mail server!
11
That Doomsday clock idea seem to me like one of those things that should fall into the category of "be careful what you wish for." We can only hope that Mr. Trump, having declared: "I fix things," doesn't decide, "that clock seems to have stopped running, I'll fix it."
2
What nonsense! The only worrisome development is the panic among so-called calm professionals that President Trump will act rashly. This is said while educated liberals are ablaze in Berkeley and elsewhere destroying property and lives. Meanwhile President Trump hasn't done anything worth that kind of protest.
4
Dear Vincent:
Nonsense indeed. Since Day One Trump has been making a shambles of the executive power accorded him through the Constitution. It does not take a genius, or even someone from the Keystone State, to unlock the simple mind of Trump. This idiot just doesn't know what he's doing. The fallacy that he's a successful businessman is a canard. He's made so many blunders in business the only reason Trump is perceived as "smart" is because he says he is. He's convinced enough goobers out there who idolize his brutish brusque demeanor. Trumpets love the nasty chatter, the coherent hogwash, the incomplete sentences it would take an engineer to diagram. Trump is "successful" because he's on the TV. That is a talisman of making it in the US of A. Being on TV, and a hit to boot, does not equate whatsoever to one's brilliance. It's appeal to the lowest common denominator is something it has never stopped being.
Trump's facade belies a self-centered narcissist who's ability to fool some of the people all of the time, apparently in your case, covers over his deficiency in critical thinking. Trump's extremely short attention span gets bogged down when forced to think deeply. He has never had the capacity to concentrate for any length of time on a particular problem. Were it not for his children, who actually are smart, helping to guide the grumpy old coot with the ridiculous hair weave he'd be lost. He does and he's still lost.
DD
Manhattan
Nonsense indeed. Since Day One Trump has been making a shambles of the executive power accorded him through the Constitution. It does not take a genius, or even someone from the Keystone State, to unlock the simple mind of Trump. This idiot just doesn't know what he's doing. The fallacy that he's a successful businessman is a canard. He's made so many blunders in business the only reason Trump is perceived as "smart" is because he says he is. He's convinced enough goobers out there who idolize his brutish brusque demeanor. Trumpets love the nasty chatter, the coherent hogwash, the incomplete sentences it would take an engineer to diagram. Trump is "successful" because he's on the TV. That is a talisman of making it in the US of A. Being on TV, and a hit to boot, does not equate whatsoever to one's brilliance. It's appeal to the lowest common denominator is something it has never stopped being.
Trump's facade belies a self-centered narcissist who's ability to fool some of the people all of the time, apparently in your case, covers over his deficiency in critical thinking. Trump's extremely short attention span gets bogged down when forced to think deeply. He has never had the capacity to concentrate for any length of time on a particular problem. Were it not for his children, who actually are smart, helping to guide the grumpy old coot with the ridiculous hair weave he'd be lost. He does and he's still lost.
DD
Manhattan
3
The Berkeley incident will be used over & over by Trump supporters because they've got nothing else in their bag of tricks other than alternative facts.
#RememberBowlingGreen
#RememberBowlingGreen
2
I have a bridge to sell you. The best and cheapest, believe me!
1
Trump remarked that nuclear war would spell "the end of the ball game," except when the ball game is over we all go home. In a nuclear war game exchange, the audience in the stands, whether cheering or scared is incinerated.
http://michaelslevinson.com
http://michaelslevinson.com
2
The sky has been falling ever since humanity left the safety of the past and moved towards the future. Professional Cassandras are a dime a dozen.
Those that live in fear should reassess their belief system.
Those that live in fear should reassess their belief system.
Might I suggest you read some history: many had good reason to fear.
Better a Cassandra than a head stuck in the sand.
"Listen, there's a nice buck in it for you. I promise, no one's gonna find out! Tonight, when you're doing the vacuuming...everyone will be asleep...right under the desk, the red wire, just cut the red wire! You'll be a hero!"
4
Another one of today's NYT editorials asserts that Trump staffers hold meetings in the dark because they can't figure out the light switches in the conference room. It's a tragic day when this level of incompetence gives hope they won't ever figure out how to actually launch a nuke. Let's all hope that weapons can't be launched by tweeting @missilesilo.
10
Don't just pick on Trump. Pick on congress and the lobbyists for the military industrial complex. In fact, Trump is talk, the congress has been and is action. The "defense" establishment has to be cut down to size and this bloviating about this threat or that has to stop. It is just marketing.....marketing weaponry, nukes etc.
9
Support this petition. Thanks.
https://www.change.org/p/let-s-stop-the-president-from-launching-a-nucle...
https://www.change.org/p/let-s-stop-the-president-from-launching-a-nucle...
4
I would invite Mr.Trump to visit Hiroshima, an industrialized city that was turned into a rubble in a flash of a moment. The city does not only lament loss of lives in the past, but aims to convince future generations that nuclear warfare does not have a place in this civilization. I wish Mr.Trump to receive the important message of peace from people who actually experienced the nuclear devastation.
18
Every day since the election - every single day - I continue to ask how is it that this man was elected President. I am filled with resentment and, yes, anger at his base - that uncritical, unthinking, and deluded core of supporters, blinded by whatever it was that blinded them, unable to see the biggest con job unfolding before them. And they won't see it still when their lungs are filled with coal dust (if coal ever does come back), and they have no health care, no pension (because Dodd-Franks is no more and they made foolish investments at the behest of their friendly banker), they can't sue the coal or mining companies (no regulations to control dumping of coal dust) . . . and so on and so on . . .
5
The biggest concern may be the actions taken by others, rather than by Trump. If non-nuclear states, nervous about the strength of their respective alliances with the US, decide that they need to develop a nuclear capability, we may see a localized arms race. The territorial disputes around the South China Sea are becoming increasingly fractious. Iran seem keen to test the new administration. Separatist movements in former Soviet states are more belligerent, including in member states of NATO.
If Trump decides that unpredictability is the mantra of his foreign policy approach, some countries may decide they need to take their security into their own hands. As more countries develop a nuclear capability, risk of a catastrophe will increase exponentially.
If Trump decides that unpredictability is the mantra of his foreign policy approach, some countries may decide they need to take their security into their own hands. As more countries develop a nuclear capability, risk of a catastrophe will increase exponentially.
3
Why are the Repulican members of the house and Senate not doing or saying something to reassure the world? This is too dangerous to ignore
3
Keeping nuclear weapons is a perverse game of Russian roulette. And we know how fond Donald Trump is of Russians.
2
A fearful, shallow man who appears to have no moral compass whatsoever has absolute control of 4,000 weapons, many of them nuclear.
A man who cannot control himself, either in his speech or his misogynistic sexual behavior, will --at least for the next four years-- have the power to unleash a nuclear catastrophe that could end civilization.
Donald Trump is a creature of impulse, with a history of doing what he pleases with no thought or feeling for who may be hurt by his thoughts and deeds.
And "legislation to prohibit any president from launching a first-strike nuclear weapon without a declaration of war from Congress"..."won't go anywhere in this Republican-led Congress."
The level of criminal irresponsibility this demonstrates shows just how nihilistic and depraved the Republicans who claim to represent ordinary Americans really are.
If the Biblical Rapture would save and "lift up" only those on the planet who did not support or vote for Donald Trump, I'd be praying fervently for it to arrive immediately.
A man who cannot control himself, either in his speech or his misogynistic sexual behavior, will --at least for the next four years-- have the power to unleash a nuclear catastrophe that could end civilization.
Donald Trump is a creature of impulse, with a history of doing what he pleases with no thought or feeling for who may be hurt by his thoughts and deeds.
And "legislation to prohibit any president from launching a first-strike nuclear weapon without a declaration of war from Congress"..."won't go anywhere in this Republican-led Congress."
The level of criminal irresponsibility this demonstrates shows just how nihilistic and depraved the Republicans who claim to represent ordinary Americans really are.
If the Biblical Rapture would save and "lift up" only those on the planet who did not support or vote for Donald Trump, I'd be praying fervently for it to arrive immediately.
2
Do you think any of the world leaders in control of nuclear weapons are not misogynists or sexual libertines? If you had thought otherwise, you were living in a fantasy world for 60 years.
We are living a nightmare. How can we stop not only him but them?
5
The Republican leaders of the House and Senate have the power and duty to end this madness. Unfortunately their careers are more important to themselves than the risk to the survival of the human race!
9
Boy oh boy is that the truth.
The typical nuclear weapon will leave a crater 1,000 feet wide and a hundred feet deep.
I deeply resent America's rural inhabitants that voted for Trump out of hatred of Urban culture and media. They endangered the nations cities while they fear nothing in the wide expanses of the country.
Major population centers would be destroyed.
President Trump and Congress would be wisked off to safety if we were threatened with imminent attack. They have no incentive to avoid nuclear war. They would be safe and survive while the nation burned.
I deeply resent America's rural inhabitants that voted for Trump out of hatred of Urban culture and media. They endangered the nations cities while they fear nothing in the wide expanses of the country.
Major population centers would be destroyed.
President Trump and Congress would be wisked off to safety if we were threatened with imminent attack. They have no incentive to avoid nuclear war. They would be safe and survive while the nation burned.
3
No, they would not be safe. Land-based weapons facilities and military bases, which are not in urban centers, would be targeted for retaliatory or preemptive strikes.
Will he or won't he? Does he think at all? To try and understand this look at his speech at the prayer breakfast. He asked these serious people to pray for improved ratings for the TV show. Was this off the cuff or was it planned ahead. If it was planned ahead did he consider that this would be a good joke or was he serious? If it was off the cuff, again was he joking. Maybe he didn't understand how inappropriate it was, or did he. Was he poking his hosts in the eye or is this really the way he understands prayer. If he was poking his hosts in the eye this might mean that he has a thought process, or Maybe he is just nasty. If this is the way he understands prayer anything is possible. Whatever the case may be, prayer may not be enough for good results. Maybe he can be bogged down enough in procedure to save us all.
Don't forget the man Trump put in charge of our nuclear arsenal, Rick Perry, thought the job was to be a mouthpiece for Big Oil. His college major was animal husbandry. This is getting to be like a Marx Brothers movie, but without a happy ending.
7
The UCS, or, the Democratic Party Science Department, always advances the clock forward when a Republican is elected, yet somehow Earth continues to survive. They didn't even wait a week to advance it this time. That the Times bothers to pay attention to this progressive idiocy only shows the collective aneurysm that has befallen the Editorial Board. Really, guys, snap out of it. Conservatives had to deal with eight years of a colossally arrogant leftist blowhard. It was painful, but we got through it. So will you.
Are they that crazy? A war of choice for political purposes, seems like it might be be in the cards- 'you are either with us or against us'- as we have seen before. Seems like a Steve Bannon trick- channeling Karl Rove's 'Permanent Republican Majority'. But the nuclear card? Even if they are who they are and are incompetent, hopefully, someone is going to be there to guard the football.
2
Someone needs to stand him up, look him in the eye and tell him that if he pushes the button, he may NOT go into the bunker. Threatening his own existence is the only thing he can understand.
7
Bombs and especially nuclear bombs have always represented extreme violence and the ultimate horror for humankind. I wish they were never made. I remember that we, the US are the only country to have ever used nuclear weapons, and on civilian targets as well. I've never understood how this was justified then or now. Not the world I want to live in...
Trump's emotional instability and irrationality are extremely worrisome. A first strike should be outlawed, and I don't want one person in charge of a counter strike.
Mr. Putin is also "out of his mind" when it comes to nuclear war. He ordered his nuclear bombers to crisscross Europe on a regular basis to intimidate Europe, and the United States when President Obama was in power.
He has a Napoleon complex combined with a paranoid inferiority complex.
There are also hot spots in the South China sea & in North Korea. These are both nuclear armed countries. The unresolved conflict between India and Pakistan could lead to a nuclear conflict.
There is also the possibility that a terrorist organization obtains a nuclear weapon, and uses it.
The United States should be taking the lead in making the world a safer place and reducing the threat to life on this planet. What I see in Trump is a man who can only see the world as a business opportunity for himself and CEO"s like himself to make even more billions of dollars. Peace, the environment, and sustainability rarely factor into the equation. War is big business as we saw in Iraq, and in the vast military-industrial complex that is justified in the name of defense. Decency, integrity, and justice are forgotten concepts in the Trump administration.
Mr. Putin is also "out of his mind" when it comes to nuclear war. He ordered his nuclear bombers to crisscross Europe on a regular basis to intimidate Europe, and the United States when President Obama was in power.
He has a Napoleon complex combined with a paranoid inferiority complex.
There are also hot spots in the South China sea & in North Korea. These are both nuclear armed countries. The unresolved conflict between India and Pakistan could lead to a nuclear conflict.
There is also the possibility that a terrorist organization obtains a nuclear weapon, and uses it.
The United States should be taking the lead in making the world a safer place and reducing the threat to life on this planet. What I see in Trump is a man who can only see the world as a business opportunity for himself and CEO"s like himself to make even more billions of dollars. Peace, the environment, and sustainability rarely factor into the equation. War is big business as we saw in Iraq, and in the vast military-industrial complex that is justified in the name of defense. Decency, integrity, and justice are forgotten concepts in the Trump administration.
6
"Mr. Putin is also "out of his mind" when it comes to nuclear war. He ordered his nuclear bombers to crisscross Europe on a regular basis to intimidate Europe"
They do not criss cross Europe. They do enter NATO airspace occasionally. NATO enters their airspace also. Russia only recently started doing this again, whereas NATO had never stopped doing it since the cold war.
While Tzar Putin is an abominable man, he does give voice to legitimate greivances the Russians have, vis a vis the hypocrisy of NATO which encircles them while claming Russia is the agressor.
They do not criss cross Europe. They do enter NATO airspace occasionally. NATO enters their airspace also. Russia only recently started doing this again, whereas NATO had never stopped doing it since the cold war.
While Tzar Putin is an abominable man, he does give voice to legitimate greivances the Russians have, vis a vis the hypocrisy of NATO which encircles them while claming Russia is the agressor.
Even the former President Obama, who won the Alfred Nobel Peace Prize for his preliminary efforts to rid the world of nuclear weapons was commandeered by the military upon entering into the office of President. Additionally, President Obama went on to agree to a Trillion Dollar, Ten year program to "Modernize" our nuclear arsenal. Consider that when you naively believe the Government has power over the military.
Now, along comes a very admittedly unpredictable and arguably unstable President with a military school background who favors military action on the slightest whim of his impulsive mind who now has direct control over thousands of massively destructive nuclear weapons. The military now has a violence prone puppet in the White House and they have his ear everywhere he goes.
Whether you believe it or not, the nations military has the final say over decisions of war and peace. Consider past Presidents who challenged the dominance of the military and their C.I.A. and F.B.I. and their unfortunate circumstances. Kennedy was killed after trying to hold reins on the military in Vietnam and Cuba as well as removing our strategic missiles from Turkey to resolve the Cuban missile Crisis. President Nixon was scammed out of office following the Watergate burglary and cover up as an F.B.I. deputy Director posed as "Deep Throat" to manipulate the Washington Post reporters. Nixon made peace with China.
The Nuclear threat is more than close. It is inevitable under Trump.
Now, along comes a very admittedly unpredictable and arguably unstable President with a military school background who favors military action on the slightest whim of his impulsive mind who now has direct control over thousands of massively destructive nuclear weapons. The military now has a violence prone puppet in the White House and they have his ear everywhere he goes.
Whether you believe it or not, the nations military has the final say over decisions of war and peace. Consider past Presidents who challenged the dominance of the military and their C.I.A. and F.B.I. and their unfortunate circumstances. Kennedy was killed after trying to hold reins on the military in Vietnam and Cuba as well as removing our strategic missiles from Turkey to resolve the Cuban missile Crisis. President Nixon was scammed out of office following the Watergate burglary and cover up as an F.B.I. deputy Director posed as "Deep Throat" to manipulate the Washington Post reporters. Nixon made peace with China.
The Nuclear threat is more than close. It is inevitable under Trump.
Inevitable? You offer no proof, other than paranoia. Are you a religionist who believes the next world is the real one?
Trump's remarkably unpredictable, impulsive behavior, and affinity to react thoughtlessly over the last year of campaigning is proof enough beyond any paranoia I may exhibit. The man on the button is reflexively reactionary. I am not. Trump has always shown a lust for violence and power. That, combined with his mind makes me think it is inevitable.
Our Cheeto-in-chief has stated if anything "goes wrong" blame the judge who put a hold on trump's immigration ban. So if ANYTHING goes wrong will it give trump and his co-hort Bannon permission to "push the button?" will they blame the judge who was doing his rightful duty? This man sitting in the President's chair is more frightening then anything that might happen anywhere else.
7
If some psychopath leader of country A decides to kill millions of innocent people by launching nuclear weapons against country B, why does that give country B's leader the right to launch nuclear weapons in a return strike and kill millions of innocent people in country A. We all die because of two dumb psychopaths?
1
Yes. That's because psychopaths are ruthless and very cunning in getting what they want and it's always money and power, and the gullible and/or stupid people give it to them.
Why does the Times concede the immorality of Congressional Republicans? About a joint legislative measure that would prohibit any president from launching a first-strike nuclear weapon without a declaration of war from Congress, the Times writes, ‘it won’t go anywhere in this Republican-led Congress’. Is that right?
It seems not a question of whether Senator Markey and Representative Lieu are right or wrong, but whether their position is moral and any opposition is immoral. It is palpably immoral for Republicans to do many of the things they have done and will do, but the Times repeatedly casts Democratic and Republican politicians as doing the right thing or the wrong thing.
Some time ago, this paper strongly and repeatedly called upon its readers to vote out the nest of politicians in Albany who had been in office for some unconscionably long period. The Times focused upon whether a voter’s choice to vote someone out of office was a moral choice, especially when a voter likely felt comfortable with an incumbent despite the lack of ethics reforms in Albany.
The Time’s argument to kick the bums out had merit, but that rally sputtered. Curiously the Times never examined whether its failure was due to a weak moral voice or some other cause.
It makes sense to concede immorality to the Republicans when your own moral voice is weak. Does it make sense?
It seems not a question of whether Senator Markey and Representative Lieu are right or wrong, but whether their position is moral and any opposition is immoral. It is palpably immoral for Republicans to do many of the things they have done and will do, but the Times repeatedly casts Democratic and Republican politicians as doing the right thing or the wrong thing.
Some time ago, this paper strongly and repeatedly called upon its readers to vote out the nest of politicians in Albany who had been in office for some unconscionably long period. The Times focused upon whether a voter’s choice to vote someone out of office was a moral choice, especially when a voter likely felt comfortable with an incumbent despite the lack of ethics reforms in Albany.
The Time’s argument to kick the bums out had merit, but that rally sputtered. Curiously the Times never examined whether its failure was due to a weak moral voice or some other cause.
It makes sense to concede immorality to the Republicans when your own moral voice is weak. Does it make sense?
1
The doomsday clock is not just about a nuclear holocaust. The calculation also includes climate change and any other existential threat to modern civilization.
The three factors that went into the recent move was the threat of nuclear war, as cited here, the likelihood that Trump will tip the scales of climate change all the way off the table with his policies and the recent rise of (Eurocentric) nationalism. Donald Trump is that triple thread.
His denial of anthropogenic (if spell check doesn't recognize the word, I really doubt Trump would) climate change is highly alarming. The opportunity is here to move away from fossil fuels and further towards a sustainable energy future but DJT longs for the days when cities existed under a brown dome. He want's to be greater than China even if that means remaining holed up in his penthouse for days on end because the air is too toxic to breathe like it often is in Bejing. And, if you haven't read, China is growing their solar (and other renewable) generation very quickly to combat the damage being caused to its citizens by air pollution.
As for the risk posed by the rise of nationalism, I don't think I need to say anything more than National Socialist German Workers Party to get my point across.
The three factors that went into the recent move was the threat of nuclear war, as cited here, the likelihood that Trump will tip the scales of climate change all the way off the table with his policies and the recent rise of (Eurocentric) nationalism. Donald Trump is that triple thread.
His denial of anthropogenic (if spell check doesn't recognize the word, I really doubt Trump would) climate change is highly alarming. The opportunity is here to move away from fossil fuels and further towards a sustainable energy future but DJT longs for the days when cities existed under a brown dome. He want's to be greater than China even if that means remaining holed up in his penthouse for days on end because the air is too toxic to breathe like it often is in Bejing. And, if you haven't read, China is growing their solar (and other renewable) generation very quickly to combat the damage being caused to its citizens by air pollution.
As for the risk posed by the rise of nationalism, I don't think I need to say anything more than National Socialist German Workers Party to get my point across.
2
Standing up to China is a necessity that has been entirely ignored under the Obama Administration. It is always dangerous to call a bluff. But the down side is what Neville Chamberlain got with appeasement in 1938.
I don't think the opposition to Trump has considered the wisdom of courting Putin and dissing the ever belligerent China. Have those brilliant minds of opposition ever considered what the benefit would be of breaking up the Russia-China partnership?
And anyone with a brain doesn't want to swallow the line about Putin being a brute. Trump is exactly right--the U.S. has not quite been a poster child of making friends with nice countries--think Saudi Arabia, or if you want to go back into history, think Nicaragua's Somoza, our son of a you know what.
No surprise. They Dems have not yet gotten to the objective thinking stage of grief over their loss.
I don't think the opposition to Trump has considered the wisdom of courting Putin and dissing the ever belligerent China. Have those brilliant minds of opposition ever considered what the benefit would be of breaking up the Russia-China partnership?
And anyone with a brain doesn't want to swallow the line about Putin being a brute. Trump is exactly right--the U.S. has not quite been a poster child of making friends with nice countries--think Saudi Arabia, or if you want to go back into history, think Nicaragua's Somoza, our son of a you know what.
No surprise. They Dems have not yet gotten to the objective thinking stage of grief over their loss.
Everything else about the Trump nightmare is just noise compared to the fact that this unhinged clown currently has the unchecked power to destroy civilization.
The Markey-Lieu bill would remedy this. Once passed, it should stay in force permanently, not just for Trump. It needs many co-sponsors, both Republican and Democratic. Where are they?
The Markey-Lieu bill would remedy this. Once passed, it should stay in force permanently, not just for Trump. It needs many co-sponsors, both Republican and Democratic. Where are they?
7
Thanks, Ohio, Florida, Michigan, Alabama, Wisconsin, Arizona.... Thanks to my own idiotic state. Thanks, fellow Americans. You wanted to shake things up.
9
A couple of points of clarification:
1) The Doomsday Clock has evolved beyond its original purpose of registering the risk of thermonuclear annihilation. It now registers a variety of global threats. This is from the latest "Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists": "In 1947 there was one technology with the potential to destroy the planet, and that was nuclear power. Today, rising temperatures, [...] Future technological innovation in biology, artificial intelligence, and the cyber realm may pose similar global challenges. The knotty problems that innovations in these fields may present are not yet fully realized, but the Bulletin’s Science and Security Board tends to them with a watchful eye."
2) Trump's posture of "everything is on the table" is actually the cornerstone of nuclear deterrence. I don't like it, but deterrence only works if your potential enemy thinks you are ready, willing, and able to implement total commitment. Good fences make for good neighbours and all that.
3) A policy that restricts Presidential ability to launch at a moment's notice (i.e. by requiring a congressional declaration of war) would actually make us less safe, not more. Apart from point #2 above, it implies signalling that one is preparing to launch. This undermines deterrence by adding a level of signalling that is likely to escalate anxiety and paranoia. The same is also true of dismantling weapons like the aging B61 stockpile. Prudent reassembly would magnify paranoia in a tense moment.
1) The Doomsday Clock has evolved beyond its original purpose of registering the risk of thermonuclear annihilation. It now registers a variety of global threats. This is from the latest "Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists": "In 1947 there was one technology with the potential to destroy the planet, and that was nuclear power. Today, rising temperatures, [...] Future technological innovation in biology, artificial intelligence, and the cyber realm may pose similar global challenges. The knotty problems that innovations in these fields may present are not yet fully realized, but the Bulletin’s Science and Security Board tends to them with a watchful eye."
2) Trump's posture of "everything is on the table" is actually the cornerstone of nuclear deterrence. I don't like it, but deterrence only works if your potential enemy thinks you are ready, willing, and able to implement total commitment. Good fences make for good neighbours and all that.
3) A policy that restricts Presidential ability to launch at a moment's notice (i.e. by requiring a congressional declaration of war) would actually make us less safe, not more. Apart from point #2 above, it implies signalling that one is preparing to launch. This undermines deterrence by adding a level of signalling that is likely to escalate anxiety and paranoia. The same is also true of dismantling weapons like the aging B61 stockpile. Prudent reassembly would magnify paranoia in a tense moment.
1
MAD requires 2 things: 1. Deterrence and 2. Rationality.
Trumps posture provides for 1 but not for 2.
"Perfect rationality"
No rogue commanders will have the ability to corrupt the launch decision process. All leaders with launch capability care about the survival of their subjects (an extremist leader may welcome Armageddon and launch an unprovoked attack). Winston Churchill warned that any strategy will not “cover the case of lunatics or dictators in the mood of Hitler when he found himself in his final dugout.
Trumps posture provides for 1 but not for 2.
"Perfect rationality"
No rogue commanders will have the ability to corrupt the launch decision process. All leaders with launch capability care about the survival of their subjects (an extremist leader may welcome Armageddon and launch an unprovoked attack). Winston Churchill warned that any strategy will not “cover the case of lunatics or dictators in the mood of Hitler when he found himself in his final dugout.
I am not sure who is Dr.Strangelove - Trump or Bannon. And maybe Kellyanne could be like Slim Pickens and ride the H bomb. Very scary scenario. Don't give him the code. It could get hacked. Probably not, but I don't feel safe with Trump having it. Even his crazy tweets make me nervous.
6
While there are many reasons to feel terrified of Donald Trump as the President of the United States, nothing is more terrifying than the possibility that he could actually use nuclear weapons. Very few people who voted for him apparently have any understanding of how unstable Trump truly is and what the implications would be if he would use these weapons anywhere in the world. Perhaps some people think that if we deliver nuclear weapons to sites overseas that this will not affect our part of the world. They need to understand that this is not a battleship game between two different naval ships during WWII. When it comes to nuclear weapons, we are all on the same ship, and if anyone uses one of these weapons to destroy another "ship," the ship is the Earth. I highly doubt that Trump has a clue of the consequences of using these weapons. I am very afraid that he actually will initiate the final apocalypse of the world. This is no joke.
16
The only people Trump seems to have any feelings about, other than himself, are his kids. At some point they may be all that stands between Trump and an impulsive, catastrophic use of the nuclear football.
But who knows? He is breathtakingly ignorant about everything, and seems to lack any appreciation for the destructive power of nuclear weapons.
If Trump had been president during the Cuban Missile Crisis, none of us would be here today.
But who knows? He is breathtakingly ignorant about everything, and seems to lack any appreciation for the destructive power of nuclear weapons.
If Trump had been president during the Cuban Missile Crisis, none of us would be here today.
11
The threat of a nuclear holocaust is very real and actions should have been taken many decades ago to eradicate these weapons of mass destruction worldwide. Human history has been filled with wars since the beginning of time. Sadly, the world has not learned from the lessons of the past. We as a race continue to make wars while dismissing the ramifications of our actions. We already have an arsenal of approximately 4000 weapons and yet there is talk about constructing lower yield nuclear weapons for limited use. This is plain madness.
Countries may argue that these weapons serve as a deterrent to war and attack; on the contrary…these weapons will only bring destruction and death. It only takes one to set off a chain reaction of catastrophic events. This kind of destructive power should not be in the hands of one man or country, even the president. The ‘Doomsday Clock’ is ticking and the atomic scientists are spot on…….it will be a matter of time if nothing is done.
Countries may argue that these weapons serve as a deterrent to war and attack; on the contrary…these weapons will only bring destruction and death. It only takes one to set off a chain reaction of catastrophic events. This kind of destructive power should not be in the hands of one man or country, even the president. The ‘Doomsday Clock’ is ticking and the atomic scientists are spot on…….it will be a matter of time if nothing is done.
3
Our only hope would be if Trump realized that if he started a thermonuclear war it would lower his ratings.
1
It's not just the threat of Trump utilizing nuclear weapons. His caviler attitude may wind up being infectious. Just one more way in which this president is destabilizing the continuity of world peace.
2
"Restraint and careful deliberation" in one paragraph with the name Trump are an oxymoron par excellence.
This country has elected the most unstable and obviously manic president in its history, whom the European Union already described as a danger to its union on par with Putin and ISIL.
This country has elected the most unstable and obviously manic president in its history, whom the European Union already described as a danger to its union on par with Putin and ISIL.
4
No worries. He knows more than the generals.
5
The American people that voted for Trump calculated that their wish to bring back the jobs that this country has lost to outsourcing is worth taking whatever risk is necessary to "make America great again" The Republican party is salivating at the thought of enacting their agenda now that they have Mr Unpredictability in the White House. They are not worried. The kitchen cabinet tycoons helping Trump run this country into the ground are not worried. the alt-right is not worried. Relax, stop complaining and watch the fireworks. Whatever is left of America will be great again.
Trump has command over more nuclear missiles than he has command over words in his limited vocabulary.
Trump's small fingers are itchy. He now has them on the trigger, and he seems ready at any moment, at the slightest provocation, to shoot them off as instantly as he shoots his mouth off.
How could millions vote for a clear and present danger to society? Obviously they have lost their minds. Their capacity to think critically to realize the presidency of the United States is not to be entrusted to someone who could end life on Earth escapes them. They have placed this nation and the world at the precipice of nuclear destruction. Due to their inherent ignorance and lack of understanding they have risked our very existence of life as we know it. Ignorance indeed.
DD
Manhattan
Trump's small fingers are itchy. He now has them on the trigger, and he seems ready at any moment, at the slightest provocation, to shoot them off as instantly as he shoots his mouth off.
How could millions vote for a clear and present danger to society? Obviously they have lost their minds. Their capacity to think critically to realize the presidency of the United States is not to be entrusted to someone who could end life on Earth escapes them. They have placed this nation and the world at the precipice of nuclear destruction. Due to their inherent ignorance and lack of understanding they have risked our very existence of life as we know it. Ignorance indeed.
DD
Manhattan
4
Trump needs to be removed from office. There is nothing in his behavior that inspires confidence or a sense of security for the citizens of this country. The responsibility of nuclear weapons should not be in the hands of an individual who manically tweets defensive, inflammatory messages at 3:00 am. If left unchecked he will destabilize the world. No policy agenda is worth this risk. This is not a partisan concern. Let us wake up from this nightmare.
9
Inside the troika of Trump, Bannon, & Flynn, the only sane influence may be Putin. Sweet dreams on that.
Ever since Donald Trump threw his hat into the presidential race and the first signs of an unstable temperament became apparent, the thought of having his hands anywere near the Nuclear Codes became a source of contention, if not fear.
In the months since his win he has done nothing to allay these doubts, especially since he has already called for an expansion of our nuclear arsenal.
But all this pales next to the thought that now, as president of the United States, Donald Trump has the authority to bring this country to the brink of a nuclear disaster from which there would be no return.
We have every right to be concerned.
And so does the world.
In the months since his win he has done nothing to allay these doubts, especially since he has already called for an expansion of our nuclear arsenal.
But all this pales next to the thought that now, as president of the United States, Donald Trump has the authority to bring this country to the brink of a nuclear disaster from which there would be no return.
We have every right to be concerned.
And so does the world.
8
Clinton might have been preferable to Trump in some ways, but keeping us out of war was not one of them.
It was Clinton, not Trump, who vowed to establish a no-fly zone over Syria, thereby risking war with Russia over a jerkwater Middle East country that has no serious oil and most Americans (including Clinton supporters) couldn't have pointed to on a map 10 years ago. It was Clinton, not Trump, who voted in favor of Bush's invasion of Iraq. It was Clinton, not Trump, who pressed Obama to jump into the Libya war even more than Obama stupidly did. If Clinton ever met a stupid war she didn't like, she neglected to mention that to the rest of us.
When it appeared Clinton was going to win -- even on Election Day -- I grew seriously worried that she'd get us into yet another stupid Middle East war. Trump may be doing much worse things than Clinton would have, but she'd have been far more likely to get us into some other stupid war.
This is not funny, and I resent it when the Times publishes an editorial that ignores how much more danger we'd all be in if Clinton had won.
It was Clinton, not Trump, who vowed to establish a no-fly zone over Syria, thereby risking war with Russia over a jerkwater Middle East country that has no serious oil and most Americans (including Clinton supporters) couldn't have pointed to on a map 10 years ago. It was Clinton, not Trump, who voted in favor of Bush's invasion of Iraq. It was Clinton, not Trump, who pressed Obama to jump into the Libya war even more than Obama stupidly did. If Clinton ever met a stupid war she didn't like, she neglected to mention that to the rest of us.
When it appeared Clinton was going to win -- even on Election Day -- I grew seriously worried that she'd get us into yet another stupid Middle East war. Trump may be doing much worse things than Clinton would have, but she'd have been far more likely to get us into some other stupid war.
This is not funny, and I resent it when the Times publishes an editorial that ignores how much more danger we'd all be in if Clinton had won.
1
What would the point of that be?
1
It is Trump, not Clinton, who is president now and he is mentally ill. And Trump was all in favor of the war in Iraq before he lied he was not. Satisfied? Clinton never denied she voted for that war after admitting it was a mistake to do so. And it's more okay with you to wage war with Russia over a country that has serious oil over a country that doesn't? That's some crooked reasoning! Last but not least, I think the probability to get the US into a serious war in the Middle East, or any war for that matter, is much higher under Trump than it would have been under Clinton. You should wean yourself off the Kool-Aid, all that Clinton hate is not good for you. She's not around anymore so you're fighting the windmills of your mind.
2
Really? A majority of congressional Republicans will not sign on to a bill that requires the president to get a declaration of war from Congress before launching a first strike? They would allow this president to launch a nuclear strike on a whim? Without even the courtesy of a Tweet?
I knew they were irresponsible, but to this extent?
I'm stunned.
I knew they were irresponsible, but to this extent?
I'm stunned.
4
Yes, it is "a time for restraint and careful deliberation....."
Unfortunately for the World some 77,000 voters in 3 states didn't get the message.
Unfortunately for the World some 77,000 voters in 3 states didn't get the message.
3
Of course Trump doesn't actually push a button that launches nukes, people have to actually follow orders.
Perhaps the only ones left who can stop a launch are those in the subs, silos & bombers.
We used to talk about Nuclear Winter, that's the real 'game over' danger of MAD.
Lest we get the same case of 'psychological numbing' we had in the 1980's, an encapsulated alternative-history scenario:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e3AzwBPnUxs
Perhaps the only ones left who can stop a launch are those in the subs, silos & bombers.
We used to talk about Nuclear Winter, that's the real 'game over' danger of MAD.
Lest we get the same case of 'psychological numbing' we had in the 1980's, an encapsulated alternative-history scenario:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e3AzwBPnUxs
1
He doesnt push a button, he verifys his identity via a device and then selects from a menu of options. He does posess the unilateral ability to launch and bypass the majority of the chain of command to do so. The reason for this is that a sub-launched strike fromn an agressor would destroy the coast in 3 minutes or less. The nuclear deterrent requires that the CIC be able to order retaliatory strike in less than that time. Having meetings about these things is anathema to the policy of MAD. So while its not a 'button', it may as well be.
All presidents may have had, but Trump and future presidents should NOT have, the ability on their own authority to respond to a nuclear attack. This is not the bilateral world of Dr. Strangelove when an attack would surely have come from the USSR and be massive. It might be a suitcase bomb that would bring down the World Trade Center or a single bomb from North Korea sent to Seattle. A second person must be interposed to assure that we don't launch a nuclear attack based on alternative facts.
1
You folks worried about Trump's fingers? Well if one of his cabinet member or his VP were to pound his fingers into a pulp -- figuratively speaking, of course, perhaps we could trust Trump.
I honestly don't know why we're not all calling our representatives with one simple message: This man is dangerously ignorant and unstable, and must be impeached. Millions of us are terrified of his clear desire (whether from Bannon & Flynn is irrelevant) for a war with Iran. And while there are many worthy reasons to be calling and protesting, this is the most urgent by anyone's measurement. We are just one terror attack away from annihilation at the hands of a fool; and instead of freaking out in private, we need to start saying it out loud. As does the media.
1
The speculation is insane. Stop the fear-mongering. Criticize Trump's policies and stop the ridiculous unfounded prediction and urging people to protest. This is a newspaper not an activist organization.
1
okay how about this: his POLICY of tweeting incoherent and belligerant threats regarding nuclear weapons and muddying the waters in the case of NATO article 5 is having a direct effect on the nuclear readiness state of potential agressors. This policy is recklessly dangerous to the point where I believe he ought to be confined to quarters until his mental state can be examined by professionals.
I hate to sound naive, but nuclear weapons should've never been invented. The powers that be better be careful with the biological stuff like CRISPR biotechnology now or we'll have double threats.
WHISTLEBLOWERS: please come forth with Trump's tax returns, relevant health information and Russian connections.
We need you! You can be anonymous and leak to trusted media.
SCOTUS: You already have enough information proving the presidential election was tainted. By no normal standard have we held a free and fair democratic presidential election. Please call a state of emergency. A presidential election redo is called for (including vice president, who is also tainted).
Show the world who expects us to lead that we address our errors promptly and repair them.
We need you! You can be anonymous and leak to trusted media.
SCOTUS: You already have enough information proving the presidential election was tainted. By no normal standard have we held a free and fair democratic presidential election. Please call a state of emergency. A presidential election redo is called for (including vice president, who is also tainted).
Show the world who expects us to lead that we address our errors promptly and repair them.
2
We must remove Trump from his responsibilities with the greatest expediency. He's a loose canon that is likely to destroy the world as we know it. He's already undermining every security position we have erected in recent decades to keep us safe, every alliance, begun alliances with those who want to undermine the US and its power, our enemies, and undermined the principles and values of our entire society. How much do Republicans wish to destroy??
1
Like a lot of people I used to give Trump the benefit of the doubt ... that he eventually would listen to outside opinions or at least adhere to some semblance of a moral code. At this point I'm of the opinion that if enough people told him to nuke an area, and that by doing so he'd gain more popularity and power, then he just might do it. It's a truly frightening thought and of course I hope that I'm wrong.
So, the idea of a congressional barrier between the president and the button is a good one, but as the Editorial Board guesses, unlikely. Here's my idea: hide the button really well so that Trump gets bored and moves on to the next crisis (e.g. someone commented on his feet being small, too) before he can find it.
So, the idea of a congressional barrier between the president and the button is a good one, but as the Editorial Board guesses, unlikely. Here's my idea: hide the button really well so that Trump gets bored and moves on to the next crisis (e.g. someone commented on his feet being small, too) before he can find it.
2
A missing element of this analysis is the recent promotion of Steven Bannon to the NSC. This is a very real threat, since Bannon and trump have an incentive to either witness or manufacture a cataclysmic event in order to concentrate power. In fact, this fits in neatly with Bannon's explicit goals. Truly frightening...
2
This needs to Stop.
To imply that Trump will suddenly launch a Nuclear Attack on another
Nation is wholly ir-responsible.
The moving of the Hands on the Doomsday Clock to 2 1/2 minutes is a publicity
stunt. Stalin pondered whether he could conquer Western Europe even
though the US had Atomic Weapons and re-thought he could after the
U.S.S.R. had the Atomic Bomb. Certainly the Berlin Crises, the Cuban
Missile Crisis were more dangerous times. Eisenhower threatened to use
Atomic Bombs in Korea if China did not sign a Truce.
No one in the Pentagon is going to let Trump launch Nuclear Weapons without
a direct and urgent threat that the US of A is going to be attacked with
Nuclear Weapons.
My father had the ability to launch Nuclear Tipped Missiles when he was in
the Air Force. I asked him what he would do if the Russians launched a
Nuclear "Sneak Attack" - would he launch the missiles ?
He said "No",
Why do anymore to destroy what little that will be left of the World ?"
The Editorial Board needs to respect the Armed Forces of the United States.
[ Has anyone on the Editorial Board ever served in the Military ?
Did any one on the Board have the power to launch Nuclear Missiles ? ]
They are not dupes of Trump.
They will not launch/use an Nuclear Weapons unless they absolutely must in
the defence of the United States of America.
Please retract your Editorial as you are terrifying people and
impugning the dignity of the Armed Forces of the United States.
To imply that Trump will suddenly launch a Nuclear Attack on another
Nation is wholly ir-responsible.
The moving of the Hands on the Doomsday Clock to 2 1/2 minutes is a publicity
stunt. Stalin pondered whether he could conquer Western Europe even
though the US had Atomic Weapons and re-thought he could after the
U.S.S.R. had the Atomic Bomb. Certainly the Berlin Crises, the Cuban
Missile Crisis were more dangerous times. Eisenhower threatened to use
Atomic Bombs in Korea if China did not sign a Truce.
No one in the Pentagon is going to let Trump launch Nuclear Weapons without
a direct and urgent threat that the US of A is going to be attacked with
Nuclear Weapons.
My father had the ability to launch Nuclear Tipped Missiles when he was in
the Air Force. I asked him what he would do if the Russians launched a
Nuclear "Sneak Attack" - would he launch the missiles ?
He said "No",
Why do anymore to destroy what little that will be left of the World ?"
The Editorial Board needs to respect the Armed Forces of the United States.
[ Has anyone on the Editorial Board ever served in the Military ?
Did any one on the Board have the power to launch Nuclear Missiles ? ]
They are not dupes of Trump.
They will not launch/use an Nuclear Weapons unless they absolutely must in
the defence of the United States of America.
Please retract your Editorial as you are terrifying people and
impugning the dignity of the Armed Forces of the United States.
1
What's "terrifying" is that a completely ignorant man who lost the popular vote by 2.9 million,the largest margin ever to yet win the Electoral College vote. If one has been paying attention to the details of the new kid's behaviors, now that's actually terrifying.
CC,
Talk to the Democrats who thought they had the election
sewed up.
Talk to the Democrats who thought they had the election
sewed up.
1
He does not require approval from the Pentagon for a launch. The 'football' gives him much more direct access to the silo commanders. Any dithering would be fatal in the scenario of a Russian sub launched first strike
1
As if electing a frenzied, infantile president wasn't bad enough, an entire West Wing and Republic Congress acts as the emperor's tailor, justifying this mad man's reckless harangues as rational policy. It appears Republicans put their own ambitions above their progeny's futures, or even their own safety.
2
Why don't you ask Comey what he thinks about this. Or McConnell and the other Republican enablers in the Congress. At what point will what's left of the sane Republicans join the Democrats in the House and initiate impeachment. They already have sufficient grounds in the emoluments clause. Or is packing the judiciary with far right Federalist judges and deregulating the economy more important than avoiding a nuclear spasm?
1
Donald J. Trump would love to be a 2 term President; since even a low energy siesta-napping Obama was. Here is the most important element to guarantee stability and predictability. Therefore, NK and the mullahcracy led IRGC of Iran: watch your next steps and do not test the new high energy President, because you just may get your high energy wish.
2
My research indicates that the president and Secretary of Defense must confer on the use of nuclear weapons. But in this arrangement, the Secretary of Defense only has an advisory role. The president's wishes prevail under existing policy. Even if the Secretary of Defense disagrees, the president can launch the weapons acting alone. Under present circumstances, this is frightening.
We are doomed.
1
Trump's lack of self-control is synonymous with this odious creep. Trump's predisposition is to flaunt his arrogance, an absence of decorum and restraint. Instead of attempting to correct his failing to control his impulses Trump, along with his disciples who hang onto his tweets in awe, wear proudly their stupidly. It is a badge of honor and bravado, machismo maxed out. Men like Trump date back to the age of the prehistoric cave men. Their brains never having fully developed, they failed to mature beyond the cro-mag neanderthal stage of evolution. It's brawn over brains for these knuckle-dragging anthropoids. Somewhere in their DNA might decipher which could unlock the mystery of the Missing Link. What makes these creatures tick is the riddle of the ages. Even more amazing is the inspiration they manage to inspire in others who also suffer from a not too bright imagination. Their brutish behavior guides their thinking what little there is of that. No normal human being could imagine taking Trump's meandering gobbledygook as anything but gibberish. For Trump's followers, they represent an Age of Enlightenment. How strange is that?
DD
Manhattan
DD
Manhattan
7
He's insane. Nuclear codes have been given to a pathological lying lunatic. Thanks to Republicans.
16
President's don't have their finger on any "button." Besides technically incorrect, it is procedurally wrong. A potential lethal nuclear attack or counter-attack involves a nearly incomprehensible, if not dysfunctional group of civilians, staff, officers, politicians and especially, advisors, while the Pentagon "branches" (Army, Navy, Air Force and to some extent Marines) all jockey for control and authority, while the intelligence apparatus has become almost unaccountable including the extent of its control, influence, interception or even corruption of command protocol. Attack procedure is otherwise a classic "group-think" ritual, layered with command competition and most of all, miscommunication (possibly deliberate) with opposing forces. Moreover, the current president has been clear that in many command decisions he will "leave it to the Generals," while immediately signing a waiver to appoint an otherwise disqualified candidate as Secretary of Defense. But where has the press been over the last 15 years? The Global War of Terror doctrine effectively guarantees that the "trigger" is brought front and center to warfare, while Israel (that wrote the GWOT doctrine) remains committed to an unaccountable, unverifiable stockpile of high-grade nuclear weapons, and a disturbing level of influence in US foreign and military policy. Indeed, with so many nuclear weapons circling the globe like a necklace of death, who among the public could possibly verify responsibility?
1
Im sorry Matt but you have no idea what you are talking about. A sub launched strike would impact the US coast in 3 minutes. The "football" is an absolute necessity in MAD where deterrence is key. That is, in a scenario where a first strike guarantees the agressor victory, that agressor has a powerful incentive to do so, even in time of peace. To preserve peace and deter a would-be agressor, the president does indeed have the ability to pick from a menu of strike options and launch the US strategic arsenal almost DIRECTLY (not along a complex chain of command) in a matter of minutes. The Russians have a similar set-up. It must be this way. The logic of thermonuclear warfare is not intuitive, but so far, it's worked. However, there is always the "madman" scenario - but the US electoral system was supposed to be "madman" proof.
Maybe if more Americans read this editorial they wouldn't be so obsessed with the Super Bowl.
3
Thanks to the folks that voted for this mentally unstable individual, the apathetic who apparently were too dense to realize the danger he poses, the holier than thou that couldn't bear to vote for Hillary, and the Gary Johnson/Jill Stein voters who could use a reality check, a majority of people the world over live in apprehension of what these goons in power have up their sleeves and wake up every day dreading the news. I wonder if Potus enjoys being responsible for making young children cry because "they don't wanna die", after listening to news reports and becoming frightened of him. And just a special call out to all you fake "Christians" who voted for this guy, if you secretly harbor some twisted apocalyptic fantasy wherein you believe Jesus will show up because you want to meet him, it's all in your mind-that is where you can meet him, not in the mind-blowingly selfish notion of annihilating all life on earth in order to maybe get the chance.
3
As a 69 year old pilgrim the threat of thermonuclear annihilation of our world has been in the background and often foreground all my life. Interestingly there has never been a President who I thought would actually see the of use nuclear weapons as a first strike option. Until now. Trump is so ignorant and so egotistical and so erratic that I believe he is capable of bringing on the End Times without the promised Rapture on a whim. He needs to be removed from office. Fast.
2
I can only hope he keeps the Secratries of Defense and Homeland close. It's ironic the two Marines are the most rational and the most well-versed in the Constitution there.
Trump is mentally unfit to be president.
Either impeach him or use Section 4 of the 25th Amendment to get rid of him.
If Republicans could stop counting votes for their next election for just 5 minutes they would realize that all the money thrown at them by their fat cat donors won't make them happy if Trump releases a nuclear bomb. The best they could say is that they at least had the money to build themselves an underground bunker.
Either impeach him or use Section 4 of the 25th Amendment to get rid of him.
If Republicans could stop counting votes for their next election for just 5 minutes they would realize that all the money thrown at them by their fat cat donors won't make them happy if Trump releases a nuclear bomb. The best they could say is that they at least had the money to build themselves an underground bunker.
1
Trump, a 70-year-old man whose father died of Alzheimer's disease, has never submitted to neurological tests or psychological tests. His behavior would seem to suggest that they are urgently necessary. Until results of those medical tests are made public and found to be acceptable, there is no way in hell that he should be free to launch 4000 weapons - or even one weapon.
1
As far as anyone can tell, nothing sends a clear message to this president.
I find it, um, odd that the Editorial Board would make this statement about futile Democratic efforts to reign in the new Republican government.
I find it, um, odd that the Editorial Board would make this statement about futile Democratic efforts to reign in the new Republican government.
I appreciate journalists doing their jobs but the funny thing is: it doesn't take a 700 word article to understand how crazy all of Trump's statements are.
I agree wholeheartedly with this editorial, but what does it suggest? Every sane person on the planet already understands the futility of a preemptive nuclear strike and cannot imagine the purpose of one.
Every sane person on the planet also worries about the current Commander in Chief, his impulsiveness, his fits of anger, his lack of discipline, his childishness and his insistence on retribution for the smallest of slights.
His apparent lack of serious consultation before launching the failed Navy SEAL raid in Yemen last week is a clear view into the President's preference not to seek the right counsel before launching military strikes.
So the President asks for the nuclear suitcase and places the call and is commencing a nuclear strike. What is to be done then to prevent the ultimate insanity from occurring? America had better find a solution to this problem before we get to that point. . . .and I am afraid it is coming.
Every sane person on the planet also worries about the current Commander in Chief, his impulsiveness, his fits of anger, his lack of discipline, his childishness and his insistence on retribution for the smallest of slights.
His apparent lack of serious consultation before launching the failed Navy SEAL raid in Yemen last week is a clear view into the President's preference not to seek the right counsel before launching military strikes.
So the President asks for the nuclear suitcase and places the call and is commencing a nuclear strike. What is to be done then to prevent the ultimate insanity from occurring? America had better find a solution to this problem before we get to that point. . . .and I am afraid it is coming.
2
"Every sane person on the planet already understands the futility of a preemptive nuclear strike "
Most people today seem to have no earthly idea about nuclear weapons. The scale of them. The fallout. Read the comments on RedState or Breitbart. "We should nuke this or that place". The knowledge has been lost. They think they are just slightly bigger 'daisycutter' bombs.
Most people today seem to have no earthly idea about nuclear weapons. The scale of them. The fallout. Read the comments on RedState or Breitbart. "We should nuke this or that place". The knowledge has been lost. They think they are just slightly bigger 'daisycutter' bombs.
This is entirely consistent with the Republican agenda. They are in favor of making it easier for people with severe mental illness to have access to deadly weapons, right?
4
This is how civilizations end. We have built the most destructive weapons in the history on mankind and now one mentally unstable and delusional man has the ability launch Armageddon without any way to stop him.
1
No, it's the Anti-Christ who starts Armageddon. Don't you remember?!
I am scared to death. People in the whole world are really scared. Our president is worried of refugee women and children from Syria. But he thinks Putin , the killer as an innocent friend. He defends Putin all the time. Putin is our king maker. Our president is grateful to him. But his first job to know who is the real enemy of America. It is not those 7 Muslim countries or Mexico or Australia or Germany. It is Russia . The nuclear button is at his disposal. He can not that thin skinned. He can not act like bully in international stage. He has to understand that he is the president of only super power of the world. Now election is over, campaign should be over. Now he has to govern. World stability and peace are very important for us and the whole world.
1
Can't the Times embed the link to this clock on your front page so all we readers can see it tick in real time? It will be so exciting. Right up there with watching the ball drop in Times Square every New Year's Eve.
That humans have created and used nuclear weapons is a symptom of insanity.
1
They created them to stop Hitler. Pretty sane if you ask me. They used them for less moral but eminently sane reasons. The perceived insanity of the current situation is the logical outcome of game theory on a nuclear exchange. You cannot uninvent things.
Remember the Democrats bring peace to the world and Republican'ts only bring the four horsemen.
Dictator Trumpet and war cowards Republican'ts who have been there only a month and look at the damage they are inflicting already, are fighting with Iran (want to overturn a good peace agreement between Iran and the rest of the world and start war instead), fighting with China (they have war ships in the South China Sea), and well it won't be long before the child in the White House starts with crazy man in North Korea. No diplomacy whatsoever, only war. Thanks stupid arrogant Americans. Wish JFK or President Obama or President Bill Clinton were here instead. Should've voted for President Hillary Clinton and the Dems instead.
Anyway after the upcoming nuclear war and if anyone is left, the historians will ask "who started this," and those who are left will answer "the arrogant fascist war hungry Americans. They ended this world which is now a cinder."
Dictator Trumpet and war cowards Republican'ts who have been there only a month and look at the damage they are inflicting already, are fighting with Iran (want to overturn a good peace agreement between Iran and the rest of the world and start war instead), fighting with China (they have war ships in the South China Sea), and well it won't be long before the child in the White House starts with crazy man in North Korea. No diplomacy whatsoever, only war. Thanks stupid arrogant Americans. Wish JFK or President Obama or President Bill Clinton were here instead. Should've voted for President Hillary Clinton and the Dems instead.
Anyway after the upcoming nuclear war and if anyone is left, the historians will ask "who started this," and those who are left will answer "the arrogant fascist war hungry Americans. They ended this world which is now a cinder."
4
Donald Trump has to be removed from office, and quickly. However it can be done, by impeachment or any other legal remedy. He is an existential threat to the United States, indeed to the entire world. This cannot, must not wait.
4
This is my greatest fear. I cannot believe we've given the nuclear codes to his evil, uncontrollable child/man.
4
As someone who spent a good part of my life on a Trident submarine, practicing launching nuclear laden warheads, I know the fear of wondering if the launch is a drill or actual war. Now Mr. Trump has added more pressure on America's Soldiers & Sailors, wondering at if it is justified or just the act of a mad man.
I can only hope that if Mr. Trump ever asked for the launch briefcase without provocation, that someone would disobey the order, becoming a hero and save us all.
I can only hope that if Mr. Trump ever asked for the launch briefcase without provocation, that someone would disobey the order, becoming a hero and save us all.
3
. . . I do believe there is a military officer, armed with a 45., at Trumps side "at-all-times" willing to fall on his sword for the survival of America.
My generation grew up with the threat of nuclear war an ever-present player in our daily lives. From duck-and-cover drills at school to bedtime prayers of "Now I lay me down to sleep," we expected that one day we would see the flash that signaled the end of the world. My high school students, relentlessly online yet spectacularly uninformed, have no concept of such a threat to their way of life, yet the instability of our current president all but guarantees a more dire risk to our existence now than ever before since the dawn of the nuclear age. As quaint as our preparedness training seems in hindsight, at least we had Bert the Turtle to reassure us. What do today's children have?
209
Add to frightening times (and one which the article amazingly ignored) the "Cuban Missile Crises" which grew from a combination of Kennedy's claim that the US had to close a theoretical "missile gap" with the USSR and his attempt to invade Cuba. I was among countless students in my university's dining hall -- within blast distance of NYC -- listening to the radio tell of Soviet ships allegedly carrying nukes approaching an American naval blockade. We thought the cold war, and our lives, could end that day.
1
Make them watch "Threads" by Barry Hines.
1
Today's children have Mitch McConnell.
The only positive thing we have going for us is the fact that, the last time I had any knowledge about the use of nuclear weapons, TWO adult human beings must - and I repeat MUST - make a joint decision on the use of weapons. Such a directive cannot be made by one person alone. But that was a long time ago and may have changed......................
I am glad the Times published this editorial, but I am also appalled that any of this had to be said in the first place.
3
Maybe the protocols of handing so much power of death and destruction over large parts of the planet to one person--the president of USA-- should be revised. Maybe there should be two or three persons in charge of making such an enormous decision. The incompetence of a POTUS like Trump--and he may not have been the only one--shows how absolutely irresponsible is this policy. I am terrified that just one man--and such a man--should be granted that much military power--more than the power of any living dictator. Hitler may not have held that much power in his hands. Can a democracy bear this organization of military power? I won't sleep tonight.
1
God help us all.
1
The American public is largely unaware of the sequence and nature of events in a nuclear war, including processes of prompt annihilation, fire storms, infrastructure destruction, slow death by fallout, famine, and nuclear winter. If this were better known the presidential election might have been a more sober affair, with fewer voters willing to elect a wild card like Trump. I didn't notice any articles in the NYT regarding processes of annihilation from nuclear war except one that noted that claims of nuclear winter were probably exaggerated. (We certainly heard a lot about global warming.) Was the NYT AWOL on this issue?
2
"except one that noted that claims of nuclear winter were probably exaggerated"
Subsequently refuted.
Subsequently refuted.
1
President Trump thinks only of walls and borders. With nuclear proliferation, what's at stake is collective death. The American Federation of Scientists said it best with their post Hiroshima-Nagasaki NYT bestseller (and film) "One World or None." When President Obama visited Hiroshima last year he made a moving statement about how we "can choose a future in which Hiroshima and Nagasaki are known not as the dawn of atomic warfare but as the start of our own moral awakening." To which Trump, then the presumptive Republican nominee, tweeted, "Does President Obama ever discuss Pearl Harbor while he's in Japan? Thousands of American lives lost." A nuclear weapons-free future is not possible until we quit equating human suffering to a game of one-upmanship. The question is, can Trump transcend petty moral self-righteousness (who started what, who is to blame) and think in terms of what it means to be human?
The election of Donald Trump has exposed deep problems in the American democracy, especially that the vast swathe of electorate are gullible who despite their limited faculty believes they know better than the "so-called elites". Anti-intellectualism has hit its crescendo with the election of Trump, who literally knows very little about any subject and is proud to be that way.
But this moment also presents a unique opportunity for new class of leaders to emerge. These new leaders don't have to be beholden to the past calculus of currying favor for campaign funding. Now we know that if you are authentic and connect with people, you can win elections despite the support of big donors. This new brass of leaders will indeed fix the structural issues in this country and keep America a great nation that it already is.
But this moment also presents a unique opportunity for new class of leaders to emerge. These new leaders don't have to be beholden to the past calculus of currying favor for campaign funding. Now we know that if you are authentic and connect with people, you can win elections despite the support of big donors. This new brass of leaders will indeed fix the structural issues in this country and keep America a great nation that it already is.
1
"This is a time for restraint and careful deliberation" and obviously not a time for leaders who behave like peevish, petulant, 12 year kids. If the US (and the world) survive the next four years, there is a painful lesson in this sorry episode that we all need to learn.
2
The Editorial Board owes an Apology to the Armed Forces of the United States.
They will never let Trump launch/use a Nuclear Weapon because he
says to do it.
I would like to know if any of the members of the Editorial Board ever
served in the military and had the power to launch Nuclear Weapons.
[Yes, certain commanders in the Military had that power if all communications were lost with the Pentagon and NORAD and SAC Headquarters. ]
If not, then you really do not know what you are talking about.
Either way, a Public Apology to the Military of the United States of America.